HomeMy WebLinkAboutCDP 01-08; McGrady Residence; Soils Investigation; 2000-11-03SGC Southland Geotechnical Consultants
SOILS INVESTIGATION
PROPOSED SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE
4100SUNNYHILLDRIVE
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
Project No. 106H61
November 3, 2000
Prepared for:
LARSON DESIGN AND CONSULTING
24362 Del Prado Avenue
Dana Point, California 92629
7235 GREENFIELD DRIVE, SUITE A EL CAJON, CALIFORNIA 92021 •
(619)442-8022 • FAX (619)442-7859
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SGC Southland Geotechnical Consultants
• November 3, 2000 Project No. 106H61
• To: Larson Design and Consulting
24362 Del Prado Avenue
I Dana Point, California 92629
Attention: Mr. Pete Larson
Subject: Soils Investigation, Proposed Single-Family Residence, 4100 Sunnyhill
I Drive, Carlsbad, California
I Introduction
Southland Geotechnical Consultants has performed a soils investigation for the
I proposed single-family residence to be constructed at 4100 Sunnyhill Drive in
Carlsbad. This report presents the results of our soils investigation and provides our
conclusions and recommendations, from a geotechnical standpoint, relative to the
I proposed development.
I Purpose and Scope
(The purpose of our soils investigation was to evaluate the soil conditions at the site
and provide recommendations, from a geotechnical standpoint, relative to the proposed
construction. The scope of our investigation included the following:
I - Review of geologic maps and literature pertaining to the site and vicinity. A list
of the documents reviewed is provided in Appendix A.
• - Review of preliminary project plans indicating site improvements.
I - Field reconnaissance to observe the existing surficial soil conditions at the
* subject property and nearby vicinity.
I - Investigation of the subsurface soil conditions by excavating, logging and
sampling six exploratory trenches (with a Bobcat backhoe) at the site.
| - Laboratory expansion index and sulfate content testing of a representative
sample of the onsite soils.
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I • 7235 GREENFIELD DRIVE, SUITE A EL CAJON, CALIFORNIA 92021 •
(619)442-8022 • FAX (619)442-7859
Project No. 106H61
Geotechnical analysis of the data obtained.
Preparation of this report summarizing the results of our soils investigation and
presenting recommendations, from a geotechnical standpoint, for the proposed
development.
Site Description
The subject property is located on the southeast corner of Sunnyhill Drive and
Tamarack Avenue in Carlsbad (see Figure 1). Residential developments exist on the
properties to the east and north of the site. A single-family residence and associated
improvements exist on the western approximately one-half of the subject property.
The eastern approximately one-half of the site (where the new residence is proposed)
is vacant and generally consists of two relatively level graded pads. Overall, the
subject property slopes to the west.
Project Description
We understand that site development will generally consist of a new single-family
residence on the eastern portion of the subject property. The residence will consist
of a one- or two-story, wood-framed structure with slab-on-grade and/or raised wood
floors. A garage, retaining walls and other associated improvements are also
proposed. We understand that some site grading will be performed to prepare the
building area and attain design finished grades for the proposed development.
Subsurface Investigation
On October 26, 2000, six exploratory trenches were excavated at the site. The
trenches were excavated with a Bobcat backhoe to a maximum depth of approximately
25 inches below existing ground surface. The exploratory trenches were logged by
a geologist from our firm and representative samples of the subsurface soils
encountered were obtained for visual soils classification and laboratory testing.
Subsequent to logging and sampling, the exploratory trenches were backfilled. The
approximate locations of the trenches are shown on Figure 2. The logs of the
exploratory trenches are included in Appendix B.
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Soil/Geologic Units
As encountered in our soils investigation, the subject property appears to be underlain
by surficial soils consisting of fill soils and topsoil, and the geologic unit known as the
Lindavista Formation. Following are brief descriptions of each unit:
Fill soils - Fill soils were encountered in Trenches 3 and 4 during our
investigation and consisted of brown silty fine sand and orange-brown and
brown, silty fine to coarse sand with gravel/cobble. The fill soils were
encountered to a maximum depth of 12 inches below the existing ground
surface. Localized deeper accumulations of these soils may exist at the site.
The fill soils are considered potentially compressible in their present state and
should not be relied upon for support of fill and/or structural loads.
Topsoil - Topsoil was found to mantle the Lindavista Formation in Trenches 1,
2, 5 and 6. As encountered, these soils generally consisted of brown, silty, fine
sand with occasional gravel. The topsoil was encountered to a maximum depth
of 3 inches below the existing ground surface and appeared to be disturbed.
Localized deeper accumulations of these soils may exist at the site. The topsoil
is considered potentially compressible and, in its present state, should not be
relied upon for the support of fill and/or structural loads.
Lindavista Formation - Based on our observations of the soil conditions exposed
in the exploratory trenches, the subject property appears to be underlain by the
Pleistocene-aged Lindavista Formation. The Lindavista Formation appears to
underlie the entire site and, as encountered, generally consisted of brown and
orange-brown, well-cemented fine to coarse sandstone with some rounded
gravel. This unit generally exhibits favorable bearing characteristics. A sample
of the Lindavista Formation (Trench 3, Sample 1) was tested in general
accordance with DEC test standard 18-2 and found to have a very low
expansion potential (expansion index = 0).
Groundwater and Surface Water
Indications of a static, near-surface groundwater table were not observed or
encountered during our investigation. Groundwater is not anticipated to be a
constraint to the proposed development. However, our experience indicates that near-
surface groundwater conditions can develop in areas where no such groundwater
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conditions previously existed, especially in areas where a substantial increase in
(surface water infiltration results from landscape irrigation or unusually heavy
precipitation. It is anticipated that site development will include appropriate drainage
provisions for control and discharge of surface runoff.
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Earthwork
I Some site grading is anticipated to construct relatively level building pads for
construction of the proposed structures. Site grading should be performed in
I accordance with the following recommendations and the Recommended Earthwork
Conclusions and Recommendations
Based on the results of our soils investigation, it is our opinion that development of the
site for construction of the proposed structure is feasible from a geotechnical
standpoint. The following sections provide recommendations, from a geotechnical
standpoint, which should be considered for design and construction of the proposed
project.
Specifications provided in Appendix C.
Site Preparation - Prior to grading and construction activities, the site should be
cleared of vegetation, debris and loose soils. Vegetation and loose debris
should be properly disposed of off site. Holes resulting from removal of buried
obstructions which extend below finished site grades should be filled with
properly compacted soils.
I - Removal/Recompaction of Compressible Soils - The existing fill soils and topsoil
are considered compressible and unsuitable for the support of fill and structural
I loads in their present condition. We recommend that these soils be removed in
areas planned for structures, surface improvements or fill placement. As
encountered in our exploratory trenches, these soils apparently underlie the
I majority of the site and were encountered to a maximum depth of approximately
12 inches below the existing ground surface. The thickness and extent of these
soils may vary and should be evaluated by the geotechnical consultant during
I removal of these unsuitable soils. These soils are considered suitable for re-use
" as compacted, structural fill provided they are free of organic material,
deleterious debris and oversized materials (rocks with a maximum dimension of
I greater than 6 inches).
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Excavations - It is anticipated that excavation of the onsite soils can be
(accomplished by conventional grading equipment in good operating condition.
However, the onsite Lindavista Formation is a well-cemented sandstone and
may locally require extra effort for excavation.
* - Structural Fill Placement - Areas to receive fill and/or surface improvements
should be scarified to a minimum depth of 6 inches, brought to near-optimum
I moisture conditions, and compacted to at least 90 percent relative compaction,
based on laboratory standard ASTM D1557. Fill soils should be brought to
near-optimum moisture conditions and compacted in uniform lifts to at least 90
I percent relative compaction (ASTM D1557). The optimum lift thickness to
produce a uniformly compacted fill will depend on the size and type of
I construction equipment used. In general, fill should be placed in uniform lifts
not exceeding 8 inches in loose thickness. Placement and compaction of fill
should be observed and tested by the geotechnical consultant. In general,
(placement and compaction of fill should be performed in accordance with local
grading ordinances, sound construction practices, and the Recommended
Earthwork Specifications presented in Appendix C.
• - Transition (Cut/Fill) Condition - The potential for a transition (cut-fill) condition
underlying the area of the proposed structure should be checked when project
I plans are finalized and in the field during grading so that appropriate
recommendations can be provided to reduce the potential for damage due to
differential settlement of the structure across the transition. A typical
I recommendation might include overexcavation or removal of the cut or natural
portion underlying the building and replacement with moisture-conditioned fill
soils compacted to at least 90 percent relative compaction (ASTM D1557). The
recommended depth of overexcavation can vary depending on the actual
conditions encountered during grading. A typical recommended depth of
overexcavation is approximately three feet below finished pad grade extending
for a distance of at least 5 feet beyond the perimeter of a proposed building.
Trench Backfill - The onsite soils are generally suitable as trench backfill
provided they are screened of organic matter and clasts over 6 inches in
diameter. Trench backfill should be compacted by mechanical means to at least
90 percent relative compaction (ASTM D1557).
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Top-of-Slope Structural Setback
A minimum horizontal setback distance from the faces of slopes is recommended for
all structural footings and settlement-sensitive structures located near the tops of
slopes. The recommended minimum setback is 7 feet for slopes less than 15 feet in
height and 10 feet for slopes higher than 15 feet. This distance is measured from the
outside edge of the footing, horizontally to the slope face (or to the face of a retaining
wall). For footings founded in dense formational materials, the recommended
minimum setback may be reduced to 5 feet. Soils within the setback zone possess
poor lateral stability, and improvements (such as sidewalks, fences, etc) constructed
within this area may be subject to damage due to lateral movement and/or differential
settlement.
Foundations
We understand that the proposed single-family residence will be supported on
continuous and/or spread footings with slab-on-grade floors and/or raised wood floors.
Foundations and slabs should be designed in accordance with structural considerations
and the following recommendations. These recommendations assume that the near-
surface soils will have a low expansion potential.
The proposed structure may be supported by continuous footings bearing entirely in
firm natural soils or entirely in properly compacted fill soils at a minimum depth of
12 inches beneath the lowest adjacent grade for one-story structures (18 inches for
two-story). Continuous footings should have a minimum width of 12 inches
(1 5 inches for two-story) and be reinforced, at a minimum, with two No. 4 rebars (one
near the top and one near the bottom). Spread footings should be designed in
accordance with structural considerations and have a minimum width of 24 inches.
For footings designed in accordance with the above recommendations, an allowable
soil-bearing capacity of 2,000 pounds per square foot may be assumed. This value
may be increased by one-third for loads of short duration such as wind and seismic
loads.
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Slabs
Concrete slab-on-grade floors and driveways should be designed in accordance with
structural considerations and the following recommendations. Concrete slabs
underlain by firm natural soils or properly compacted fill soils with a low expansion
potential should have a minimum thickness of 4 inches and be reinforced at midheight
with No. 3 rebars at 18 inches on center each way (or No. 4 rebars at 24 inches on
center each way). Care should be taken by the contractor to insure that the
reinforcement is placed at slab midheight.
Slabs should be designed with crack control joints at appropriate spacings for the
anticipated loading. Slabs should be underlain by a 2-inch layer of clean sand (sand
equivalent greater than 30) which is underlain by a 10-mil moisture barrier which is
underlain by a 2-inch layer of clean sand. The potential for slab cracking may be
lessened by careful control of water/cement ratios. The use of low slump concrete is
recommended. Appropriate curing precautions should be taken during placement of
concrete during hot weather. We recommend that the upper approximately one foot
of soil beneath concrete slabs-on-grade be moistened prior to placing concrete. We
recommend that a slipsheet or equivalent be used if crack-sensitive flooring is planned
directly on concrete slabs.
Please note that the recommendations provided for slabs are minimums. They do not
represent an adequate lesser substitute for those that may be recommended by the
structural consultant. In addition, our recommendations are not intended to eliminate
the possibility of cracks due to concrete shrinkage. Shrinkage cracks develop in nearly
all slabs which are not specifically designed to prevent them. We recommend that a
structural consultant or qualified concrete contractor be consulted to provide
appropriate design and workmanship requirements for mitigation of shrinkage cracks.
Lateral Resistance and Retaining Wall Design Parameters
Footings and slabs founded in firm, natural soils or properly compacted fill soils may
be designed for a passive lateral bearing pressure of 350 pounds per square foot per
foot of depth. A coefficient of friction against sliding between concrete and soil of 0.4
may be assumed. These values may be increased by one-third when considering loads
of short duration, such as wind or seismic forces.
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Cantilever (yielding) retaining walls may be designed for an "active" equivalent fluid
pressure of 35 pounds per cubic foot. Retaining walls which are rigid or restrained at
their upper ends (non-yielding) may be designed for an "at-rest" equivalent fluid
pressure of 50 pounds per cubic foot. Walls subject to surcharge loading of traffic
from passenger vehicles located within a distance behind the wall equal to the wall
height should be designed for an additional uniform pressure of 75 psf. If walls are
surcharged by trucks or adjacent structures, the wall design should take into account
the surcharge load. These values assume horizontal, nonexpansive granular backfill
and free-draining conditions. Retaining wall footings should be designed in accordance
with the previous foundation recommendations.
We recommend that retaining walls be provided with appropriate drainage provisions.
Appendix C contains a typical detail for drainage of retaining walls. The walls should
also be appropriately waterproofed. Waterproofing treatments and alternative, suitable
wall drainage products are available commercially. Design of waterproofing and its
protection during construction should be provided by the project architect. Wall
backfill should be compacted by mechanical means to at least 90 percent relative
compaction (ASTM D1557). Care should be taken when using compaction equipment
in close proximity to retaining walls so that the walls are not damaged by excessive
loading.
Seismic Considerations
The principal seismic considerations for most structures in southern California are
damage caused by surface rupturing of fault traces, ground shaking,
seismically-induced ground settlement or liquefaction. The seismic hazard most likely
to impact the site is ground shaking resulting from an earthquake on one of the major
active regional faults. The possibility of damage due to ground rupture is considered
minimal since no active faults are known to cross the site. The potential for
liquefaction or seismically-induced ground settlement due to an earthquake is
considered very low because of the dense nature of the underlying Lindavista
Formation and anticipated absence of a static, near-surface groundwater table at the
site.
The effects of seismic shaking can be reduced by adhering to the most recent edition
of the Uniform Building Code and current design parameters of the Structural Engineers
Association of California. Based on our understanding of the onsite geotechnical
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conditions, the seismic design parameters from the 1 997 Uniform Building Code,
Section 1636, Tables 16-J, 16-S, 1 6-T and 16-U are provided below.
UBC Table 16-J - Based on our understanding of the onsite geotechnical
conditions and our review of UBC Table 1 6-J, the soil profile type for the
subject property is SD ("Stiff Soil Profile").
UBC Table 16-U - Based on our review of the Active Fault Near-Source Zones
map (0-36) prepared by the California Division of Mines and Geology, the
nearest known active fault is the Rose Canyon fault zone located approximately
7 kilometers to the west of the site. The fault is considered a seismic source
type B based on UBC Table 16-U.
UBC Table 16-S - Based on our understanding of the onsite geotechnical
conditions and minimum distance to the nearest known active fault (Rose
Canyon fault zone), the Near-Source Factor (Na) is 1.0.
UBC Table 16-T - Based on our understanding of the onsite geotechnical
conditions and minimum distance to the nearest known active fault (Rose
Canyon fault zone), the Near-Source Factor (Nv) is 1.1.
Surface Drainage
Drainage at the site should be directed away from foundations and collected and
tightened to an appropriate discharge point. Consideration may be given to collecting
roof drainage by eave gutters and directing it away from foundations via non-erosive
devices. Water, either natural or from irrigation, should not be permitted to pond,
saturate the surface soils or flow over the tops of slopes. Landscaping requiring a
heavy irrigation schedule should not be planted adjacent to foundations or paved areas.
Sulfate Content Test Results
A sample (Trench 3, sample 1) of the onsite soils at the subject property was tested
to assist in an evaluation of the degree of sulfate attack on ordinary (Type II) concrete.
The test was performed in general accordance with California Test Method No. 417
and yielded a soluble sulfate content of 81 ppm. The test result indicates a
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"negligible" degree of sulfate attack based on UBC Table 19-A-3 criteria. The type of
concrete specified and used should be determined by the project structural engineer.
Plan Review/Construction Observation and Testing
The recommendations provided in this report are based on our understanding of the
project and interpolated subsurface conditions based on widely-spaced exploratory
trenches. Final project drawings should be reviewed by Southland Geotechnical
Consultants prior to construction to check that the geotechnically-related aspects of
the project design are in accordance, with the recommendations of this report.
Subsurface conditions should be checked in the field during construction.
Geotechnical observation during site grading (removal/recompaction) and field density
testing of compacted fill (including backfill of retaining walls) should be performed by
Southland Geotechnical Consultants. Geotechnical observation of footing excavations
should also be performed by the geotechnical consultant to check that construction
is in accordance with the recommendations of this report.
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If you have any questions regarding our report, please call. We appreciate the
opportunity to be of service.
Sincerely,
SOUTHLAND GEOTECHNICAL CONSULTANTS
Susan E. Tanges, CEG 1386
Managing Principal/Engineer!
Attachments:Figure 1 - Site Location Map
Figure 2 - Exploratory Trench Location Map
Appendix A - References
Appendix B - Logs of Exploratory Trenches
Appendix C - Recommended Earthwork Specifications
Distribution:(3) Addressee
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N SITE LOCATION MAP
Project No. 106H61
2733 Sunnyhill Drive,
Carlsbad, California
Scale (approximate): 1 inch = 2,000 feet
Base Map:
Recent slope failures, ancient landslides, and
related geology of the north-central coastal area,
San Diego County, California
by F.H. Weber, 1982
FIGURE 1
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N EXPLORATORY TRENCH LOCATION MAP
Project No. 106H61
4100 Sunnyhill Drive,
Carlsbad, California
Scale: Not to Scale
LEGEND
B Approximate location of
T-6 exploratory trench
Base map based on Site Plan provided by
Larson Design and Consulting FIGURE 2
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APPENDIX A
Project No. 106H61
APPENDIX A
REFERENCES
1. California Division of Mines and Geology, 1994, Fault activity map of California
and adjacent areas: CDMG Geologic Data Map No. 6.
2. Hart, E.W., 1997, Fault-rupture hazard zones in California: California Division
of Mines and Geology, Special Publication 42, revised.
3. Tan, S.S., and Giffen, D.G., 1995, Landslide hazards in the northern part of the
San Diego metropolitan area, San Diego County, California: California Division
of Mines and Geology, Open-file Report 95-04.
4. Weber, F. H., Jr., 1982, Recent slope failures, ancient landslides, and related
geology of the north-central coastal area, San Diego County, California:
California Division of Mines and Geology, Open-file Report 82-12LA.
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APPENDIX B
LOGS OF EXPLORATORY TRENCHES
TRENCH NO.
Trench 1
DEPTH DESCRIPTION
0-3" Topsoil (disturbed) - Brown, dry to slightly damp, medium
dense, silty fine sand (SM); porous, fine roots, occasional
gravel, gradational to:
3"-16" Lindavista Formation - Orange-brown, dry to slightly damp,
very dense, slightly clayey fine to coarse sand (SC); with some
rounded gravel, carbonate flecks
Total depth = 16 inches (difficult excavation)
No groundwater encountered
Excavated and backfilled 10-26-00
Bag sample at 12" to 16"
Trench 2 0-2"
2 "-8"
Topsoil (disturbed) - Brown, dry, loose, silty fine sand (SM);
porous, roots
Lindavista Formation - Mottled gray and orange-brown, very
dense, silty fine to coarse sandstone (SM); with occasional
rounded gravel
Total depth = 8 inches (difficult excavation)
No groundwater encountered
Excavated and backfilled 10-26-00
Bag sample at 2" to 8"
Trench 3 0-12" Fill - Brown and orange-brown, dry, loose, silty fine to coarse
sand (SM); with gravel/cobble, porous, roots
12"-25" Lindavista Formation - Brown grading with depth to orange-
brown, dry, silty fine to medium sandstone (SM); some roots
and pores in upper portion
Total depth = 25 inches
No groundwater encountered
Excavated and backfilled 10-26-00
Bag sample at 12" to 25"
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LOGS OF EXPLORATORY TRENCHES
(continued)
TRENCH NO.
Trench 4
DEPTH DESCRIPTION
0-3" Fill - Brown dry, loose, silty fine sand (SM)
3"-16" Lindavista Formation - Brown and orange-brown, dry, very
dense, silty fine to medium sandstone (SM); occasional
rounded gravel
Total depth = 16 inches (difficult excavation)
No groundwater encountered
Excavated and backfilled 10-26-00
Trench 5 0-5" Topsoil - Brown, dry to slightly damp, medium dense, silty fine
sand (SM); porous, fine roots, occasional gravel, gradational to:
5"-18" Lindavista Formation - Orange-brown, dry to slightly damp,
very dense, slightly clayey fine to coarse sand (SC); with some
rounded gravel, carbonate flecks
Total depth =18 inches (difficult excavation)
No groundwater encountered
Excavated and backfilled 10-26-00
Bag sample at 5" to 18"
Trench 6 0-2'
2"-8'
Topsoil (disturbed) - Brown, dry, loose, silty fine sand (SM);
porous, roots
Lindavista Formation - Mottled gray and orange-brown, dry,
very dense, silty fine to coarse sandstone (SM); with
occasional rounded gravel
Total depth = 8 inches (difficult excavation)
No groundwater encountered
Excavated and backfilled 10-26-00
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APPENDIX C
RECOMMENDED EARTHWORK SPECIFICATIONS
1.0 General Intent
These specifications are presented as general procedures and recommendations
for grading and earthwork to be used in conjunction with the approved grading
plans. These general earthwork specifications are considered a part of the
recommendations contained in the geotechnical report and are superseded by
recommendations in the geotechnical report in the case of conflict. Evaluations
performed by the consultant during the course of grading may result in new
recommendations which could supersede these specifications or the
recommendations of the geotechnical report. It shall be the responsibility of the
contractor to read and understand these specifications, as well as the
geotechnical report and approved grading plans.
2.0 Earthwork Observation and Testing
Prior to grading, a qualified geotechnical consultant should be employed for the
purpose of observing earthwork procedures and testing fill placement for
conformance with the recommendations of the geotechnical report and these
specifications. It shall be the responsibility of the contractor to keep the
geotechnical consultant apprised of work schedules and changes, at least 24
hours in advance, so that he may schedule his personnel accordingly. No
grading operations shall be performed without the knowledge of the
geotechnical consultant. The contractor shall not assume that the geotechnical
consultant is aware of all site grading operations.
It shall be the sole responsibility of the contractor to provide adequate
equipment and methods to accomplish the work in accordance with applicable
grading codes and agency ordinances, recommendations of the geotechnical
report, and the approved grading plans. If, in the opinion of the geotechnical
consultant, unsatisfactory conditions, such as unsuitable soil, poor moisture
condition, inadequate compaction, adverse weather, etc., are resulting in a
quality of work less than recommended in the geotechnical report and the
specifications, the consultant will be empowered to reject the work and
recommend that construction be stopped until the conditions are rectified.
3.0 Preparation of Areas to be Filled
3.1 Clearing and Grubbing: Sufficient brush, vegetation, roots, and all other
deleterious material should be removed or properly disposed of in a
method acceptable to the owner, design engineer, governing agencies
and the geotechnical consultant.
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The geotechnical consultant should evaluate the extent of these removals
depending on specific site conditions. In general, no more than one
percent (by volume) of the fill material should consist of these materials.
In addition, nesting of these materials should not be allowed.
3.2 Processing: The existing ground which has been evaluated by the
geotechnical consultant to be satisfactory for support of fill, should be
scarified to a minimum depth of 6 inches. Existing ground which is not
satisfactory should be overexcavated as specified in the following
section. Scarification should continue until the soils are broken down and
free of large clay lumps or clods and until the working surface is
reasonably uniform, flat, and free of features which would inhibit uniform
compaction.
3.3 Overexcavation: Soft, dry, organic-rich, spongy, highly fractured, or
otherwise unsuitable ground, extending to such a depth that surface
processing cannot adequately improve the condition, should be
overexcavated down to competent ground, as evaluated by the
geotechnical consultant. For purposes of determining pay quantities of
materials overexcavated, the services of a licensed land surveyor or civil
engineer should be used.
3.4 Moisture Conditioning: Overexcavated and processed soils should be
watered, dried, or blended as necessary to attain a uniform near-
optimum moisture content as determined by test method ASTM D1557.
3.5 Recompaction: Overexcavated and processed soils which have been
properly mixed, screened of deleterious material, and moisture-
conditioned should be recompacted to a minimum relative compaction of
90 percent as determined by test method ASTM D1557.
3.6 Benching: Where fills are placed on ground sloping steeper than 5:1
(horizontal to vertical), the ground should be stepped or benched. The
lowest bench should be a minimum of 15 feet wide, excavated at least
2 feet into competent material as evaluated by the geotechnical
consultant. Ground sloping flatter than 5:1 should be benched or
otherwise overexcavated when recommended by the geotechnical
consultant.
3.7 Evaluation of Fill Areas: All areas to receive fill, including processed
areas, areas of removal, and fill benches should be evaluated by the
geotechnical consultant prior to fill placement.
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4.0 Fill Material
4.1 General: Material to be placed as fill should be sufficiently free of organic
matter and other deleterious substances, and should be evaluated by the
geotechnical consultant prior to placement. Soils of poor gradation,
expansion, or strength characteristics should be placed as recommended
by the geotechnical consultant.
4.2 Oversize Material: Oversize fill material, defined as material with a
maximum dimension greater than 6 inches should not be buried or placed
in fills unless the location, materials, and methods are specifically
recommended by the geotechnical consultant.
4.3 Import: If grading operations include importing of fill material, the import
material should meet the requirements of Section 4.1. Sufficient time
should be given to allow the geotechnical consultant to test and evaluate
proposed import as necessary, prior to importing to the site.
5.0 Fill Placement and Compaction
5.1 Fill Lifts: Fill material should be placed in areas properly prepared and
evaluated as acceptable to receive fill. Fill should be placed in near-
horizontal layers approximately 6 inches in compacted thickness. Each
layer should be spread evenly and thoroughly mixed to attain uniformity
of material and moisture content throughout.
5.2 Moisture Conditioning: Fill soils should be watered, dried or blended as
necessary to attain a uniform near-optimum moisture content as
determined by test method ASTM D1557.
5.3 Compaction of Fill: After each layer has been evenly spread, moisture
conditioned, and mixed, it should be uniformly compacted to not less
than 90 percent of maximum dry density as determined by test method
ASTM D1557. Compaction equipment should be adequately sized and
be either specifically designed for soil compaction or of proven reliability
to efficiently achieve the specified degree and uniformity of compaction.
5.4 Fill Slopes: Compaction of slopes should be accomplished, in addition to
normal compaction procedures, by backrolling slopes with sheepsfoot
rollers at increments of 3 to 4 feet in fill elevation gain, or by other
methods producing satisfactory results. At the completion of grading,
the relative compaction of the fill, including the embankment face should
be at least 90 percent as determined by test method ASTM D1557.
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5.5 Compaction Testing: Field tests of the moisture content and degree of
compaction of the fill soils should be performed by the geotechnical
consultant. The location and frequency of tests should be at the
consultant's discretion based on observations of the field conditions. In
general, the tests should be taken at approximate intervals of 2 feet in
elevation gain and/or each 1,000 cubic yards of fill placed. In addition,
on slope faces, as a guideline, one test should be taken for each 5,000
square feet of slope face and/or each 10-foot interval of vertical slope
height.
6.0 Subdrain Construction
Subdrain systems, if recommended, should be constructed in areas evaluated
for suitability by the geotechnical consultant. The subdrain system should be
constructed to the approximate alignment in accordance with the details shown
on the approved plans or provided herein. The subdrain location or materials
should not be modified unless recommended by the geotechnical consultant.
The consultant may recommend modifications to the subdrain system depending
on conditions encountered. Completed subdrains should be surveyed for line
and grade by a licensed land surveyor or civil engineer.
7.0 Excavations
Excavations and cut slopes should be evaluated by the geotechnical consultant
during grading. If directed by the geotechnical consultant, further excavation,
overexcavation, and/or remedial grading of cut slopes (i.e., stability fills or slope
buttresses) may be recommended.
8.0 Quantity Determination
The services of a licensed land surveyor or civil engineer should be retained to
determine quantities of materials excavated during grading and/or the limits of
overexcavation.
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RETAKING WALL DRAINAGE
SOIL BACKFILL. COMPACTED TO
9O PERCENT RELATIVE COMPACTION*
FILTER FABRIC ENVELOPE
(MIRAF1 140N OR APPROVED
EQUIVALENT) **
"—S-SSCOMPACTED
RETAINING WALL
WALL WATERPROOFING
PER ARCHITECT'S
SPECIFICATIONS
WALL FOOTING
NOT TO SCALE
SPECIFICATIONS FOR CALTRANS
CLASS 2 PERMEABLE MATERIAL
U.S. Standard
Sieve Size
1"
3/4"
3/8"
No. 4
No. 3
No. 30
No. 50
No. 200
% Passing
100
90-100
40-100
25-40
18-33
5-15
0-7
0-3
Sand Equivalent>75
3M'-1-1/2' CLEAN GRAVEL
4' (WIN.) DIAMETER PERFORATED
PVC PIPE (SCHEDULE 4O OR
EQUIVALENT) WITH PERFORATIONS
ORIENTED DOWN AS DEPICTED
MINIMUM 1 PERCENT GRADIENT
TO SUITABLE OUTLET
3' MIN.
COMPETENT BEDROCK OR MATERIAL
AS EVALUATED BY THE GEOTECHNICAL
CONSULTANT
* BASED ON ASTM 01557
**IF CALTRANS CLASS 2 PERMEABLE MATERIAL
(SEE GRADATION TO LEFT) IS USED IN PLACE OF
3/4'-1-1/2* GRAVEL, FILTER FABRIC MAY BE
DELETED. CALTRANS CLASS 2 PERMEABLE
MATERIAL SHOULD BE COMPACTED TO 90
PERCENT RELATIVE COMPACTION *
NOTECOMPOSITE DRAINAGE PRODUCTS SUCH AS MIRADRAJN
:OR J-DRAJN MAY BE USED AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO GRAVEL OR
CLASS Z INSTALLATION SHOULD BE PERFCRKCD IN ACCORDANCE
WITH MANUFACTURER'S SPECIFICATIONS.
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TRANSITION LOT DETAILS
CUT-FILL LOT
EXISTING
GROUND SURFACE
5'
}v^j;£'3ir£ir£ii;: v\t^ lr_ri:tr^^"^"^^^"^'^-^"^^--r-
38" MIN.
OVEREXCAVATE
AND RECOMPACT
COMPETENT BEDROCK
OR MATERIAL EVALUATED
BY THE GEOTECHN1CAL
CONSULTANT
CUT LOT EXISTING
GROUND SURFACE
-C- REMOVE
^--UNSUITABLE
MATERIAL ^
AND RECOMPACT
^COMPETENT BEDROCK
OR MATERIAL EVALUATED.
BY THE GEOTECHNICAL
CONSULTANT
*NOTE:
Deeper or laterally more extensive overexcavation and
recompaction may be recommended by the geotechnical
consultant based on actual field conditions encountered
and locations of proposed improvements
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KEY AND BENCHING DETAILS
FILL SLOPE PROJECT 1 TO 1 UNE
FROM TOE OF SLOPE
TO COMPETENT MATERIAL
EXISTING
QHOUNO SURFACE-
\
REMOVE
UNSUITABLE
MATERIAL
BENCH
rf^K£2* MIN.g^j
' MIN.—4
WEST I
2'
KEY LOWES
OEPTH BENCH
(XEY3
FILL-OVER-CUT SLOPE
EXISTING
GROUND SURFACE
I U—15* WIN.—j
2' ' LOWEST '
MiN. SEHCH
REMOVE
UNSUITABLE
MATERIAL
CUT SLOPE
(TO SS EXCAVATED
PRIOR TO FILL
PLACEMENT}
EXISTINGGROUND
SURFACE-
CUT-OVEH-FILL SLOPE
CUT SLOPS
(TO BE EXCAVATED
PRIOR TO FILLPLACEMENT)
PflCJECT t TO 1
UN6 FROM TOE
OF 3LOPS TO
COMPETENT
MATERIAL
REMOVE
UNSUITABLE
'MATERIAL
BENCH
T f-^15* MIN.——I
2- MIN. I LOWS3T I
KHY DEPTH
^^b« aJterad baaed on field conditions encountered.
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ROCK DISPOSAL DETAIL
• FINISH ORAOE
3LOPE FACE
fcTiNl:iS5€g§5?H:-
:5™as=5oir^A~cfID >iCC~^^p^^S^S^-"—^^Jg-r-E-iass-^
OVSHSIZE WINDROW
QRANULAfl SOIL (3.£^ 3O) TO BE
OEN3IF1EO IN PLACE BY FLOODING
DETAIL
TYPICAL PROFILE ALONG WINDROW
1) Rock with maximum dimensions greater than 6 inches should not be used within 10 feetvertically of finish grade (or 2 feet below depth of lowest utility whichever is greater),
and t5 feet horizontally of slope faces.
2) Rocks with maximum dimensions greater than 4 feet should not be utilized in fills.
3) Rock placement, flooding of granular soil, and fill placement should be observed by the
geotechnical consultant.
4) Maximum size and spacing of windrows should be in accordance with the above details
Width of windrow should not exceed 4 feet. Windrows should be staggered
vertically (as depicted).
5) Rock should be placed in excavated trenches. Granular soil (S.E. greater than or equalto 30) should be flooded in the windrow to completely fill voids around and beneath
rocks.
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FILL / BUTTRESS
OUTLET PIPES
4' 0 NONPERFORATEO PIPE.
100' MAX. O.C. HORIZONTALLY,
30' MAX. O.C. VERTICALLY ^BACK CUT
1:1 OR FLATTER
SEE SUBORAIN TRENCH
DETAIL
LOWEST SUBORAIN SHOULD
BE SITUATED AS LOW AS
POSSIBLE TO ALLOW
SUITABLE OUTLET
^ 10' MIN.
EACH SIDEPERFORATED
NON-PERFORATED
OUTLET PIPE
- O-N NECTION DETAIL
KEY
DEPTH
KEY WIDTH
AS NOTED ON GRADING PLANS
15' MIN.
6* MIN.
OVERLAP
3/4'-1-1/2'
CLEAN GRAVEL
(3ft?/ft. MIN.)
4' 9NON-PERFORATED
FILTER FABRIC
ENVELOPE (MIRAFI
140N OR APPROVED
EQUIVALENT)*
SEE T-CONNECTION
DETAIL
6' MIN.
COVER
PERFORATED
PIPE
4' MIN.
BEDDING
SUBDRAIN TRENCH DETAIL
*IF CALTRANS CLASS 2 PERMEABLE
MATERIAL IS USED IN PLACE OF
3/4'-1-1/2* GRAVEL, FILTER FABRIC
MAY BE DELETED
SPECIFICATIONS FOR CALTRANS
CLASS 2 PERMEABLE MATERIAL
U.S. Standard
Sieve Size
1"
3/4"
3/8"
No. 4
No. 8 '
No. 30
No. 50
No. 200
Passing
100
90-100
40-100
25-40
18-33
5-15
0-7
0-3
Sand Equt'valent>75
NOTES:
^
Class 200,SOR 21 should b« used for maximum (III depths of 10O fast.
SGC