How Proper Groundworks Can Save Housing Developers Time and Money

Behind every successful housing development project is proper site preparation, and this is what groundworks is all about. From site clearance to landscaping, quality groundworks guarantee that your project starts on a solid footing - literally and figuratively! 

Without proper groundworks, your housing development project can face significant challenges such as delays, unexpected issues, and even structural problems down the line. These problems can be expensive and time consuming, as well as pose a significant risk to your company's reputation. 

As one of the leading groundworks companies in Scotland, we’re here to discuss how critical high-quality groundworks are when it comes to new build housing developments. In this blog, we’ll explore how investing in proper groundworks can streamline construction, minimise risks, and ultimately save you time and money in the long run. 

Read on to find out more!
 

What are groundworks? 

Groundwork construction is the foundation of success of any construction project. This process involves a series of activities that are designed to prepare the site for construction to ensure safety, stability, and longevity of the site: 

• Ground investigation: Before any physical work begins, a thorough assessment of the site is done to see if the soil is stable and can withstand geological conditions and potential risks. 
• Site clearance: This process is where debris, vegetation, and other obstructions are removed to make sure that the site is clean and safe to start the work. 
• Foundation and footings: This step involves proper excavation, footing installation, and foundation laying to make sure that the structure’s weight is distributed evenly. 
• Drainage systems: This process covers drainage installation, including pipes and channels to prevent erosion and water damage.
• Utility installation: This involved embedding essential utilities, such as water, electricity, and gas to ensure the seamless connection of the development to vital services.
• Landscaping: This step is where surface reinforcements and visual enhancements are done to improve the appearance and stability of the site.
   

The time-saving benefits of proper groundworks

Time is one of the most valuable resources in housing development. Meeting project deadlines is critical to avoid increased costs, maintain stakeholder satisfaction, and ensure smooth progress across every phase of construction. 

Proper groundworks play an important role in achieving this, and we’ll see why below:
 

Minimising delays

According to a Research Gate study on delays in construction, a poor site condition is identified as one of the top causes of project delays. Sites that are unprepared before work begins will inevitably lead to an extended project.

Through proper groundworks, you can investigate and prepare the ground to ensure that potential issues such as poor soil conditions, hidden utilities, or drainage problems are identified and addressed early. This way, you can start the actual construction with confidence and avoid unnecessary delays, safe in the knowledge that the base of your site has been properly prepared, and the foundations are in place. 

Streamlining project phases

Construction involves different stages, and your site must be able to handle these transitions seamlessly. 

With proper groundworks, you can guarantee that your site is solid and reliable. This means your build process is more efficient, completing each construction phase as planned with fewer scheduling conflicts and better allocation of resources.

Adapting to changing conditions

Construction sites are rarely predictable. Terrain challenges, fluctuating weather conditions, and environmental factors can all impact timelines if not properly managed. Professional groundworks contractors are skilled at anticipating these variables by adding flexibility into their processes to handle unexpected changes.

By accounting for potential shifts in site conditions, proper groundworks provide stability that prevents the project from disruptions. This adaptability keeps the project moving forward and ensures that the finished development remains durable regardless of environmental pressures.
 

How groundworks construction reduces costs for developers

Cutting corners in groundworks can bring serious problems further down the line, espeically when it comes to large scale housing developments When you compromise on quality, it can lead to long-term financial consequences that impact both the end-customer and your firm’s reputation. 

That’s why investing in professional groundworks early on will help to prevent these problems, ensuring your new-build homes have a secure base with proper drainage in place from the get-go. 

Other examples of how quality groundworks is cost-effective in the long run include:
 

Avoid costly repairs

Skimping on groundworks can result to major issues such as unstable foundations and drainage failures. These problems often surface after and are costly to repair. 

For example, if you neglect soil stabilisation, widespread subsidence can appear on your housing development, which requires expensive underpinning to prevent further damage. If proper groundwork is done, the site will be carefully investigated, and this costly setback could have been prevented. 

Efficient resource use

Thorough planning and execution of groundworks ensure optimal use of materials and labour. By identifying potential issues early, developers can reduce waste, streamline operations, and allocate resources more effectively.

For example, a well-prepared groundwork phase ensures that footings and foundations are laid accurately, avoiding misalignments or re-excavation. This not only speeds up the process but also considerably cuts down material and labour costs.

Preventing legal and regulatory issues

Non-compliance with building codes or environmental regulations can result in fines, rework, and delays. Proper groundworks ensure adherence to legal standards, avoiding these costly consequences.

For example, if a development site failed to install compliant drainage systems, it can cause flooding and subsequent legal action. By prioritising groundwork compliance, developers can mitigate these risks and protect their investments.
 

MAM Contracting’s expertise in groundworks

With over two decades of experience, MAM has built a reputation for precision, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to quality. We stand as the go-to choice for groundworks in Scotland and beyond. 
 

When choosing us for your groundworks project you are also choosing: 

• A track record of success: MAM has been a trusted partner in the housing development sector with our successful groundworks solutions designed to meet the unique needs of each project. From small scale residential to big housing estates, we are sure to deliver positive results.
• Use of modern equipment: We combine cutting-edge equipment with industry best practices to deliver safe, accurate, and durable site. Our commitment to innovation allows us to complete projects faster without compromising on quality.
• Adherence to industry standards: We make sure our operation strictly abides to building codes, safety regulations, and environmental standards. Our team are highly trained professionals who will guarantee that your housing project meets and exceeds industry standards.
• Commitment to client success: Aside from safety, customer satisfaction is another priority in our company. We work closely with you to come up with customised solutions to enhance your project outcomes. 
   

Case study: Pitlochry Project 

For over 50 years, GS Brown has been a trusted name in building high-quality homes across Scotland. Having worked with MAM Contracting on several successful projects, they enlisted our expertise for their new development in Pitlochry. Our team provided essential groundworks, including the installation of solid foundations, to ensure the project’s structural integrity.
 

Additionally, our landscaping team enhanced the outdoor space with planting, turfing, and garden pathways, creating a polished finish that will undoubtedly boost the appeal to potential buyers.

You can view the full project details here: Pitlochry project with GS Brown.
 

MAM: Your trusted groundworks contractor in Scotland

At MAM Contracting, we understand that high-quality groundworks are essential for the success of any housing development. Our team offers efficient, reliable, and professional groundwork services that lay the foundation for your project’s success. Whether you're planning a new development or need expert assistance on an ongoing project, we’re here to help.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can help ensure the long-term success of your housing development.