Investigating Soil Stress Testing in Residential Sites

Investigating Soil Stress Testing in Residential Sites

Explanation of what expansive clay is and how it behaves under different conditions

Explanation of soil composition and its impact on foundation stability


Understanding soil composition is crucial when assessing the stability of foundations in residential sites. Helical piers provide added support for homes needing foundation expert service foundation repair service market I-beam. Soil is a complex mixture of minerals, organic matter, water, and air. The primary components of soil are sand, silt, and clay, each with distinct properties that influence the soil's behavior under stress.

Sand, composed of larger particles, provides good drainage and is relatively stable but lacks cohesion. Silt, with medium-sized particles, holds more water and nutrients but can become compacted, affecting its stability. Clay, consisting of fine particles, has high cohesion and can retain water, leading to swelling and shrinking issues that impact foundation stability.

The proportion of these components determines the soil type, which can be classified as sandy, silty, clayey, or a combination thereof. For instance, clayey soils can expand when wet and contract when dry, exerting pressure on foundations and causing cracks. Conversely, sandy soils drain well but offer less support, making them prone to erosion.

Moreover, the presence of organic matter, such as decomposed plant material, influences soil structure and fertility. While beneficial for plant growth, excessive organic matter can lead to soil instability, especially when it decomposes and alters the soil's volume.

Water content is another critical factor. Saturated soils lose strength and can lead to issues like liquefaction during seismic activity, compromising foundation integrity. Therefore, proper soil stress testing is essential to evaluate these factors and ensure that foundations are designed to withstand the specific stresses imposed by the soil composition.

In conclusion, a thorough understanding of soil composition and its behavior under various conditions is vital for ensuring the stability and longevity of residential foundations. Soil stress testing helps identify potential issues early, allowing for informed decisions in foundation design and construction.

Overview of common soil stress testing methods used in the industry


When it comes to constructing residential sites, understanding the behavior of the underlying soil is crucial. Soil stress testing helps engineers and builders assess the stability, load-bearing capacity, and potential settlement of the ground. Several common methods are employed in the industry to evaluate soil stress, each with its own advantages and applications. Here's an overview of these methods:

1. **Standard Penetration Test (SPT)**:
The SPT is one of the most widely used methods for assessing soil properties. It involves driving a split-spoon sampler into the soil using a standardized hammer and counting the number of blows required to penetrate a certain depth. The number of blows, known as the "N-value," provides insights into the soil's density and strength. SPT is relatively quick and cost-effective, making it a popular choice for preliminary investigations.

2. **Cone Penetration Test (CPT)**:
The CPT is a more advanced method that involves pushing a cone-shaped probe into the soil at a constant rate. As the cone penetrates, sensors measure the resistance and friction along the shaft. This test provides continuous data on soil layers, making it ideal for identifying variations in soil properties with depth. CPT is particularly useful in soft soils and can offer detailed information about soil strength and stratification.

3. **Plate Load Test**:
The plate load test is a direct method for evaluating the load-bearing capacity of soil. A steel plate is placed on the ground, and a known load is applied. The settlement of the plate under the load is measured, allowing engineers to determine the soil's bearing capacity and modulus of deformation. This test is often used to validate design assumptions and ensure that the soil can support the intended structures.

4. **Vane Shear Test**:
The vane shear test is specifically designed for cohesive soils like clay. A four-bladed vane is inserted into the soil, and torque is applied until the soil fails in shear. The torque required to cause failure is measured, providing data on the soil's undrained shear strength. This test is particularly useful in assessing the stability of clay soils in embankments and foundations.

5. **Laboratory Testing**:
In addition to field tests, laboratory tests on soil samples can provide valuable data. Common lab tests include the triaxial test, which measures the shear strength of soil under controlled conditions, and the consolidation test, which assesses how soil compacts under load over time. These tests offer precise measurements but require careful sample collection and handling.

Each of these methods offers unique insights into soil behavior, and often, a combination of tests is used to get a comprehensive understanding. By employing these soil stress testing methods, engineers can make informed decisions to ensure the safety and stability of residential constructions.

Discussion of the benefits of soil stress testing for homeowners and contractors


Sure, here's a short essay on the benefits of soil stress testing for homeowners and contractors:

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Discussing the Benefits of Soil Stress Testing for Homeowners and Contractors

Soil stress testing is an essential practice that offers numerous benefits to both homeowners and contractors. By evaluating the mechanical behavior of soil under various loads, this testing method provides critical insights that contribute to the safety, durability, and cost-effectiveness of residential construction projects.

For homeowners, the primary benefit of soil stress testing is enhanced structural safety. Understanding the soil's capacity to bear loads helps ensure that the foundation of a home is built on stable ground. This reduces the risk of structural issues such as settling, cracking, or even collapse, which can be costly and dangerous. Moreover, informed soil data allows homeowners to make better decisions about the type of foundation that best suits their property, whether it be a slab, pier, or crawl space.

From a financial perspective, soil stress testing can lead to significant cost savings. By identifying potential soil problems early in the construction process, homeowners can avoid expensive repairs down the line. For instance, if the test reveals expansive soils that are prone to swelling and shrinking with moisture changes, appropriate measures can be taken during construction to mitigate these effects, thus preventing future damage to the home.

For contractors, soil stress testing is a valuable tool that enhances project efficiency and client satisfaction. Accurate soil data allows contractors to design foundations that are tailored to the specific conditions of the site, leading to more robust and reliable structures. This precision not only improves the quality of the work but also builds trust with clients, as they see the thoroughness and professionalism invested in their project.

Additionally, soil stress testing can streamline the construction process. With a clear understanding of the soil's properties, contractors can avoid unexpected delays caused by unforeseen ground conditions. This leads to more accurate project timelines and budgeting, which are crucial for maintaining client relationships and securing future business.

In conclusion, soil stress testing offers indispensable benefits to both homeowners and contractors. For homeowners, it ensures the safety and longevity of their investment, while for contractors, it enhances project outcomes and client satisfaction. As residential construction continues to evolve, the importance of thorough soil analysis through stress testing cannot be overstated.

Case studies showcasing successful soil stress testing and foundation repair projects


Soil stress testing plays a critical role in ensuring the stability and longevity of residential constructions. By analyzing the load-bearing capacity and stress distribution in the soil, engineers and builders can make informed decisions that prevent structural failures. Several case studies have highlighted the efficacy of soil stress testing in residential sites, showcasing not only the importance of thorough soil analysis but also the successful outcomes of foundation repair projects.

One notable case study involves a suburban neighborhood where homeowners reported uneven settling and minor cracks in their homes. After conducting a detailed soil stress analysis, engineers discovered that the soil beneath the foundations varied significantly in composition and load-bearing capacity. Some areas had pockets of loose, sandy soil, while others contained more stable, clay-rich soil. By identifying these variations, the engineers were able to design a customized foundation repair plan. This included underpinning certain sections with additional support and adjusting the load distribution across the foundation. Post-repair assessments showed a marked improvement in structural stability, and homeowner satisfaction increased as the issues of settling and cracking were effectively addressed.

Another compelling example comes from a coastal residential area prone to soil erosion and shifting due to tidal influences. Soil stress testing revealed that the soil's capacity to support the homes was compromised during high tide periods when water content increased. To combat this, engineers implemented a two-pronged approach: reinforcing the foundations with helical piers that extended deep into more stable soil layers and installing a sophisticated drainage system to manage water flow around the foundations. The result was a significant reduction in soil erosion and a more stable foundation, ensuring the homes remained safe and habitable despite the challenging environmental conditions.

In a third case, a residential development project in an area with expansive clay soils faced substantial issues during the construction phase. Expansive clays are known for their tendency to swell when wet and shrink when dry, leading to foundation movement and structural damage. Initial soil stress tests indicated high potential for soil expansion, prompting the construction team to adopt a proactive approach. They utilized a combination of soil stabilization techniques, including chemical treatments to reduce the clay's expansive properties and the installation of foundation systems designed to accommodate movement. The project not only proceeded without major incidents but also set a new standard for building in similar soil conditions, demonstrating the value of comprehensive soil stress testing.

These case studies underscore the importance of soil stress testing in residential construction. They illustrate how tailored solutions based on thorough soil analysis can lead to successful foundation repair projects, ensuring the safety and durability of homes. As building practices evolve, the integration of advanced soil stress testing techniques will continue to be essential in mitigating risks and enhancing the resilience of residential structures.

Tips for selecting a reputable soil testing and foundation repair company


When it comes to building or renovating a home, ensuring the stability and safety of your foundation is paramount. One crucial step in this process is soil stress testing, which helps determine the load-bearing capacity of the soil beneath your property. To get accurate and reliable results, it's essential to select a reputable soil testing and foundation repair company. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision.

First and foremost, do your research. Start by looking for companies with a solid reputation in the industry. Check online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends or family, and seek out any professional affiliations or certifications the company may have. A reputable company will often display their credentials proudly, so take note of any awards, memberships, or industry recognitions.

Experience matters. Look for a company with a proven track record in soil testing and foundation repair. Experienced professionals are more likely to have encountered a variety of soil conditions and foundation issues, making them better equipped to provide accurate assessments and effective solutions. Don't hesitate to ask about the company's history and the specific projects they have completed in your area.

Transparency is key. A reputable soil testing and foundation repair company should be open and honest about their processes, pricing, and any potential risks involved. They should provide you with a clear and detailed estimate before any work begins, outlining the scope of the project, the costs involved, and the expected timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you into making quick decisions or those that provide vague or inconsistent information.

Communication is vital. Effective communication is essential throughout the soil testing and foundation repair process. Choose a company that keeps you informed at every step, from the initial assessment to the final report. They should be responsive to your questions and concerns, providing clear explanations and updates as needed. A company that values open and honest communication is more likely to deliver a satisfactory outcome.

Consider their equipment and technology. Soil testing and foundation repair require specialized equipment and technology to ensure accurate results and effective solutions. A reputable company will invest in up-to-date tools and machinery, as well as employ trained professionals who are skilled in using them. This commitment to quality equipment and technology demonstrates their dedication to providing the best possible service.

Lastly, trust your instincts. If something feels off or you have concerns about a particular company, it's essential to trust your gut. A reputable soil testing and foundation repair company should make you feel confident and comfortable throughout the process. If you encounter any red flags or have doubts, don't hesitate to explore other options.

In conclusion, selecting a reputable soil testing and foundation repair company is crucial for ensuring the stability and safety of your residential site. By conducting thorough research, prioritizing experience and transparency, valuing effective communication, considering their equipment and technology, and trusting your instincts, you can make an informed decision and feel confident in your choice. Remember, investing in a reputable company will ultimately contribute to the long-term success and stability of your home.

Common misconceptions about soil stress testing and foundation repair


When it comes to soil stress testing and foundation repair, there are several common misconceptions that can lead to misunderstandings and ineffective solutions. One prevalent myth is that all soil stress tests are the same. In reality, soil stress testing methods can vary significantly depending on the specific conditions of the site and the type of soil present. Some tests might be more suitable for sandy soils, while others are better for clay or silt. Understanding the nuances of these tests is crucial for accurate assessment and effective repair strategies.

Another misconception is that foundation issues are always visible. In truth, many foundation problems occur below the surface and may not manifest as obvious cracks or shifts. This is why soil stress testing is so important-it can detect hidden issues before they become major problems. Homeowners often wait until they see visible signs of damage, such as cracks in walls or uneven floors, but by then, the underlying soil issues may have worsened.

There's also a belief that foundation repair is a one-size-fits-all solution. In fact, the appropriate repair method depends on the specific soil conditions and the type of foundation. For instance, a slab foundation might require different interventions compared to a pier and beam foundation. Ignoring these differences can lead to ineffective repairs and continued issues.

Additionally, some people think that soil stress testing is an unnecessary expense. However, skipping this crucial step can lead to more costly problems down the line. Identifying soil issues early can save homeowners time, money, and stress in the long run by preventing more severe foundation damage.

Lastly, there's a misconception that DIY solutions are effective for foundation repair. While some minor issues might be addressed by homeowners, significant foundation problems require professional expertise. Qualified engineers and contractors have the knowledge and tools to properly assess soil conditions and implement effective repair strategies.

In conclusion, dispelling these common misconceptions about soil stress testing and foundation repair can lead to better understanding and more effective solutions for residential sites. It's essential to approach these issues with the right knowledge and professional guidance to ensure the stability and safety of any home.



Redirect to:

  • Structural integrity and failure

 

Basement waterproofing involves techniques and materials used to prevent water from penetrating the basement of a house or a building. Waterproofing a basement that is below ground level can require the application of sealant materials, the installation of drains and sump pumps, and more.

Purpose

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Waterproofing is usually required by building codes for structures that are built at or below ground level. Waterproofing and drainage considerations are especially important in cases where ground water is likely to build up in the soil or where there is a high water table.

Water in the soil causes hydrostatic pressure to be exerted underneath basement floors and walls. This hydrostatic pressure can force water in through cracks, which can cause major structural damage as well as mold, decay, and other moisture-related problems.

Methods

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Several measures exist to prevent water from penetrating a basement foundation or to divert water that has penetrated a foundation:

  • French Drain
    French drain
    Interior wall and floor sealers
  • Interior water drainage
  • Exterior drainage
  • Exterior waterproofing coatings
  • Box type waterproofing[1]
  • Foundation crack injections
  • French drains
  • Sump pump

Interior sealants

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In poured concrete foundations, cracks and pipe penetrations are the most common entry points for seepage. These openings can be sealed from the interior. Epoxies, which are strong adhesives, or urethanes can be pressure injected into the openings, thus penetrating the foundation through to the exterior and cutting off the path of the seepage.

In masonry foundations, interior sealers will not provide permanent protection from water infiltration where hydrostatic pressure is present. However, interior sealers are good for preventing high atmospheric humidity inside the basement from absorbing into the porous masonry and causing spalling. Spalling is a condition where constant high humidity or moisture breaks down masonry surfaces, causing deterioration and shedding of the concrete surfaces.

Other coatings can be effective where condensation is the main source of wetness. It is also effective if the problem has minor dampness. Usually, interior waterproofing will not stop major leaks.

Interior water drainage

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Although interior water drainage is not technically waterproofing, it is a widely accepted technique in mitigating basement water and is generally referred to as a basement waterproofing solution. Many interior drainage systems are patented and recognized by Building Officials and Code Administrators(BOCA) as being effective in controlling basement water.

A common system for draining water that has penetrated a basement involves creating a channel around the perimeter of the basement alongside the foundation footers. A French drain, PVC pipe, or other drainage system is installed in the newly made channel. The installed drain is covered with new cement.

The drainage system collects any water entering the basement and drains it to an internally placed sump pump system, which will then pump the water out of the basement. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends basement waterproofing with a water alarm and "battery-operated backup pump" as a preventive measure against the high cost of flooding.[2] Wall conduits (such as dimple boards or other membranes) are fastened to the foundation wall and extend over the new drainage to guide any moisture down into the system.

Exterior waterproofing

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Waterproofing a structure from the exterior is the only method the U.S. International Building Code (IBC) recognizes as adequate to prevent structural damage caused by water intrusion.

Waterproofing an existing basement begins with excavating to the bottom sides of the footings. Once excavated, the walls are then power washed and allowed to dry. The dry walls are sealed with a waterproofing membrane,[3] and new drainage tiles (weeping tiles) are placed at the side of the footing.

A French drain, PVC pipe, or other drainage system is installed and water is led further from the basement.

Polymer

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Over the past ten years, polymer-based waterproofing products have been developed. Polymer-based products last for the lifetime of the building and are not affected by soil pH. Polymer-based waterproofing materials can be sprayed directly onto a wall, are very fast curing, and are semi-flexible, allowing for some movement of the substrate.

Causes of water seepage and leaks

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Water seepage in basement and crawl spaces usually occurs over long periods of time and can be caused by numerous factors.

  • Concrete is one of the most commonly used materials in home construction. When pockets of air are not removed during construction, or the mixture is not allowed to cure properly, the concrete can crack, which allows water to force its way through the wall.
  • Foundations (footings) are horizontal pads that define the perimeter of foundation walls. When footings are too narrow or are not laid deep enough, they are susceptible to movement caused by soil erosion.
  • Gutters and downspouts are used to catch rain water as it falls and to discharge it away from houses and buildings. When gutters are clogged or downspouts are broken, rainwater is absorbed by the soil near the foundation, increasing hydrostatic pressure.
  • Weeping tile is a porous plastic drain pipe installed around the perimeter of the house. The main purpose of external weeping tile is preventing water from getting into a basement. However, these pipes can become clogged or damaged, which causes excess water to put pressure on internal walls and basement floors.
  • Water build up inside window wells, after heavy rain or snow, can lead to leaks through basement window seams. Window well covers can be used to prevent water from accumulating in the window well.
  • Ground saturation is another common form of basement leaks. When the footing drain fails the ground around the basement can contain too much water and when the saturation point is met flooding can occur.

Warning signs of water damage

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Signs that water is seeping into a basement or crawlspace often take years to develop and may not be easily visible. Over time, multiple signs of damage may become evident and could lead to structural failure.

  • Cracked walls: Cracks may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal or stair-stepped. Severe pressure or structural damage is evident by widening cracks.
  • Buckling walls: Usually caused by hydrostatic pressure. Walls appear to be bowed inward.
  • Peeling paint: Water seeping through walls may lead to bubbling or peeling paint along basement walls.[4]
  • Efflorescence: White, powdery residue found on basement walls near the floor.
  • Mold: Fungi that usually grow in damp, dark areas and can cause respiratory problems after prolonged exposure.

Foundation crack injections

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Foundation crack injections are used when poured concrete foundations crack, either from settlement or the expansion and contraction of the concrete. Epoxy crack injections are typically used for structural purposes while hydrophobic or hydrophilic polyurethane injections are used to seal cracks to prevent penetration of moisture or water. Concrete is both strong and inexpensive, making it an ideal product in construction. However, concrete is not waterproof.

References

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  1. ^ Waheed, M. A. (11 July 2014). "Top tips to optimally use conventional waterproofing techniques". Business Standard India. Archived from the original on 5 July 2022. Retrieved 28 May 2021.
  2. ^ "FloodSmart | How to Prepare for a Flood and Minimize Losses". Archived from the original on 9 May 2020. Retrieved 20 March 2020.
  3. ^ Carter, Tim. "How to redirect water around a damp garage". The Washington Post. Archived from the original on 15 August 2016. Retrieved 2 November 2015.
  4. ^ Chodorov, Jill. "Basement flooding may put a damper on your home sale". The Washington Post. Archived from the original on 18 May 2018. Retrieved 2 November 2015.

In geotechnical engineering, soil compaction is the process in which stress applied to a soil causes densification as air is displaced from the pores between the soil grains. When stress is applied that causes densification due to water (or other liquid) being displaced from between the soil grains, then consolidation, not compaction, has occurred. Normally, compaction is the result of heavy machinery compressing the soil, but it can also occur due to the passage of, for example, animal feet.

In soil science and agronomy, soil compaction is usually a combination of both engineering compaction and consolidation, so may occur due to a lack of water in the soil, the applied stress being internal suction due to water evaporation[1] as well as due to passage of animal feet. Affected soils become less able to absorb rainfall, thus increasing runoff and erosion. Plants have difficulty in compacted soil because the mineral grains are pressed together, leaving little space for air and water, which are essential for root growth. Burrowing animals also find it a hostile environment, because the denser soil is more difficult to penetrate. The ability of a soil to recover from this type of compaction depends on climate, mineralogy and fauna. Soils with high shrink–swell capacity, such as vertisols, recover quickly from compaction where moisture conditions are variable (dry spells shrink the soil, causing it to crack). But clays such as kaolinite, which do not crack as they dry, cannot recover from compaction on their own unless they host ground-dwelling animals such as earthworms—the Cecil soil series is an example.

Before soils can be compacted in the field, some laboratory tests are required to determine their engineering properties. Among various properties, the maximum dry density and the optimum moisture content are vital and specify the required density to be compacted in the field.[2]

A 10 tonne excavator is here equipped with a narrow sheepsfoot roller to compact the fill over newly placed sewer pipe, forming a stable support for a new road surface.
A compactor/roller fitted with a sheepsfoot drum, operated by U.S. Navy Seabees
Vibrating roller with plain drum as used for compacting asphalt and granular soils
Vibratory rammer in action

In construction

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Soil compaction is a vital part of the construction process. It is used for support of structural entities such as building foundations, roadways, walkways, and earth retaining structures to name a few. For a given soil type certain properties may deem it more or less desirable to perform adequately for a particular circumstance. In general, the preselected soil should have adequate strength, be relatively incompressible so that future settlement is not significant, be stable against volume change as water content or other factors vary, be durable and safe against deterioration, and possess proper permeability.[3]

When an area is to be filled or backfilled the soil is placed in layers called lifts. The ability of the first fill layers to be properly compacted will depend on the condition of the natural material being covered. If unsuitable material is left in place and backfilled, it may compress over a long period under the weight of the earth fill, causing settlement cracks in the fill or in any structure supported by the fill.[4] In order to determine if the natural soil will support the first fill layers, an area can be proofrolled. Proofrolling consists of utilizing a piece of heavy construction equipment to roll across the fill site and watching for deflections to be revealed. These areas will be indicated by the development of rutting, pumping, or ground weaving.[5]

To ensure adequate soil compaction is achieved, project specifications will indicate the required soil density or degree of compaction that must be achieved. These specifications are generally recommended by a geotechnical engineer in a geotechnical engineering report.

The soil type—that is, grain-size distributions, shape of the soil grains, specific gravity of soil solids, and amount and type of clay minerals, present—has a great influence on the maximum dry unit weight and optimum moisture content.[6] It also has a great influence on how the materials should be compacted in given situations. Compaction is accomplished by use of heavy equipment. In sands and gravels, the equipment usually vibrates, to cause re-orientation of the soil particles into a denser configuration. In silts and clays, a sheepsfoot roller is frequently used, to create small zones of intense shearing, which drives air out of the soil.

Determination of adequate compaction is done by determining the in-situ density of the soil and comparing it to the maximum density determined by a laboratory test. The most commonly used laboratory test is called the Proctor compaction test and there are two different methods in obtaining the maximum density. They are the standard Proctor and modified Proctor tests; the modified Proctor is more commonly used. For small dams, the standard Proctor may still be the reference.[5]

While soil under structures and pavements needs to be compacted, it is important after construction to decompact areas to be landscaped so that vegetation can grow.

Compaction methods

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There are several means of achieving compaction of a material. Some are more appropriate for soil compaction than others, while some techniques are only suitable for particular soils or soils in particular conditions. Some are more suited to compaction of non-soil materials such as asphalt. Generally, those that can apply significant amounts of shear as well as compressive stress, are most effective.

The available techniques can be classified as:

  1. Static – a large stress is slowly applied to the soil and then released.
  2. Impact – the stress is applied by dropping a large mass onto the surface of the soil.
  3. Vibrating – a stress is applied repeatedly and rapidly via a mechanically driven plate or hammer. Often combined with rolling compaction (see below).
  4. Gyrating – a static stress is applied and maintained in one direction while the soil is a subjected to a gyratory motion about the axis of static loading. Limited to laboratory applications.
  5. Rolling – a heavy cylinder is rolled over the surface of the soil. Commonly used on sports pitches. Roller-compactors are often fitted with vibratory devices to enhance their effectiveness.
  6. Kneading – shear is applied by alternating movement in adjacent positions. An example, combined with rolling compaction, is the 'sheepsfoot' roller used in waste compaction at landfills.

The construction plant available to achieve compaction is extremely varied and is described elsewhere.

Test methods in laboratory

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Soil compactors are used to perform test methods which cover laboratory compaction methods used to determine the relationship between molding water content and dry unit weight of soils. Soil placed as engineering fill is compacted to a dense state to obtain satisfactory engineering properties such as, shear strength, compressibility, or permeability. In addition, foundation soils are often compacted to improve their engineering properties. Laboratory compaction tests provide the basis for determining the percent compaction and molding water content needed to achieve the required engineering properties, and for controlling construction to assure that the required compaction and water contents are achieved. Test methods such as EN 13286-2, EN 13286-47, ASTM D698, ASTM D1557, AASHTO T99, AASHTO T180, AASHTO T193, BS 1377:4 provide soil compaction testing procedures.[7]

See also

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  • Soil compaction (agriculture)
  • Soil degradation
  • Compactor
  • Earthwork
  • Soil structure
  • Aeration
  • Shear strength (soil)
Multiquip RX1575 Rammax Sheepsfoot Trench Compaction Roller on the jobsite in San Diego, California

References

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  1. ^ Soil compaction due to lack of water in soil
  2. ^ Jia, Xiaoyang; Hu, Wei; Polaczyk, Pawel; Gong, Hongren; Huang, Baoshan (2019). "Comparative Evaluation of Compacting Process for Base Materials using Lab Compaction Methods". Transportation Research Record: Journal of the Transportation Research Board. 2673 (4): 558–567. doi:10.1177/0361198119837953. ISSN 0361-1981.
  3. ^ McCarthy, David F. (2007). Essentials of Soil Mechanics and Foundations. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall. p. 595. ISBN 978-0-13-114560-3.
  4. ^ McCarthy, David F. (2007). Essentials of Soil Mechanics and Foundations. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall. pp. 601–602. ISBN 978-0-13-114560-3.
  5. ^ a b McCarthy, David F. (2007). Essentials of Soil Mechanics and Foundations. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall. p. 602. ISBN 978-0-13-114560-3.
  6. ^ Das, Braja M. (2002). Principles of Geotechnical Engineering. Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole. p. 105. ISBN 0-534-38742-X.
  7. ^ "Automatic Soil Compactor". cooper.co.uk. Cooper Research Technology. Archived from the original on 27 August 2014. Retrieved 8 September 2014.

 

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Jeffery James

(5)

Very happy with my experience. They were prompt and followed through, and very helpful in fixing the crack in my foundation.

Sarah McNeily

(5)

USS was excellent. They are honest, straightforward, trustworthy, and conscientious. They thoughtfully removed the flowers and flower bulbs to dig where they needed in the yard, replanted said flowers and spread the extra dirt to fill in an area of the yard. We've had other services from different companies and our yard was really a mess after. They kept the job site meticulously clean. The crew was on time and friendly. I'd recommend them any day! Thanks to Jessie and crew.

Jim de Leon

(5)

It was a pleasure to work with Rick and his crew. From the beginning, Rick listened to my concerns and what I wished to accomplish. Out of the 6 contractors that quoted the project, Rick seemed the MOST willing to accommodate my wishes. His pricing was definitely more than fair as well. I had 10 push piers installed to stabilize and lift an addition of my house. The project commenced at the date that Rick had disclosed initially and it was completed within the same time period expected (based on Rick's original assessment). The crew was well informed, courteous, and hard working. They were not loud (even while equipment was being utilized) and were well spoken. My neighbors were very impressed on how polite they were when they entered / exited my property (saying hello or good morning each day when they crossed paths). You can tell they care about the customer concerns. They ensured that the property would be put back as clean as possible by placing MANY sheets of plywood down prior to excavating. They compacted the dirt back in the holes extremely well to avoid large stock piles of soils. All the while, the main office was calling me to discuss updates and expectations of completion. They provided waivers of lien, certificates of insurance, properly acquired permits, and JULIE locates. From a construction background, I can tell you that I did not see any flaws in the way they operated and this an extremely professional company. The pictures attached show the push piers added to the foundation (pictures 1, 2 & 3), the amount of excavation (picture 4), and the restoration after dirt was placed back in the pits and compacted (pictures 5, 6 & 7). Please notice that they also sealed two large cracks and steel plated these cracks from expanding further (which you can see under my sliding glass door). I, as well as my wife, are extremely happy that we chose United Structural Systems for our contractor. I would happily tell any of my friends and family to use this contractor should the opportunity arise!

Chris Abplanalp

(5)

USS did an amazing job on my underpinning on my house, they were also very courteous to the proximity of my property line next to my neighbor. They kept things in order with all the dirt/mud they had to excavate. They were done exactly in the timeframe they indicated, and the contract was very details oriented with drawings of what would be done. Only thing that would have been nice, is they left my concrete a little muddy with boot prints but again, all-in-all a great job

Dave Kari

(5)

What a fantastic experience! Owner Rick Thomas is a trustworthy professional. Nick and the crew are hard working, knowledgeable and experienced. I interviewed every company in the area, big and small. A homeowner never wants to hear that they have foundation issues. Out of every company, I trusted USS the most, and it paid off in the end. Highly recommend.

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