What is Geotechnical Engineering and Why is it Critical for Your Project?

Geotechnical engineering falls under the classifications of civil engineering and is an important part of any development aspect. It is important that every civil project is given a geotechnical risk assessment.

Geotechnical engineering is the study of subsurface information that will allow us to determine the best possible alternative. There is no one-size-fits-all standard for a geotechnical risk evaluation because no two are the same.

Geotechnical engineering is concerned with the behaviors of soil and rock mechanics to evaluate subsurface conditions and determine the composition of the soils. This knowledge allows us to evaluate the safety and stability of your project site and to assess the risks that may be posed by any site conditions.

Wheeled loader at construction site

Site Investigations

Alternatives are surmised through extensive accurate subsurface information. This rule applies to properties as small as a home and as large as a dam. Each project has complexities unlike those of any other project. As such, so do the alternatives that we propose.

We can be most effective when we have a steady on-site presence, especially complex construction projects. We customize every project to meet project requirements, and we base our investigations on the complexity of both site requirements and project requirements as well. Our site investigations can include:

  • Rock core logging
  • Test pit excavation and logging
  • In-situ testing
  • Drilling
  • Geophysics
  • Dynamic cone penetration testing
  • Installation of instrumentation
  • Mapping, both surface and subsurface

With geotechnical engineering, we help you ascertain that your constructed work, conditions of the foundation and subsurface conditions are appropriate for your project. Through monitoring throughout the project, we can identify any changes in the site condition and execute any design modifications necessary.

Engineering Design Services

An important aspect of geotechnical services is the engineering design component. We take every consideration into each design we present. There are often options that can only be presented on a customized basis as no two projects or sites are identical. Design services include:

  • Foundation design
  • Retaining wall design
  • Slope stability
  • Pavement design
  • Engineering earthquake-safe options
  • Water retention dams
  • Ground improvement
  • Construction
  • Embankment design
  • Terrain hazards

Geotechnical engineering is a critical component of your project. It needs to be incorporated from day one to save the hardship and cost of a project gone wrong because the foundation, surface and subsurface, and groundwater flow were not properly mapped.

Geotechnical engineering services are offered both onsite and off-site. Whatever your geotechnical needs are, Jesik Consulting can help you solve your problems.