A new research project is looking to establish best practice in pile design for low-rise housing. Those with piling experience are being asked to complete a questionnaire to establish whether more efficient, environmental and economical advantages can be gained from this market which is worth around £300m per year.

This research project, entitled Efficient Design of Piled Foundations for Housing, has been commissioned by the NHBC Foundation and is being led by Ove Arup as part of the drive for sustainable homes within the house-building industry. The findings will be used to develop a design approach that can demonstrate economic and environmental advantages.

The research will consider ways in how piling on low-rise housing could:

• save money by adopting a more efficient economic pile design
• have added environmental benefits by reducing the use of natural resources
• cut waste production requiring off-site disposal
• contribute to ground source heat collection.

The aim of the research project is the production of design guidance and criteria specifically aimed at piled foundations for low-rise housing. The research will include:

• reviewing current procurement, design and construction practice
• identifying areas where savings and benefits could be achieved, both in terms of financial and environmental impact
• reviewing the performance requirements to foundations for low rise housing.

The first stage of the research includes gathering information on current practice via a questionnaire available online at www.nhbcfoundation.org. and input would be welcome from a wide range of professionals, including developers, designers and installers.

Commenting on the survey, Imtiaz Farookhi, NHBC’s Chief Executive, said: “The success of this research is dependent upon gaining as much industry feedback as possible. We would appreciate those with experience of piling to complete the Foundation’s survey, as this data will help develop practical guidance that makes a difference. The Foundation will remain at the heart of research delivery to the industry, addressing the pressing issues of today for future benefit.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:
The NHBC Foundation was established by NHBC in partnership with the BRE Trust to facilitate research and development, technology and knowledge sharing, and the capture of industry best practice in the pursuit of improved building standards for the new-build housing sector.

NHBC is the leading warranty and insurance provider for new homes in the UK. It was established more than 70 years ago as a non-profit distributing company. NHBC's primary purpose is to help raise standards in the new house-building industry and provide consumer protection for new house buyers. NHBC's ten-year 'Buildmark' warranty covers more than 80% of homes built in the UK and has protected more than 7 million homes to date.

The BRE Trust is a charity for research and education in the built environment. Its chief goal is to ensure earnings from the companies it owns deliver against its charitable education and research mission. BRE is one of the companies owned by The BRE Trust and it is commissioned to undertake projects by both public and private organisations.