HomeMy WebLinkAboutCDP 15-17A; 6125 Paseo Del Norte; GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION; 2016-02-15Geotechnical Investigation
Second Floor Addition and New Parking Improvements
6125 Paseo Del Norte
Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Prepared For:
BSD Builders, Inc.
Mr. Jeff Blair
8825 Rehco Road, Suite A
San Diego, California 92121
Prepared By:
SMS Geotechnical Solutions, Inc.
1645 South Rancho Santa Fe Road, Suite 208
San Marcos, California 92078
Project No. GI-12-14-34
JUN 13
Project No. GI-12-14-34
February 10, 2015
BSD Builders, Inc.
Mr. JeffBlair
8825 Rehco Road, Suite A
San Diego, California 92121
SMS GEOTECHNICAL SOLUTIONS, INC.
Consulting Geotechnical Engineers & Geologists
1645 S. Rancho Santa Fe Rd., Suite 208
San Marcos, California 92078
Telephone: 760-761-0799
smsgeosol.inc@gmail.com
GEOTECBNICALINVESTIGATION,SECONDFLOORADDITIONANDNEWPARKING
IMPROVEMENTS, 6125 PASEO DEL NORTE, CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
In accordance with your request, SMS Geotechnical Solutions, Inc., has completed the attached
Geotechnical Investigation Report for the planned second floor addition to the existing
commercial/industrial building at the above referenced property and new parking improvements on
the adjacent southern vacant parcel. We understand that both parcels will be combined for the
purpose of the planned new development.
The following report summarizes the results of our review of available pertinent documents and
reports, subsurface exploratory test excavations, sampling, laboratory testing, engineering
analysis and provides conclusions and recommendations for the proposed new additions and
improvements, as understood. From a geotechnical engineering standpoint, it is our opinion that
the project property and adjacent southern parcel are suitable for the planned second floor addition
and parking improvements provided the recommendations presented in this report are incorporated
into the design and construction of the project.
The conclusions and recommendations provided in this study are consistent with the site indicated
geotechnical conditions and are intended to aid in preparation of final development plans and allow
more accurate estimates of development costs.
If you have any questions or need clarification, please do not hesitate to contact this office.
Reference to our Project No. GI-12-14-34 will help to expedite our response to your inquiries. We
appreciate this opportunity to be of service to you .
. Mehdi S. Shariat
E #2885
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE NO.
I. INTRODU'CTION ............................................................. 1
SITE DESCRIPTION ................ II ............... " •••••••••••••• ll ••••• 1
III. PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ..................•........................ 2
FIELD INVESTIGATION ............................................... 3
V. GEOTECHNICAL CONDITIONS ...................•.................... 3
A. Earth Materials ...................................................... 4
B. Groundwater and Surface Drainage ....................•............•.. 5
C. Slope Stability-....................................................... 5
D. Faults/Seismicity-..................................................... 6
E. Seismic Ground Motion Values .......................................... 8
F. Geologic Hazards ....................................................... 8
G. Field and Laboratory Tests and Test Results ...••••...............•...... 8
VI. SITE CORROSION ASSESSMENT ...................................... 12
VII. CONCLUSIONS .•.......•............•.........•..................... 13
VIII. RECOMMENDATIONS ......•............•............................ 12
A. Building Improvements and Second Story Addition .........•...•........ 16
B. Parking Expansion Pad Development •....•........................•... 19
C. Slope Reconstruction and Stabilization .•.•..•...................•...... 24
D. Soil Design Parameters ......... tiP •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 27
E. Exterior Concrete Slabs I Flatworks ..................................• 28
F. Preliminary Pavement Design .....•......•..........•.....•..........• 29
IX. ENGINEERING OBSERVATIONS AND TESTING ........................ 31
X. GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS ....•.•.........•.................... 32
XI. GEOTECHNICAL PLAN REVIEW .........................•............ 34
XII. GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER OF RECORD (GER) ....................•.. 34
XIII. LIMITATIONS ............... ,. ......................................... 35
REFERENCES
TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued)
PLATE NO.
Vicinity Map .................................................................... 1
Geotechnical Map .............................................................. 2
Boring and Test Pit Logs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . • . . . . . . • . . . . . . . . . . . • . 3-11
Fault-Epicenter Map ......................................................... 12
Geologic Cross Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . 13 & 14
Isolation Joints and Re Entrant Corner Reinforcement .............•.•............ 15
Geotechnical Remedial Grading and Slope Reconstruction Concept .......•..•....•.. 16
Retaining Wall Drain Detail .........................................•......... 17
APPENDIX
GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION
SECOND FLOOR ADDITION AND NEW PARKING IMPROVEMENTS
6125 PASEO DEL NORTE
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
I. INTRODUCTION
Project properties investigated herein consist of a relatively level graded northern pad occupied by
an existing commercial/industrial type building with associated improvements, and an adjacent
vacant lot to the south that gives way to a descending artificial slope that continues to a lower,
natural flowline and open space terrain below. The study properties are located on the west side of
Paseo Del Norte, east of Interstate 5 in the coastal areas of the City of Carlsbad. Project study site(s)
location is shown on a Vicinity Map attached to this report as Plate 1. The approximate site
coordinates are 3 3 .ll78°N latitude and -117.3184 °W longitude.
The existing building supported on the northern level pad is currently vacant. The building was most
recently used as a commercial warehouse operation (White Cap). We understand that expansion of
the existing building is planned, and will consist of adding a new second floor addition. The
southerly parcels will be annexed to the northern property in order to add new parking
improvements. Re-development and new improvements are expected to consist of regrading the
existing building perimeter parking areas. Regrading will include terracing and stabilization of the
southerly descending artificial slope, and possibly new retaining walls for ground transitioning over
the slope in connection with the new parking improvements.
The purpose of this investigation was to determine the underlying soil and geotechnical conditions
at the existing building location and southern vacant property, and evaluate their influence upon the
proposed second floor building addition and new parking improvements. Technical report review,
slab coring, exploratory test trenching and drilling, in-situ testing and sampling, and laboratory
testing were among the activities conducted in conjunction with this effort which resulted in the
geotechnical development and foundation recommendations presented herein.
The scope of this report is limited to those areas planned for the new second floor building addition
and parking improvements as specifically delineated in this report. Other areas of the project site
and existing structures/improvements not investigated, are beyond the scope of this report.
II. SITE DESCRIPTION
A Geotechnical Map delineating the project existing conditions and proposed development,
reproduced from the Preliminary Parking Expansion Plan prepared by Hofman Planning &
Engineering (dated December 12, 2014), is included as Plate 2. As shown, the project site consists
of three contiguous parcels: a northerly developed lot; a central vacant undeveloped parcel; and
southerly natural flowline open space terrain.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Page2
The northerly developed parcel is a graded pad currently supporting an existing
commercial/industrial tilt-up type building with associated paving improvements along the northern
and western perimeter. A 2:1 (horizontal to vertical) graded slope, on the order of 10 feet in
maximum vertical height, marks the eastern perimeter. Engineering records and documentation
pertaining to the original building pad development and building construction are not available for
review. Based on our observations, a tilt-up panel joint is separating in the southeastern portion of
the building, with daylight visible from inside the building at this location. The noted separation
may be the result of local compression (settlement) of the underlying fill deposits perhaps in
response to inadequate perimeter drainage conditions in that area. Building concrete floor slabs have
also experienced numerous continuous cracks ranging to approximately~ to Y2-inch wide maximum
with local vertical offsets, mostly occurring near the perimeter walls.
Upper, level portions of the adjacent southern parcel are marked by numerous old stockpiled dump
fills which have been disfigured by severe erosion. Local cavities are present among the dump piles
which are thought to be the result of"piping" and washouts which then outflows on the slope face.
The irregular dump fill surfaces give way to a graded slope which descends approximately 20 feet
to a natural east-west trending drainage course below. The slope face is highly irregular due to
"piping," washouts, and erosional features with overall 2:1 gradients. Deep erosional gullies,
shallow slump scarps, and surficial mud-flows have deposited sediments along the toe of slope and
north margin of the drainage course, and have resulted in the irregular slope gradients which locally
approach 1 Yz: 1.
Drainage within the northem lot is generally developed and sheetflows over the improved surfaces
onto Paseo Del Norte. It appears, however, that the building roof runoff may have been ponding near
the foundation on the east side of the commercial building, where above ground tight pipes have
been installed for proper capturing and discharging water away from the building foundation.
Drainage at the southem vacant parcel with irregular surfaces is very poor to nonexistent, and has
caused severe erosion, "piping," washouts, and sediment transports. Numerous ground depressions
created by the soil stockpiles appear to pool storm water with subsequent "piping" through the loose
stockpiled soil causing large cavities. Overflow of concentrated surface runoff and washouts have
also occurred significantly impacting the slope face with erosional scarps and mud-flow type
surficial slope failures.
III. PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT
Planned expansion of the existing building in the northern parcel will consist of a new second floor
addition. The adjacent southern property will be annexed to the northern parcel to create a larger pad
for planned new parking improvements. Minor grade alterations will be needed to achieve new
parking improvement grades. The creation of large new graded slopes is not planned.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Page3
New foundations and architectural plans for the planned interior building modifications and second
floor addition are not yet finalized. However, we understand that the planned second floor addition
will be supported on a new independent foundation system. Associated construction is anticipated
to consist of related interior tenant and underground improvements, repairs and/or replacement of
the cracked interior floor slabs, and possible retrofitting of the existing building foundations. Some
regrading of the existing perimeter parking improvements is also proposed.
The proposed site redevelopment and parking expansion are depicted on the enclosed Plate 2. As,
shown, the adjacent southern parcel will be re-graded as a part of the project new parking expansion
pad development. New transition retaining walls over the slope are anticipated to establish the
design parking improvement pad grades. Associated improvements are also anticipated to consist
of reconstruction and stabilization of the descending southerly slope, including appropriate
vegetation cover and installation of erosion control facilities in order to create a stable parking
expansion pad above, and the protection of the natural drainage course below.
IV. FIELD INVESTIGATION
Subsurface conditions at the study areas were chiefly determined by field mapping the existing
surface exposures and the excavation of three exploratory borings and six test pits. The exploratory
borings were drilled inside the building through 12-inch diameter, pre-cut slab cores. Exploratory
borings were advanced into the underlying soil utilizing a truck-mounted, 8-inch diameter, hollow
stem auger drill rig. Test pits were excavated at selected locations within the adjacent southern
parcel using a tractor-mounted backhoe.
All the exploratory borings and test pits were logged by our project geologist and engineer who also
retained representative soil samples at selected locations and intervals for subsequent laboratory
testing. Exploratory borings were backfilled and slab cores patched with %-inch ready mix concrete
upon completion of our work. The test pits were also loosely backfilled.
Exploratory Boring and Test Pit locations are shown on the enclosed Geotechnical Map, Plate 2.
Logs of the borings and test pits are included as Plates 3 through 11. Laboratory test results and
engineering properties of selected samples are summarized in following sections.
V. GEOTECHNICAL CONDITIONS
The project site is characterized by a northern developed graded pad and adjacent in-egular terrain
to the south which gives way to a descending graded slope that terminates at a natural flowline. The
study locations are underlain by stable Terrace Deposits (Qt) and formational rocks (Tsa) mantled
by alluvial soils associated with the nearby drainage course and artificial fill deposits.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Page4
Erosional scarps and mud-flow type surficial failures are currently impacting the irregular
descending graded slope. However, large scale deep-seated instability which could preclude the
planned construction of new parking improvements is not in evidence. Geologic Cross-Sections
depicting subsurface conditions and planned finish grades are included as Plates 13 and 14. The
following earth materials are recognized:
A. Earth Materials
Formational Rock (Tsa): Eocene age formational rocks, more commonly designated as the
Santiago Formation, were exposed in Test Pit 2 (TP-2) beneath alluvial soils. The rocks
consist oflight grey colored siltstone-sandstone deposits that were found in blocky and dense
conditions overall. The fonnational rocks are stable deposits that likely occur at depth
beneath the upper site Terrace Deposits and alluvium.
Terrace Deposits (Qt): Pleistocene age Terrace Deposits, typical of local coastal areas,
mantle the underlying formational rocks. As exposed, the Terrace Deposits typically consist
of dark-colored sandstone that was found ranging from weathered friable in upper exposures
becoming cemented and dense to very dense at shallow depths. Project Terrace Deposits are
competent deposits that will adequately support new fills, structures, and improvements.
Alluvial Deposits (Qal): Alluvial soils, associated with the nearby natural drainage course,
are present within the lower open space flowline and along the drainage course margin. As
encountered in our exploratory excavations, the alluvium typically consists of silty to clayey
sand deposits that occur in moist and medium dense to dense conditions overall. Project
dense alluvium will provide adequate support for new fills, structures, and improvements.
Compacted Fills (Caf): Compacted fill deposits underlie the existing building pad surfaces
at the northen parcel. The fills were placed during the original building pad development
which utilized conventional cut-fill grading techniques. Compacted fills were placed over
the majority of the site to create the existing pad grades. Cut ground is thought to occur in
the north/northwestern margins of the pad. Compacted fills are estimated to be on the order
of 5 to 6 feet thick underneath the existing building areas. Records of engineering
observation and compaction testing during the original pad grading and fill placement are not
available for review. Site existing compacted fills (map symbol Cat) fills typically consist
of clayey to silty sand deposits found in moist and dense to tight conditions overalL
Approximate distributions of compacted fills at the project building pad are shown on the
enclosed Plates 2 and 14.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Page5
Dump Fills (Uat): Dump fill/stockpiled soil (map symbol Uaf) cover most of the surface
areas of the adjacent vacant parcel planned for new parking improvements as well as the
southern margin slope face. Dump fills consist oflight-brown loose to very loose, mostly
poorly-graded, medium grained silty to clayey sand. The dump fills occur in stockpiles on
the upper surface areas and as irregular surfaces impacted by severe erosion and washout
cavities on the descending slope face. Approximate distribution of the dump fills at the
project site are shown on the enclosed Plates 2, 13, and 14.
Details of project earth deposits are given on the enclosed Boring and Test Pit Logs, Plates
3 through 11. Laboratory test results and engineering properties of selected soil types are
summarized in following sections.
B. Groundwater and Surface Drainat:e
Groundwater conditions were not encountered in project exploratory borings and test pits to
the depths explored at the time of our field investigation and are not expected to impact the
planned new building additions and parking expansion. However, site drainage in the
adjacent southern parcel and descending slope is very poor to nonexistent, and has caused
severe erosion, "piping," washouts, and sediment transports. Soil stockpiles have created
numerous ground depressions causing pooling of storm water with subsequent "piping"
through the very loose sandy stockpiles soil causing large cavities. Overflow of concentrated
surface run off and washouts have caused large erosional scarps and surficial mud-flow type
failure of the dump fill-covered slope face.
Like all developed graded sites, the proper control of surface drainage is an important factor
in the continued stability of the property and adjacent slope. Ponding or pooling of surface
drainage or concentrated flow conditions should not be allowed, and over-watering of site
vegetation should be avoided. The dump fill covered and eroded southerly descending slope
should be reconstructed, stabilized, and planted with a proper vegetation cover. Storm water
runoff and erosion control facilities should also be constructed, as necessary and appropriate.
C. Slope Stability
Significant ground modifications or the creation of new large graded slopes are not proposed
in connection with the proposed site redevelopment and parking expansion. The eroded
southern graded slope is also underlain by competent sandstone Terrace Deposits underneath
the slope face dump fill cover impacted by surficial failure scarps and erosional soil debris.
Large scale or massive deep-seated slope failure conditions are not in evidence within the
exposed natural Terrace Deposits or alluvium. However, poorly graded cohesionless Terrace
Deposit sands are more prone to erosion in steeper slope conditions where impacted by poor
surface drainage and uncontrolled concentrated flow conditions.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Page6
Based on our study and site observations, the southern graded slope gradients are very
irregular largely approaching 2:1 with locally 11!2:1 or steeper gradients where impacted by
severe surficial failure conditions. Noted slope failures are shallow surficial erosional and
mud-flow type features consisting of slumping of the slope face very loose dump fill material
within the outer few feet that had become overly saturated or subjected to concentrated flow
and out-of-slope seepage conditions. Out-of-slope seepage conditions have also cause
washouts and local cavities within the slope. Slope stabilization procedures which include
removal of all erosional cavities, erosional features (scarps), and mud-flow debris should be
considered as recommended in the following sections. Site slope stabilization should also
include adequate drainage improvements by collecting and redirecting surface water away
from the top of slope, installation of stormwater control facilities and proper protective
vegetation cover.
D. Faults/Seismicity
Faults or significant shear zones are not indicated on or near proximity to the project site.
As with most areas of California, the San Diego region lies within a seismically active zone;
however, coastal areas of the county are characterized by low levels of seismic activity
relative to inland areas to the east. During a 40-year period (1934-1974), 37 earthquakes
were recorded in San Diego coastal areas by the California Institute of Technology. None
of the recorded events exceeded a Richter magnitude of 3. 7, nor did any of the earthquakes
generate more than modest ground shaking or significant damages. Most of the recorded
events occurred along various offshore faults which characteristically generate modest
earthquakes.
Historically, the most significant earthquake events which affect local areas originate along
well known, distant fault zones to the east and the Coronado Bank Fault to the west. Based
upon available seismic data, compiled from California Earthquake Catalogs, the most
significant historical event in the area of the study site occurred in 1800 at an estimated
distance of 8 miles from the project area. This event, which is thought to have occurred
along an offshore fault, reached an estimated magnitude of 6.5 with estimated bedrock
acceleration values of 0.0148g at the project site. The following list represents the most
significant faults which commonly impact the region. Estimated ground acceleration data
compiled from Digitized California Faults (Computer Program EQF AULT VERSION 3.00
updated) typically associated with the fault is also tabulated.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
TABLEt
Rose Canyon Fault 4.0 Miles
Newport·lnglewood Fault 7.0 Miles
Coronado Bank Fault 20.0 Miles
Elsinore·Julian Fault 25.2 Miles
February 10, 2015
Page7
0.272g
0.203g
0.192g
0.1
The locations of significant faults and earthquake events relative to the study site are depicted
on a Fault -Epicenter Map attached to this report as Plate 12.
More recently, the number of seismic events which affect the region appears to have
heightened somewhat Nearly 40 earthquakes of magnitude 3. 5 or higher have been recorded
in coastal regions between January 1984 and August 1986. Most of the earthquakes are
thought to have been generated along offshore faults. For the most part, the recorded events
remain moderate shocks which typically resulted in low levels of ground shaking to local
areas. A notable exception to this pattern was recorded on July 13, 1986. An earthquake of
magnitude 5.3 shook county coastal areas with moderate to locally heavy ground shaking
resulting in $700,000 in damages, one death, and injuries to 30 people. The quake occurred
along an offshore fault located nearly 30 miles southwest of Oceanside.
A series of notable events shook county areas with a (maximum) magnitude 7.4 shock in the
early morning of June 28, 1992. These quakes originated along related segments of the San
Andreas Fault approximately 90 miles to the north. Locally high levels of ground shaking
over an extended period of time resulted; however, significant damages to local structures
were not reported. The increase in earthquake frequency in the region remains a subject of
speculation among geologists; however, based upon empirical information and the recorded
seismic history of county areas, the 1986 and 1992 events are thought to represent the highest
levels of ground shaking which can be expected at the study site as a result of seismic
activity.
In recent years, the Rose Canyon Fault has received added attention from geologists. The
fault is a significant structural feature in metropolitan San Diego which includes a series of
parallel breaks trending southward from La Jolla Cove through San Diego Bay toward the
Mexican border. Test trenching along the fault in Rose Canyon indicated that at that location
the fault was last active 6,000 to 9,000 years ago. More recent work suggests that segments
of the fault are younger having been last active 1000 -2000 years ago. Consequently, the
fault has been classified as active and included within an Alquist-Priolo Special Studies Zone
established by the State of California.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
PageS
Fault zones tabulated in the preceding table are considered most likely to impact the region
of the study site during the lifetime of the project. The faults are periodically active and
capable of generating moderate to locally high levels of ground shaking at the site. Ground
separation as a result of seismic activity is not expected at the property.
E. Seismic Ground Motion Values
Seismic ground motion values were determined as part of this investigation in accordance
with Chapter 16, Section 1613 ofthe2013 California Building Code (CBC) and ASCE 7-10
Standard using the web-based United States Geological Survey (USGS) ground motion
calculator. Generated results including the Mapped (Ss, S 1 ), Risk-Targeted Maximum
Considered Earthquake (MCER) adjusted for site Class effects (SMs, SMI) and Design (Sns,
Sn1) Spectral Acceleration Paran1eters as well as Site Coefficients (Fa, Fv) for short periods
(0.20 second) and 1-second period, Site Class, Design and Risk-Targeted Maximum
Considered Earthquake (MCER) Response Spectrums, Mapped Maximum Considered
Geometric Mean (MCEG) Peak Ground Acceleration adjusted for Site Class effects (PGAM)
and Seismic Design Category based on Risk Category and the severity of the design
earthquake ground motion at the site are summarized in the enclosed Appendix.
F. Geologic Hazards
Geologic hazards are not presently indicated at the project site. The existing southern
margins graded slope impacted by dump soils and uncontrolled runoff is recommended for
regrading and stabilization as apart of the project parking expansion improvements. The
most significant geologic hazards at the property will be those associated with ground
shaking in the event of a major seismic event. Liquefaction or related ground rupture failures
are not anticipated.
G. Field and Laboratory Tests and Test Results
Earth deposits encountered in our exploratory test excavations were closely examined and
sampled for laboratory testing. Based upon our subsurface exposures, site soils have been
grouped into the following soil types:
TABLE2
' )
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
The following tests were conducted in support of this investigation:
February 10,2015
Page9
1. Standard Penetration Tests: Standard penetration tests (SPT) were performed at the
time ofbore hole drilling in accordance with the ASTM standard procedure D-1586,
using rope and Cathead. The procedure consisted of a standard 51 MM outside diameter
sampler, 457 MM in length and 35 MM in inside diameter using 5-foot long A W drill
rods driven with a 140-pound hammer dropped 30 inches. The bore hole was 200 MM
(8 inches) in diameter and drill fluid or water was not required for bore hole support.
The test results are indicated at the corresponding locations on the enclosed Boring Logs,
Plates 3 through 5.
2. Grain Size Analysis: Grain size analyses were performed on representative samples of
Soil Type 1. The test results are presented in Table 3.
TABLE3
Sieve Size
Location Soil Type
B-1@ 5' 1
B-1 20' l
3. Maximum Dry Density and Optimum Moisture Content: The maximum dry density
and optimum moisture content of Soil Types 1 and 3 were determined in accordance with
ASTM D-1557. The results are presented in Table 4.
TABLE4
B-3 @2Y:/ 129 9
TP-1 3' 2 1 11
4. Moisture· Density Tests (Undisturbed Ring & Chunk Samples): In-place dry density
and moisture content of representative soil deposits beneath the site were determined
from relatively undisturbed ring and chunk samples using the weights and measurements,
and water displacement test methods, respectively. Test results are presented in Table
5 and tabulated on the attached Boring and Test Pit Logs.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
TABLES
B-1 @ 2' (Building) 9 117.5 129
B-1 @ 8' (Building) I 14 113.2 129
B-1 @ 15' (Building) 2 13 112.7 129
B-2@ 3' (Building) 10 118.9 129
B-2 @ 6' (Building) 2 12 114.8 123.5
B-2@ 15' (Building) 2 13 118.8 123.5
B-3 @ 2Yz' (Building) 11 117.3 129
B-3 @ 5W (Building) 2 14 116.6 123.5
TP-1 @ 3' (Slope) 2 9 101.8 123.5
TP-2 @3' (Slope) 17 104.8 129
TP-2 @ 7' (Slope) 1 18 102.6 129
TP-2@ 10' (Slope) 2 20 105 123.5
6' (Parking Pad) 2 5 116 123.5
TP-4 @ 4' (Parking Pad) 2 9 106.6 123.5
TP-5@ 6' (Parking Pad) 2 10 111.2 123.5
TP-6 @ 6'(Parking Pad) 8 112.2 129
TP-6@ 12'(Parking Pad) 10 110.6 129
Assumptions and Relationships:
In-place Relative Compaction= (fd +1m) XlOO
Gs = 2.65
e = (Gs 'Tw + 'Td)-1
S= +e
91
88
91
92
93
96
91
94
82
81
80
85
94
86
90
87
86
February 10, 2015
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60
81
73
68
72
88
73
88
38
78
78
93
32
43
55
45
54
5. Expansion Index Test: Two expansion index (EI) test was perfonned on a
representative sample of Soil Types 1 and 3 in accordance with the ASTM D-4829. The
results are presented in Table 6.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
TABLE6
B-3@ 2W 9 51 18 112.9
T-1@ 3' 2 8 41 20 109.2
( w) = moisture content in percent
Eiso = Eimeas-(50-Smeas) ((65 + Elmeas) ..,_ (220-Smeas))
Expansion Index (EI) Expansion Potential
0-20 Very Low
21-50 Low
51 -90 Medium
91-130 High
130
50
35
February 10, 2015
Page 11
50
30
6. Direct Shear Test: One direct shear test was performed on a representative sample of
Soil Type 1. The prepared specimen was soaked overnight, loaded with normal loads of
1, 2, and 4 kips per square foot respectively, and sheared to failure in an undrained
condition. The result is presented in Table 7.
TABLE7
7. pH and Resistivity Test: pH and resistivity of a representative sample of Soil Type 1
was determined using "Method for Estimating the Service Life of Steel Culverts," in
accordance with the California Test Method (CTM) 643. The result is tabulated in Table
8.
TABLES
8. Sulfate Test: A sulfate test was performed on a representative sample of Soil Type 1 in
accordance with the California Test Method ( CTM) 417. The result is presented in Table
9.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
TABLE9
February 10, 2015
Page 12
9. Chloride Test: A chloride test was performed on a representative sample of Soil Type
1 in accordance with the California Test Method (CTM) 422. The result is presented in
Table 10.
TABLE 10
VI. SITE CORROSION ASSESSMENT
A site is considered to be corrosive to foundation elements, walls and drainage structures if one or
more of the following conditions exist:
* Sulfate concentration is greater than or equal to 2000 ppm (0.2% by weight). * Chloride concentration is greater than or equal to 500 ppm (0.05 %by weight).
* pH is less than 5.5.
For structural elements, the minimum resistivity of soil (or water) indicates the relative quantity of
soluble salts present in the soil (or water). In general, a minimum resistivity value for soil (or water)
less than 1 000 ohm-em indicates the presence of high quantities of soluble salts and a higher
propensity for corrosion. Appropriate corrosion mitigation measures for corrosive conditions should
be selected depending on the service environment, amount of aggressive ion salts (chloride or
· sulfate), pH levels and the desired service life of the structure.
Results of limited laboratory tests performed on selected representative site samples indicated that
the minimum resistivity is less than 1 000 ohm-em suggesting presence ofhigh quantities of soluble
salts. Test results further indicated that pH levels are greater than 5.5 and sulfate concentration is
less than 2000 ppm. However, chloride concentration levels were found to be greater than 500 ppm.
Based on the results of the corrosion analyses, the project site is considered corrosive and corrosion
mitigation measures be incorporated into the project designs as required and determined appropriate
by the design consultant. A corrosion engineer may also be consulted in this regard.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10,2015
Page 13
Based upon the result of the tested soil sample, the amount of water soluble sulfate (S04) was found
to be 0.016 percent by weight which is considered negligible according to ACI 318, Table 4.3.1.
However, due to the site corrosion potential, Portland cement Type II and concrete with minimum
specified 28 days compressive strength (f c) of 4,000 psi and maximum water-cement ratio of0.50,
as well as adequate reinforcement cover should be considered, as determined appropriate and
confinned by the project corrosion/structural engineer.
VII. CONCLUSIONS
Based upon the foregoing investigation, the planned second floor addition at the existing building
and building perimeter parking improvements with new parking expansion at the southern vacant
parcel is feasible from a geotechnical viewpoint.
The existing building is underlain by compacted fills placed at the time of original pad construction,
while dump fills and erosional mud-flow slump failure materials with large erosional cavities occur
on the southern vacant parcel and adjacent slope face. Below, dense natural alluvial soils and
Terrace Deposits occur. Evidence oflarge or massive existing or impending geologic instability is
not indicated at the site.
The following geotechnical conditions are unique to the project site and will most impact the planned
second floor building addition and parking expansion improvements and the associated development
costs:
* Landslides, geologic hazards, gross deep seated or massive hillside instability, faults, or
significant shear zones are not present at the project building addition and parking expansion
sites. The project property is not located within the Alquist -Priolo earthquake fault zone
established by the State of California. Liquefaction, seismically induced settlements and soil
collapse, will not be a factor in the redevelopment of the project property provided our
remedial grading, parking expansion pad development, ground stabilization and foundation
recommendations are followed.
* The project northern building pad consists of a graded lot currently supporting an existing
tilt-up industrial/commercial type building. Compacted fills (map symbol Caf) on the order
of 5 to 6 feet thick occur under the existing building. Records of engineering observations
and compaction testing during the original pad grading and fill placement are not available
for review.
* Compacted fills (map symbol Caf) underlying the existing typically consist of clayey to silty
sand deposits in a generally dense and compact conditions with in-place density tests
indicating relative compaction levels typically ranging over 90 percent (see Boring Logs,
Plates 3, 4, and 5). Minimum 90 percent compaction levels are required for well-compacted
fills. Based on the results of our field and laboratory testing, underlying compacted fills are
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Page 14
in compact conditions overall and may be considered acceptable for new foundation support.
However, preparation and compaction of bottom of foundation trenches to the specified
depths, and utilizing interconnected spread pad and graded beam type foundation will be
necessary for the building second floor additions, as specified below.
* Dense natural alluvial soils and Terrace Deposits occur below the site fills which can suitably
support the upper existing and new fills, proposed structures, improvements and graded
embankments.
* Building tilt-up panels separation and apparent widening near the top at the southeast comer
may be the result local settlement of the underlying near surface fills in that comer, perhaps
as a result of previous poor to marginal drainage allowing roof and perimeter run off waters
to discharge and penetrate into the foundation soils. Above ground tight pipes are now
present for proper capturing and discharging water away from the building foundations. In
our opinion, drainage improvements and disallowing roof and surface water infiltrations into
the foundation soils will reduce potential for future additional settlements and subsequent
impacts on the tilt-up walls. Consideration should be given to locally expose the foundations
at the impacted wall panel joints at the time of construction for inspections. Evidence of
possible foundation cracking and distress may warrant local underpinning at the crack
location.
* Dump fills consist of very loose to loose, poorly-graded sandy stockpile fills (map symbol
Uaf) and cover the entire surfaces of the southern vacant parcel and adjacent slope face.
Dump fill stockpiles have created disturbed and irregular surfaces impacted by severe erosion
and erosional washout cavities. All dump fills should be removed to the underlying
competent natural Terrace Deposits and re-graded as a part of the planned new parking
expansion pad development. Deep erosional washout cavities should also be excavated
exposing competent natural Terrace Deposits and backfilled with well-compacted fills
property benched and keyed into the approved backcut exposures. Estimated
stripping/removals and over-excavation depths are provided un the following sections.
* Southern margin graded slope has experienced shallow surficial erosional and mud-flow type
failures consisting of slump sliding of slope face dump fill materials within the outer few feet
that had been subjected to concentrated flow and out-of-slope seepage conditions. Out-of-
slope seepage has also caused washouts and local cavities within the slope. The southern
margin slope should also be removed and reconstructed to existing heights at 2:1 gradients
maximum as a stabilization fill slope as a part of upper parking extension pad development,
as recommended below. Slope reconstruction should excavate and remove all erosional
washout cavities exposing competent natural Terrace Deposits and reconstructed with well-
compacted fills property benched and keyed into the approved backcut exposures. Backcut
excavation for the slope reconstruction should be developed at 1:1 or flatter gradients and
stabilization fill slope provided with a back drainage system as specified in the following
sections.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Page 15
* The overall stability of graded parking expansion pad and planned improvement surfaces
developed over hillside terrain is most dependent upon adequate keying and benching of new
fills into the undisturbed Terrace Deposits during the adjacent slope regrading and
reconstruction operations. At the project site, added care should be given to the proper
construction of the toe keyway and benching excavations.
* Based on our field explorations and laboratory testing, fill materials underlying the existing
building chiefly consist of silty to clayey sand (SM/SC) deposits with low expansion
potential (expansion index of 50 or less) based on ASTM D-4829 classification. Expansion
properties of the underlying fill soils should be considered in the new foundations and slab
designs as presented below.
Existing dump fills and adjacent slope face materials primarily consist of silty and locally
clayey sand to sandy cohesionless to materials (SM-SC/SP). These deposits are typically
highly susceptible to erosion and should be thoroughly mixed and manufactured into a
unifonn fill as part ofthe new parking expansion pad development and slope reconstruction.
* New fills should be processed, moisture conditioned placed in thin horizontal lifts and
compacted to at least 90% of the corresponding maximum dry densities, unless otherwise
specified. The upper 12 inches of sub grade soils under the asphalt paving surfaces and upper
3 feet of utility trench backfills in the public right-of-ways should be compacted to a
minimum of95% compaction levels.
* Existing building floor slabs appear inadequately reinforced, lack a moisture barrier within
the slab sand underlayment and have experienced numerous continuous cracks with locally
apparent vertical off sets. The cracked floor slabs may be considered for total removal and
replacement. Alternatively interior slabs may be locally saw cut at the cracked locations and
reconstructed, as presented in the following sections. Limited slab sub grade soil preparation
and compaction will be required for either alternative.
* Allowable foundation bearing capacity provided in the following sections is based on the
properties of onsite soils. Higher allowable foundation bearing capacity may also be
established by over-excavation the foundation trenches as specified depths, placement of the
layer of earth reinforcement geogrid at the exposed bottom and backfilling the trench to the
bottom of the foundation level with Caltrans Class 2 crushed aggregate base type materials,
as discussed in the following sections.
* Wall, foundations, structures and improvements constructed on or near the top of descending
slopes should be deepened or adequately setback from the top of slope to maintain a
minimum 7 feet or Vs of the slope height, whichever is more, horizontal setback to slope
face.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
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* Natural groundwater is not expected to be a major factor in the planned second floor addition
and parking expansion. However, grading and earthwork during the dry months of the year
is recommended.
*
The proper control of storm water and surface drainage is a critical component to the overall
building performance, stability of new graded improvement surfaces, reconstructed adjacent
embankments and natural open space terrain below. Storm water and surface drainage should
not be allowed to occur in a concentrated or uncontrolled flow condition over graded and
natural slope surfaces. A concrete lined drainage ditch should be considered along the top
of the reconstructed stability fill slope. Pending shall not be permitted and surface drainage
should be directed away from the top of the slope and building foundations. Finish slope
faces should be planted soon after completion of remedial and slope repair grading and
irrigation water should not be excessive. Retaining walls should be provided with a well-
performing back drainage system.
Site excavations and earthwork shall not impact the adjacent properties, natural and open
space terrain, structures, improvements, and underground utilities within public right-of-
ways. Adequate excavation setbacks shall be maintained and temporary construction slopes
developed as specified in the following sections. Added or revised field recommendations,
however, may also be necessary and should be given by the project geotechnical consultant
for the protection of adjacent neighboring buildings and should be anticipated.
* Post construction settlements after completion of foundation soil preparation as specified
herein, is not expected to exceed approximately 1-inch and should occur below the heaviest
loaded footings, provided our foundation system design recommendations are followed. The
magnitude of post construction differential settlement as expressed in terms of angular
distortion is not anticipated to exceed Y2-inch between similar adjacent structural elements.
VIII. RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations provided below are consistent with the indicated geotechnical conditions at the
project site and should be reflected in the final plans and implemented during the construction phase.
Added or modified recommendations may also be appropriate and should be provided in a plan
review report when final second story building addition, and parking expansion grading and
improvement plans are available:
A. Building Improvements and Second Story Addition
We understand that the existing building is planned for modifications and conversion into
a medical office facility that includes a new second floor addition with the associated tenant
and underground improvements. Detail architectural floor and structural foundation plans
are not yet finalized and were not available at the time of preparation of this report. Based
on our understanding of the project, new independent foundations are planned for the support
of second floor addition.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
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The proposed second floor addition may be supported on interconnected spread pad and
grade beam type foundations constructed upon prepared foundation bearing soils as specified
herein. The following recommendations are consistent with the onsite underlying silty to
clayey sand (SM/SC) compacted fill deposits with low expansion potential (Expansion Index
of 50 based on ASTM D-4829 classification). Other foundation support type systems and
construction methods, such as pile and grade beam foundations are also available and can be
provided upon request. The choice of appropriate option will depend on acceptable levels
of future building and improvement performance, economic feasibility and ease of
construction. Foundation recommendations provided herein should be further confirmed
and/or revised as necessary at the final plan review phase.
1. New foundations should be neatly saw cut into the existing slabs, where they occur
(removal and replacement of entire existing cracked interior slabs should be considered
as discussed below) and foundation trenches excavated to the minimum specified depths
and widths. All existing underground utilities, pipes and service lines should be pot-
holed, identified and marked prior to the actual remedial grading works.
2. Spread pad footings should be at least 36 inches square and 24 inches deep and
structurally interconnected with grade beams. Interconnecting grade beams and
continuous strip foundations should be a minimum of 18 inches wide by 24 inches deep.
Footing depths are measured from the finish subgrade levels, not including the
sand/gravel layer beneath floor slabs.
Actual foundation designs, reinforcements and construction details should be provided
by the project structural engineer. As a minimum and from a geotechnical view point,
interconnecting grade beams and continuous strip foundations should be reinforced with
a minimum of 4-#5 reinforcing bars, 2-#5 bars placed 3 inches above the bottom and 2-
#5 bars placed 3 inches below the top. Spread pad footings reinforcement per structural
details.
3. Exposed bottom of foundation trenches should be inspected and tested for adequate
(minimum 90%) in-situ compaction levels. Below 90% compaction levels within the
bearing soils will signify the need for trench over-excavations to at least 12 inches and
reconstruction to bottom of foundation level with well-compacted fills, as directed in the
field. Compaction in the foundation trenches should be achieved by mechanical means
using hand-held and limited access compaction equipment.
4. Based on our laboratory tests and analysis, an allowable foundation bearing capacity of
2250 psfmay be considered for 12 inches wide by 12 inches deep foundation supported
on the existing onsite compacted soils. The indicated value may be increased by 20% for
each additional foot of depth and 15% for each additional foot of width a maximum of
4500 psf, if needed.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Page 18
Alternatively higher allowable foundation bearing capacity can be achieved, if needed,
by over-excavating bottom of foundation trench at least 18 inches, neatly placing a layer
of TerraGrid RX-1200 (or approved equal) at the over-excavated bottom and
reconstruction to bottom of foundation level with minimum 95% Caltrans Class 2
crushed aggregate base type materials. In this case, an allowable foundation bearing
capacity of3000 psf may be considered for 12 inches wide by 12 inches deep foundation
and increased by 20% for each additional foot of depth and 20% for each additional foot
ofwidth a maximum of5500 psf, if needed.
5. Existing foundations should be locally exposed at the impacted wall panel joints for
inspections. Local underpinning of the existing building foundations with a new grade
beam should be considered in the event of possible foundation cracking. Underpinning
grade beam, if required, should be a minimum of 6 feet long, matching at least the width,
and extending a minimum of 12 inches below the bottom of existing foundation
(minimum 18 inches wide by 24 inches deep) and reinforced with minimum of 2-#5
bards top and bottom and #3 ties at 12 inches on centers, extending at least 3 feet on
either side of the crack. The underpinning grade beam should also be tied to the existing
adjacent foundations near the top and bottom with a minimum 24 inches long #5 dowels
with 6 inches deep drill and epoxy grout to existing footings and 18 inches into the
underpinning grade beam. Bottom of underpinning grade beam trench and bearing soil
preparations will remain the same as specified.
6. Inadequately reinforced cracked existing building floor slabs should be considered for
total removal and replacement. Alternatively interior slabs may be locally saw cut at the
cracked locations and reconstructed. In case only the cracked portions are removed,
affected slabs should be neatly saw cut a minimum of2 feet on either side of the crack
removed. A void 90 degree angles.
Exposed subgrade soils underneath the interior floor slabs should then be reworked to
a minimum depth of 12 inches, moisture conditioned to approximately 2% above the
optimum moisture contents and recompacted to at least 90% compaction levels per
ASTM D-1557. Locally more extensive subgrade reparations including deeper over-
excavations and recompaction may also be necessary based on actual field exposures and
should be anticipated.
The new concrete slabs should be at least 5Y2 inches in thickness reinforced with
minimum #4 bars at 16 inches on center both ways placed mid-height in the slab. New
slabs should also be provided with a minimum 8 inches wide by 12 inches thick
thickened edge reinforced with minimum 1-#4 top and bottom along the perimeter and
tied to the adjacent existing slabs and foundations, where they occur, with minimum 18
inches long #4 dowels at 16 inches on centers maximum, placed in 6 inches deep drill
holes, thoroughly cleaned and epoxy grouted. New slabs should also be underlain with
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Page 19
4 inches of clean sand (SE 30 or greater) which is provided with a well performing
moisture barrier/vapor retardant (minimum 15-mil Stege) placed mid-height in the sand.
Alternatively, a 4-inch thick base of compacted Yz-inch clean aggregate provided with the
vapor barrier (minimum 15-mil Stege) in direct contact with (beneath) the concrete may
also be considered provided a concrete mix which can address bleeding, shrinkage and
curling is used.
Provide "softcut" contraction/control joints consisting of sawcuts spaced 10 feet on
centers each way for all interior slabs. Cut as soon as the slab will support the weight of
the saw and operate without disturbing the final finish which is normally within 2 hours
after final finish at each control joint location or 150 psi to 800 psi. The saw cuts should
be minimum l-inch in depth but should not exceed l :4-inches deep maximum. Anti-
ravel skid plates should be used and replaced with each blade to avoid spalling and
raveling. A void wheeled equipments across cuts for at least 24 hours. Also, provide re-
entrant comer reinforcement for all interior slabs. Re-entrant comers will depend on slab
geometry and/or interior column locations. The enclosed Plate 15 may be used as a
general guideline.
B. Parkin& Expansion Pad Development
The southern vacant parcel is planned for a new parking expansion, and existing perimeter
parking areas around building will be regraded and reconstructed to new designs as part of
the site redevelopment project. Major ground modifications or the creation of new large
graded slopes are not anticipated with finish design grades anticipated very near the existing
elevations. Remedial grading works of the existing pad surfaces will be required in order to
achieve final design grades and construct safe and stable level surfaces for the support ofthe
planned new parking improvements. Recommended remedial grading procedures for the
southern vacant parcel and adjacent eroded slope are graphically shown on the enclosed
Geotechnical Remedial Grading and Slope Reconstruction Concept, Plate 16.
All excavations, grading, earthwork, construction and bearing subgrade soil preparation
should be completed in accordance with Chapter 18 (Soils and Foundations) and Appendix
"J" (Grading) of the 2013 California Building Code (CBC), the Standard Specifications for
Public Works Construction, City of Carlsbad Grading Ordinances, the requirements of the
governing agencies and following sections, wherever appropriate and as applicable:
1. Existing Underground Utilities and Buried Structures: All existing underground
waterlines, sewer lines, pipes, storm drains, utilities, tanks, structures and improvements
at or nearby the project remedial grading areas should be thoroughly potholed, identified
and marked prior to the initiation of the actual works. Specific geotechnical engineering
recommendations may be required based on the actual field locations and invert
elevations, backfill conditions and proposed grades in the event of a grading conflict.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Pasco Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Page20
Utility lines may need to be temporarily redirected, if necessary, prior to earthwork
operations and reinstalled upon completion of earthwork operations. Alternatively,
permanent relocations may be appropriate as shown on the approved plans.
Abandoned irrigation lines, pipes, and conduits should be properly removed, capped or
sealed off to prevent any potential for future water infiltrations into the foundation
bearing and subgrade soils. Voids created by the removals of the abandoned
underground pipes, tanks and structures should be properly backfilled with compacted
fills in accordance with the requirements of this report.
2. Clearing and Grubbing: Remove all existing surface and subsurface structures, tanks,
vaults, pipes, improvements, vegetation, roots, stumps, large boulders, and all other
unsuitable materials and deleterious matter from all areas proposed for new fills,
improvements, and structures plus a minimum of 5 horizontal feet outside the perimeter,
where possible and as approved in the field.
All debris generated from the site clearing, trash, and unsuitable materials should also
be properly removed and disposed o£ Trash, vegetation and debris should not be
allowed to occur or contaminate new site fills and backfills.
The prepared grounds should be inspected and approved by the project geotechnical
consultant or his designated field representative prior to grading and earthworks.
3. Stripping and Removals: All existing loose and eroded dump fills {see Plate 2, map
symbol Uaf) at the southern vacant lot should be stripped and removed to the underlying
dense and competent Terrace Deposits or well compacted fill (map symbol Cat) placed
during original site grading and recompacted. Deep erosional washout cavities, where
they occur, should also be entirely excavated out to expose competent natural Terrace
Deposits as a part of stripping and removal operations (also see Geotechnical Remedial
Grading And Slope Reconstruction Concept, Plate 16). Actual stripping and removal
depths will vary at the project site and should be established in the field by the project
geotechnical consultant or his designated field representative. Approximate removal
depths may be anticipated to be on the order of 3 to5 feet, however, locally deeper
removals over the pad surfaces and in the washout cavities should also be expected as
determined and directed in the field. Stripping and remedial grading should extend a
minimum of5 horizontal feet outside the improvement envelops, where possible and as
directed in the field.
In the building perimeter existing parking areas, existing asphalt and PCC paving
surfaces should be demolished and removed and the exposed sub grade soils stripped and
over-excavated to a minimum of 12 inches, unless otherwise determined or directed in
the field. Some potholing and evaluation of existing sub grade soils at the time earthwork
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Page 21
operations may be necessary to establish actual stripping and removal depths as
determined and directed in the field. There should be at least 12 inches of new 95%
compacted fills under the pavement base layer.
The removals and over-excavations should develop level surfaces properly benched and
keyed into the underlying dense and competent Terrace Deposits. The exposed bottom
of all removals, over-excavations, level benches and keys should be observed and
competent bedrock exposures approved by the project geotechnical consultant or his
designated field representative prior to fill or backfill placement. Exploratory test pits
excavated in connection with our study at the indicated locations (see Plate 2) were
backfilled with loose and uncompacted deposits. The loose/uncompacted exploratory
trench backfill soils shall also be re excavated and placed back as properly compacted
fills in accordance with the requirements of this report.
4. Trenching and Temporary Excavation Slopes: Top of excavations and temporary
slopes shall maintain adequate set back from adjacent building foundations, existing
structures, on and offsite improvements and open space easements, as approved and
directed in the field. Undem1ining and/or damages to adjacent building and nearby
structures, underground utilities and street improvements within the public right-of-way,
or nearby easements shall be avoided. Face of temporary slopes should be protected
from excessive runoff or rainfall and stockpiling the excavated materials near the top of
construction embankments should be disallowed. Construction should also be completed
in a timely manner minimizing unsupported slope conditions and prolonged exposure
periods.
Temporary construction slopes associated with the project remedial grading and pad
construction should be developed at 1 : 1 maximum gradients, unless otherwise approved
or directed in the field (also see Plate 16). The remaining wedge of exposed laid back
temporary slope should then be properly benched out and new fills/backfills tightly
keyed-in as the backfilling progresses. All temporary construction slopes require
geotechnical inspections during the excavation operations.
More specific recommendations should be given in the field by the project geotechnical
consultant based on actual field exposures. Revised temporary construction slope and
trenching recommendations including flatter slope gradients, larger setbacks, completing
excavations and remedial grading in limited sections and the need for temporary
shoring/trench shield support may be necessary and should be anticipated. The project
contractor shall also obtain appropriate permits, as needed, and conform to Cal-OSHA
and local governing agencies' requirements for trenching/open excavations and safety
of the workmen during construction. Appropriate permits for offsite grading or
excavation encroachments into neighboring private properties, easements and/or public
right-of-ways may also be necessary from respective owners and agencies and should be
obtained as necessary.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10,2015
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5. Fill/Backfill Materials, Shrinkage and Import Soils, and Compaction: Excavation
of site existing dump fills and alluvial soils will chiefly generate a silty to clayey sand
soil mixture which are considered suitable for reuse as site new fill, provided new fills
are prepared placed and compacted in accordance with the requirements of this report.
Local trash, debris, rocks larger than 6 inches and organic matter, where encountered,
should be throughly removed and separated from the mixture to the satisfaction and
approval ofthe project geotechnical consultant.
Based on our analysis, on site soils may be anticipated to shrink nearly 10% to 20% on
volume basis, when compacted as specified herein. Import soils, if it becomes necessary
to complete grading and achieve final design grades, should be good quality sandy
granular non-corrosive deposits (SM/SW) with very low expansion potential (1 00%
passing l-inch sieve, more than 50% passing #4 sieve and less than 18% passing #200
sieve with expansion index less than 20). Import soils should be inspected, tested as
necessary, and approved by the project geotechnical engineer prior to delivery to the site.
Import soils should also meet or exceed engineering characteristic and soil design
parameters as specified in the following sections.
Project fills and backfills shall be clean deposits free of trash, debris, organic matter and
deleterious materials. Uniform bearing soil conditions should be constructed at the site
by the remedial grading and earthwork operations. Site soils should be adequately
processed, thoroughly mixed, moisture conditioned to slightly (2%) above the optimum
moisture levels, or as directed in the field, placed in thin (8 inches maximum) uniform
horizontal lifts and mechanically compacted to a minimum of90% ofthe corresponding
laboratory maximum dry density per ASTM D-1557, unless otherwise specified. The
upper 12 inches of subgrade soils (including trench backfills) under asphalt pavement
base layers should be compacted to minimum 95% compaction levels.
6. Transition Retaining Walls, Foundation Setback and Back Drainage: Transition
walls may be necessary to achieve final design grades along outside perimeter of the
planned parking expansion pad over the southern graded slope. The southern slope
should be first reconstructed and stabilized as a part of the project grading operations as
specified in the following sections. Slope reconstruction grading procedures are
graphically shown on the enclosed Geotechnical Remedial Grading and Slope
Reconstruction Concept, Plate 16.
Wall foundations constructed on or near the top of descending slopes shall be adequately
setback or deepened to maintain a minimum of7 feet or 1f3 of the slope height, whichever
is more, horizontal distance from the bottom outside edge of the footing to daylight,
unless otherwise specified or approved (also see Plate 16).
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Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Page 23
The specified setback requirements will apply to all structures and site improvements.
Site improvements including outside perimeter of paving surfaces placed at the top of
descending slopes should be provided with a thickened edge to satisfY the specified
setbacks, however, minimum 5 feet horizontal distance from the bottom outside edge of
the thickened edge to daylight is considered adequate for paving improvements.
A well developed back drainage system should also be constructed behind the project
retaining walls. The wall back drainage system should consist of a minimum 4-inch
diameter, Schedule 40 (SDR 35) perforated pipe surrounded with a minimum of 1 'l2
cubic feet per foot of%-crushed rocks (12 inches wide by 18 inches deep) installed atthe
depths of the wall foundation level and wrapped in filter fabric (Mirafi 140-N). If
Cal trans Class 2 permeable aggregate is used in lieu of the crushed rocks, the filter fabric
can be deleted. The wall back drain should be installed at suitable elevations to allow
for adequate fall via a non-perforated solid pipe (Schedule 40 or SDR 35) to an approved
outlet. Protect pipe outlets as appropriate. All wall back drain pipes and outlets should
be shown on the project final plans.
A wall back drain system schematic is depicted on the enclosed Retaining Wall Drain
Detail, Plate 17. Provide appropriate waterproofing where applicable as indicated on the
project pertinent construction plans.
7. Surface Drainage and Erosion Control: A critical element to the continued stability
of the graded hillside pads and improvements is an adequate surface drainage system.
Surface and storm water shall not be allowed to impact the developed construction and
improvement sites. This can most effectively be achieved by appropriate vegetation cover
and the installation of the following systems:
• Uncontrolled surface run-off or flow of water over the top of adjacent slope shall be
prevented. Drainage swales should be constructed at the top of slope and behind all
retaining walls.
• Perimeter building and parking surfaces run-off, as well as roof drainage should be
properly collected and directed away from the buildings and site improvements via
proper drainage control facilities and structures. Area drains should be installed.
" Storm and surface run off water should not be allowed to impact or saturate graded
surfaces, natural slopes and graded embankment faces, wall backfills, and bearing
and subgrade soils. Concentrated run off, which could cause erosion or scouring,
should be disallowed. Over watering of site vegetation should also not be allowed.
Only the amount of water to sustain vegetation should be provided.
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Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Page24
• Temporary erosion control facilities and silt fences should be installed during the
construction phase periods and until landscaping is fully established as indicated and
specified on the approved project grading/erosion plans.
C. Slope Reconstruction and Stabilization
Southern margin graded slope has experienced shallow surficial erosional and mud-flow
slump sliding of slope face dump fill materials due to concentrated flow and out-of-slope
seepage conditions. The southern margin slope should also be removed and reconstructed
at 2:1 maximum gradients as a stabilization fill slope, as a part ofupper parking ~xtension
pad development Slope reconstruction should excavate and remove all erosional washout
cavities exposing competent natural Terrace Deposits or dense native ground, as approved
in the field, and reconstructed with well-compacted fills property benched and keyed into the
approved back cut exposures. Slope reconstruction grading procedures are graphically shown
on the enclosed Geotechnical Remedial Grading and Slope Reconstruction Concept, Plate
16. The following are appropriate:
1. Underground Utilities, Clearing and Grubbing: Locating and marking all
underground utility prior to any excavations and grading operations, as well as clearing
and grabbing of surface vegetation, plants, trees, deleterious materials and debris remain
the same as previously specified.
2. Limits of Grading and Slope Reconstruction: Existing slope is not well defined and
embankment toe currently blended into the surrounding areas due to severe erosion.
Limits of the southern graded slope should be established on the project plans and
boundaries with the adjacent open easement well established, if applicable. The enclosed
Geotechnical Remedial Grading and Slope Reconstruction Concept (Plate 16) assumes
an arbitrary toe for the new embankment and achieving 2: l maximum gradients. Actual
slope top and toe locations and design configurations per the project grading designs and
approved plans.
3. Removals of Eroded and Unstable Outer Slope Face Soils: Remove existing very
loose soil and erosional failure slumps from within the outer slope face. Removals
should extend into dense alluvial soils or competent Terrace Deposits along the toe of
the slope where a new keyway should be established. Grading operations should
effectively remove all existing loose dump fills and slope face failure soils and expose
level benches on the temporary back cut side throughout as shown on Plate 16. The level
benches should be constructed in a manner that there is a minimum of 10 feet
(horizontally) of new compacted fill from the outside edge (front) ofthe bench to the
finish slope face, and keyed a minimum of 2 feet into the temporary back side unless
otherwise directed or approved in the field.
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February 10, 2015
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4. Establish A Toe Keyway: Establish a lower toe keyway at the base of slope. The toe
keyway should be at least 15 feet wide and maintain a minimum depth of 3 feet below
the lower toe levels developed into the underlying dense native ground or Terrace
Deposits. The keyway should expose dense native ground (in-place densities of90% or
greater) or competent Terrace Deposits throughout with the bottom heeled back a
minimum of 5% into the natural hillside and inspected and approved by the project
geotechnical engineer.
Fills can only be placed on stable and competent bottom of keyway excavations. In the
event suitably competent bottom of keyways receiving fills is not encountered at the
specified depths (less than minimum 90% in-place compaction levels) as determined by
the project geotechnical engineer, deeper keyway excavation will be required as
established in the field. A1ternatively, a layer ofTerraGrid RX-1200 may be provided
at the approved bottom ofthe keyway as directed by the project geotechnical consultant.
5. Staging and Stockpiling: Slope stabilization and reconstruction work should be
completed with no impact on the adjacent open space areas. Appropriate temporary
devices should be installed and proper measures taken during earthwork to protect nearby
areas and grading contained within the designated areas as delineated on the approved
plans. Onsite staging and stockpiling areas should be determined and approved prior to
actual work.
6. Temporary Backcut Slope: Excavations and development of temporary back cut for the
recommended slope reconstruction remains the same as specified. Temporary backcut
required to complete slope reconstructions should be developed at 1: 1 or flatter gradients
unless otherwise specifically approved or directed in the field. Temporary backcut slope
should be developed into unaffected hillside exposing dense native ground or competent
Terrace Deposits effectively removing all existing dump fill, erosional slump failures,
and washout cavities. See Plate 2 for approximate limits of dump fill soils (map symbol,
Uaf). The remaining wedge of soil should then be benched out and new fill tightly
keyed-in as the backfill placement progresses.
7. Subdrain: A critical element to the continued stability of the reconstructed slope is an
adequate subdrainage system. This can most effectively be achieved by the installation
of a back drain in a bench above the keyway at a suitable elevation to ensure positive
gravity flow as shown on Plate 16. Actual locations should be determined by the project
geotechnical engineer in the field. The subsurface back drains should consist of a 4-inch
perforated Schedule 40 (SDR 35) pipe surrounded with %-crushed rock and wrapped in
Mirafi 140N filter fabric material as depicted on the attached Plate 16. Filter fabric can
be eliminated if Cal trans Class 2 permeable aggregates are used. Solid outlet tight line
pipes should also be Schedule 40 (SDR 35) as shown. Water collected in the
recommended back drains should be directed via the solid outlet pipe at every 100 feet
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
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maximum to suitable locations and/or drainage facilities. Cap ends of perforated back
drain pies and protect all solid pipe outlets. Riser-cleanouts should also be placed at the
perforated-solid pipe connection points as necessary.
8. Groundwater and Earth Materials: Groundwater was not encountered in our
exploratory excavations to the depths explored at the time of our field work and is not
expected to be major geotechnical concern during slope reconstruction work. Minor
water seeps, however may develop during the site excavations requiring local dewatering
and mitigation. Any effective method which can remove the intruding water and create
safe site conditions that allow for fill placement and slope reconstruction is acceptable.
Additional specific recommendations, including the need for a rock stabilization mat and
higher compaction levels for fills subject to potential saturations should be given by the
project geotechnical consultant based on actual field conditions at that time. Grading and
earthworks during the dry months of the year are recommended.
Removed soils are also considered suitable for reuse in slope reconstruction, provided
they are properly cleaned with all trash debris, if any, vegetation, roots, and organic
matter throughly separated and removed as specified. New fills shall be approved by the
project geotechnical consultant prior to their reuse. Estimated shrinkage of onsite soils
and import soils requirements will also remain the same as specified.
9. Slope Reconstruction: Reconstruct the slope by placing fills in thin, horizontal lifts
upon approved keyway excavations and the level benches to achieve original (2:1
maximum) slope gradients. The reconstructed slope should be neatly rounded and
blended into the surrounding terrain. Fill soils should be adequately processed, properly
mixed, moisture conditioned to approximately 2% above optimum levels as directed in
the field, manufactured into a uniform mixture, placed in thin (8 inches maximum) lifts
and mechanically compacted to a minimum of 90% of the laboratory maximum dry
density value in accordance with ASTM D-1557, unless otherwise specified.
The reconstructed fill slope should be compacted to a minimum of90% out to the slope
face. Back rolling at a minimum of 4-foot vertical increments and trackwalking the
completed slope, or over-building the slope and cutting back to design configurations,
is recommended. Field density tests should be performed to confirm adequate
compaction levels within the slope face.
10. Surface Drainage: Controlling slope face surface runoff is an important factor in the
overall stability of the project regraded embankment. Site drainage over the finish slope
face should not be allowed to occur in a concentrated flow condition. Overflow ofthe
upper parking surface water from the top of the slope should be collected in or pavement
edge curb and gutters or captured by installing concrete lined drainage ditches at the top
of the slope. Erosion and drainage control structures and facilities should be installed per
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
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February 10, 2015
Page27
approved plans. Appropriate drainage improvements specific to the site conditions
should be design by the project consultant and shown on the final plans.
Planting: The finish slope should be planted soon after completion of grading per the
project approved landscape plan. Natural brush is best but difficult to quickly establish.
Initially, only broad-leafed, deep-rooted vegetation which requires a minimum of
irrigation should be used. Slope face planting should be well managed and maintained.
Only the minimum amount of water to sustain vegetation life should be provided. A
qualified landscape architect may be consulted in this regard.
D. Soil Design Parameters
The following soil design parameters are based upon tested representative samples of on-site
earth deposits and our experience with similar earth deposits in the vicinity of the project
site. All parameters should be re-evaluated when the characteristics of the final as-graded
soils have been specifically determined:
• ..
•
..
•
..
..
•
•
Design unit weight= 127 pcf.
Design angle of internal friction = 29 degrees .
Design active pressure for retaining structures 45 pcf(EFP), level backfill, cantilever,
unrestrained walls.
Design active pressure for retaining structures = 72 pcf (EFP), 2:1 sloping backfill,
cantilever, unrestrained walls.
Design at-rest pressure for retaining structures = 61 pcf (EFP), non-yielding, restrained
walls.
Design passive resistance for retaining structures = 366 pcf (EFP), level surface on the
toe side, soil mass extends a minimum of 10 feet or 3 times the height of the surface
generating passive resistance, whichever is more.
Design passive resistance for retaining structures = 140 pcf (EFP), 2:1 sloping down
surface on the toe side.
Design coefficient of friction for concrete on compacted fills= 0.35 .
Design net allowable foundation pressure for compacted fills (minimum 12 inches wide
by 12 inches deep footings)= 2250 psf.
Allowable lateral bea1ing pressure for compacted fills (all structures except retaining
walls) = 150 psf/ft.
Notes:
Added lateral pressures caused by nearby foundations, improvements, and vehicular
surcharge loading should be considered by the project structural engineer as appropriate.
For this purpose, adding 2 feet to the overall wall heights considered in the designs, or
other appropriate design modeling methods corresponding to the surcharge loading
condition may be used.
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February 10, 2015
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Use a minimum safety factor of 1.5 for wall overturning and sliding stability. However,
because large movements must take place before maximum passive resistance can be
developed, a safety factor of 2 may be considered for sliding stability where sensitive
structures and improvements are planned near or on top of retaining walls.
When combining passive pressure and frictional resistance, the passive component
should be reduced by one-third.
The net allowable foundation pressures provided herein were determined based on the
specified foundation bearing strata, and foundation depths and widths. The indicated
value may be increased by 20% for each additional foot of depth and 15 for each
additional foot of width to a maximum of 4500 psf, if needed. Higher allowable
foundation bearing capacity can also be achieved, if needed, by placing a layer of
TerraGrid RX-1200 (or approved equal) a minimum of 18 inches below the bottom of
the foundations and achieving bottom of foundation level with minimum 95% Caltrans
Class 2 crushed aggregate base type materials, as specified in the preceding sections. In
his case, an allowable foundation bearing capacity of3000 psfmay be considered for 12
inches wide by 12 inches deep foundation and increased by 20% for each additional foot
of depth and 20% for each additional foot of width a maximum of 5500 psf, if needed.
The allowable foundation pressures provided herein also applies to dead plus live loads
and may be increased by one-third for wind and seismic loading.
The allowable lateral bearing earth pressures may be increased by the amount of the
designated value for each additional foot of depth to a maximum of 1500 pounds per
square foot.
E. Exterior Concrete Slabs I Flatworks
1. All exterior slabs (walkways, patios) supported on low expansive subgrade soils should
be a minimum of 4 inches in thickness, reinforced with #3 bars at 18 inches on centers
in both directions placed mid-height in the slab. The sub grade soils should be compacted
to minimum 90% compaction levels at the time of fine grading and before placing the
slab reinforcement.
2. Reinforcements lying on sub grade will be ineffective and shortly corrode due to lack of
adequate concrete cover. Reinforcing bars should be correctly placed extending through
the construction joints tying the slab panels. In construction practices where the
reinforcements are discontinued or cut at the construction joints, slab panels should be
tied together with minimum 18 inches long #3 dowels (dowel baskets) at 18 inches on
centers placed mid-height in the slab (9 inches on either side of the joint).
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3. Provide "tool joint" or "softcut" contraction/control joints spaced 10 feet on center (not
to exceed 12 feet maximum) each way. The larger dimension of any panel shall not
exceed 125% ofthe smaller dimension. Tool or cut as soon as slab will support weight,
and can be operated without disturbing the final finish which is normally within 2 hours
after final finish at each control joint location or 150 psi to 800 psi. Tool or softcuts
should be a minimum of %-inch but should not exceed l-inch deep maximum. In case
of softcut joints, anti-ravel skid plates should be used and replaced with each blade to
avoid spalling and raveling. A void wheeled equipments across cuts for at least 24 hours.
Joints shall intersect free-edges at a 90° angle and shall extend straight for a minimum
of 1 Y2 feet from the edge. The minimum angle between any two intersecting joints shall
be 80°. Align joints of adjacent panels. Also, align joints in attached curbs with joints
in slab panels. Provide adequate curing using approved methods (curing compound
maximum coverage rate= 200 sq. ft./gal.).
4. All exterior slab designs should be confirmed in the final as-graded compaction report.
5. Sub grade soils should be tested for proper moisture and specified compaction levels and
approved by the project geotechnical consultant prior to the placement of concrete.
F. Preliminary Pavement Desi{ln
Specific pavement designs can best be provided at the completion of rough grading based
on testing (R-value tests) of the actual finish sub grade soil mixture; however, the following
structural sections may be considered for initial planning phase and cost estimating purposes
only (not for construction):
1. Asphalt Paving: A minimum section of 4 inches asphalt on 6 inches Caltrans Class 2
aggregate base or the minimum structural section required by City of Carlsbad,
whichever is more, may be considered for the on-site asphalt paving surfaces outside the
private and public right-of-way. Actual designs will depend on final sub gradeR-value
and design TI, and the approval ofthe City of Carlsbad.
The Class 2 aggregate base shall meet or exceed the requirements set forth in the current
California Standard Specification (Caltrans Section 26-1.02). Base materials should be
compacted to a minimum 95% of the corresponding maximum dry density (ASTM D-
1557). Sub grade soils beneath the asphalt paving surfaces should also be compacted to
a minimum 95% of the corresponding maximum dry density within the upper 12 inches.
2. PCC Pavings: Commercial/industrial PCC driveways and parking supported on low
expansive sub grade soils should be a minimum 5Yz inches in thickness, reinforced with
#4 reinforcing bars at 18 inches on centers each way placed at mid-height in the slab.
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Subgrade soils beneath the PCC driveways and parking should be compacted to a
minimum 90% of the corresponding maximum dry density.
Reinforcing bars should be correctly placed extending through the construction (cold)
joints tying the slab panels. In construction practices where the reinforcements are
discontinued or cut at the construction joints, slab panels should be tied together with
minimum 18-inch long (9 inches on either side of the joint) #4 dowels (dowel baskets)
placed at the same spacing as the slab reinforcement.
Provide "tool joint" or "softcut" contraction/control joints spaced 10 feet on center (not
to exceed 15 feet maximum) each way. The larger dimension of any panel shall not
exceed 125% of the smaller dimension. Tool or cut as soon as the slab will support the
weight and can be operated without disturbing the final finish which is normally within
2 hours after final finish at each control joint location or 150 psi to 800 psi. Tool or
softcuts should be a minimum of l-inch in depth but should not exceed 1 ~-inches deep
maximum. In case of softcut joints, anti-ravel skid plates should be used and replaced
with each blade to avoid spalling and ravelings. Avoid wheeled equipments across cuts
for at least 24 hours.
Joints shall intersect free edges at a 90° angle and shall extend straight for a minimum
of 1 :h feet from the edge. The minimum angle between any two intersecting joints shall
be 80°. Align joints of adjacent panels. Also, alignjoints in attached curbs with joints
in slab panels. Provide adequate curing using approved method (curing compound
maximum coverage rate= 200 sq. ft./gaL).
3. General Paving: Base section and subgrade preparation per structural section design,
will be required for all surfaces subject to traffic including roadways, travelways, drive
lanes, driveway approaches and ribbon (cross) gutters. Driveway approaches within the
public right-of-way should have 12 inches subgrade compacted to a minimum of95%
compaction levels and provided with a 95% compacted Class 2 base section per
structural section design.
Base layer under curb and gutters should be compacted to a minimum 95%, while
subgrade soils under curb and gutters, and base and sub grade under sidewalks should be
compacted to a minimum 90% compaction levels. Appropriate recommendations should
be given in the final as-graded compaction report.
Base and sub grade soils should be tested for proper moisture and specified compaction
levels, and approved by the project geotechnical consultant prior to the placement of the
base or asphalt/PCC finish surface.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
IX. ENGINEERING OBSERVATIONS AND TESTING
February 10, 2015
Page 31
All grading and earthwork operations including excavations, stripping and removals, suitability of
earth deposits used as compacted fills and backfills, import soils, and compaction procedures should
be continuously observed and tested by the project geotechnical consultant and presented in the final
as-graded compaction report. The nature of finished bearing and sub grade soils should be confirmed
in the final compaction report at the completion of grading. Geotechnical engineering observations
should include but are not limited to the following:
1. Initial observation: After grading and clearing limits have been staked but before grading
operations starts.
2. Stripping, bottom ofkeyway/excavation observation: After dense native ground or competent
Terrace Deposits are exposed and prepared to receive fill or backfill but before fill or backfill
is placed.
3. Cut/excavation observation: After the excavation is started but before the vertical depth of
excavation is more than 5 feet. Local and Cal-OSHA safety requirements for open
excavations apply.
4. Fill/backfill observation: After the fill/backfill placement is started but before the vertical
height of fill/backfill exceeds 2 feet. A minimum of one test shall be required for each 100
lineal feet maximum in every 2 feet vertical gain, with the exception of wall backfills where
a minimum of one test shall be required for each 30 lineal feet maximum. Wall backfills
should also be mechanically compacted to a minimum of 90% compaction levels unless
otherwise specified or directed in the field. Finish rough and final pad grade tests shall be
required regardless of fill thickness.
5. Foundation trench and subgrade soil observation: After the foundation trench excavations
and prior to the placement of steel reinforcing for proper moisture and specified compaction
levels.
6. Geotechnical foundation/slab steel observation: After the steel placement is completed but
before the scheduled concrete pour.
7. Underground utility, plumbing and storm drain trench observation: After the trench
excavations but before placement of pipe bedding or installation of the underground
facilities. Local and Cal-OSHA safety requirements for open excavations apply.
Observations and testing of pipe bedding may also be required by the project geotechnical
engineer.
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February 10,2015
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8. Underground utility, plumbing and storm drain trench backfill observation: After the backfill
placement is started above the pipe zone but before the vertical height ofbackfill exceeds 2
feet. Testing of the backfill within the pipe zone may also be required by the governing
agencies. Pipe bedding and backfill materials shall conform to the governing agencies'
requirements and project soils report if applicable. Onsite trench backfills should be
mechanically compacted to a minimum of90% compaction levels unless otherwise specified.
Trench backfills within the city and public right-of-ways should be compacted to minimum
95% within the upper 3 feet. Plumbing trenches more than 12 inches deep maximum under
the floor slabs should also be mechanically compacted and tested for a minimum of 90%
compaction levels. Flooding or jetting techniques as a means of compaction method should
not be allowed.
9. Pavement/improvements base and sub grade observation: Prior to the placement of concrete
or asphalt for proper moisture and specified compaction levels.
X. GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
1. The minimum foundation design and steel reinforcement provided herein are based on soil
characteristics and are not intended to be in lieu of reinforcement necessary for structural
considerations.
2. Adequate staking and grading control is a critical factor in properly completing the
recommended slope reconstruction, remedial and site grading operations. Grading control
and staking should be provided by the project grading contractor or surveyor/civil engineer,
and is beyond the geotechnical engineering services. Staking should apply the required
setbacks shown on the approved plans and conform to setback requirements established by
the governing agencies and applicable codes for off-site private and public properties and
property lines, utility and open space easements, right-of-ways, nearby structures and
improvements, leach fields and septic systems, and graded embankments. Inadequate staking
and/or lack of grading control may result in illegal encroachments or unnecessary additional
grading which will increase construction costs.
3. Footings located on or adjacent to the top of descending slopes should be adequately setback
or extended to a sufficient depth to provide a minimum horizontal distance to the slope face,
as specified in this report (minimum 7 feet or Va of the slope height, whichever is more). Site
concrete flat woks and paving improvements near the top of descending slopes should also
be provided with a thickened edge to satisfy the specified (minimum of 5 feet) horizontal
distances or set back to daylight, unless otherwise noted or required.
4. Open or backfilled trenches parallel with a footing shall not be below a projected plane
having a downward slope of 1-unit vertical to 2 units horizontal (50%) from a line 9 inches
above the bottom edge of the footing, and not closer than 18 inches from the face of such
footing.
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February 10,2015
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5. Where pipes cross under-footings, the footings shall be specially designed. Pipe sleeves shall
be provided where pipes cross through footings or footing walls, and sleeve clearances shall
provide for possible footing settlement, but not less than l-inch all around the pipe.
6. Foundations where the surface of the ground slopes more than 1 unit vertical in 10 units
horizontal (10% slope) shall be level or shall be stepped so that both top and bottom of such
foundations are level. Individual steps in continuous footings shall not exceed 18 inches in
height and the slope of a series of such steps shall not exceed 1 unit vertical to 2 units
horizontal (50%) unless otherwise specified. The steps shall be detailed on the structural
drawings. The local effects due to the discontinuity of the steps shall also be considered in
the design of foundations as appropriate and applicable.
7. Expansive, clay rich soils should not be used for backfilling of any retaining structure. All
retaining walls should be provided with a 1: 1 wedge of good quality sandy granular,
compacted backfill soils measured from the base of the wall footing to the finished surface
and a well-constructed back drain system as shown on the enclosed Plate 17. Planting large
trees behind site retaining walls should be avoided.
8. AH underground utility and plumbing trenches should be mechanically compacted to a
minimum of 90% of the maximum dry density of the soil unless otherwise required or
specified. Trench backfills within the city and public right-of-ways shall conform to the
requirements of governing agencies and compacted to minimum 95% within the upper 3 feet.
Care should be taken not to crush the utilities or pipes during the compaction of the soiL
Very low expansive, sandy granular backfill soils should be used.
9. Excessive irrigation resulting in wet soil conditions should be avoided. Surface water should
not be allowed to occur in a concentrated flow condition or infiltrate into the wall backfills,
underlying bearing and subgrade soils.
1 0. Site drainage over the finished pad surfaces should flow away from structures, improvements
and top of embankments in a positive manner. Care should be taken during the construction,
improvements, and fine grading phases not to disrupt the designed drainage patterns. Roof
lines of the buildings should be provided with roof gutters. Roof water should be collected
and directed away from the buildings and structures to a suitable location.
11. All foundation trenches should be inspected to ensure adequate footing embedment into
approved bearing strata and confirm competent bearing soils. Foundation and slab
reinforcements should also be inspected and approved by the project geotechnical consultant.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
Parking Improvements, 6125 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, California
February 10, 2015
Page 34
12. The amount of shrinkage and related cracks that occur in the concrete slab-on-grades,
flatworks and driveways depend on many factors, the most important of which is the amount
of water in the concrete mix. The purpose of the slab reinforcement is to keep normal
concrete shrinkage cracks closed tightly. The amount of concrete shrinkage can be
minimized by reducing the amount of water in the mix. To keep shrinkage to a minimum
the following should be considered:
• Use the stiffest mix that can be handled and consolidated satisfactorily.
• Use the largest maximum size of aggregate that is practical. For example, concrete made
with %-inch maximum size aggregate usually requires about 40-lbs. more (nearly 5-gal.)
water per cubic yard than concrete with l-inch aggregate.
• Cure the concrete as long as practical.
The amount of slab reinforcement provided for conventional slab-on-grade construction
considers that good quality concrete materials, proportioning, craftsmanship, and control
tests where appropriate and applicable are provided.
13. A preconstruction meeting between representatives of this office, the property owner or
planner, city inspector as well as the grading contractor/builder is recommended in order to
discuss grading and construction details associated with site development.
XI. GEOTECHNICAL PLAN REVIEW
Accurate grading and drainage designs should be completed by the project civil engineer based on
the geotechnical factors and recommendations presented herein. The project structural designs or
the second story addition should also incorporate recommendations provided in this report. Final
grading, drainage and foundation plans should also be provided to the project geotechnical consultant
for review. If the final plans are different from those conditions used as a basis of our study and site
evaluations, additional and/or revised recommendations may be necessary and should be anticipated.
XII. GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER OF RECORD (GER)
SMS Geotechnical Solutions, Inc. is the geotechnical engineer of record (GER) for providing a
specific scope of work or professional service under a contractual agreement unless it is terminated
or canceled by either the client or our firm. In the event a new geotechnical consultant or soils
engineering firm is hired to provide added engineering services, professional consultations,
engineering observations and compaction testing, SMS Geotechnical Engineering Solutions, Inc. will
no longer be the geotechnical engineer of the record. Project transfer should be completed in
accordance with the California Geotechnical Engineering Association (CGEA) Recommended
Practice for Transfer of Jobs Between Consultants.
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February 10, 2015
Page35
The new geotechnical consultant or soils engineering finn should review all previous geotechnical
documents, conduct an independent study, and provide appropriate confinnations, revisions or
design modifications to his own satisfaction. The new geotechnical consultant or soils engineering
finn should also notify in writing SMS Geotechnical Solutions, Inc. and submit proper notification
to the City of Carlsbad for the assumption of responsibility in accordance with the applicable codes
and standards (1997 UBC Section 3317.8).
XIII. LIMITATIONS
The conclusions and recommendations provided herein have been based on available data obtained
from the review of pertinent reports and plans, subsurface exploratory excavations as well as our
experience with the soils and fonnational materials located in the general area. The materials
encountered on the project site and utilized in our laboratory testing are believed representative of
the total area; however, earth materials may vary in characteristics between excavations.
Of necessity, we must assume a certain degree of continuity between exploratory excavations and/or
natural exposures. It is necessary, therefore, that all observations, conclusions, and recommendations
be verified during the grading operation. In the event discrepancies are noted, we should be
contacted immediately so that an inspection can be made and additional recommendations issued if
required.
The recommendations made in this report are applicable to the site at the time this report was
prepared. It is the responsibility of the owner/developer to ensure that these recommendations are
carried out in the field.
It is almost impossible to predict with certainty the future perfonnance of a property. The future
behavior of the site is also dependent on numerous unpredictable variables, such as earthquakes,
rainfall, and on-site drainage patterns.
The finn of SMS Geotechnical Solutions, Inc., shall not be held responsible for changes to the
physical condition of the property such as addition of fill soils, added cut slopes, or changing
drainage patterns which occur without our inspection or control.
This report should be considered valid for a period of one year and is subject to review by our firm
following that time. If significant modifications are made to your tentative reconstruction plan,
especially with respect to the height and location of cut and fill slopes, this report must be presented
to us for review and possible revision.
This report is issued with the understanding that the owner or his representative is responsible for
ensuring that the information and recommendations are provided to the project architect/structural
engineer so that they can be incorporated into the plans. Necessary steps shall be taken to ensure that
the project general contractor and subcontractors carry out such recommendations during
construction.
Geotechnical Investigation, Second Floor Addition and New
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February 10, 2015
Page36
The project geotechnical engineer should be provided the opportunity for a general review of the
project final design plans and specifications in order to ensure that the recommendations provided
in this report are properly interpreted and implemented. If the project geotechnical engineer is not
provided the opportunity of making these reviews, he can assume no responsibility for
misinterpretation ofhis recommendations.
SMS Geotechnical Solutions, Inc., warrants that this report has been prepared within the limits
prescribed by our client with the usual thoroughness and competence of the engineering profession.
No other warranty or representation, either expressed or implied, is included or intended.
Once again, should any questions arise concerning this report, please do not hesitate to contact this
office. Reference to our Project No. GI-12-14-34 will help to expedite our response to your
inquiries.
We appreciate this opportunity to be of service to you.
SMS Geotechnical Solutions, Inc.
~
StevenJ. Melzer § ~
CEG#2362
Distribution: Addressee (5, e-mail)
Hofman Planning & Engineering; Mr. Eduardo Cadena (mail)
REFERENCES
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Section 4-Construction, Volume 04.08: Soil and Rock (I);
D 420-D 5876, 2012.
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Section 4-Construction, Volume 04.09: Soil and Rock (II);
D 5876-Latest, 2012.
Highway Design Manual, Caltrans. Fifth Edition.
Corrosion Guidelines, Cal trans, Version 1.0, September 2003.
California Building Code ( CBC), California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 2, Volumes 1 &
2, 2013, International Code Council.
"Green Book" Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction, Public Works Standards,
Inc., BNi Building News, 2006 Edition.
California Geological Survey, 2008 (Revised), Guidelines for Evaluating and Mitigating Seismic
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California Department of Conservation, Division ofMines and Geology (California Geological
Survey), 1986 (revised), Guidelines for Preparing Engineering Geology Reports: DMG Note 44.
California Department of Conservation, Division of Mines and Geology (California Geological
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EQFAULT, Ver. 3.00, 1997, Deterministic Estimation of Peak Acceleration from Digitized
Faults, Computer Program, T. Blake Computer Services and Software.
EQSEARCH, Ver 3.00, 1997, Estimation of Peak Acceleration from California Earthquake
Catalogs, Computer Program, T. Blake Computer Services and Software.
Tan S.S. and Kennedy, M.P., 1996, Geologic Maps of the Northwestern Part of San Diego
County, California, Plate( s) 1 and 2, Open File-Report 96-02, California Division of Mines and
Geology, 1 :24,000.
"Proceeding ofThe NCEER Workshop on Evaluation ofLiquefaction Resistance Soils," Edited
byT. Leslie Youd and Izzat M. Idriss, Technical ReportNCEER-97-0022, Dated December 31,
1997.
"Recommended Procedures for Implementation ofDMG Special Publication 117 Guidelines for
Analyzing and Mitigation Liquefaction in California," Southern California Earthquake Center;
USC, March 1999.
REFERENCES (continued)
"Soil Mechanics," Naval Facilities Engineering Command, DM 7.01.
"Foundations & Earth Structures," Naval Facilities Engineering Command, DM 7.02.
"Introduction to Geotechnical Engineering, Robert D. Holtz, William D. Kovacs.
"Introductory Soil Mechanics and Foundations: Geotechnical Engineering," George F. Sowers,
Fourth Edition.
"Foundation Analysis and Design," Joseph E. Bowels.
Caterpillar Performance Handbook, Edition 29, 1998.
Jennings, C.W., 1994, Fault Activity Map of California and Adjacent Areas, California Division
of Mines and Geology, Geologic Data Map Series, No.6.
Kennedy, M.P., 1977, Recency and Character of Faulting Along the Elsinore Fault Zone in
Southern Riverside County, California, Special Report 131, California Division ofMines and
Geology, Plate 1 (East/West), 12p.
Kennedy, M.P. and Peterson, G.L., 1975, Geology of the San Diego Metropolitan Area,
California: California Division of Mines and Geology Bulletin 200, 56p.
Kennedy, M.P. and Tan, S.S., 1977, Geology of National City, Imperial Beach and Otay Mesa
Quadrangles, Southern San Diego Metropolitan Area, California, Map Sheet 24, California
Division of Mines and Geology, 1:24,000.
Kennedy, M.P., Tan, S.S., Chapman, R.H., and Chase, G.W., 1975, Character and Recency of
Faulting, San Diego Metropolitan Areas, California: Special Report 123, 33p.
"An Engineering Manual for Slope Stability Studies," J .M. Duncan, A.L. Buchignani and Marius
De Wet, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, March 1987.
"Procedure to Evaluate Earthquake-Induced Settlements in Dry Sandy Soils," Daniel Pradel,
ASCE Journal of Geotechnical & Geoenvironmental Engineering, Volume 124, #4, 1998.
"Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures,'' ASCE 7-10, American Society
ofCivil Engineers (ASCE).
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