Match the research question to the foundation decision.
Start by asking the structural engineer
Soil research must suit the building and the desired intervention. Have it determined in advance which data are required, so that the researcher can tailor his approach to the design question.
Take the location into account
Accessibility, underground infrastructure and available space can influence the preparation of research. Collect existing reports and communicate known limitations to the research party.
A measurement result requires interpretation
A cone penetration test provides information about ground resistance and, depending on the measurements, other soil properties. The geotechnical adviser relates these data to the design question and other information about the site. A graph alone is therefore not a foundation recommendation. Discuss whether existing investigations are suitable for your plans in terms of location, depth and age, and which additional information is needed.
Coordinate the foundations and superstructure
In addition to soil data, a foundation design also requires forces from the building. A changed column position or an additional floor can change these forces. Therefore, make sure that the advisors use the same design version. Ask what loads and deformations have been assumed and how changes are fed back. This makes it clear when existing advice needs to be reassessed.
Your preparation in four steps
- Project and foundation design
- Available old soil reports
- Accessibility of the research location
- Consultation between structural engineer and researcher
Frequently asked questions on this topic
Is a CPT the same as foundation advice?
No. A CPT is a measurement of the properties of the subsurface. An advice connects soil data with the design question and building loads. Ask what studies are available and whether they are sufficiently appropriate for the location and the proposed structure.
Can an existing foundation be reused?
This requires an assessment of the existing foundation, its condition and the new load. Available drawings, pile data, soil surveys and previous reports can help. The mere fact that a building has been there for a long time does not provide an answer to a new structural change.
View the associated structural calculation, create your preparation list or take the guides and checklists along to the consultation.