HomeMy WebLinkAboutSPOONS-LIGHTFIELD ENTERPRISES, INC. - PDP/FDP - FDP150003 - SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS - ROUND 1 - GEOTECHNICAL (SOILS) REPORTGEOTECHNICAL SUBSURFACE EXPLORATION REPORT
LOT 18 MIDPOINT DEVELOPMENT
THUNDERPUP CONSTRUCTION
FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
EEC PROJECT NO. 1142088A
Prepared for:
Thunderpup Construction, Inc.
309 S. Link Lane
Fort Collins, Colorado 80524
Attention: Mr. Steve Wimp (steve@thunderpup.com)
Prepared by:
Earth Engineering Consultants, LLC
4396 Greenfield Drive
Windsor, Colorado 80550
4396 GREENFIELD DRIVE
WINDSOR, COLORADO 80550
(970) 224-1522 FAX (970) 663-0282
January 6, 2015
Thunderpup Construction, Inc.
309 S. Link Lane
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Attn: Mr. Steve Wimp (steve@thunderpup.com)
Re: Geotechnical Exploration Report
Lot 18 Midpoint Development
Thunderpup Construction
Fort Collins, Colorado
EEC Project No. 1142088A
Mr. Wimp:
Enclosed, herewith, are the results of the geotechnical subsurface exploration you
requested for the proposed office building planned to be constructed on Lot 18 of the
Midpoint Development property in Fort Collins, Colorado. In summary, the subsurface
soils encountered in the test borings consist of brown sandy lean clay / clayey sand
underlain by poorly graded sands and gravels. The near surface clays were moderately
plastic, relatively dry and subject to swelling with increased moisture at current moisture
and density. The poorly graded sands and gravels were encountered approximately 7 to 8
feet below existing grade and were medium dense to dense in consistency. Groundwater
was observed approximately 9 to 10 feet below ground surface.
Based on the soils observed at the test boring locations, it is our opinion the proposed
structure could be supported on conventional footing foundations bearing on a layer of
reconditioned site lean clay soils. Reconditioning of a minimum of 3 feet of the in-place
subgrade soils beneath the floors should be completed to reduce post-construction
heaving. Lightly loaded exterior flatwork and/or pavements supported on the near
surface clays would be expected to heave with expansion of the dry clay subgrades.
Reconditioning of a defined thickness of subgrades below pavements and flatwork could
be considered to reduce total and differential movement; however, some movement of the
pavements and flatwork should still be expected. Geotechnical recommendations
concerning design and construction of footing foundations, support of the building floor
GEOTECHNICAL EXPLORATION REPORT
LOT 18 MIDPOINT DEVELOPMENT
THUNDERPUP CONSTRUCTION, INC.
FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
EEC PROJECT NO. 1142088A
January 6, 2015
INTRODUCTION
The subsurface exploration for the proposed building to be constructed on Lot 18 of the
Midpoint Development property in Fort Collins, Colorado, has been completed. Three (3)
soil borings were completed within the development lot to obtain information on existing
subsurface conditions. The borings were extended to depths of approximately 10 to 25 feet
below present site grades. Individual boring logs and a diagram indicating the approximate
boring locations are provided with this report.
We understand the proposed structure will be a single-story, slab-on-grade (non-basement)
pre-engineered metal framed building with a total plan area of approximately 7,000 square
feet. Foundation loads for the structure are expected to be light with continuous wall loads
less than 3 kips per lineal foot and individual column loads less than 50 kips. We understand
drive and parking areas will be constructed adjacent to the building. It is our understanding
small cuts and fills will be required to develop finished grade for the site.
The purpose of this report is to describe the subsurface conditions encountered in the
borings, analyze and evaluate the test data and provide geotechnical recommendations
concerning design and construction of the foundations and support of floor slabs, exterior
flatwork and pavements.
EXPLORATION AND TESTING PROCEDURES
The boring locations were determined and established in the field by representatives of Earth
Engineering Consultants, LLC (EEC) by pacing and estimating angles from identifiable site
features. The locations of the borings should be considered accurate only to the degree
implied by the methods used to make the field measurements.
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EEC Project No. 1142088A
January 6, 2015
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The borings were performed using a truck mounted, CME-55 drill rig equipped with a
hydraulic head employed in drilling and sampling operations. The boreholes were advanced
using 4-inch nominal diameter continuous flight augers. Samples of the subsurface materials
encountered were obtained using split-barrel and California barrel sampling techniques in
general accordance with ASTM Specifications D1586 and D3550, respectively.
In the split-barrel and California barrel sampling techniques, standard sampling spoons are
driven into the ground by means of a 140-pound hammer falling a distance of 30 inches. The
number of blows required to advance the samplers is recorded and is used to estimate the in-
situ relative density of cohesionless materials and, to a lesser degree of accuracy, the
consistency of cohesive soils and hardness of weathered bedrock. In the California barrel
sampling procedure, samples of the subsurface soils are obtained in removable brass liners.
All samples obtained in the field were sealed and returned to our laboratory for further
examination, classification and testing.
Laboratory moisture content tests were performed on each of the recovered samples. In
addition, the unconfined strength of appropriate samples was estimated using a calibrated
hand penetrometer. Washed sieve analysis and Atterberg limits tests were completed on
selected samples to evaluate the quantity and plasticity of the fines in the subgrade soils.
Swell/consolidation tests were completed on selected samples to evaluate the potential for
subgrade materials to change volume with variation in moisture content and load. Results of
the outlined tests are indicated on the attached boring logs and summary sheets.
As a part of the testing program, all samples were examined in the laboratory and classified
in accordance with the attached General Notes and the Unified Soil Classification System
based on the texture and plasticity of the soil. The estimated group symbol for the Unified
Soil Classification System is indicated on the boring logs. A brief description of the Unified
Soil Classification System is included with this report. Classification of the bedrock was
based on visual and tactual evaluation of auger cuttings and disturbed samples. Coring
and/or petrographic analysis may reveal other rock types.
Earth Engineering Consultants, LLC
EEC Project No. 1142088A
January 6, 2015
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SITE AND SUBSURFACE CONDITIONS
Lot 18 of the Midpoint Development Property is located northeast of Midpoint Drive and
west of Sharp Point Drive. The building lot was vegetated and relatively flat at the time of
our exploration. Evidence of prior building construction was not observed on the referenced
lot by EEC personnel.
An EEC field engineer was on site during drilling to evaluate the subsurface conditions
encountered and direct the drilling activities. Field logs prepared by EEC site personnel
were based on visual and tactual observation of disturbed samples and auger cuttings. The
final boring logs included with this report may contain modifications to the field logs based
on the results of laboratory testing and evaluation. Based on the results of the field borings
and laboratory evaluation, subsurface conditions can be generalized as follows.
Top soil and vegetation was encountered at the surface of the boring locations. The top soil
and vegetation was underlain by sandy lean clay / clayey sand which extended to depths of
approximately 7 to 8 feet. The near surface soils were relatively dry and stiff to very stiff at
the time of drilling and exhibited moderate swell potential at current moisture and density
conditions. The sandy lean clay / clayey sand was underlain by sands and gravels. The
sands and gravels were medium dense to dense in consistency. The granular soils extended
to the bottom of the borings at depths of approximately 10 to 25 feet below present site
grades, at boring B-1 and B-3 locations and to the bedrock formation in the vicinity of boring
B-2. Claystone/siltstone bedrock was encountered at an approximate depth of 23 feet below
site grades at B-2 and extended to the depths explored.
The stratification boundaries indicated on the boring logs represent the approximate
locations of changes in soil and bedrock types. In-situ, the transition of materials may be
gradual and indistinct.
Earth Engineering Consultants, LLC
EEC Project No. 1142088A
January 6, 2015
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GROUNDWATER CONDITIONS
Observations were made while drilling and after completion of the borings to detect the
presence and depth to hydrostatic groundwater. At the time of drilling, groundwater was
observed at approximately 9 to 10 feet below ground surface in the borings.
Fluctuations in groundwater levels can occur over time depending on variations in
hydrologic conditions and other conditions not apparent at the time of this report. Longer
term monitoring of water levels in cased wells which are sealed from the influence of surface
water would be required to more accurately evaluate fluctuations in groundwater levels at
the site over time. We have typically noted deepest groundwater levels in late winter and
shallowest groundwater levels in mid to late summer.
Zones of perched and/or trapped water can be encountered at times throughout the year in
more permeable zones in the subgrade soils. Perched water is commonly encountered in
soils overlying less permeable bedrock. The location and amount of perched water can also
vary over time depending on hydrologic conditions and other conditions not apparent at the
time of this report.
ANALYSIS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Swell – Consolidation Test Results
The swell-consolidation test is performed to evaluate the swell or collapse potential of soils to
help determine foundation, floor slab and pavement design criteria. In this test, samples
obtained directly from the California sampler are placed in a laboratory apparatus and
inundated with water under a predetermined load. The swell-index is the resulting amount of
swell or collapse under the initial load expressed as a percent of the sample’s initial thickness.
After the initial swell/consolidation period, additional incremental loads are applied to evaluate
the swell pressure and/or consolidation response.
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EEC Project No. 1142088A
January 6, 2015
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For this analysis, we conducted three (3) swell-consolidation tests. The (+) test result
indicates the material’s swell potential while the (-) test result indicates the materials
collapse potential when inundated with water. The following table summarizes the swell-
consolidation laboratory test results.
Boring
No.
Depth,
ft.
Material Type
Swell Consolidation Test Results
In-Situ
Moisture
Content,
%
Dry
Density,
PCF
Inundation
Pressure,
psf
Swell
Index, %
(+/-)
1 2 Sandy Lean Clay 9.6 120.2 150 (+) 5.6
2 4 Clayey Sand 6.3 114.3 500 (+) 2.1
3 2
Sandy Lean Clay / Clayey
Sand
5.6 112.9 150 (+) 4.4
Colorado Association of Geotechnical Engineers (CAGE) uses the following information to
provide uniformity in terminology between geotechnical engineers to provide a relative
correlation of slab performance risk to measured swell. “The representative percent swell
values are not necessarily measured values; rather, they are a judgment of the swell of the soil
and/or bedrock profile likely to influence slab performance.” Geotechnical engineers use this
information to also evaluate the swell potential risks for foundation performance based on the
risk categories.
Recommended Representative Swell Potential Descriptions and Corresponding
Slab Performance Risk Categories
Slab Performance Risk
Category
Representative Percent Swell
(500 psf Surcharge)
Representative Percent Swell
(1000 psf Surcharge)
Low 0 to < 3 0 < 2
Moderate 3 to < 5 2 to < 4
High 5 to < 8 4 to < 6
Very High > 8 > 6
Based on the laboratory test results, the in-situ samples analyzed for this project were generally
within the moderate range near surface and low range with increased depth. The higher swell-
index values were of dry and dense subgrade samples obtained at depths of 2 feet.
Earth Engineering Consultants, LLC
EEC Project No. 1142088A
January 6, 2015
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General
The in-place near surface sandy lean clay / clayey sand is moderately plastic and, at the time
of drilling, was relatively dry. At current moisture-density, the soil has potential for
expanding subsequent to construction with increase in moisture content. Underlying soils
generally exhibited higher moisture contents and; therefore, lower potential to swell. Post
construction expansion of the near surface subgrades would cause heaving of floor slabs
and/or pavements supported directly on or above the near surface soils. To reduce the
potential movement of foundations, floor slabs, flatwork and pavements included herein are
recommendations for an overexcavation and replacement concept. This approach will
significantly reduce but not eliminate post-construction movement.
Site Preparation
All existing topsoil/vegetation should be removed from the site improvement areas. To
reduce the potential for post-construction movement caused by expansion of the dry, in-situ
soils, we recommend the entire building footprint be overexcavated and replaced as moisture
conditioned, compaction controlled fill. The overexcavation should extent to a depth of a
least 3 feet below existing site grades. Since movement of pavements is generally more
tolerable, in our opinion, the overexcavation depth in the pavement areas could be reduced to
2 feet below existing site grades. The overexcavated areas should extend laterally in all
directions beyond the edges of the foundations/pavements a minimum 8 inches for every 12
inches of overexcavated depth.
After removal of all topsoil/vegetation within the planned development areas, as well as
removal of unacceptable or unsuitable subsoils and removal of overexcavation materials, and
prior to placement of fill and/or site improvements, the exposed soils should be scarified to a
minimum depth of 9 inches, adjusted in moisture content to within (+/-) 2% of standard
Proctor optimum moisture content and compacted to at least 95% of the material's standard
Proctor maximum dry density as determined in accordance with ASTM Specification D698.
Earth Engineering Consultants, LLC
EEC Project No. 1142088A
January 6, 2015
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Fill materials used to replace the overexcavated zone and establish grades in the building
areas and pavement/flatwork areas, after the initial zone has been prepared as recommended
above, should consist of approved on-site lean clay subsoils or approved structural fill
material which is free from organic matter and debris. If on-site lean clay subsoils are used
as engineered fill, they should be placed in maximum 9-inch loose lifts, and be moisture
conditioned and compacted as recommended for the scarified soils. If structural fill
materials are used they should be graded similarly to a CDOT Class 5, 6 or 7 aggregate base
with sufficient fines to prevent ponding of water within the fill. Structural fill material
should be placed in loose lifts not to exceed 9 inches thick, adjusted to a workable moisture
content and compacted to at least 95% of standard Proctor maximum dry density as
determined by ASTM Specification D698.
Care should be exercised after preparation of the subgrades to avoid disturbing the subgrade
materials. Positive drainage should be developed away from the structures and pavements to
avoid wetting of subgrade materials. Subgrade materials becoming wet subsequent to
construction of the site improvements can result in unacceptable performance.
Footing Foundations
Footing foundations bearing on a zone of moisture conditioned and recompacted materials,
prepared as previously outlined, could be designed for a maximum net allowable total load
bearing pressure of 1,500 psf. Total loads include full dead and live loads. We estimate the
long-term settlement of footing foundations, designed and constructed as outlined above,
would be less than 1 inch.
After placement of the fill materials, care should be taken to avoid excessive wetting or
drying of those materials. Bearing materials which are loosened or disturbed by the
construction activities or materials which become dry and desiccated or wet and softened
should be removed and replaced or reworked in place prior to construction of the overlying
improvements.
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EEC Project No. 1142088A
January 6, 2015
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Exterior foundations and foundations in unheated areas should be located at least 30 inches
below adjacent exterior grade to provide frost protection. We recommend formed
continuous footings have a minimum width of 12 inches and isolated column foundations
have a minimum width of 24 inches.
Floor Slabs
In our opinion, floor slabs could be supported on a zone of engineered fill material following
the protocol outlined in the section titled “Site Preparation”. Floor slabs supported on
reconditioned engineered fill could be designed using a modulus of subgrade support (k-
value) of 100 pci.
Care should be taken after preparation of the subgrades to avoid disturbing the subgrade
materials. Materials which are loosened or materials which become dry and desiccated or
wet and softened should be removed and replaced prior to placement of the overlying floor
slabs. Care should be taken to maintain proper moisture contents in the subgrade soils prior
to placement of any overlying improvements. An underslab gravel layer or thin leveling
course could be used underneath the concrete floor slabs to provide a capillary break
mechanism, a load distribution layer, and as a leveling course for the concrete placement.
Additional floor slab design and construction recommendations are as follows:
Positive separations and/or isolation joints should be provided between slabs and all
foundations, columns or utility lines to allow independent movement.
Control joints should be provided in slabs to control the location and extent of
cracking.
Interior trench backfill placed beneath slabs should be compacted in a similar manner
as previously described for imported structural fill material.
Floor slabs should not be constructed on frozen subgrade.
Other design and construction considerations, as outlined in the ACI Design Manual,
Section 302.1R are recommended.
Earth Engineering Consultants, LLC
EEC Project No. 1142088A
January 6, 2015
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Seismic Conditions
The site soil conditions consist of approximately 23 feet of overburden soils overlying
moderately hard bedrock. For those site conditions, the 2012 International Building Code
indicates a Seismic Site Classification of D.
Lateral Earth Pressures
Site improvements constructed below grade would be subject to lateral earth pressures and
should be evaluated during design. Active lateral earth pressures could be used for design of
structures where some movement of the structure is anticipated, such as retaining walls. The
total deflection of structures for design with active earth pressure is estimated to be on the
order of one half of one percent of the height of the down slope side of the structure. We
recommend at-rest pressures be used for design of structures where rotation of the walls is
restrained. Passive pressures and friction between the footing and bearing soils could be
used for design of resistance to movement of retaining walls.
Coefficient values for anticipated types of soils for calculation of active, at-rest and passive
earth pressures are provided in the table below. Equivalent fluid pressure is equal to the
coefficient times the appropriate soil unit weight. Those coefficient values are based on
horizontal backfill with backfill soils consisting of essentially on-site cohesive subsoils or
approved imported granular materials. For the at-rest and active earth pressures, slopes
down and away from the structure would result in reduced driving forces with slopes up and
away from the structures resulting in greater forces. The passive resistance would be
reduced with slopes away from the wall. The top 30 inches of soil on the passive resistance
side of walls could be used as a surcharge load; however, should not be used as a part of the
passive resistance value. Frictional resistance is equal to the tangent of the friction angle
times the normal force. Surcharge loads or point loads placed in the backfill can also create
additional loads on below grade walls. Those situations should be designed on an individual
basis.
Earth Engineering Consultants, LLC
EEC Project No. 1142088A
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Soil Type On-Site Lean Clay Imported Granular Structural Fill
Wet Unit Weight (pcf) 125 135
Saturated Unit Weight (pcf) 130 145
Friction Angle (ϕ) – (assumed) 20° 30°
Active Pressure Coefficient 0.49 0.33
At-rest Pressure Coefficient 0.66 0.50
Passive Pressure Coefficient 2.04 3.00
The outlined values do not include factors of safety nor allowances for hydrostatic loads and
are based on assumed friction angles, which should be verified after potential material
sources have been identified. Care should be taken to develop appropriate drainage systems
behind below grade walls to eliminate potential for hydrostatic loads developing on the
walls. Those systems would likely include perimeter drain systems extending to sump areas
or free outfall where reverse flow cannot occur into the system. Where necessary,
appropriate hydrostatic load values should be used for design.
Pavements
Subgrades for site pavements should be prepared as outlined in the section titled "Site
Preparation." It will be imperative to maintain the moisture content of the prepared subgrade
up to and immediately prior to surfacing. Subgrade soils allowed to become dry and dense
would be prone to swelling, potentially causing additional post-construction heaving of the
site pavements. Densification of subgrade soils can occur with construction traffic. Prior to
surfacing the roadway subgrades with aggregate base, we recommend the subgrades be proof
rolled to help identify any soft or yielding areas. Soft or yielding areas delineated by the
proof rolling operations should be undercut or stabilized in-place to achieve the appropriate
subgrade support.
If unstable subgrades exist due to pumping conditions after subgrade preparation stage,
consideration should be given to stabilizing top 12 inches of pavement subgrades with the
use of an ASTM C618 Class C fly ash. We estimate stabilization of the site clayey sand
Earth Engineering Consultants, LLC
EEC Project No. 1142088A
January 6, 2015
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soils could be accomplished by incorporating at least 13%, by dry weight of Class C fly ash
into the upper 12 inches of subgrade. To take full advantage of the increased stiffness of a
stabilized subgrade for a reduction in pavement thickness, a mix design utilizing the fly ash
with the site soils would be required prior to surfacing.
We expect the site pavements will include areas designated primarily for automobile traffic
use and areas for heavy-duty truck traffic. For design purposes, an assumed equivalent daily
load axle (EDLA) rating of 5 is used in the automobile areas and an EDLA rating of 50 in
the heavy-duty areas. A Hveem stabilometer R-value of 5 was assumed and used in design.
Hot mix asphalt (HMA) underlain by aggregate base course with a fly ash treated subgrade,
or a non-reinforced concrete pavement may be feasible options for the proposed on-site
paved sections. HMA pavements may show rutting and distress in areas of heavy truck
traffic (trash truck routes) or in truck loading and turning areas. Concrete pavements should
be considered in those areas. Suggested pavement sections are provided in the table below.
The outlined pavement sections are minimums and thus, periodic maintenance should be
expected.
RECOMMENDED MINIMUM PAVEMENT SECTIONS
Automobile Parking Heavy Duty Areas
18-kip EDLA
18-kip ESAL
Reliability
Resilient Modulus
PSI Loss
5
36,500
75%
3025
2.5
50
365,000
75%
3025
2.2
Design Structure Number 2.48 3.56
Composite Section – Option A (assume Stable Subgrade)
Hot Mix Asphalt
Aggregate Base Course
Structure Number
4"
7"
(2.53)
5-1/2"
11"
(3.63)
Composite Section with Fly Ash Treated Subgrade
Hot Mix Asphalt
Aggregate Base Course
Fly Ash Treated Subgrade (assume half-credit)
Structure Number
3"
6"
12"
(2.58)
5"
7"
12"
(3.57)
Earth Engineering Consultants, LLC
EEC Project No. 1142088A
January 6, 2015
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We recommend aggregate base be graded to meet a Class 5 or Class 6 aggregate base.
Aggregate base should be adjusted in moisture content and compacted to achieve a minimum
of 95% of standard Proctor maximum dry density.
HMA should be graded to meet a SX (75) or S (75) with PG 58-28 binder. The HMA should
be designed in accordance with LCUASS design criteria. HMA should be compacted to
achieve 92 to 96% of the mix's theoretical maximum specific gravity (Rice Value).
Portland cement concrete should be an acceptable exterior pavement mix with a minimum 28-
day compressive strength of 4,000 psi and should be air entrained.
The recommended pavement sections are minimums, thus, periodic maintenance should be
expected. Longitudinal and transverse joints should be provided as needed in concrete
pavements for expansion/contraction and isolation. The location and extent of joints should be
based upon the final pavement geometry. Sawed joints should be cut in accordance with ACI
recommendations. All joints should be sealed to prevent entry of foreign material and
dowelled where necessary for load transfer.
Since the cohesive soils on the site have some shrink/swell potential, pavements could crack in
the future primarily because of the volume change of the soils when subjected to changes in
moisture content of the subgrades. The cracking, while not desirable, does not necessarily
constitute structural failure of the pavement. Stabilization of the subgrades will reduce the
potential for cracking of the pavements.
The collection and diversion of surface drainage away from paved areas is critical to the
satisfactory performance of the pavement. Drainage design should provide for the removal
of water from paved areas in order to reduce the potential for wetting of the subgrade soils.
Long-term pavement performance will be dependent upon several factors, including
maintaining subgrade moisture levels and providing for preventive maintenance. The
following recommendations should be considered the minimum:
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EEC Project No. 1142088A
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The subgrade and the pavement surface should be adequately sloped to promote proper
surface drainage.
Install pavement drainage surrounding areas anticipated for frequent wetting (e.g.
garden centers, wash racks)
Install joint sealant and seal cracks immediately.
Seal all landscaped areas in, or adjacent to pavements to minimize or prevent
moisture migration to subgrade soils.
Place and compact low permeability backfill against the exterior side of curb and
gutter.
Preventive maintenance should be planned and provided for through an on-going pavement
management program. Preventive maintenance activities are intended to slow the rate of
pavement deterioration, and to preserve the pavement investment. Preventive maintenance
consists of both localized maintenance (e.g. crack and joint sealing and patching) and global
maintenance (e.g. surface sealing). Preventive maintenance is usually the first priority when
implementing a planned pavement maintenance program and provides the highest return on
investment for pavements. Prior to implementing any maintenance, additional engineering
observation is recommended to determine the type and extent of preventive maintenance.
Site grading is generally accomplished early in the construction phase. However as
construction proceeds, the subgrade may be disturbed due to utility excavations, construction
traffic, desiccation, or rainfall. As a result, the pavement subgrade may not be suitable for
pavement construction and corrective action will be required. The subgrade should be
carefully evaluated at the time of pavement construction for signs of disturbance, rutting, or
excessive drying. If disturbance has occurred, pavement subgrade areas should be reworked,
moisture conditioned, and properly compacted to the recommendations in this report
immediately prior to paving.
If during or after placement of the stabilization or initial lift of pavement, the area is observed
to be yielding under vehicle traffic or construction equipment, it is recommended that EEC be
contacted for additional alternative methods of stabilization, or a change in the pavement
section.
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EEC Project No. 1142088A
January 6, 2015
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Water Soluble Sulfates
The results of water soluble sulfate testing on a selected sample of the near surface soils
indicated a sulfate (SO4) content of 700 mg/kg. ACI 318, Section 4.2 indicates the site soils
have a low risk of sulfate attack on concrete. Therefore, ACI 318, Section 4.2 suggests Type
I Portland cement may be suitable for concrete development. However, if there is no, or
minimal cost differential, a Type I/II Portland cement is recommended for additional sulfate
resistance of construction concrete.
Utilities
Near surface, the lean clay soils were relatively dry and stiff, generally becoming more moist
and medium stiff with depth into medium dense to dense sand and gravel approaching
groundwater. Cuts extending into the near surface relatively dry lean clay soils would be
expected to stand on relatively steep temporary slopes. However, cuts extending to greater
depths could expose soft, wet, pumping soils and groundwater. The soft, wet cohesive soils
and underlying granular materials may be unstable in the trench excavations. Stabilization
of the sides and bottoms of some of the trenches and at least some dewatering should be
anticipated for deeper utilities. Although the excavated soils could be used for backfilling
the utility excavations, drying of those soils will be necessary before the excavated material
can be used for backfilling.
The individual contractor(s) should be made responsible for designing and constructing
stable, temporary excavations as required to maintain stability of both the excavation sides
and bottom. All excavations should be sloped or shored in the interest of safety following
local and federal regulations, including current OSHA excavation and trench safety
standards.
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EEC Project No. 1142088A
January 6, 2015
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Other Considerations
Positive drainage should be developed away from the structure and pavement areas with a
minimum slope of 1 inch per foot for the first 10 feet away from the improvements in
landscape areas. Care should be taken in planning of landscaping adjacent to the building
and parking and drive areas to avoid features which would pond water adjacent to the
pavement, foundations or stemwalls.
Placement of plants which require irrigation systems or could result in fluctuations of the
moisture content of the subgrade material should be avoided adjacent to site improvements.
Lawn watering systems should not be placed within 5 feet of the perimeter of the building
and parking areas. Spray heads should be designed not to spray water on or immediately
adjacent to the structure or site pavements. Roof drains should be designed to discharge at
least 5 feet away from the structure and away from the pavement areas.
GENERAL COMMENTS
The analysis and recommendations presented in this report are based upon the data obtained
from the soil borings performed at the indicated locations and from any other information
discussed in this report. This report does not reflect any variations which may occur
between borings or across the site. The nature and extent of such variations may not become
evident until construction. If variations appear evident, it will be necessary to re-evaluate the
recommendations of this report.
It is recommended that the geotechnical engineer be retained to review the plans and
specifications so comments can be made regarding the interpretation and implementation of
our geotechnical recommendations in the design and specifications. It is further
recommended that the geotechnical engineer be retained for testing and observations during
earthwork and foundation construction phases to help determine that the design requirements
are fulfilled.
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EEC Project No. 1142088A
January 6, 2015
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This report has been prepared for the exclusive use of Thunderpup Construction, Inc. for
specific application to the project discussed and has been prepared in accordance with
generally accepted geotechnical engineering practices. No warranty, express or implied, is
made. In the event that any changes in the nature, design or location of the project as
outlined in this report are planned, the conclusions and recommendations contained in this
report shall not be considered valid unless the changes are reviewed and the conclusions of
this report are modified or verified in writing by the geotechnical engineer.
Earth Engineering Consultants, LLC
DRILLING AND EXPLORATION
DRILLING & SAMPLING SYMBOLS:
SS: Split Spoon ‐ 13/8" I.D., 2" O.D., unless otherwise noted PS: Piston Sample
ST: Thin‐Walled Tube ‐ 2" O.D., unless otherwise noted WS: Wash Sample
R: Ring Barrel Sampler ‐ 2.42" I.D., 3" O.D. unless otherwise noted
PA: Power Auger FT: Fish Tail Bit
HA: Hand Auger RB: Rock Bit
DB: Diamond Bit = 4", N, B BS: Bulk Sample
AS: Auger Sample PM: Pressure Meter
HS: Hollow Stem Auger WB: Wash Bore
Standard "N" Penetration: Blows per foot of a 140 pound hammer falling 30 inches on a 2‐inch O.D. split spoon, except where noted.
WATER LEVEL MEASUREMENT SYMBOLS:
WL : Water Level WS : While Sampling
WCI: Wet Cave in WD : While Drilling
DCI: Dry Cave in BCR: Before Casing Removal
AB : After Boring ACR: After Casting Removal
Water levels indicated on the boring logs are the levels measured in the borings at the time indicated. In pervious soils, the indicated
levels may reflect the location of ground water. In low permeability soils, the accurate determination of ground water levels is not
possible with only short term observations.
DESCRIPTIVE SOIL CLASSIFICATION
Soil Classification is based on the Unified Soil Classification
system and the ASTM Designations D‐2488. Coarse Grained
Soils have move than 50% of their dry weight retained on a
#200 sieve; they are described as: boulders, cobbles, gravel or
sand. Fine Grained Soils have less than 50% of their dry weight
retained on a #200 sieve; they are described as : clays, if they
are plastic, and silts if they are slightly plastic or non‐plastic.
Major constituents may be added as modifiers and minor
constituents may be added according to the relative
proportions based on grain size. In addition to gradation,
coarse grained soils are defined on the basis of their relative in‐
place density and fine grained soils on the basis of their
consistency. Example: Lean clay with sand, trace gravel, stiff
(CL); silty sand, trace gravel, medium dense (SM).
CONSISTENCY OF FINE‐GRAINED SOILS
Unconfined Compressive
Strength, Qu, psf Consistency
< 500 Very Soft
500 ‐ 1,000 Soft
1,001 ‐ 2,000 Medium
2,001 ‐ 4,000 Stiff
4,001 ‐ 8,000 Very Stiff
8,001 ‐ 16,000 Very Hard
RELATIVE DENSITY OF COARSE‐GRAINED SOILS:
N‐Blows/ft Relative Density
0‐3 Very Loose
4‐9 Loose
10‐29 Medium Dense
30‐49 Dense
50‐80 Very Dense
80 + Extremely Dense
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF BEDROCK
DEGREE OF WEATHERING:
Slight Slight decomposition of parent material on
joints. May be color change.
Moderate Some decomposition and color change
throughout.
High Rock highly decomposed, may be extremely
broken.
Group
Symbol
Group Name
Cu≥4 and 1<Cc≤3
E
GW Well-graded gravel
F
Cu<4 and/or 1>Cc>3
E
GP Poorly-graded gravel
F
Fines classify as ML or MH GM Silty gravel
G,H
Fines Classify as CL or CH GC Clayey Gravel
F,G,H
Cu≥6 and 1<Cc≤3
E
SW Well-graded sand
I
Cu<6 and/or 1>Cc>3
E
SP Poorly-graded sand
I
Fines classify as ML or MH SM Silty sand
G,H,I
Fines classify as CL or CH SC Clayey sand
G,H,I
inorganic PI>7 and plots on or above "A" Line CL Lean clay
K,L,M
PI<4 or plots below "A" Line ML Silt
K,L,M
organic Liquid Limit - oven dried Organic clay
K,L,M,N
Liquid Limit - not dried Organic silt
K,L,M,O
inorganic PI plots on or above "A" Line CH Fat clay
K,L,M
PI plots below "A" Line MH Elastic Silt
K,L,M
organic Liquid Limit - oven dried Organic clay
K,L,M,P
Liquid Limit - not dried Organic silt
K,L,M,O
Highly organic soils PT Peat
(D30)2
D10 x D60
GW-GM well graded gravel with silt NPI≥4 and plots on or above "A" line.
GW-GC well-graded gravel with clay OPI≤4 or plots below "A" line.
GP-GM poorly-graded gravel with silt PPI plots on or above "A" line.
GP-GC poorly-graded gravel with clay QPI plots below "A" line.
SW-SM well-graded sand with silt
SW-SC well-graded sand with clay
SP-SM poorly graded sand with silt
SP-SC poorly graded sand with clay
Earth Engineering Consultants, LLC
IIf soil contains >15% gravel, add "with gravel" to
group name
JIf Atterberg limits plots shaded area, soil is a CL-
ML, Silty clay
Unified Soil Classification System
THUNDERPUP CONSTRUCTION
FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
EEC PROJECT NO. 1142088
DECEMBER 2014
DATE:
RIG TYPE: CME55
FOREMAN: DG
AUGER TYPE: 4" CFA
SPT HAMMER: AUTOMATIC
SOIL DESCRIPTION D N QU MC DD -200
TYPE (FEET) (BLOWS/FT) (PSF) (%) (PCF) LL PI (%) PRESSURE % @ 500 PSF
TOPSOIL & VEGETATION _ _
1
SANDY LEAN CLAY (CL) _ _
brown 2
very stiff _ _ % @ 150 PSF
CS 3 16 9000+ 9.6 119.6 30 18 58.9 4,800 psf 5.6%
_ _
4
_ _
brown / tan SS 5 6 6000 11.3
medium stiff _ _
6
_ _
7
_ _
8
_ _
SAND & GRAVEL (SP/GP) 9
brown / grey / red _ _
dense CS 10 30 4000 8.7 131.0
with clayey seams & cobbles _ _
11
_ _
12
_ _
13
_ _
14
_ _
medium dense SS 15 33 --
with cobbles; wet cave in, drive on bottom _ _
BOTTOM OF BORING DEPTH 15.5' 16
_ _
17
_ _
18
_ _
19
_ _
20
_ _
21
_ _
22
_ _
23
_ _
24
_ _
25
_ _
Earth Engineering Consultants, LLC
A-LIMITS SWELL
DATE:
RIG TYPE: CME55
FOREMAN: DG
AUGER TYPE: 4" CFA
SPT HAMMER: AUTOMATIC
SOIL DESCRIPTION D N QU MC DD -200
TYPE (FEET) (BLOWS/FT) (PSF) (%) (PCF) LL PI (%) PRESSURE % @ 500 PSF
TOPSOIL & VEGETATION _ _
1
CLAYEY SAND (SC) _ _
mottled / brown / red 2
medium dense _ _
mottled 3
_ _
4
_ _
CS 5 19 9000+ 6.3 119.3 27 14 45.1 2000 psf 2.1%
_ _
6
_ _
7
_ _
SAND & GRAVEL (SP/GP) 8
brown / grey / red _ _
dense 9
_ _
SS 10 48 -- 4.3
with cobbles _ _
11
_ _
12
_ _
13
_ _
14
_ _
cave in, auger cuttings SS 15 -- --
_ _
16
_ _
17
_ _
18
_ _
19
_ _
cave in, auger cuttings SS 20 -- --
_ _
21
_ _
22
_ _
23
_ _
CLAYSTONE 24
grey _ _
wet cave in, auger cuttings SS 25 -- --
BOTTOM OF BORING DEPTH 25.5' _ _
Earth Engineering Consultants, LLC
A-LIMITS SWELL
DATE:
RIG TYPE: CME55
FOREMAN: DG
AUGER TYPE: 4" CFA
SPT HAMMER: AUTOMATIC
SOIL DESCRIPTION D N QU MC DD -200
TYPE (FEET) (BLOWS/FT) (PSF) (%) (PCF) LL PI (%) PRESSURE % @ 500 PSF
TOPSOIL & VEGETATION _ _
1
SANDY LEAN CLAY / CLAYEY SAND (CL/SC) _ _
brown / red 2
very stiff _ _ % @ 150 PSF
CS 3 17 9000+ 5.6 117.1 1,600 psf 4.4%
_ _
4
_ _
stiff SS 5 9 5000 10.7
_ _
6
_ _
7
_ _
SAND & GRAVEL (SP/GP) 8
brown / grey / red _ _
medium dense 9
with cobbles _ _
SS 10 28 -- 7.5
_ _
BOTTOM OF BORING DEPTH 10.5' 11
_ _
12
_ _
13
_ _
14
_ _
15
_ _
16
_ _
17
_ _
18
_ _
19
_ _
20
_ _
21
_ _
22
_ _
23
_ _
24
_ _
25
_ _
Earth Engineering Consultants, LLC
A-LIMITS SWELL
Project:
Location:
Project #:
Date:
SWELL / CONSOLIDATION TEST RESULTS
Material Description: Brown SANDY LEAN CLAY (CL)
Sample Location: Boring 1, Sample 1, Depth 2'
Liquid Limit: 30 Plasticity Index: 18 % Passing #200: 58.9%
Beginning Moisture: 9.6% Dry Density: 120.2 pcf Ending Moisture: 14.1%
Swell Pressure: 4800 psf % Swell @ 150: 5.6%
Thunderpup Construction
Fort Collins, Colorado
1142088A
December 2014
-10.0
-8.0
-6.0
-4.0
-2.0
0.0
2.0
4.0
6.0
8.0
10.0
0.01 0.1 1 10
Percent Movement
Load (TSF)
Consolidatio Swell
Water Added
Project:
Location:
Project #:
Date:
Thunderpup Construction
Fort Collins, Colorado
1142088A
December 2014
Beginning Moisture: 6.3% Dry Density: 114.3 pcf Ending Moisture: 16.6%
Swell Pressure: 2000 psf % Swell @ 500: 2.1%
Sample Location: Boring 2, Sample 1, Depth 4'
Liquid Limit: 27 Plasticity Index: 14 % Passing #200: 45.1%
SWELL / CONSOLIDATION TEST RESULTS
Material Description: Mottled, brown, red CLAYEY SAND (SC)
-10.0
-8.0
-6.0
-4.0
-2.0
0.0
2.0
4.0
6.0
8.0
10.0
0.01 0.1 1 10
Percent Movement
Load (TSF)
Consolidatio Swell
Water Added
Project:
Location:
Project #:
Date:
SWELL / CONSOLIDATION TEST RESULTS
Material Description: Brown SANDY LEAN CLAY / CLAYEY SAND (CL / SC)
Sample Location: Boring 3, Sample 1, Depth 2'
Liquid Limit: - - Plasticity Index: - - % Passing #200: - -
Beginning Moisture: 5.6% Dry Density: 112.9 pcf Ending Moisture: 19.8%
Swell Pressure: 1600 psf % Swell @ 150: 4.4%
Thunderpup Construction
Fort Collins, Colorado
1142088A
December 2014
-10.0
-8.0
-6.0
-4.0
-2.0
0.0
2.0
4.0
6.0
8.0
10.0
0.01 0.1 1 10
Percent Movement
Load (TSF)
Consolidatio Swell
Water Added
6" (152.4 mm)
5" (127 mm)
4" (101.6 mm)
3" (76 mm)
2 1/2" (63 mm)
2" (50 mm)
1 1/2" (37.5 mm)
1" (25 mm)
3/4" (19 mm)
1/2" (12.5 mm)
3/8" (9.5 mm)
No. 4 (4.75 mm)
No. 8 (2.36 mm)
No. 10 (2 mm)
No. 16 (1.18 mm)
No. 30 (0.6 mm)
No. 40 (0.425 mm)
No. 50 (0.3 mm)
No. 100 (0.15 mm)
No. 200 (0.075 mm)
Project: Thunderpup Construction
Location: Fort Collins, Colorado
Project No: 1142088A
Sample ID: Boring 2, Sample 2, 9'
Sample Desc.: Brown Sand and Gravel
Date: December 2014
37
31
26
18
11.9
80
71
63
60
49
100
100
92
86
82
100
100
100
100
100
EARTH ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS, LLC
SUMMARY OF LABORATORY TEST RESULTS
Sieve Analysis (AASHTO T 11 & T 27 / ASTM C 117 & C 136)
Sieve Size Percent Passing
Gravel
Coarse Fine
Sand
Coarse Medium Fine
EARTH ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS, LLC
Summary of Washed Sieve Analysis Tests (ASTM C117 & C136)
Date:
Thunderpup Construction
Fort Collins, Colorado
1142088A
Boring 2, Sample 2, 9'
Brown Sand and Gravel
December 2014
Project:
Location:
Project No:
Sample ID:
Sample Desc.:
Cobble Silt or Clay
6"
5"
4"
3"
2.5"
2"
1.5"
1"
3/4"
1/2"
3/8"
No. 4
No. 8
No. 10
No. 16
No. 30
No. 40
No. 50
No. 100
No. 200
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
1000 100 10 1 0.1 0.01
Finer by Weight (%)
Grain Size (mm)
Standard Sieve Size
Water Soluble Sulfate Ion ‐ Measurement
Project No: 1142088A
Project Name: Thunderpup Construction
No. of Samples: 1
Test Standards: CP‐L2103 / ASTM‐C1580
Measurement Date: 12/29/2014
Sample ID
(mg/l or ppm) (% of Soil by Wt)
1B‐1 S‐2 4' 700 0.07
Soluble Sulfate Content (SO4)
SURFACE ELEV N/A 24 HOUR N/A
FINISH DATE 12/10/2014 AFTER DRILLING N/A
SHEET 1 OF 1 WATER DEPTH
START DATE 12/10/2014 WHILE DRILLING 10'
THUNDERPUP CONSTRUCTION
FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
PROJECT NO: 1142088A LOG OF BORING B-3 DECEMBER 2014
SURFACE ELEV N/A 24 HOUR N/A
FINISH DATE 12/10/2014 AFTER DRILLING N/A
SHEET 1 OF 1 WATER DEPTH
START DATE 12/10/2014 WHILE DRILLING 10'
THUNDERPUP CONSTRUCTION
FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
PROJECT NO: 1142088A LOG OF BORING B-2 DECEMBER 2014
SURFACE ELEV N/A 24 HOUR N/A
FINISH DATE 12/10/2014 AFTER DRILLING N/A
SHEET 1 OF 1 WATER DEPTH
START DATE 12/10/2014 WHILE DRILLING 9.5'
THUNDERPUP CONSTRUCTION
FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
PROJECT NO: 1142088A LOG OF BORING B-1 DECEMBER 2014
Soil Classification
Criteria for Assigning Group Symbols and Group Names Using Laboratory Tests
Sands 50% or more
coarse fraction
passes No. 4 sieve
Fine-Grained Soils
50% or more passes
the No. 200 sieve
<0.75 OL
Gravels with Fines
more than 12%
fines
Clean Sands Less
than 5% fines
Sands with Fines
more than 12%
fines
Clean Gravels Less
than 5% fines
Gravels more than
50% of coarse
fraction retained on
No. 4 sieve
Coarse - Grained Soils
more than 50%
retained on No. 200
sieve
CGravels with 5 to 12% fines required dual symbols:
Kif soil contains 15 to 29% plus No. 200, add "with sand"
or "with gravel", whichever is predominant.
<0.75 OH
Primarily organic matter, dark in color, and organic odor
ABased on the material passing the 3-in. (75-mm)
sieve
ECu=D60/D10 Cc=
HIf fines are organic, add "with organic fines" to
group name
LIf soil contains ≥ 30% plus No. 200 predominantly sand,
add "sandy" to group name.
MIf soil contains ≥30% plus No. 200 predominantly gravel,
add "gravelly" to group name.
DSands with 5 to 12% fines require dual symbols:
BIf field sample contained cobbles or boulders, or
both, add "with cobbles or boulders, or both" to
group name. FIf soil contains ≥15% sand, add "with sand" to
GIf fines classify as CL-ML, use dual symbol GC-
CM, or SC-SM.
Silts and Clays
Liquid Limit less
than 50
Silts and Clays
Liquid Limit 50 or
more
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110
PLASTICITY INDEX (PI)
LIQUID LIMIT (LL)
ML OR OL
MH OR OH
For Classification of fine-grained soils and
fine-grained fraction of coarse-grained
soils.
Equation of "A"-line
Horizontal at PI=4 to LL=25.5
then PI-0.73 (LL-20)
Equation of "U"-line
Vertical at LL=16 to PI-7,
then PI=0.9 (LL-8)
CL-ML
HARDNESS AND DEGREE OF CEMENTATION:
Limestone and Dolomite:
Hard Difficult to scratch with knife.
Moderately Can be scratched easily with knife.
Hard Cannot be scratched with fingernail.
Soft Can be scratched with fingernail.
Shale, Siltstone and Claystone:
Hard Can be scratched easily with knife, cannot be
scratched with fingernail.
Moderately Can be scratched with fingernail.
Hard
Soft Can be easily dented but not molded with
fingers.
Sandstone and Conglomerate:
Well Capable of scratching a knife blade.
Cemented
Cemented Can be scratched with knife.
Poorly Can be broken apart easily with fingers.
Cemented
PCC (Non-reinforced) – placed on a stable subgrade 5" 7"