PILING & FOUNDATION ENGINEERING
Geotechnical investigation
Ground investigation coordination to inform foundation system selection, pile design parameters and construction methodology.
What is a geotechnical investigation?
A geotechnical investigation establishes the ground conditions at a site — soil/rock stratigraphy, groundwater levels, and geotechnical parameters — through methods such as boreholes, cone penetration tests (CPT) and laboratory testing. This data underpins foundation system selection and design.
Engineering application
Investigation results directly inform whether a shallow or deep foundation is appropriate, which piling method suits the ground, achievable pile capacity, and construction risks such as obstructions or high groundwater.
Typical scope
- Desk study and site walkover
- Borehole drilling and sampling
- In-situ testing (e.g. SPT, CPT)
- Laboratory testing of samples
- Factual and interpretive reporting
Considerations
- Investigation scope should be proportionate to project scale and risk
- Investigation depth must extend beyond the anticipated founding depth
- Groundwater monitoring may require repeat readings over time
FAQ
Why is ground investigation needed before piling? +
Ground investigation confirms soil/rock conditions and groundwater levels, which determine the appropriate foundation type, achievable pile capacity, and construction risks.
How soil conditions affect foundation design +
Soil strength, compressibility and groundwater conditions determine whether shallow or deep foundations are needed, and influence pile type, diameter and depth. See foundation engineering.