Catford's clay soil and sloping gardens need proper groundwork before any landscaping project takes hold. Whether you're tackling waterlogged lawns near Mountsfield Park or preparing foundations for a new patio, getting the base right transforms everything.
Response within 24 hours
Those typical SE6 terraced gardens might look straightforward, but beneath the surface lies a mix of London clay, old rubble, and decades of DIY attempts. Garden groundworks here means understanding how water moves through Catford's particular terrain. Many properties between Rushey Green and Catford Bridge struggle with pooling water after rain - that's where proper preparation makes the difference.
Excavation depth depends entirely on your project's demands. Patios require 200-300mm of sub-base materials, whilst retaining walls for those steep Forest Hill borders need footings down to 600mm. Drainage channels get routed away from Victorian foundations, protecting both your home and new landscaping. Each layer gets compacted using plate vibrators, creating stability that lasts through London's wet winters.
Twenty years working Catford's gardens means knowing which properties flood every November and where tree roots from Ladywell Fields cause havoc. Local knowledge beats generic solutions every time.
Rated 4.9/5 from over 280 verified reviews
Most SE6 terraced gardens (roughly 30-40m²) see groundwork costs between £2,500-£4,500, depending on access difficulties and existing drainage issues. Larger plots near Hither Green can reach £6,000-£8,000.
Absolutely - many SE6 homes border the Hayes line or Catford Bridge tracks. We coordinate Network Rail permissions when needed and understand the specific drainage requirements these properties face.
Standard terrace gardens usually complete within 3-5 working days. Larger Edwardian properties around Blythe Hill might need 7-10 days, especially if removing old concrete bases or Anderson shelters.
All structural groundworks carry our decade-long guarantee against settlement or failure. This covers everything from patio bases to retaining wall foundations - peace of mind that your investment stays solid.
Side returns as narrow as 900mm are manageable with compact excavators and hand digging where needed. Many Victorian properties here have challenging access, but there's always a solution - even if it means barrowing materials through the house.
Get your free, no-obligation quote today.