Title: What Does a Soil Report Really Tell Us?

Author(s): Robert L. Goehring

Publication: Concrete International

Volume: 10

Issue: 7

Appears on pages(s): 29-32

Keywords: bearing capacity; foundations; soil classification; soil compacting; soil mechanics; General

DOI:

Date: 7/1/1988

Abstract:
The complexity of a soils report and recommendations are directly related to the variability of the soil conditions found and the complexity of proposed development. Because there are no standards, the quality and usefulness of a soils report is largely dependent on the expertise of its writer and the completeness of understanding reached between the client and geotechnical engineer. Negotiating a comfortable level of geotechnical study is the responsibility of the entire design team. If the client is involved from the beginning, realistic expectations for the actual performance of the project can be established and reviewed periodically.