Chapter 91 Modular foundations and retaining walls

The introduction of the Code for Sustainable Homes (DCLG, 2009) has seen an increase in the use of modular off-site foundation systems. This is particularly noted in the case of house foundations and other lightly loaded structures. The benefits of using modular foundations are only just being realised and as the trend for ‘off-site superstructure fabrication’ continues to progress, the use of such sustainable options will increase. The emphasis of many of the leading ground engineering specialists has therefore been to explore and develop new systems that assist building contractors to achieve a higher code rating than would be realised by using traditional ‘dig and dump’ foundations.