Firm foundations for temporary buildings
Putting down firm foundations for a ‘temporary’ structure or securing features into the landscape without destroying the underlying soil has been an ongoing conundrum for many ground and green-keepers.
Here, Darryl Gregory of Stop Digging explains why the use of screw foundations, an innovative, new approach to the problem, is gaining considerable favour across the sector.
Ground screw foundations can be installed all year round, in all weather conditions and are totally environmentally friendly. Easy to install they are also considerably cheaper than traditional ‘hard landscaping’ foundation methods – perfect for the conservation minded – plus this low impact solution doesn’t require any heavy machinery to install and there is no spoil to dispose of. What’s more, they can be easily extracted, should a structure need to be removed or re‑located.
The only evidence is a matrix of small holes which within weeks disappear, leaving absolutely no trace of what had previously been built and returning the land to its primary function.
This makes ground screw foundations ideal for all short duration events and shows while longer duration ‘temporary’ / permanent structures like single storey storage buildings, sheds, ‘outbuildings’, gazebo’s and decking may not even require planning consent.
A matrix of ground screws is used to create a perfectly level platform onto which the desired structure can be located. Damp issues are non-existent and even if the chosen area is uneven or there is a cross‑fall, installing ground screws at slightly differing depths will compensate for this.
The galvanised tapered steel screws are available in various lengths and diameters to accommodate different load requirements, soil consistencies and meet the specific requirements for a host of applications.
Once the required ground screw has been inserted by a trained installer, differing screw heads are used, including adjustable mounting plates that provide lateral movement for installations calling for greater accuracy. Into these wooden, steel or concrete beams, joists or posts are installed creating a ‘rock-solid’ base.
When it comes to securing smaller items like fence posts, signs or even architectural features like benches, waste bins or the like, pipe screw heads are used into which steel pipes or posts can be inserted and bolted; thus securing the feature within the landscape.
“Our ground screw foundation system is both cost effectively and meets the requirements of both permanent and temporary installations,” commented Darryl.
“We can create a perfectly level platform of any size or shape in a matter of hours. They significantly reduce site preparation and set‑up time plus individual ground screws are perfect for permanently anchoring architectural structures safely and securely into the landscape.”
So if you are considering erecting a ‘temporary’ building or adding an architectural feature and want perfect, cost effective foundations without damaging the sub-soil, look no further that a ground screw system!
