Whether you’re constructing an office complex, an apartment building, or a single-family house, there are several steps that must occur for a successful project. Geotech engineering and site surveys are among the essential parts of construction preparation. As a developer, you need a skilled team to complete these steps.

A Guide to Pre-Construction Land Preparation

1. Geotechnical Engineering Report

A geotech engineer investigates your project site, takes soil samples, and prepares a detailed report on the site condition, including an analysis of the soil, rock, water, and retaining walls.

The design and structural engineers and contractors use the report to determine the ability of the surface and subsurface soils to support the proposed structure. They may need to address conditions, such as underground streams or soil instability.  

2. Site Surveys

Site surveys locate and measure natural and man-made structures and features, property boundaries, elevations, and angles. Civil engineers perform topographic site surveys, locating items including utilities, contours, and ditches. Their tools include Global Positioning Systems (GPS), aerial photography, electronic theodolites, and levels.

3. Clearing & Excavating

Clearing the site requires removing trees and plant growth and debris. The excavating process prepares the land for installing the building foundation. Excavation includes soil removal and may require blasting rock, removing underground tanks, and preserving historic artifacts if they are found on the property.

4. Grading

Grading with bulldozers and scrapers prepares the land for construction by moving earth to establish the proper slope for water runoff. It’s wise to allow at least 0.5 inch per foot for a 10-foot final grade slope away from the structure. Keeping water away from the building structure ensures the structure’s foundation will not be compromised.

5. Compacting

Compacting the soil layers ensures the necessary support for the structure you are building. Heavy machinery, such as a crawler, smooth wheel roller, sheepsfoot roller, and a vibratory plate compactor, is used in this process that reduces soil permeability.    

Site preparation is essential for the project’s success, so consult McCarty Associates of Hillsboro, OH. They’ve been performing site surveys for residential, commercial, and industrial clients since their founding in 1963. When you need a topographical, land title, or aerial photogrammetry control survey, you can rely on their skills for quality results. To learn more about their work, including architectural and engineering services, visit the website. You can also call (937) 393-9971 to schedule a consultation.