Site classification
Classify the ground before you commit to the design
A site label is only useful when it directs decision making
Reactive soil, uncontrolled fill, near-surface bedrock or soft soils can impact foundation designs, alter costs of earthworks and limit development alternatives. And if they are misinterpreted, your project begins with incorrect assumptions.
Geotesta integrates the results of your site inspections, site observations, field tests, or laboratory tests into one report, and helps explain what the site classification means for your specific project. Additionally, we indicate where further investigations, environmental assessments or engineering input are required.
What Does the Classification Consider?
Site Geology
Review the geological setting and likely subsurface conditions that could influence development.
Soil Reactivity
Assess how soil may expand or shrink as moisture conditions change, particularly for residential footing and slab design.
Strength and Stiffness
Identify whether the ground is likely to provide suitable support or requires more detailed investigation and engineering.
Fill and Disturbance
Look for placed fill, disturbed ground or previous site activity that may affect reliability and performance.
Rock and Groundwater
Identify indications of shallow rock, bedrock depth or groundwater conditions that could affect excavation and foundations.
Contamination Risk
Coordinate environmental sampling where the site history or proposed works raise questions about contamination or soil disposal.
One team for ground and environmental risk
Frequently asked questions
A classification is normally required when developing a piece of land, preparing plans for development, or during the initial stages of design. For example, residential projects generally require classification prior to completion of footing and slab design.
A residential site classification provides details on the anticipated behaviour of the site soils, and gives the footing designer the information they require to choose an appropriate slab or footing system.
Yes. Generally larger developments involve a project-specific evaluation of geology, soil, fill, rock and groundwater instead of simply using a residential classification type.
Not necessarily. Geotesta can arrange for environmental studies and/or chemical testing if the site has a history suggesting possible contamination, if there are regulations requiring contaminant studies, or if you plan to dispose of contaminated soil through this development process.
That depends on available data and level of project risk. Geotesta will recommend only sufficient field work or testing necessary to obtain a valid classification or next steps for your project.
Certainly. Desktop reviews and preliminary assessments can be performed on your behalf prior to purchasing your desired development site to identify any potential limitations prior to your purchase. Further detailed fieldwork may be recommended after purchase prior to design or construction.