Have you recently learned that you need a site classification or soil test to be done on property where you’re planning a new build? What is a soil test, and why is it necessary?
The primary reason why you have to utilise the soil testing Melbourne laws require is for a certified geotechnical engineer to assess the overall ground properties where no building has been done before. This means checking to see if the soil can safely hold your building and any other planned structures. Keep reading as we delve into the ins and outs of soil testing in Australia.
Understanding What Soil Tests Are
Simply put, soil tests are done to assess the load-bearing capacity of the soil on your land. Also referred to as site classifications, soil tests involve testing the soil at various depths as well as rocks in the area.
The goal here is to establish how the soil will react when a proposed foundation is built on it. Tests are also done to establish how the soil will hold up in severe flooding and how susceptible it is to landslides and soil erosion.
These tests also help building engineers assess what type of foundations need to be constructed to keep the structure as safe as possible. It’s essential to point out that soil tests are a prerequisite for obtaining building permits and codes.
Knowing What Tests Need to be Done
When it comes to geotechnical testing, there’s no one single test that gets done for every site. Different tests exist to assess various characteristics and strengths of the soil and surrounding ground. That said, there are several tests that local geotechnical engineers make use of to assess the very diverse Australian soil conditions. Our team of experts share the most significant ones you can expect.
Soil Compaction Testing
Some soil tests are carried out in the field where the build must happen, and others involve gathering soil samples and sending them for laboratory analysis. The soil compaction test involves using a nuclear gauge to gather soil, which is then analysed off-site. The goal here is to assess the level a which the soil has been compacted.
This is important because soil compaction prevents general soil settlement and also increases ground stability. Building on soil with a high compaction level means your structure will be less likely to settle or lean. Adding compacted soil to a site will increase the overall soil strength.
Standard Penetration Test (SPT)
The SPT is carried out on site and involves testing soil samples from different depths. This is done by drilling a borehole and then continuously dropping a heavy hammer attached to a tube sampler to penetrate the bottom of the borehole.
With each test, the number of hammer blows is recorded as these can provide clarity of the overall ground strength. The goal with this test is to establish soil type and load-bearing capacity. In short, this test is done to determine whether the soil will be able to hold the weight of the proposed building and road or pavement without drooping or sinking.
Rock Testing
As the name suggests, rock testing is done to establish the general rock strength in the area. This information will then be used to create parameters for any new tunnel, basement, road, or railway development. Aspects such as load strength, slack durability and moisture content are tested and assessed. Ideally, this test is done to ensure that a tunnel won’t collapse on itself when it rains or when there’s weight on it.
Cone Penetration Test (CPT)
The CPT is done on site and is commonly used to determine the general properties and is often regarded as one of the more accurate soil tests. This is because this test provides a more continuous result and is done using a specialised cone-shaped probe.
Recovered data is used to identify soil types, which in turn will let you know if you are working with stable loam soil or the more harmful clay-rich types. This test not only identifies soil conditions but is also more affordable than the SPT, which is usually done to determine similar information.
Concrete Testing
For the most part, concrete testing is done to assess and measure common factors such as consistency, strength, and temperature. This test is performed in a laboratory and is primarily used in sites where the plan is to build bridges, drains, pavements, residential buildings and driveways. With this test, your geotechnical team will be able to assess if the soil is stable enough to hold the intended concrete structure.
Final Thoughts
There’s no way for you to know which geotechnical testing your space will need. Once you employ a geotechnical team, they will assess your land and advise you of the tests you need based on the area and what type of structure you want to build.
Once testing has been completed, your team will be able to plan and design the best building techniques to suit the soil. This will ensure that your build is safe and durable for years to come!