Those Victorian and Edwardian properties dotted throughout Sanderstead often sit on challenging chalk slopes. Getting a level concrete base down properly here requires someone who understands the local ground conditions.
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Sanderstead's mix of period homes and modern developments presents interesting groundwork challenges. Many residents discover their sloping gardens need serious levelling work before any shed or summerhouse installation. The chalk substrate common to CR2 actually provides excellent drainage once you dig past the clay topsoil. Local knowledge matters when you're dealing with everything from compact terraces near the station to sprawling plots up towards Hamsey Green.
Proper base construction starts with excavating to stable ground, typically 150-200mm below surface level in this area. Steel mesh reinforcement gets positioned centrally within the concrete pour, preventing future cracking as ground temperatures fluctuate. The concrete mix itself needs careful consideration - too wet and it'll slump on Sanderstead's slopes, too dry and achieving a smooth finish becomes impossible. Expansion joints placed strategically accommodate seasonal movement without compromising structural integrity.
Twenty years working across South Croydon and Purley Oaks means recognising each plot's quirks before the digger arrives. Most contractors quote based on flat ground - we price honestly for Sanderstead's reality.
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Standard 8x6ft shed bases run £650-850 including excavation and disposal. Larger garage bases (16x8ft) typically fall between £1,400-1,800, though steep slopes near Riddlesdown can add 20-30% for additional groundwork.
Absolutely - from properties backing onto Riddlesdown Common right through to homes near Warlingham Park School. We're equally familiar with the tight access challenges near Sanderstead station as the broader driveways towards Hamsey Green.
Most shed bases take a single day from excavation to finishing. Garage bases need two days typically - one for groundwork and shuttering, another for pouring and floating. Allow 48 hours before positioning any structure on top.
Each base carries decade-long protection against structural failure or significant cracking. This covers the concrete integrity itself - though surface hairline cracks from extreme weather remain cosmetic and don't affect performance.
Breaking out old surfaces is routine work. We'll remove existing slabs, hardcore or deteriorated concrete, ensuring proper depth for the new base. Disposal costs depend on quantity but we'll confirm everything during the site visit.
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