ROAD GROUNDWORKS
An essential part of all road construction projects, groundwork is the process that ensures a road is durable, stable and safe for all manner of vehicles to drive on. It’s formed through a number of different processes and tasks that can sustain all weathers throughout the year and also traffic loads to ensure longevity. This begins with site preparation such as land clearing, excavation and levelling in order to create the foundation of the road. The next step is to install or relocate utilities such as water, telecommunications, electricity and gas, as well as drainage systems to help water run off and reduce the risk of flooding, erosion or damage. Compacting sub-base materials for a stable platform, the road’s surface will then be laid with tarmac or concrete to complete the process – all whilst adhering to environmental regulations and sustainability goals. This includes deploying eco-friendly practices such as recycling materials.
LEISURE AREAS GROUNDWORKS
As with road groundworks, leisure area groundworks encapsulate the same goal of preparing a dedicated location for construction. Whether you’re designing a space for social interaction, relaxation or recreation with sports fields, playgrounds or parks, processes need to be in place to ensure that the area is safe and level so that individuals, friends, teams and family can make the most of the leisure space. This includes land clearing, excavation, grading, as well as the installation of drainage systems to reduce the risk of water logging so that it can be used all year round. Health and safety is a key priority, therefore the laying of impact-absorbing and non-slip materials can prevent any injuries. On top of the flooring, other elements such as waste management facilities, benches and lighting, all form part of leisure groundworks so that everyone who uses the space has a pleasant experience.
CAR PARK GROUNDWORKS
Whether you’re designing a car park for public spaces, shopping centres, institutions or businesses not only do you need to think about bringing on board commercial groundworks contractors but also have to consider car park groundworks too.
A more complex process compared to road and leisure areas, it involves further planning, drainage, excavation and surfacing in order to form a functional, durable and safe parking area that can sustain increased traffic and heavy loads. Parking groundworks start with a site analysis and preparation to look at the overall layout and how many vehicles can fit within the space.
Then it’s onto preparing the ground before importing materials. Tarmac and concrete are popular options and are determined by factors such as climate conditions, volume of traffic and budget. As with any construction project, accessibility and safety are important with the vital task of groundworks because they need to be compliant with regulations including the likes of pedestrian walkways, signage and disabled parking spaces.
A professional and dedicated team such as Acorn Surfacing can assist with all varieties of car park groundworks and can offer leading advice on which path is best to take for a successful outcome for project managers, vehicle owners and pedestrians alike.
For infrastructure, facilities, offices, shops and other commercial buildings, businesses and developers require a confident and reputable company to carry out the groundwork to deliver the complete package.
Groundworks form part of the structural foundation for commercial properties through site preparation, excavation, drainage and utility installation to ensure a stable and level site for commercial construction sites, buildings and infrastructure. They ensure that the overall project build is solid and can sustain all weather for years to come.
Depending on the size and complexity of the project will determine the timeline for the groundwork to be completed. This can vary between weeks for smaller projects to months for large-scale developments.
It’s important to do your research when looking for a reputable contractor who can provide the full range of services you require for commercial groundworks. Check their reviews and credentials so that they can meet your specific needs and deliver high-quality results.
Design changes, unexpected challenges and delays can occur during construction projects, therefore it’s important to communicate well with your groundworks contractors and have a flexible plan in place if issues arise and timelines need to change.
After the groundwork has been signed off, the site is ready for the next phase of the construction project with the erection and installation of the commercial building or structure.