Foundation type and effort estimate 8m x 4.8m cavity wall outbuilding

Section62

OJ1 said:

I also wonder if your suggestion of landscaping ‘around’ the structure could also make it less risky to build if I stuck with the idea of a block build. If I were to lower a larger section of ground surrounding all 4 sides and provide appropriate drainage - would that go some way towards building it at ground level ?

Again, be careful about this if you didn't show earthworks on the plans which you submitted for planning.

If you lower the ground level around the building, but retain the eaves/roof level at the same level it is currently designed at, the building height will appear to be greater than you have planning consent for.  You should talk to the planners and explain that you now want to lower the ground level to increase the building height, but the finished eaves/roof level will be the same.  Getting it on record will avoid any problems if the planners come and check the height above ground level later (e.g. if someone complains).

bigjake9938

Ground screws would be a good way to go, you will save yourself a whole heap of cash compared to the concrete foundations. We did a similar type of building and even with the extra weight of gym equipment, the ground screws were solid. It's a shame that you still have to excavate the soil for to get the height right. If you do use ground screws it would need to be a steel frame base because the timber frames need airflow and cant be set lower than the ground level. We used sips ground screws for our ground screws and would recommend. 

RAS

And if you lower the floor, you need to talk to building control again. 

What did you propose as a roof structure?