Soil Testing Services for Construction Projects

Whether you are building your dream home, making an extension to your existing home or developing a commercial property, there is one thing that is of utmost importance, soil testing. There are a number of engineering consultancy firms that offer a wide range of soil testing services for commercial, industrial and residential projects that include geotechnical testing, soil testing and analysis. It is essential that you hire a consultancy that has the necessary and expertise so that accurate geotechnical data can be gathered for designing the proposed structure’s foundation and footings.

Collecting the Data

How is the geotechnical data gathered? Well, this is done by certified geotechnical engineers and soil experts by using mechanical and manual boring tools. Next, a specified number of boreholes are drilled by these engineers at pre determined depths so that soil samples can be collected for further analysis. The analytical process is as per the accepted industry and international standards. Based on the analysis, a site investigation report is prepared containing the actual geotechnical data along with the necessary recommendations.

Ascertaining Land Quality

The soil testing services provided by a well reputed engineering consultancy will help in determining the overall quality of the land. In the construction industry this involves field testing of soil and rocks. Normally, the tests include plate bearing tests and in site density testing, necessary for getting accurate geotechnical information. Soil and rock testing involves tests for ascertaining the efficacy of point load, frost heave, direct shear strength, magnesium sulphate, etc. Likewise, one has to determine the slake durability index along and at the same also ascertain the existing density and water content levels. Similarly, further tests have to be conducted for analyzing the density and particle size, soil suction and moisture content. Tests using the BRE and TRI methods are conducted to ascertain the necessary data.

Ascertaining Soil Suitability

Soil testing services are essential for determining the suitability and the overall soil quality of a building project. Conducting the necessary tests will throw up important geotechnical data that will help in determining whether the soil characteristics and quality is suitable for the structure or not. It is very important to have this data beforehand as it helps in taking informed decisions and also enable you to plan strategically. Further, the data produced by these tests will tell whether the soil suitability complies with the industry and national standards.

Bushfire Protection

Engineers, planners and consultants in the construction industry are required to provide a professional report for any construction activity in the bushfire prone areas. The primary aim of the bushfire report is to protect lives and properties from any bushfire threats. A comprehensive report helps in developing a sound strategy to limit the damage to lives and properties.

Finally, soil testing services are an essential prerequisite when applying for a building construction license.