Are you planning to construct a commercial building? Read on and discover some of the findings of a geotechnical service which may have an impact on the cost of constructing that building.

Ground Water Table

The soil report usually has a section that describes the water table at the site. This information can affect project costs in several ways. For example, the contractor may have to conduct dewatering activities while digging the foundation. This has cost implications in terms of the equipment used and the labour devoted to that task. Secondly, the water table also has an impact on the kind of foundation that needs to be constructed. Special treatments to prevent water damage can inflate the construction costs.

Rock Structure

The geotechnical report also discusses the rock structure at the site. The nature of the rocks at the location has implications on the way work will progress. For example, the presence of rocks in sheet form will require the use of rippers and excavators during foundation making. Controlled explosions may be needed to dig through boulders. Each option has its own cost implications. Having the details about the kind and depth of rocks enables the contractor to come up with an accurate quote for the foundation work.

Soil Type

The geotechnical report often gives details about the soil that is going to be removed during the excavation of the foundation. Of special concern is the chemical composition of those soils. Corrosive soils may have to be removed from the site so that they don't affect the construction materials over time. This can increase project costs because the soil has to be brought in to backfill the foundation. Conversely, non-corrosive soils can be reused as backfill material.

Sliding Friction Factor

Geotechnical reports also have a section that discusses the likelihood of the soil at the site to slide once loads are exerted upon it. When this occurs, the building can easily be swept along leading to a significant loss. The soil report, therefore, suggests what measures, such as piling, should be taken to prevent the building from being susceptible to damage when the soil slides. The slope can also be leveled to reduce the likelihood that the soil will slide. The options suggested will affect the construction budget.

Ask a technical person to explain to you the findings and recommendations made after a geotechnical survey of your proposed site. This information will help you to work with a design team to design a structure that will stand the test of time.