What lies beneath a construction site is just as important as what is built above it.
Understanding ground conditions is a critical step in ensuring a safe, stable and cost effective development. Detailed soil investigations will provide vital data about a site’s composition, load bearing capacity and groundwater conditions. This all lays the groundwork for successful design and construction.
Why Soil Investigations Matter
Soil investigations, often referred to as ground investigations or site investigations, are essential for:
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- Informed Foundation Design – The type and quality of soil determine the most appropriate foundation solution.
- Risk Identification – Early detection of issues such as soft spots, contamination or high groundwater levels helps prevent costly surprises later.
- Engineering Certainty – Accurate data supports structural calculations, settlement predictions and site preparation plans.
- Site Suitability Assessment – Confirms whether a location is appropriate for the intended development.
Skipping or underestimating this step can lead to instability, construction delays and unanticipated costs.
What’s Involved In A Soil Investigation
Thorough investigations should use a combination of techniques:
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- Boreholes – Drilled to extract soil samples and assess subsurface layers and groundwater.
- Trial Pits – Excavated to examine shallow conditions and identify potential obstructions.
- Laboratory Testing – Samples are analysed for properties such as moisture content, shear strength, compaction and contamination.
Findings should then be compiled into a comprehensive report that details soil characteristics and provides clear recommendations for foundation design, ground improvement or drainage requirements.
When Are Soil Investigations Needed?
Soil investigations are typically required during the early design stages of:
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- New residential or commercial developments
- Infrastructure works such as drainage or road projects
- Extensions or alterations to existing structures
- Sites with a history of flooding, movement or poor soil performance
They are often requested by structural engineers, architects or local authorities to meet planning or Building Warrant requirements.
How Soil Investigations Support Better Outcomes
Accurate ground data available from the outset allows project teams to:
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- Avoid overdesigning or underdesigning foundations
- Minimise delays caused by unforeseen site conditions
- Improve health and safety planning for excavation
- Increase structural longevity and performance
Soil investigations should be tailored to your project’s scope, site conditions and programme helping to reduce construction risk and build confidence in design decisions.
Working with us
To work with us on making your dream project a reality, get in touch today.
0141 473 5280
info@pwdconsultants.co.uk
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