In the last month, the UN has released a report that states that human activity is changing the climate in unprecedented and sometimes irreversible ways. This report also warns of the dramatic effect this activity is having on our environment, with extreme heatwaves, droughts and a key temperature limit being broken in just over a decade. 

The phrase one UN chief used in this report of how this is “a code red for humanity” has made an impact on the consciousness of many, including protestors who have been taking to the streets and motorways in and around London to ask for action. Action is what is needed as scientists say that a catastrophe can be avoided if the world acts fast and emissions of greenhouse gasses are cut fast. 

What needs to change?

While doing things like switching to electric cars, cutting energy consumption and even changing our diet can help, taking steps in our industry can also help us to do our part in reducing our carbon footprint. 

The built environment contributes around 40% of the UK’s carbon emissions*. It’s obvious that there need to be changes, but how can we start to address the problem within traditional construction techniques? 

After water, it is said that concrete is the most widely used substance on the earth. It creates the foundations for most of the world’s development and is the way that most countries put roofs over the heads of those who need it. But taking in all the areas of production concrete is, after coal, oil and gas, the fourth largest material contributor to greenhouse gasses in the world. 

But what are the alternatives? 

One method that we are passionate about is replacing traditional concrete plinths in foundations for structures with ground screws. Ground screws are a better alternative to the high emission producing concrete. A ground screw only produces 64% of the emission of an equivalent concrete plinth. 

We also need to handle the resources of our planet respectfully by reusing and recycling as much material as possible. Concrete cannot be recycled or reused when its life is up, and when we compare not only the actual production and distribution of material but the possibility to reuse and recycle it. One of the great benefits of the ground screw is that it can be re-used and at the end of its life recycled like any other steel. With one added reuse, the total emission is reduced to 34% of an equivalent solution using a concrete plinth. 

Stop digging ground screws can be used for a variety of projects and come in different sizes so you can choose the best for what you are working on. Houses, garden rooms, house extensions, decking, sheds, carports, summer houses and fences to name just a few, can all be constructed by using ground screws instead of concrete. You won’t need to change any other part of the design as they work even better than concrete across a variety of terrains and they come with a 25-year warranty. If you want to move the structure, the ground screws can be moved with it causing minimal disruption to the surrounding area.  

By looking at materials we use in our industry in this way, taking into account the whole life cycle not only the production and distribution of the material, will help us do our bit to look after our planet.

Check out some pictures of our screws in action here

If you would like to know how Stop Digging ground screws could help you with your next project then get in touch on SALES@STOPDIGGING.CO.UK or 020 3970 3979

Sustainable house ideas

Sustainability has become a buzzword in the last few years, and understandably so. According to the UK Green Building Council, the construction industry contributes to 10% of the carbon dioxide emissions in the UK. With the Climate Change Act of 2008 legally binding target of reducing carbon emissions by 80% by 2050, many projects are being looked at in a different light. Projects are becoming less about the aesthetic and more about creative solutions to create a sustainable build.
So how can you make a sustainable home or project? Here are three main areas you can consider:
– Materials
– Water and Heating
– Foundation

Eco-friendly Materials

Choosing eco-friendly materials is one of the most important considerations when planning your construction. The ‘Fabric First’ method of building design has become more popular and means maximising the properties of the materials you use. This aims to minimise energy consumption by maximising airtightness, optimising natural ventilation, and using thermal mass from the building mass itself.

So when looking at materials, think not only about using reclaimed and recycled materials, but also those that will reduce carbon emissions by optimising thermal performance. Some of the most eco-friendly construction materials are:
● Bamboo
Bamboo is one of the most popular materials on the market. Inexpensive, light and strong it has been used for centuries as a building material and is having a resurgence in the UK.
● Cork
Cork is a great water-resistant, fire-resistant material that naturally grows as the bark of the cork oak.
● Hempcrete
By mixing the inner hemp fibres of a hemp plant and lime, you can get a concrete-like substance that is a natural alternative.

 

Water and Heating

We all know that gas and electricity are one of the main challenges when it comes to creating a sustainable project. Central heating is undergoing a change and many great low energy solutions are coming onto the market providing an alternative. Ground and air source heat pumps may require an initial investment, but work out as great value if you look at the long view. There are constantly new technologies coming onto the market so if you do your research you will find something appropriate. Recycling wastewater is another great simple way to create a more sustainable environment in your home. Investing in a greywater system can take your wastewater and reuse it for washing machines or toilets. Also in areas of high rainfall, a reserve tank can be set up to collect water for use later in the garden.

Foundations

When it comes to building a house, such as a timber-framed or SIP panel house, Stop Digging ground screws are a very eco-friendly alternative to the traditional concrete foundation. As you don’t have to dig, it means minimal disruption to the area and also is much more environmentally friendly. An equivalent concrete support gives off 50% more carbon dioxide than a ground screw does, and with the wide range of sizes and lengths, Stop Digging ground screws can be used for a variety of structures. Creating a sustainable home or building project might require some research and investment, but will result in a long-lasting build that will complement the environment around it.

If you would like to talk to us about how ground screws can help you with your project please contact us at: sales@stopdigging.co.uk / 020 3970 3979

There are many different options when it comes to materials for your projects. Whether you are constructing a garden room or a fence, traditionally concrete has been used in a majority of construction jobs to help keep these structures stable. But now there is a better way, and that way is ground screws. But what are ground screws for?  

 There are so many uses for Stop Digging ground screws. Ground screws are perfect for small jobs like signs, pergolas, fences or decking and then larger projects like houses, school buildings, home extensions, portable homes, site set up and much more. Have a browse through our portfolio with a sample of our projects https://stopdigging.co.uk/build/reference-pictures/  

  In this article, we will look at three reasons why you should be using ground screws instead of concrete, no matter what job you are doing.  

1. Ground Screws save you time 

 Wouldn’t it be great in our work to be able to half the time, find a solution to get more jobs done, that is cost-effective and takes the aggravation out of jobs. In our busy lives, we don’t want to spend too long on a job, and we also need it to be as pain-free as possible!   

Stop Digging ground screws can help. Firstly it saves time. We all know that time equals money in this world, so this is good news all round. Secondly, it saves your back. A lifetime in construction helps us appreciate that protecting your back and health is a big priority.  

  How long does it take to dig out foundations and make a concrete base for a standard size garden room? Perhaps 2 days until it’s dry and ready to install the garden room? 

With Stop Digging screw piles this could just take half a day. Each screw takes just minutes to install, saving you valuable time and money.  

Digging is hard work, and you may need to hire labourers. Then having to wait for concrete to dry, weather conditions getting in the way delaying the job even further. With Stop Digging these problems won’t be an issue. We supply and install the screws, ready for the base and structure to be placed on top. No hauling heavy concrete around will mean your back will thank you. 

 Sounds great, but are ground screws expensive?  

 Well, that is where you will be surprised, the pricing is most likely less than you think. That is why so many builders and landscapers these days are scrapping the traditional method of concrete foundations and moving towards screw piles.  

   2. Ground Screws solve difficult construction issues 

 There are many obstacles that builders and landscapers face on the day to day running of jobs.  Finding a solution quickly is crucial if you want things to run smoothly. Ground anchors can provide brilliant solutions to some of the problems you face.  

 Here are just a few examples of what we mean:  

• Conservation areas – Many conservation areas will simply not allow concrete to be used on them, or any damage sustained to the surrounding areas. Ground screws are perfect as they do not cause damage to the ground and surrounding areas, and they can be removed and recycled. They can even be used near tree roots as a workaround for TPO’s. Stop Digging Screw piles are widely regarded as a very localised, low impact option as the certified installer will use handheld portable equipment and a no-dig approach that ensures any damage to tree roots is heavily mitigated.  

• Sloped ground – Ground screws are perfect for sloped ground as we have different length screws that we can install to match the gradient of the slope. No need to worry about structures sliding down the hill.  

• Over water – Even if there is water, it is not a problem for our ground screws. They come in a variety of models with different brackets length and dimensions, so can adapt to a variety of ground conditions. We also have several special attachments for applications demanding a more tailored fit.  

• Difficult to access areas – when customers have terrace houses or locations that are difficult to access, digging foundations and creating a concrete base can be a real issue. Where do you put the mud? It has to go somewhere. You either have to haul it through the house and risk messing up the place or get a crane to carry the skip over the house. No matter what the options are, it’s all just aggravation. But with Stop Digging ground screws there is no need for skips or any mess. We can bring handheld machinery if it is difficult to access the area, and there is no mess or damage as the ground anchors simply screw into the ground.  

     3.Ground Screws make you stand out from the crowd 

 You are working hard to provide a fantastic service for your customers, but you are not quite sure how to go the extra mile. We know that you want to stand out from your competitors and give them something to tell their friends about.    

• You can offer them an environmentally friendly solution. 

More than ever people are trying to do what they can to reduce their carbon footprint. Governments and companies also have strict deadlines to meet to reduce carbon emissions. Being able to offer them an option that is much better for the environment than using concrete will give you the edge over your competitors. Stop Digging ground screws offer up to 50% fewer carbon emissions than equivalent concrete support with the same or better results.  

• You can offer to complete their job in less time than their competitors.  

Time is so important to customers. It also makes business sense for you to make time-effective choices. Not waiting for concrete to set will ensure a faster finish time and a happy customer.  

• You can offer the least disruption to their garden.  

When a construction project is going on, it can lead to a mess and be massively disruptive. With ground screws, you can guarantee your customer that their garden will not be damaged during the works. 

  When customers are comparing companies they are always looking for someone who is efficient, that makes principled decisions, and who is going to provide the service with the least disruption to their lives. With Stop Digging ground screws you will be able to offer all of these perks and make sure you beat the competition.  

To summarise there are three main reasons why Stop Digging ground screws are the best option for your projects:  

1. They can save you time, money and work 

1. They can solve tricky construction issues  

1. They make you stand out from your competitors  

We also offer a 25-year guarantee on our screws that will really give you peace of mind in their strength. However the duration of them is much much longer, this is just the guarantee period. Contact us if you have questions, would like advice on possible solutions, or to receive a quote and book an installation. 

Have a look at our online price calculator to get an estimate of how much your job might cost.

Sustainable Builds in Surrey is a construction company with a mission: To promote and prove that cost-effective, durable and aesthetically-pleasing sustainable building is possible. Not only possible but the best option for construction moving forward.

The company, founded by Ross Clode, recently developed a prototype sustainable hybrid structure in under 6 months from scratch. Amongst other sustainable materials, they used Stop Digging ground screws to attach the structure to the ground. We caught up with Ross to find out more about the project.

Goal
Ross and his team wanted to see if a Sustainable Building could provide form and function whilst being economically viable. They also decided to utilise a combination of old and new technology to produce a unique hybrid build.

The team at SB wanted this case study to be accessible and relevant to as wide a demographic as possible. The buildings showcased in the television programme ‘Grand Designs’ can be an interesting watch but they felt a more down to earth approach was best. They believed that if they could prove Sustainable Construction is commercially viable other building companies will follow.

Result
Whilst looking at a potential case study they decided a combined Home Office and Garage/Workshop would fit the bill, especially relevant with so many people working from home during the Covid Pandemic. The beauty of this building is that at its end of life (Estimated building lifespan minimum 50 to 60 years), or earlier if required, it can be removed easily with minimum environmental impact on the area it was erected. Furthermore, over 95% of the materials that are used in the build can be reused or recycled leaving a minimal carbon footprint.

Each part of the build was researched and developed from a sustainable viewpoint. Endless research and refinement took place to produce what they believe is a unique, sustainable structure. This building is sustainable from its Concrete Free ground anchors, to its Final Finish CO2 Absorbing, Air Purifying Home Office Paint.

The three main areas where sustainable design was implemented are:

1) Concrete Free Ground Anchor Foundations. With Stop Digging ground screws they found a sustainable foundation solution that was also quicker and more cost-effective than conventional concrete footings.

3) Hybrid Eco Timber Modules. A fusion of old school Douglas Fir and a High-Performance Eco Sarking panel form this quick and cost-effective Sustainable Modular Construction Technique.

3) Eco-friendly Plaster Board, Plaster and CO2 Absorbing Air Purifying Home Office Paint.
Looking at the result we are sure you agree it is an amazing structure that fulfilled every requirement Ross and his team had.

If you would like to talk to us about how to make your build more sustainable with our concrete free ground screws, then please get in touch at:  sales@stopdigging.co.uk or 020 3970 3979

As ground screws are becoming ever more popular and talked about, people that are only hearing about them for the first time naturally have many questions.

In this article, we answer the 12 most googled questions about ground screws.

Ground screws are also known as ground anchors, ground pins, screw anchors, screw piles, helical screws, earth anchors, earth screws.

1. What are Ground Screws?

Ground screws are large steel screws that replace the need to dig traditional foundations and lay concrete.  

2. Can I install the Ground Screws myself?

No, Stop Digging supply and install the ground screws. We have specialist machinery to install the screws and our installers have been trained and certified.

3. How do Ground Screws work?

On arrival at the site, we scan the area to ensure there are no pipes or electric cables, we drill pilot holes for ground screws to ensure there are no large rocks and it is suitable, we then set out the screw locations, then we will insert the screws, each screw takes just minutes to ensure and we use a laser to level them off.

That’s it, ready for your base, structure or objects to be placed on top.

4. How many Ground Screws do I need?

This will all depend on the size and weight of your project. For a garden room, a typical rule of thumb would be one screw per square meter.

To get a bit more of an accurate guide, use our calculator here or even better get in touch for a free estimate and we will be able to give a much more accurate number.

5. How much do Ground Screws cost?

The price of a ground screw depends on which screw you are using. Our cost is for supply of the screw and the installation. They start from as little as £50+VAT per screw (supply and install) check out our online calculator here for a better guide or if you would like an accurate quote, please do get in touch with us.

6. What are Ground Screws made of?

Stop digging ground screws are manufactured from steel, ISO 630 Fe 360A. They are galvanised according to DIN EN ISO 1461. Click here to find out more about our screws.

7. Where can I buy Ground Screws?

If you want Stop Digging ground screws, you just need to get in touch with us. We supply and install the screws and take any hassle away.

8. What are Ground Screws used for?

Ground screws can be used for many things such as:

SIP Panel Extensions, timber framed houses, mobile homes, shipping containers, porta cabins, glamping pods, playground equipment, solar panels, signs, fencing, decking, pergolas, carports, sports equipment, site fencing, flag poles and much more!

9. What size are Ground Screws?

The ground screws range from 865mm to a whopping 2500mm find out more about Stop Digging screws here

10. Why use a Ground Screw?

There are many reasons to use ground screws over concrete. Ground screws are much faster to install, saving you valuable time. Time = money. In addition, they often work out cheaper than the cost of digging foundations and creating a concrete base. They save so much hassle and do not cause damage to the surrounding area. They are better for the environment and can be used in conservation areas, near trees, on slopes and uneven ground.

11. Why are Ground Screws green?

The process of a ground screw, emits 50% less carbon emissions than a concrete block covering the same area. In addition, no damage is caused to the area where the building/structure has been placed with screws. They are even reusable.

12. Are Ground Screws any good?

What a great question. The answer to that would be YES. Ground screws solve many problems that a contractor or person might have when using concrete. They save time, hassle and money. They even come with a 25-year guarantee. What could be better than that?

Summary

So there you have it, the answers to the most googled questions about ground screws.

Do you have a question about ground screws that hasn’t be answered in this article? Please do get in touch with us, we would love to hear from you – find your installer

Ground screws are also known as ground anchors, ground pins, screw anchors, screw piles, helical screws, earth anchors, earth screws.

There is an alternative solution to concrete for timber framed houses, garden rooms, decking, fencing, SIP panel extentions etc which are Stop Digging ground screws. The ground screws can also be known as screw piles, helical piles, screw anchor, earth screw, earth anchor.

The brilliant thing about ground screws is they are an environmentally friendly alternative to concrete.

This article will explore the reasons why concrete is not good for our environment; what alternatives are available; and the pros and cons of these.

No matter where you live in the world, we are all surrounded by concrete. Concrete is one of the main materials used in the building industry.

How does cement nowadays differ from hundreds of years ago?

Hydraulic cement, better known as Portland cement, is the modern artificial type of cement used in the construction industry. After the process of thermal decomposition of calcium carbonate to produce clinker (CaCO₃ (limestone) + thermal energy > CaO (lime) + CO₂), the clinker is ground with gypsum to create a powder (Portland cement).

In contrast, non-hydraulic cement produced by the Romans and other ancient civilisations, was hardened by exposure to carbon dioxide (naturally in the air) without the need for water.

How is concrete made?

Elements are extracted from earth (e.g. sand, gravel, limestone, granite) which are then mixed with cement material and water, which binds these materials together to create concrete.

What are some reasons why concrete is not environmentally friendly?

Production results in high carbon emissions

• Cement is a key ingredient in concrete
• Cement production accounts for approximately 5% of the world’s C0₂ emissions
• Cement production ranks third in the production of manmade CO₂ worldwide after transport and energy generation
• CO₂ is emitted at two stages of cement production:
• The first stage is as a by-product of burning fuel to create enough heat to drive the production process
• The second stage is thermal decomposition of calcium carbonate to produce clinker: CaCO₃ (limestone) + thermal energy > CaO (lime) + CO₂
• To produce one tonne of cement (40 standard bags), 780kg of CO₂ is released. That’s almost 20kg of CO₂ per bag of cement!

Concrete has lasting effects for the future

• Concrete mix which is non-permeable causes major soil erosion and flooding. Toxic waste is transported along with rainwater; if the concrete is non-permeable, this mixture of toxic waste will run off the concrete and be absorbed by the earth’s top soil (affecting plants), or nearby water sources (affecting aquatic life and tap water)
• When buildings are demolished in the future, concrete is a waste material that is hard to dispose of and is difficult to reuse. Concrete dust is also released as a result of demolition which is harmful to health when inhaled
• Water is key to the utilisation of cement. Water itself is an important resource, so unnecessary use of this should be avoided

What are the alternative solutions?

• Use of recycled and sustainable materials to make cement: certain suppliers will provide these and although this is a better solution than concrete and cement it is not a totally green solution
• Rammed earth: this method involves compacting gravel, clay, sand, and water to strengthen the rammed earth. However, 5-10% cement often needs to be added to this mixture which, as well as being very time-consuming, diminishes its green credentials
• Ground screws: these altogether eliminate the need to create concrete bases for timber framed houses, SIP panel extensions and structures like garden buildings, cabins, decking, fencing, signs, sheds play area equipment, etc.

How is a concrete base normally made?

Foundations are dug and then concrete is poured to create the base for the building/structure, on many occasions, a damp-proof course is required. This normally takes a couple of days or more depending on the size, and only then can the timber framed building or structure be built on top.

What are Stop Digging Ground Screws?

Stop digging ground screws are also known as as screw piles, helical piles, screw anchor, earth screw, earth anchor.

Originally founded in Sweden in 2012, these large steel ground screws are used to replace pile drivers and concrete during construction. This unique screw has been designed to withstand weather conditions in the Nordic climate and can be installed all year round. Different sized and shaped screws are used depending on land ratio, load, and type of project.

The size of each screw ranges from 865mm to 1200mm in length, and there are a variety of different width sizes available.

How do the ground screws work?

1. The area is checked with specialist machinery for underground pipes and cables
2. An experienced team measure and mark out the footprint of the building accurately
3. String lines and ground paint mark the area where the building and screw locations will be
4. The holes are pre-drilled to deal with any obstructions and ensure accuracy in positioning the ground screws
5. The stop digging ground screws are placed in the pre-drilled holes
6. A laser level is used to set the best height for your requirements
7. The screws are drilled into the ground within minutes
8. A timber frame and building can now be placed on top

What are the green benefits to using these ground screws?

• No concrete is involved – these screws eliminate the need for a concrete base
• No damage to the ground – creating foundations and concrete bases damages the ground and surrounding area, these ground screws are drilled directly making no mess
• No waste – digging out foundations creates a substantial amount of waste and the screws do not create any
• The screws do not damage tree roots allowing you to build much closer. Read our article Solution When Building Near Tree Roots

Is this an expensive option?

Surprisingly, most people find that using these ground screws is cheaper than the labour and material cost of digging foundations and creating a concrete base!

The whole process is much quicker than creating a concrete base so time is also saved.

Use our online calculator to get a guide price for your project https://stopdigging.co.uk/ground-screws-cost/

Can I purchase these screws and install them myself?

No, Stop Digging uses specialist machinery to install the screws and the certified installers ensure they gently install them correctly so they offer a supply and installation price with a guarantee of 25 years on the screws.

What happens if there is a rock in the ground?

The hole is pre-drilled before installing any ground screws so smaller stones or gravel will be pushed aside in the boring process, and medium stones broken. Large rocks cause more of an issue, as they would if you came across one whilst digging. Experienced installers will come up with an effective solution and are used to tackling any challenges that may arise.

Are the screws reusable?

& Yes, the screws are reusable and so perfect for temporary structures that might change location

Conclusion

The world has a long way to go in finding alternatives to concrete since it is used in nearly all construction.

However, where we find alternatives we can do our part and use an environmentally friendly option that will help start to decrease the impact concrete is having on carbon emissions. These new ground screws are one way we can help if we are planning to have a new timber building (including 2-storey timber framed houses), SIP panel extensions, porta cabins, garden rooms or buildings, sheds, fencing, decking, signs, playground equipment and much much more.

Check out our online calculator to get an estimate of how much our foundation solution might cost for your project.