Soil Testing

1. Weak Bearing Capacity

• Soil cannot support intended loads
• Risk of differential settlement
• Foundations may crack or sink

2. High Moisture / Poor Drainage

• Waterlogged ground reduces stability
• Increased risk of frost heave
• Long-term damp and erosion concerns

3. Contaminated Land

• Hazardous chemicals or materials present
• Health and environmental risks
• Often requires remediation before building

minor Repairs

• Improve surface drainage around the plot
• Localised soil replacement in soft spots
• Add geotextile membranes for stability

moderate Repairs

• Soil stabilisation with lime or cement
• Install land drains across affected areas
• Remediate small areas of contamination

major Repairs

• Full ground remediation for contaminated land
• Deep soil replacement and re-compaction
• Switch to deep pile foundations on weak ground

When Replacement Is Needed

• Before any new build or extension
• On previously developed (brownfield) sites
• When existing buildings show movement
• When local soil is known to be variable

Installation Steps

1. 1

   Desk Study

   • Review historical maps and records
   • Identify previous land uses
   • Highlight likely risks before site work
2. 2

   Boreholes & Trial Pits

   • Drill boreholes to recover soil samples
   • Excavate trial pits to inspect strata
   • Record depths, layers, and water levels
3. 3

   Laboratory Analysis

   • Test bearing capacity and composition
   • Measure moisture content
   • Screen for contaminants and chemicals
4. 4

   Engineering Report

   • Summarise findings and risks
   • Recommend foundation type and depth
   • Specify any required ground works