Each year, billions of dollars in damage to building foundations and structures is caused by shrinking and swelling behavior caused by clay soil.
In fact, expansive clay soil is the most predominant geologic hazard across the U.S. Several geotechnical solutions can alleviate these problems. On new construction, the options are: removal and replacement, capping or burying the expansive material, and treatment with hydrated lime. Structural solutions in new construction include upgraded structural slabs (post-tension, waffle, mat) or elevated slabs supported on deep foundations.
For an existing structure, a forensic geotechnical study is needed to identify and quantify damages, assign causation, and make appropriate recommendations for remediation. Moisture control may be a suitable option for remediation and it is a design requirement for new construction.
In extreme cases, helical anchors and slab (mud) jacking or removal and reworking of soil below an existing structure is necessary. For paved surfaces, expansive clay soils can be remediated with thicker sections of asphalt, reinforced concrete pavements, and lime treatment.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Oct 10, 2016
Los Angeles voters will decide whether high-density developments should be harder to build
A March vote on the Neighborhood Integrity Initiative would put 2-year ban on zoning changes
Codes and Standards | Oct 10, 2016
New sustainable landscape development and management credential launched
GBCI offered the first testing opportunity Oct. 3 at Greenbuild
Codes and Standards | Oct 6, 2016
Obama administration will spend $80 million for smart cities initiatives
The technology is targeted for climate, transportation, resiliency.
Codes and Standards | Oct 6, 2016
New York City files criminal charges on owner for deadly building façade accident
The owner allegedly did not heed warning about danger of the crumbling exterior.
Codes and Standards | Oct 5, 2016
New York becomes the first city to adopt a target for energy storage
Mayor de Blasio also announces increased solar generation goals
Codes and Standards | Oct 4, 2016
New global residential floor space measurement standard unveiled
The new standards will produce better transparency and are said to benefit investors.
Codes and Standards | Sep 29, 2016
Dept. of Energy forecasts big jump in LED use, resulting energy savings
Big gains are expected in both commercial and residential markets.
Codes and Standards | Sep 28, 2016
San Francisco commercial, multifamily regulations aim to reduce traffic volume
City planners will require design features to cut miles driven.
Codes and Standards | Sep 28, 2016
Society of Landscape Architects releases guide to resilient design
The goal is to retrofit communities to better withstand extreme weather events.
Codes and Standards | Sep 26, 2016
Washington State Energy Code updates include dedicated outdoor air system requirements
The updates will change design approach to HVAC.