Are you looking for some guidance when it comes to setting out and site engineering services? At Baypoint Surveys, we have over 35 years of experience covering all aspects of setting out. We firmly believe, if the foundations are in the right place, the rest of the project runs more smoothly.
If you’re searching for a trusted setting-out team for your project, look no further. Baypoint Surveys is dedicated to providing accurate and reliable services across Bournemouth, Dorset, and the broader region. With the latest equipment and trusted techniques, we’ll ensure your project is completed to the highest standard.
For personalised advice, contact our team at Baypoint Surveys today.
What is Setting Out?
Setting out is a crucial step in every construction project. Every new development, whether a small domestic extension or an entirely new build, must be positioned correctly. This process is called setting out or site engineering.
Setting out consists of positioning the new development precisely, on the site, in accordance with the architect’s design drawing. First, the area must be cleared of any debris or conflicting structures. Once ready, our Engineers use the latest Total Stations to accurately set out the required feature, which might be foundations, brickwork, steel columns, timber frames etc. These will all have a specific tolerance, which we will ensure is achieved on site.
All setting out points are marked with, steel pins/caps/labels, pegs, masonry nails etc, and visible lines are usually sprayed, with colour coded paint, to indicate the exact positions of the build. This includes the placement of foundational structures and walls so that construction can begin.
Types of Setting Out
There are several different types of setting out services depending on the type of project you have. At Baypoint Surveys, we have worked on various projects over the years, from a range of different-sized domestic properties to offices, schools and more.
Below, we’ve listed several different kinds of setting out projects that we have worked on including:
- Domestic Extensions
- New Build Houses and Flats
- Housing Estates, including roads and drainage
- Golf courses
- Large commercial Building – Offices/Libraries etc
- Rail Infrastructure
- Solar farms
- Steel frames
- Swimming pools
Why Does Setting Out Matter?
Setting out is such a crucial part of the construction process because, without accurate planning and measurements, a project is likely to suffer and struggle through every subsequent step. The integrity of the overall project will likely be impacted, making the building potentially dangerous for construction workers and clients.
Likewise, if the setting out process is not accurate or within the tolerance for the required task, the client will incur unwanted costs and potential fines. This will not only increase the cost of a project but extend its timeline. Depending on the build, this could be detrimental for any of the people waiting on its completion.
As setting out specialists, we use the design location of the building or project and mark it out on the ground with the exact measurements for the most accurate results.
If the setting out is for an approximate location, for the groundworker to reduce the ground levels, the required accuracy would be in the order of 50mm. Once the foundations have been constructed and steelwork needs to be set out, the accuracy will be in the order of 2-3mm.
This ensures that every project is constructed within its planned specifications.
How to Choose a Setting Out Service Provider?
Choosing the right setting out service provider could be the difference between a smooth project and a struggling one. You need to be confident that your selection has the skills and experience to obtain the accuracy you need to move forward.
The right service provider will not only be qualified and experienced, but they must be professional and easy to communicate with. If they set out your project, but neglect to clearly communicate their plan and how to navigate their markings, your construction team could be left in the dark. This can slow down your project and impact it negatively.
Likewise, if you’re trying to find a reliable provider, always confirm that they have Professional Indemnity insurance. This insurance should be at least up to £1 million to ensure that any errors or omissions are covered without drawing additional costs from you.
Similarly, robust Health and Safety accreditations are crucial for every construction setting out provider. These ensure that all workers will be safe and secure throughout the project.
Setting Out by Baypoint Surveys in Bournemouth & Dorset
Baypoint Surveys is the right choice for all your setting out needs. Our experienced team has been providing comprehensive and accurate setting out services to all our clients for the last 19 years. With all relevant insurances, a wealth of experience, and a specialised team, we’re ready to ensure your project gets off to the best start.
Whilst we have held professional Indemnity Insurance for the last 19 years, we have never needed to use it due to our high-quality work and meticulous checking procedures.
If you’re ready to get started with a qualified and highly specialised setting out team, reach out to us today.
