We are in the process (2wks in)of building an extension (3x9m). The oversite is due to start next week. We have a few issues:
- The architect has specified 150mm hardcore but it seems the builder was not planning to lay this as the ground had not been dug out at all and he was planning to just lay the sand and the DPM etc - is this normal?
We have subsequently raised this issue with the builder and they are now proceeding to dig out the ground, although they are claiming MOT hardcore is already present from a previous patio. we are unsure if this is suitable for an extension. To us, the ground just looks like topsoil - we can see roots growing in it when we dig down into it!
- The architect also specified 80mm Celotex for the floor insulation - the builder decided to change this to Jablite which I believe is cheaper and inferior? He didn't tell us he had changed it. Since we now require a thicker layer of this insulation, he needs to make compromises with the other layers in the oversite (hence not doing the hardcore)
- The builder also just poured the concrete foundations over the existing drain which drains the kitchen and bathrooms without bridging it.
- The bricklayer put dishwashing liquid in the mortar - have just seen on the MyBuilder forums that this is unacceptable practice. How concerned should we be about this?
Any advice much appreciated.
- The architect has specified 150mm hardcore but it seems the builder was not planning to lay this as the ground had not been dug out at all and he was planning to just lay the sand and the DPM etc - is this normal?
We have subsequently raised this issue with the builder and they are now proceeding to dig out the ground, although they are claiming MOT hardcore is already present from a previous patio. we are unsure if this is suitable for an extension. To us, the ground just looks like topsoil - we can see roots growing in it when we dig down into it!
- The architect also specified 80mm Celotex for the floor insulation - the builder decided to change this to Jablite which I believe is cheaper and inferior? He didn't tell us he had changed it. Since we now require a thicker layer of this insulation, he needs to make compromises with the other layers in the oversite (hence not doing the hardcore)
- The builder also just poured the concrete foundations over the existing drain which drains the kitchen and bathrooms without bridging it.
- The bricklayer put dishwashing liquid in the mortar - have just seen on the MyBuilder forums that this is unacceptable practice. How concerned should we be about this?
Any advice much appreciated.