As part of the NHBC Foundation’s mission to provide the industry with useful and relevant guidance, our latest publication considers piled foundations for low rise housing developments. This guide explores various design approaches and the associated environmental and economic advantages. Money can be saved by adopting a more efficient pile design and environmental benefits gained by reducing the use of natural resources.
The guide discusses the selection and design of piled foundations, with reference to the relevant design codes, standards and guidance which were current at the time of publication. The design of efficient foundations for low rise housing in the UK is also discussed in a more general sense.
A review of current practice was undertaken during the preparation of this guidance and the results used to identify areas where additional guidance would be useful. The guide attempts to address these, in particular in relation to the selection of foundations, site investigation practice, and design and construction methods for piled foundations.
Reflecting increasing public concern about environmental issues, this guide also addresses some of the main considerations. It deals with the environmental impacts of foundations in broad terms, and places some emphasis on the assessment of embodied carbon. Sustainability is also considered in terms of the potential benefits from use of ‘energy piles’.
The NHBC Foundation’s work helps promote good practice within the housebuilding industry and this guide is aimed at housebuilders, consultants, piling contractors and building control bodies. I hope you find this guide of use – I believe it provides a valuable resource in terms of the drive for efficiency and sustainability within the housebuilding industry.

IStructE - The Structural Engineer Paper
by
2010 Gold Medal winner - William F. Baker of SOM (Consultant for Burj Khalifa)