Shallow Foundation Engineering & Deep Foundation Engineering
GeoCon’s geotechnical engineers are experts at shallow foundation engineering and deep foundation engineering for all Gulf Coast construction. Whether you are working on stem walls, chain wall foundations, floating slabs, or raise slabs, we’ve got you covered. If your structure is simple and only requires a shallow foundation, we can help you plan, oversee, and inspect all aspects of your project. If your structure is large or the subsurface conditions require a lot more stability, then our deep foundation engineering experts will help from inception to inspection.
Basics of Shallow Foundation Engineering
Shallow Foundation Engineering is exactly what it sounds like it might be. It is designing and constructing foundations for structures that are able to exist at shallow depths in the soil. Shallow foundations are often attached to the soil directly under the structure, which is why they’re sometimes called footings.
Across all foundation construction, Shallow foundation engineering is the most common because it is the most cost effective. It requires digging at shallower depths and the size of the foundation is much smaller than deep foundation engineering. Structures that require deep foundations require much larger foundations than those capable of using shallow foundations. Overall, many coastal developers and Gulf Coast contractors prefer to use shallow foundation engineering. However, not all projects are suitable for shallow foundations. Many require deep foundation engineering.
There are a few different common types of footing or shallow foundations used in modern construction practices. Spread footing is also known as isolated footing or individual foot. Strip footing (strip foundations) are also known as wall footing or continuous footing. Mat footing (mat foundations) is also known as raft footing or raft foundation. Finally, there are combined foundations, strip foundations, and even cantilevers. You do not have to know which foundation is right for your structure. That’s why you work with the geotechnical engineering experts at GeoCon Engineering. We will analyze your project goals in context of the results of subsurface investigations to help you determine the ideal foundation type. Whether you are building a bridge, garage, shed, or even a house, we will help you design a shallow foundation that will stand the test of time.
Shallow Foundation Engineering Versus Deep Foundation Engineering
On one hand, the difference between shallow foundation engineering and deep foundation engineering is obvious; it’s the depth. While that is true, there are some greater differences. Building deep foundations means building much larger foundations with greater foundation to structure ratios than shallow foundations. That is a lot more material, which makes deep foundation projects more costly. Additionally, it means a lot more excavating, which again adds more to the project.
The decision of whether or not to plan for a shallow foundation or a deep foundation for your Gulf Coast construction project is not merely a matter of preference. It all has to do with whether subsurface conditions at the construction site allow for shallow foundation engineering. Soil type, compaction, and conditions must be perfect so as to make sure that a shallow foundation can support the structure above with no settling, cracking, or failing. If there’s any risk your foundation will settle, then you need deep foundation engineering.
Deep foundations, such as pilings, are an essential component for homes located on the Gulf Coast, particularly those built on or near the water. These homes require a strong foundation that can withstand the region's harsh weather conditions, including hurricanes, high winds, and flooding. Using deep foundations, like pilings, ensures that homes are secure and stable, providing homeowners with peace of mind and protecting their investment.
In order to determine if your project requires shallow foundation engineering or deep foundation engineering, you need geotechnical reporting and subsurface investigation. We can work alongside your contractors, construction experts, and developers to determine what type of foundation is needed. You need a geotechnical engineer with expertise in figuring out how the geology of your land will impact any and all construction on it or in it.
Setting The Standard in Structural Support and Stability with Foundation Engineering
GeoCon Engineering is a talented team of geotechnical engineers who live to help others build. We know that every construction project requires a strong foundation. Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida pose serious challenges to any construction projects. The experts at GeoCon will leave you feeling confident that you can overcome them. If you have a Gulf Coast construction project and want help determining if you need shallow foundation engineering or deep foundation engineering, contact us. The team at GeoCon Engineering is ready to help you build a stable foundation for your project and your livelihood.
