Small footprint. Same precision.
Foundations for garden suites, laneway houses, and accessory dwelling units. Tight-access forming done right, from first footing to waterproofing.
Garden suites are one of the fastest-growing housing types in the GTA. Whether you call them laneway houses, coach houses, or accessory dwelling units, they all need a solid foundation. That is where we come in.
The unique challenge with garden suites is access. Most backyard builds have tight laneways, narrow gates, and limited room to maneuver equipment. Our crews are experienced in tight-access forming, using smaller equipment and efficient logistics to get the job done without damaging your property.
We have built garden suite foundations in Aurora, Whitby, Toronto, and across the GTA. Every one is formed to the same standard as a full-size home, because your garden suite deserves nothing less.
How we get it done.
Every project follows a proven process. No shortcuts, no improvisation, just disciplined execution from start to finish.
Footing Day
Once surveyors place the pins, we move in. Footings are formed, rebar is placed, and concrete is poured the same day. Even on tight-access sites, we get footings done in a single day.
Wall Assembly
Forming cages are brought in and assembled over 3 to 4 working days. On tight-access sites, we use smaller equipment and efficient logistics. Every anchor bolt and window buck is positioned with full-size precision.
Wall Pour
All walls are poured in a single day. Concrete is delivered via pump truck if direct access is not possible. The pour is coordinated to minimize disruption to the main house and neighbouring properties.
Strip & Load
Forms are peeled and cages loaded out. We are careful with existing landscaping and structures, leaving the yard clean and ready for the next trade.
Waterproofing
Our waterproofing crew sprays tar and wraps membrane on all below-grade walls. The foundation is sealed and ready for backfill.
See it for yourself.
Foundation walls ready for concrete placement
Compact forming work for a rear-yard garden suite
Finished foundation with clean site ready for the next trade
Frequently asked questions.
What are the setback requirements for garden suites?
Setback requirements vary by municipality. In Toronto, the typical rear yard setback is 1.5 metres, with side yard setbacks depending on the zone. We recommend checking with your architect or city planner for the exact requirements on your lot.
Can you build on a laneway lot?
Yes. Laneway access is common for garden suites and we have the experience to work within narrow corridors. We coordinate pump trucks and material delivery to make it work, even on the tightest sites.
How small of a foundation can you pour?
We have formed garden suite foundations as small as 400 sq ft. The process is the same as a larger build, just scaled to fit. Smaller does not mean less attention to detail.
Do garden suites need a full basement?
Not necessarily. Many garden suites use slab-on-grade or crawl space foundations depending on the design and municipal requirements. We can form any of these configurations.
How long does a garden suite foundation take?
Most garden suite foundations take 1 to 2 weeks from footing to strip. The smaller footprint means fewer forming days, but access logistics can add time on tight sites.
More ways we can help.
Ready to start your project?
Send us your plans and get a detailed estimate. No obligation, no pressure.