A Soil Investigation is a necessary procedure when planning works on unprepared ground. But why? Fortunately, in this article, we answer all the questions you may have about sub-soil investigation and explain how Streval can help if you need one on your site.
What is a Soil Investigation?
A Soil Investigation involves taking samples and conducting tests to understand the properties, strengths and weaknesses of soil. The objective of Soil Investigation is to realise the potential detriments of the soil you intend to work on and determine whether work can safely proceed.
A Soil Investigation can also be known as a Sub-Soil Investigation and is a subset of Geotechnical Investigations.
Why are Geotechnical Investigations Necessary?
Geotechnical Investigations are vital to ensure your construction site doesn’t become a dangerous environment once works begin. Without a Soil Investigation, you could wrongfully believe your soil is sound enough to hold structures that it can’t realistically support.
Some consequences that arise as a result of sub-par or lack of a Soil Investigation include, spontaneous sinkholes, landslides, and wasted finances. Although these negative impacts can extend much further.
What Happens During a Soil Investigation?
There are several viable methods for testing soil pre-construction. These include DCP Testing, California Bearing, Plate Load Testing, Ground Bearing, and Vane Shear testing. Each of these methods offers individual benefits that your Soil Investigation team will weigh the benefits of before making a recommendation.
Regardless of the method you choose, each will help to assess the condition of your soil and provide useful data
that will influence construction or even the viability of your project.
Firstly, your investigation team will take samples from multiple locations on your site to examine their colour, texture, and moisture content. This will determine whether the soil is stable enough to be built on, or it is too loose and susceptible to breaking down.
Then, using any of the methods listed above, the load-bearing capacity and stability of the soil will be defined. From there, you can decide whether special measures must be taken during construction and whether further foundations or reinforcement are necessary.
This information will be clearly detailed in the Soil Investigation report, which construction workers will reference throughout the project’s duration.
Who Can Conduct a Sub-Soil Investigation?
Only a qualified Soil Investigator should conduct a Sub-Soil Investigation. The experts know what they’re talking about and will steer you in the safest direction before work begins on-site.
A professional will understand the data and compile it in a manner that is easy to understand and work closely with you to understand your requirements while complying with the recommendations.
How can Streval Help With Soil Investigation?
Here at Streval, our team of Soil Investigations experts utilise the latest technology to provide accurate data to ensure your project proceeds safely.
We understand the importance of Geotechnical Investigations. This is why we use every resource available to us to ensure we provide a comprehensive overview of your working conditions.
Contact us now to book your consultation appointment with Streval.