Project Approach


Geotechnical Services

The purpose of a Geotechnical Investigation is to identify potential problems with the underlying soils and to provide recommendations for mitigation measures where needed. Topics for recommendations may include rock anchors, slope stabilization, degree of compaction required, or moisture/density recommendations.

A geotechnical investigation for new construction involves subsurface exploration using test borings or excavations. Where conditions prohibit direct subsurface exploration, a substitute method, such as a refraction seismic survey, may be employed.

Soil samples collected during the subsurface exploration are returned to our laboratory, where they are subjected to a battery of tests to determine their engineering properties. Properties measured include moisture content, Atterberg limits (plasticity index), and a sieve analysis to determine the distribution of grain sizes.

Field and laboratory data are combined to prepare an engineering analysis of the property's suitability for the project with recommendations for use by the architect, engineers and contractors. Our Geotechnical Investigation Reports are suitable for submission to government agencies as part of the permitting process.

Special Inspection Services, Field Services, and Laboratory Testing

Our special inspections, field services, and laboratory testing performed during the course of construction provide opportunities for any problems to be corrected prior to completion of the project. Common problems include  insufficient welds, insufficient depth of foundations or caissons, incorrect materials used, insufficient compaction, insufficient pavement thickness, moisture problems and failure to follow construction plans.

Our Special Inspectors provide boots-on-the-ground oversight of your project. Our special inspection services may include continuous or periodic observation and monitoring of prepared fills, reinforced concrete construction, reinforced masonry construction, shallow and deep foundation construction, pre-cast concrete installation, seismic resistance elements, sprayed fire resistive material application, structural steel element assemblies, wall panel and veneer construction, and other Quality Assurance Plan constructions.

Internal Procedures

Our internal procedure for developing, monitoring, and maintaining project schedules and budgets assure that quality control, schedule milestones, and appropriate standards are met.  The budget is prepared prior to performing work. If the request for work will exceed the budget, a change order is requested.

A typical project is guided through these stages:

  • A proposal outlining our scope of services and associated costs is presented to the client in advance of the project. The signed proposal is returned to us.
  • A Project Number is assigned to the project. This number is applied to all field notes, documents, reports and invoices related to the project and allows for efficient retrieval of information, even many years after the project is complete.
  • Work scheduling is coordinated with the client. Typically, the client will telephone our dispatcher regarding the following day's work.
  • Sampling and other field work is performed.
  • Laboratory tests are performed.
  • The report is prepared with all results reviewed by our Professional Engineers or Registered Geologists.
  • Invoices are prepared and submitted to the client on a monthly basis for continuing projects or at the conclusion of our research  for single projects.



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