How Much Does Foundation Installation Cost in the UK?

If you're planning a construction project, such as building a new home, shed, or garage, foundation installation will be one of your key considerations. Foundations form the bedrock (literally) of any structure, and the most common type of foundation in the UK is the poured concrete foundation. This post will guide you through the basics of foundation installation costs in the UK and what factors can affect your final bill.

Average Cost of Foundation Installation

The cost of installing concrete poured foundations can vary widely depending on factors like soil type, foundation depth, and location. However, for residential structures like homes, garages, and sheds, here’s a rough idea of what you might expect to pay in the UK:

• Standard Single-Storey Home: £6,000 - £12,000

• Garage Foundation: £2,000 - £5,000

• Shed Foundation: £500 - £1,500

These estimates are for straightforward projects, assuming average soil conditions and standard foundation depths. Costs can increase significantly if ground conditions require additional excavation, drainage, or reinforcement.

Factors Influencing Foundation Costs

1. Soil Conditions
   Soil type plays a big role in determining foundation costs. Softer, unstable soil types may require additional excavation and reinforcement, which can increase costs. Areas with high clay content, for instance, may need deeper footings to avoid shifting over time.

2. Foundation Depth
   Different structures require different foundation depths. Homes often need deeper foundations than sheds or garages to support the weight. Deeper foundations mean more excavation, which adds to both labour and materials costs.

3. Access and Location
   If your property is difficult to access or far from suppliers, transportation costs for materials like concrete can add up. Urban locations might have higher labour costs than rural areas, although this varies by region.

4. Type of Foundation
   While poured concrete is a common choice, other options exist, such as block and beam or strip foundations. Some structures may also need reinforced foundations to support the weight and withstand ground movement.

5. Additional Groundwork
   Your site may require extra work before the foundation can be poured. This includes clearing existing structures, grading the site, or installing drainage. These additional steps add to the overall cost.

Concrete Poured Foundation Costs by Structure

• House Foundations
  For a single-storey home, expect to pay between £6,000 and £12,000. If your property requires a deeper foundation or involves challenging site conditions, this cost could increase.

• Garage Foundations
  A single garage foundation usually costs between £2,000 and £5,000, depending on the size and site conditions. Detached garages typically have a shallower foundation, which can keep costs lower than house foundations.

• Shed Foundations
  Small sheds can be installed on simpler, shallower foundations, typically costing between £500 and £1,500. Larger, heavier garden buildings may require a deeper concrete pad, which could push costs toward the higher end of this range.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

While it may be tempting to save money by attempting a DIY foundation, this is not recommended for larger projects. Foundation installation requires specialised knowledge to ensure your structure’s stability and longevity. DIY mistakes can lead to costly issues down the line, including structural cracks or uneven settling. Professional installation ensures that the foundation is correctly laid, meets UK building regulations, and provides a stable base for your structure.

Get a Quote for Your Project

Every project is unique, so the best way to determine foundation installation costs is to get a quote. A reputable contractor can provide an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs and site conditions. They will consider factors like soil quality, structure weight, and any special requirements to give you the best solution for a solid foundation.

At Kernahans Contractors, we specialise in foundation installations for residential and commercial projects across Kent, including poured concrete solutions for homes, garages, sheds, and more. We understand that cost, quality, and reliability matter, and our team is here to help you get the best value for your project.