OKOBASE Raft Foundation for Garden Rooms
First Published: 15 March 2022
Refreshed: 24 November 2024
Reading Time: 2 minutes
The OKOBASE is a Building Regulations-approved steel raft foundation offering a modern alternative to traditional concrete slab foundations for garden rooms. Designed for flexibility and durability, it can be installed on level ground or recessed below ground level to maximise internal headroom. With a lifespan of up to 100 years and installation completed in just one day, the OKOBASE is an innovative choice for garden room foundations.
The Origins of OKOBASE
Developed by the creators of contemporary garden room brand OKOPOD, the OKOBASE was born from a need for a foundation system that could rival concrete in strength and stability while being easier and quicker to implement. Dissatisfied with existing options, the team dedicated two years to research and development, resulting in the patented OKOBASE system.
Why Choose OKOBASE Over Concrete Foundations?
Concrete slab foundations, while strong and stable, require significant effort and expertise to install. Additionally, concrete needs curing time before construction can begin, leading to delays. As a result, concrete foundations have become less popular among garden room designers. The OKOBASE addresses these drawbacks, offering comparable strength and stability with a much faster installation process.
The OKOBASE has also passed rigorous testing, receiving pre-approval for use on all ground conditions. Its effectiveness has been proven on hundreds of OKOPOD projects, from small studios to large modular buildings. The system even doubles as a lifting frame for craned garden rooms, demonstrating its impressive load-bearing capacity.
Galvanised Steel for Longevity
The OKOBASE raft foundation is available in galvanised and ungalvanised versions:
- Ungalvanised: An economical option with an estimated lifespan of 25 years.
- Galvanised: A more durable choice, expected to last 100 years.
Bespoke and Modular Design
The OKOBASE is available in standard and custom sizes to suit various project requirements. The modular design ensures easy transportation and assembly, even in sites with challenging access. The OKOBASE team provides expert advice on the best configuration for your needs.
Above or Below Ground Installation
One of OKOBASE’s standout features is its straightforward installation. The process involves:
- Clearing and levelling the ground.
- Placing small hardcore pads to support the raft—these only need to penetrate the topsoil.
- Positioning the steel raft foundation on the pads.
This simple setup can be completed in around two hours, allowing construction of the garden room to begin the same day.
For projects requiring recessed installations to maximise ceiling height, the OKOBASE can also be sunk below ground level. Even with excavation, the entire foundation system is ready within a day.
Eco-Friendly and Reusable
Another advantage of the OKOBASE is its reusability. Unlike concrete slabs, which are permanent and can be difficult to remove, the OKOBASE can be dismantled and reused if the garden room is ever relocated or removed, making it an environmentally friendly option.
Learn More
To learn more about the OKOBASE raft foundation and its benefits, visit their website or contact the team directly by calling 01954 789 021 or emailing info@okobase.com.
