We recently took on a project in Stockport, working on a local building venture that called for some out-of-the-box piling solutions, thanks to a nearby tree.

Dealing with tree roots can be a headache when you’re extending a building, as trees draw moisture from the ground, altering soil conditions as the seasons change. This can lead to heave, where the ground rises due to the clay’s expansion as it absorbs water. So, finding a way to protect roots without cutting the tree down is key.

Here’s how Rhino Piling tackled the challenge:

  1. We used specialised machinery to pre-auger the piles. This process involves creating a hole slightly larger than the pile we’d be installing.
  2. Once the piles were in position, we installed heave protection around them. Heave protection creates a void under the foundation, allowing clay to swell without moving and damaging the structure above.
  3. We coordinated with the building inspector and concrete supplier to have them on-site together. This was crucial, as heave protection is perishable and can be compromised by rain.
  4. The building inspector conducted a thorough check, giving us the green light to pour the concrete