Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is geotechnical engineering?
Geotechnical engineering is a branch of civil engineering that focuses on the behavior of soil, rock, and groundwater. It ensures the stability and safety of construction projects by analyzing site conditions and providing design recommendations.
2. Why do I need a geotechnical investigation?
A geotechnical investigation is essential to understand the soil and ground conditions at your site. It helps prevent issues like foundation failure, landslides, or settlement, ensuring your project is safe, durable, and cost-effective.
3. When should I conduct a geotechnical investigation?
A geotechnical investigation should be conducted during the planning phase of a project, before design and construction begin. This allows engineers to address potential issues early and avoid costly delays.
4. What does a geotechnical investigation report include?
The report typically includes soil and rock properties, groundwater conditions, foundation design recommendations, slope stability analysis, and risk assessments for issues like landslides, faults or settlement.
5. How long does a geotechnical investigation take?
Typical investigations take 2 to 4 weeks to complete the subsurface exploration and approximately 3 to 6 weeks following the exploration for the report to be completed.
6. How much does a geotechnical investigation cost?
Costs vary based on the scope of the project, site conditions, and testing requirements. Contact us for a customized quote tailored to your specific needs.
7. What methods are used in geotechnical investigations?
Common methods include drilling, excavation of test pits, sample collection, laboratory testing, geophysical surveys, and in-situ testing like Standard Penetration Tests (SPT) or Cone Penetration Tests (CPT).
8. Can geotechnical issues be fixed if problems are found?
Yes, most geotechnical issues can be mitigated with proper engineering solutions, such as soil stabilization, deep foundations, drainage systems, or retaining walls.
9. Do I need a geotechnical investigation for a small residential project?
Most jurisdictions in our area require geotechnical investigation for permitting of new construction. Even for small projects, a geotechnical investigation ensures your home is built on a stable foundation and helps avoid future problems like cracking or settling.
10. How do I choose the right geotechnical firm?
Look for a firm with experienced engineers and geologists, a strong track record, proper certifications, and a commitment to clear and timely communication. We’re here to help—contact us to discuss your project needs!
11. What other services will I need from a geotechnical firm?
A geotechnical investigation as described above will provide the necessary information to determine feasibility of a building location and the specific design criteria needed by the project structural engineer to design a suitable structure. At the time of permitting of the project, most permitting agencies will require that the geotechnical engineer review the permit set of plans for conformance with the geotechnical recommendations. This review is provided in a letter that is submitted to the permitting agency. Finally, during construction the geotechnical engineer will provide geotechnical inspections of the work as well as other special inspections and construction observations where required.