HomeMy WebLinkAboutSDP 15-14; REPORT OF PRELIMINARY GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION; 2015-09-08REPORT OF PRELIMINARY GEOTECHNICAL
INVESTIGATION
Proposed L.W. Office Building
2055 Corte Del Nogal
Carlsbad, California
Job No. 15-10840
08 September 2015
Prepared for:
Lloyd Wells Gift Trust
RECE1VEID
DEC 052017
LAND DEVELOPMENT
ENGINEERING
64pill Geotechnical Exploration, Inc. sw SOIL AND FOUNDATION ENGINEERING.. GROUNDWATER* ENGINEERING GEOLOGY
08 September 2015
Lloyd Wells Gift Trust
17083 Old Coach Road
Poway, CA 92064
Attn: Mr. Ed Fudurich
Job No. 15-10840
Subject: ReDort of Preliminary Geotechnical Investigation
Proposed L.W. Office Building
2055 Corte Del Nogal
Carlsbad, California
Dear Mr. Fuderich:
In accordance with your request, and our proposal of July 27, 2015, Geotechnical
Exploration, Inc. has performed a preliminary geotechnical investigation for the
subject property. The fieldwork was performed on August 11, 2015.
If the conclusions and recommendations presented in this report are incorporated
into the design and construction of the proposed residence, it is our opinion that the
site is suitable for the project.
This opportunity to be of service is sincerely appreciated. Should you have any
questions concerning the following report, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Reference to our Job No. 15-10840 will expedite a response to your inquiries.
Respectfully submitted,
GEOTCHNICAL EXPLORATION, INC.
Jfme A. Cerros, P.E.
R.C.E. 34422/G.E. 200
Senior Geotechnical Engineer
7420 TRADE STREET• SAN DIEGO, CA. 921210 (858) 549-7222w FAX: (858) 549-1604• EMAIL: geotechgeI-sd.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A.
PROJECT SUMMARY AND SCOPE OF SERVICES
SITE DESCRIPTION
[II. FIELD INVESTIGATION
IV. SOIL DESCRIPTION
V GROUNDWATER
SEISMIC CONSIDERATIONS
LABORATORY TESTS AND SOIL INFORMATION
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
GRADING NOTES
LIMITATIONS
PAGE
1
1
2
4
4
5
6
7
21
21
FIGURES
Vicinity Map
Site Plan
lila-c. Exploratory Boring Logs
IVa-b. Laboratory Data
APPENDICES
A. Unified Soil Classification System
REPORT OF PRELIMINARY GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION
Proposed L.W. Office Building
2055 Corte Del Nogal
Carlsbad, California
Job No. 15-10840
The following report presents the findings and recommendations of Geotechnical
Exploration, Inc. for the subject proposed commercial office building.
I. PROJECT SUMMARY AND SCOPE OF SERVICES
It is our understanding that the existing commercial lot will receive a new two-story
office building and associated improvements in the northeast corner of the parking
lot. Foundation loads are expected to be typical for this type of relatively light
construction.
The scope of work performed for this investigation included a site reconnaissance
and subsurface exploration program, laboratory testing, geotechnical engineering
analysis of the field and laboratory data, and the preparation of this report. The
data obtained and the analyses performed were for the purpose of providing design
and construction criteria for the project earthwork, building foundations, slab-on-
grade floors, and concrete driveways.
II. SITE DESCRIPTION
The subject site is known as Assessor's Parcel No. 213-061-08-00, a portion of Lot
8, per Recorded Map 10062, in the County of San Diego, State of California. For
the location of the site, refer to the Vicinity Map, Figure No. I.
Proposed L.W. Office Building Job No. 15-10840
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The approximately 3-acre property is bordered on the northeast and southeast by
existing commercial properties, on the northwest by Corte Del Nogal and the
southwest by Corte Del Abeto. Refer to the Plot Plan, Figure No. IL
Vegetation consists primarily of grass, shrubbery and mature trees. The lot has
been previously graded and consists of a commercial building in the southwest
corner with a paved parking lot and associated improvements.
Elevations across the property range from approximately 265 feet above Mean Sea
Level (AMSL) at the northeast corner, to 231 feet AMSL at the southwest corner.
Information concerning approximate elevations across the site was obtained from a
topographic site plan prepared by Architect Bruce W. Steingraber, dated May 5,
2015.
IlL FIELD INVESTIGATION
The field investigation consisted of a surface reconnaissance and a subsurface
exploration program using a truck-mounted flight auger drill to investigate and
sample the subsurface soils. Three exploratory borings were drilled in the area of
the proposed new commercial building on August 11, 2015, to a maximum depth of
10.5 feet. The soils encountered in the borings were continuously logged in the
field by our geologist and described in accordance with the Unified Soil
Classification System (refer to Appendix A). The approximate locations of the
borings are shown on the Site Plan, Figure No. II.
Representative samples were obtained from the exploratory borings at selected
depths appropriate to the investigation. All samples were returned to our
laboratory for evaluation and testing. Standard penetration resistance blow counts
Mai
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were obtained by driving a 2-inch O.D. split spoon sampler with a 140-pound
hammer dropping through a 30-inch free fall. The sampler was driven a maximum
of 18 inches and the number of blows for each 6-inch interval was recorded. The
blows per foot indicated on the boring logs represent the accumulated number of
blows that were required to drive the last 12 inches or portion thereof. Samples
contained in liners were recovered by driving a 3.0-inch O.D. California sampler 18
inches into the soil using a 140-pound hammer.
Boring logs have been prepared on the basis of our observations and laboratory
test results. Logs of the borings are attached as Figure Nos. lila-c. The following
chart provides an in-house correlation between the number of blows and the
relative density of the soil for the Standard Penetration Test and the 3-inch
sampler.
SOIL
DENSITY
DESIGNATION
2-INCH O.D.
SAMPLER
BLOWS/FOOT
3-INCH O.D.
SAMPLER
BLOWS/FOOT
Sand and Very loose 0-4 0-7
Nonplastic Silt Loose 5-10 8-20
Medium 11-30 21-53
Dense 31-50 54-98
Very Dense Over 50 Over 98
Clay and Very soft 0-2 0-2
Plastic Silt Soft 3-4 3-4
Firm 5-8 5-9
Stiff 9-15 10-18
Very stiff 16-30 19-45
Hard 31-60 46-90
Very Hard Over 60 Over 90 ---
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IV. SOIL DESCRIPTION
Existing fill soils, consisting of medium dense silty sands and clayey sands and very
stiff sandy clay, were encountered in all the borings to depths of 2 to 6 feet. The
materials encountered beneath the fill soils consisted of very dense clayey sands
(formational sandstone). Based on our laboratory test results, the fill soils
encountered are in a moderately compacted/medium dense condition. In our
opinion, the sandy clay fill soils possess a medium to high potential for expansion.
The exploratory boring logs and related information depict subsurface conditions
only at the specific locations shown on the site plan and on the particular date
designated on the logs. Subsurface conditions at other locations may differ from
conditions occurring at these boring locations. Also, the passage of time may result
in changes in the subsurface conditions due to environmental changes.
V. GROUNDWATER
Free groundwater was not encountered in the exploratory borings at the time of
drilling. It must be noted, however, that fluctuations in the level of groundwater
may occur due to variations in ground surface topography, subsurface stratification,
rainfall, and other possible factors that may not have been evident at the time of
our field investigation..
It should be kept in mind that grading operations can change surface drainage
patterns and/or reduce permeabilities due to the densification of compacted soils.
Such changes of surface and subsurface hydrologic conditions, plus irrigation of
landscaping or significant increases in rainfall, may result in the appearance of
surface or near-surface water at locations where none existed previously. The
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appearance of such water is expected to be localized and cosmetic in nature, if
good positive drainage is implemented, as recommended in this report, during and
at the completion of construction.
It must be understood that unless discovered during initial site exploration or
encountered during site grading operations, it is extremely difficult to predict if or
where perched or true groundwater conditions may appear in the future. When site
fill or formational soils are fine-grained and of low permeability, water problems
may not become apparent for extended periods of time.
Water conditions, where suspected or encountered during construction, should be
evaluated and remedied by the project civil and geotechnical consultants. The
project developer and property owner, however, must realize that post-construction
appearances of groundwater may have to be dealt with on a site-specific basis.
VI. SEISMIC CONSIDERATIONS
The San Diego area, as most of California, is located in a seismically active region.
The San Diego area has been referred to as the eastern edge of the Southern
California Continental Borderland, an extension of the Peninsular Ranges
Geomorphic Province. The borderland is part of a broad tectonic boundary between
the North American and Pacific Plates. The plate boundary is dominated by a
complex system of active major strike-slip (right lateral), northwest trending faults
extending from the San Andreas fault, about 70 miles east, to the San Clemente
fault, about 50 miles west of the San Diego metropolitan area.
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Based on our review of some available published information including the Geologic
Map of the Oceanside 30'x60' Quadrangle, 2007 (Kennedy and Tan) there are no
faults known to pass through the site. The prominent fault zones generally
considered having the most potential for earthquake damage in the vicinity of the
site are the active Rose Canyon and Coronado Bank fault zones mapped
approximately 6 and 21 miles west of the site, respectively, and the active Elsinore
and San Jacinto fault zones mapped approximately 30 and 52 miles northeast of
the site, respectively.
Although research on earthquake prediction has greatly increased in recent years,
geologists and seismologists have not yet reached the point where they can predict
when and where an earthquake will occur. Nevertheless, on the basis of current
technology, it is reasonable to assume that the proposed residence may be subject
to the effects of at least one moderate to major earthquake during its design life.
During such an earthquake, the danger from fault offset through the site is remote,
but relatively strong ground shaking is likely to occur.
VII. LABORATORY TESTS AND SOIL INFORMATION
Laboratory tests were performed on relatively undisturbed and bulk samples of the
soils encountered in order to evaluate their index, strength, expansion, and
compressibility properties. The following tests were conducted on the sampled
soils:
1. Laboratory Compaction Characteristics (ASTM D1557-12)
Determination of Percentage of Particles Smaller than No. 200 Sieve
(ASTM 01140-14)
Expansion Index (ASTM D4829-11)
Ring-lined Barrel Density Test (ASTM D3550-07)
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Laboratory compaction tests establish the laboratory maximum dry density and
optimum moisture content of the tested soils and are also used to aid in evaluating
the strength characteristics of the soils. The test results are presented on the
boring Logs at the appropriate sample depths.
The particle size smaller than a No. 200 sieve analysis aids in classifying the tested
soils in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System and provides
qualitative information related to engineering characteristics such as expansion
potential, permeability, and shear strength. The test results are presented on the
boring logs at the appropriate sample depths.
Based on our visual classification and our past experience with similar soils, it is our
opinion that the existing fill and formational sandstone materials encountered
possess a medium to high potential for expansion.
Laboratory dry density tests were performed on selected relatively undisturbed
samples of the existing fill materials encountered to aid in evaluating their degree
of compaction. The test results are presented on the boring logs at the appropriate
sample depths.
VIII. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The following conclusions and recommendations are based on the field investigation
conducted by our firm, our laboratory test results, and our experience with similar
soils and formational materials. The opinions, conclusions, and recommendations
presented in this report are contingent upon Geotechnical Exploration, Inc.
being retained to review the final plans and specifications as they are developed
and to observe the site earthwork and installation of foundations.
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If the geotechnical consultant of record is changed for the project, work shall be
stopped until the replacement has agreed in writing to accept the responsibility
within their area of technical competence for approval upon completion of the work.
It shall be the responsibility of the permittee to notify the governing agency in
writing of such change prior to the commencement or recommencement of grading
and/or foundation installation work.
The primary features of concern are the presence of potentially compressible
existing fill soils and or expansion of fill soils within the up 3 feet, which are
unsuitable in their present condition for the support of building improvements. In
order to minimize the potential for excessive differential settlements due to
compression of the existing fill soils they should be removed and recompacted to a
minimum degree of compaction of 90 percent and 3 to 5 percent over optimum
moisture content in all areas to receive new improvements. Depths of removal are
anticipated to be approximately 3 feet.
A. Prenaration of Soils for Site DeveloDment
1. Clearing and Stripping: The areas of new construction should be cleared of
the existing structures to be abandoned and miscellaneous debris that may
be present at the time of construction. After clearing, the ground surface
should be stripped of surface vegetation as well as associated root systems.
Holes resulting from the removal of buried obstructions that extend below
the proposed finished site grades should be cleared and backfilled with
suitable material compacted to the requirements provided under
Recommendation Nos. 4, 5, and 6 below. Prior to any filling operations, the
cleared and stripped vegetation and debris should be disposed of off-site.
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Removal and Recompaction of Existing Fill Soils: In order to provide suitable
support for the proposed new commercial building and associated
improvements such as sidewalks and driveways, we recommend that all
existing fill soils be removed and replaced as structural fill compacted to a
minimum degree of compaction of 90 percent and 3 to 5 percent over
optimum moisture content. The limits of recompaction should extend at
least 5 feet beyond the perimeter limits of all new improvements. The
recompaction work should consist of: (a) removing all existing fill soils down
to a depth of 3 feet or down to the undisturbed formational materials where
the formation is shallow; (b) scarifying, moisture conditioning, and
compacting the exposed natural subgrade or firm compacted fill soils; and (c)
replacing the materials as compacted structural fill. The areal extent of and
depths required to remove the existing fills should be determined by our
recresentative during the excavation work based on his examination of the
soils being exposed.
In addition, we recommend that any existing low expansion soil from the
required removals be selectively stockpiled for use as capping material and
wall backfills as recommended below in Recommendation Nos. 4 and 8.
Subgrade Preparation: After the site has been cleared, stripped, and the
required excavations made, the exposed subgrade soils should be scarified to
a depth of 8 inches, moisture conditioned to at least 2 percent above the
laboratory optimum, and compacted to the requirements for structural fill..
Material for Fill: All on-site soils with an organic content of less than 3
percent by volume are in general suitable for reuse as fill. Any required
imported fill material should be a low-expansive granular soil. In addition, all
Proposed L.W. Office Building Job No. 15-10840
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fill material should not contain rocks or lumps over 6 inches in greatest
dimension and not more than 15 percent larger than 2/2 inches. No more
than 25 percent of the fill should be larger than ¼-inch. All materials for use
as fill should be approved by our representative prior to filling.
Fill Compaction: All structural fill should in general be compacted to a
minimum degree of compaction of 90 percent at a moisture content at least
3 to 5 percent above the optimum based upon ASTM D1557-12. Fill material
should be spread and compacted in uniform horizontal lifts not exceeding 8
inches In uncompacted thickness. Before compaction begins, the fill should
be brought to the recommended water by either: (1) aerating and drying
the fill if it is too wet, or (2) moistening the fill with water if it is too dry.
Each lift should be thoroughly mixed before compaction to ensure a uniform
distribution of moisture.
Permanent "lo We recommend that any required permanent cut and fill
slopes be constructed to an inclination no steeper than 2.0:1.0 (horizontal to
vertical). The project plans and specifications should contain all necessary
design features and construction requirements to prevent erosion of the on-
site soils both during and after construction. Slopes and other exposed
ground surfaces should be appropriately planted with a protective
groundcover.
Fill slopes should be constructed to assure that the recommended minimum
degree of compaction is attained out to the finished slope face. This may be
accomplished by "backrolling" with a sheepsfoot roller or other suitable
equipment as the fill is raised. Placement of fill near the tops of slopes
should be carried out in such a manner as to assure that loose, uncompacted
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soils are not sloughed over the tops and allowed to accumulate on the slope
face.
Trench and Retaining/Basement Wall Backfill: All backfill soils placed in
utility trenches or behind retaining/basement walls should be compacted to a
minimum degree of compaction of 90 percent. Backfill material should be
placed in lift thicknesses appropriate to the type of compaction equipment
utilized and compacted to a minimum degree of 90 percent by mechanical
means. In pavement areas, that portion of the trench backfill within the
pavement section should conform to the material and compaction
requirements of the adjacent pavement section. In addition, the low-
expansion potential fill layer should be maintained in utility trench backfill
within the building, adjoining exterior slab and pool decking areas. Trench
backfill beneath the level of the low-expansion fill layer should consist of on-
site soils in order to minimize the potential for migration of water below the
perimeter footings at the trench locations.
Our experience has shown that even shallow, narrow trenches, such as for
irrigation and electrical lines, that are not properly compacted can result in
problems, particularly with respect to shallow ground water accumulation and
migration.
Surface Drainage: Positive surface gradients should be provided adjacent to
the proposed new building and roof gutters and downspouts should be
installed on the structure so as to direct water away from foundations and
slabs toward suitable discharge facilities. Ponding of surface water should
not be allowed anywhere on the site.
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B Foundation Recommendations
Footings: We recommend that the proposed new building be supported on
conventional, individual-spread and/or continuous footing foundations
bearing on recompacted fill soils prepared as recommended above in
Recommendation No. 2. All footings should be founded at least 24 inches
below the lowest adjacent finished grade.
At the recommended depths, footings may be designed for allowable bearing
pressures of 2,500 pounds per square foot (psf) for combined dead and live
loads and 3,300 psf for all loads, including wind or seismic. The footings
should, however, have a minimum width of 12 inches.
General Criteria For All Footings: Footings located adjacent to the tops of
slopes should be extended sufficiently deep so as to provide at least 8 feet of
horizontal cover between the slope face and outside edge of the footing at
the footing bearing level. Footings located adjacent to utility trenches should
have their bearing surfaces situated below an imaginary 1.0 to 1.0 plane
projected upward from the bottom edge of the adjacent utility trench.
All continuous footings should contain top and bottom reinforcement to
provide structural continuity and to permit spanning of local irregularities.
We recommend that a minimum of two No. 5 top and two No. 5 bottom
reinforcing bars be provided in the footings. A minimum clearance of 3
inches should be maintained between steel reinforcement and the bottom or
sides of the footing. In order for us to offer an opinion as to whether the
footings are founded on soils of sufficient load bearing capacity, it is essential
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that our representative inspect the footing excavations prior to the placement
of reinforcing steel or concrete.
NOTE: The project Civil/Structural Engineer should review all reinforcing
schedules. The reinforcing minimums recommended herein are not to be
construed as structural designs, but merely as minimum reinforcement to
reduce the potential for cracking and separations.
Seismic Design Criteria: Site-specific seismic design criteria for the proposed
garage are presented in the following table in accordance with Section 1613
of the 2013 CBC, which incorporates by reference ASCE 7-10 for seismic
design. We have determined the mapped spectral acceleration values for the
site, based on a latitude of 32.1208 degrees and longitude of 117.2768
degrees, utilizing a tool provided by the USGS, which provides a solution for
ASCE 7-10 (Section 1613 of the 2013 CBC) utilizing digitized files for the
Spectral Acceleration maps. Based on our past experience with similar
conditions, we have assigned a Site Soil Classification of D.
TABLE I
MaDned Spectral Acceleration Values and Design Parameters
[ S S1 I F8 I FI, Sms Smi SdS Sd1 I 1.071 0.414 1 1.072 1 1.586 1.148 0.656 0.765 0.437
Lateral Loads: Lateral load resistance for the structures supported on footing
foundations may be developed in friction between the foundation bottoms
and the supporting subgrade. An allowable friction coefficient of 0.35 is
considered applicable. An additional allowable passive resistance equal to an
equivalent fluid weight of 275 pcf acting against the foundations may be used
in design provided the footings are poured neat against the adjacent properly
Proposed L.W. Office Building Job No. 15-10840
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compacted fill materials. These lateral resistance values assume a level
surface in front of the footing for a minimum distance of three times the
embedment depth of the footing and any shear keys.
Settlement: Settlements under building loads are expected to be within
tolerable limits for the proposed structure. For footings designed in
accordance with the recommendations presented in the preceding
paragraphs, we anticipate that total settlements should not exceed 1 inch
and that post-construction differential settlements should be less than 1/240.
Retaining/Basement Walls: Based on the plans provided, there is no
indication retaining walls will be utilized on the project. However, if small
retaining walls will be used (i.e., elevator pit) we suggest the following
recommendations. Retaining walls must be designed to resist lateral earth
pressures and any additional lateral pressures caused by surcharge loads on
the adjoining retained surface. We recommend that unrestrained
(cantilever) walls with level backfill be designed for an equivalent fluid
pressure of 38 pcf. We recommend that restrained walls (i.e., basement
walls or any walls with angle points that restrain them from rotation) with
level backfill be designed for an equivalent fluid pressure of 56 pcf.
Wherever walls will be subjected to surcharge loads, they should also be
designed for an additional uniform lateral pressure equal to one-third the
anticipated surcharge pressure in the case of unrestrained walls and an
additional one-half the anticipated surcharge pressure in the case of
restrained walls.
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For seismic design of unrestrained walls, we recommend that the seismic
pressure increment be taken as a fluid pressure distribution utilizing an
equivalent fluid weight of 14 pcf. For restrained walls, we recommend the
seismic pressure increment be waived.
The preceding design pressures assume that the walls are backfilled with low
expansion potential materials (Expansion Index less than 50) and that there
is sufficient drainage behind the walls to prevent the build-up of hydrostatic
pressures from surface water infiltration. We recommend that back drainage
be provided by a composite drainage material such as Miradrain 6000/6200
or equivalent. The back drain material should terminate 12 inches below the
finish surface where the surface is covered by slabs or 18 inches below the
finish surface in landscape areas. A subdrain (such as Total Drain or
perforated pipe in an envelope of crushed rock gravel a maximum of 1 inch
in diameter and wrapped with geofabric such as Mirafi 140N), should be
placed at the bottom of retaining walls.
Backfill placed behind the walls should be compacted to a minimum degree of
compaction of 90 percent using light compaction equipment. If heavy
equipment is used, the walls should be appropriately temporarily braced.
C Concrete Slab-on-grade Criteria
15. Minimum Floor Slab Reinforcement: Based on our experience, we have
found that, for various reasons, floor slabs occasionally crack, causing brittle
surfaces such as ceramic tiles to become damaged. Therefore, we
recommend that all slabs-on-grade contain at least a minimum amount of
reinforcing steel to reduce the separation of cracks, should they occur,
-s
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1.5.1 Interior floor slabs should be a minimum of 5 inches actual thickness
and be reinforced with No. 4 bars on 18-inch centers, both ways,
placed at midheight in the slab. Slab subgrade soil should be verified
by a Geotechnical Exploration, Inc. representative to have the
proper moisture content within 48 hours prior to placement of the
vapor barrier and pouring of concrete.
15.2 Following placement of any concrete floor slabs, sufficient drying time
must be allowed prior to placement of floor coverings. Premature
placement of floor coverings may result in degradation of adhesive
materials and loosening of the finish floor materials.
Concrete Isolation Joints: We recommend the project Civil/Structural
Engineer incorporate isolation joints and sawcuts to at least one-fourth the
thickness of the slab in any floor designs. The joints and cuts, if properly
placed, should reduce the potential for and help control floor slab cracking.
We recommend that concrete shrinkage joints be spaced no farther than
approximately 20 feet apart, and also at re-entrant corners. However, due
to a number of reasons (such as base preparation, construction techniques,
curing procedures, and normal shrinkage of concrete), some cracking of
slabs can be expected.
Slab Moisture Protection and Vapor Barrier Membrane: Although it is not the
responsibility of geotechriical engineering firms to provide moisture
protection recommendations, as a service to our clients we provide the
following discussion and suggested minimum protection criteria. Actual
recommendations should be provided by the architect and waterproofing
consultants.
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Soil moisture vapor can result in damage to moisture-sensitive floors, some
floor sealers, or sensitive equipment in direct contact with the floor, in
addition to mold and staining on slabs, walls and carpets. The common
practice in Southern California is to place vapor retarders made of PVC, or of
polyethylene. PVC retarders are made in thickness ranging from 10- to 60-
mu. Polyethylene retarders, called visqueen, range from 5- to 10-mil in
thickness. These products are no longer considered adequate for moisture
protection and can actually deteriorate over time.
Specialty vapor retarding products possess higher tensile strength and are
more specifically designed for and intended to retard moisture transmission
into and through concrete slabs. The use of such products is highly
recommended for reduction of floor slab moisture emission.
The following American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and
American Concrete Institute (ACI) sections address the issue of moisture
transmission into and through concrete slabs: ASTM E1745-97 (2009)
Standard Specification for Plastic Water Vapor Retarders Used in Contact
Concrete Slabs; ASTM E154-88 (2005) Standard Test Methods for Water
Vapor Retarders Used in Contact with Earth; ASTM E96-95 Standard Test
Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials; ASTM E1643-98 (2009)
Standard Practice for Installation of Water Vapor Retarders Used in Contact
Under Concrete Slabs; and ACI 302.2R-06 Guide for Concrete Slabs that
Receive Moisture-Sensitive Flooring Materials.
17.1 Based on the above, we recommend that the vapor barrier consist of a
minimum 15-mil extruded polyolefin plastic (no recycled content or
woven materials permitted). Permeance as tested before and after
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mandatory conditioning (ASTM E1745 Section 7.1 and sub-paragraphs
7.1.1-7.1.5) should be less than 0.01 perms (grains/square foot/hour
in Hg) and comply with the ASTM E1745 Class A requirements.
Installation of vapor barriers should be in accordance with ASTM
E1643. The basis of design is Stego wrap vapor barrier 15-mu. We
recommend that the recommended vapor barrier be placed directly on
properly prepared subgrade soils and the floor slabs be poured directly
on the vapor barrier
17.2 Common to all acceptable products, vapor retarder/barrier joints must
be lapped and sealed with mastic or the manufacturer's recommended
tape or sealing products. In actual practice, stakes are often driven
through the retarder material, equipment is dragged or rolled across
the retarder, overlapping or jointing is not properly implemented, etc.
All these construction deficiencies reduce the retarder's effectiveness.
In no case should retarder/barrier products be punctured or gaps be
allowed to form prior to or during concrete placement.
17.3 Vapor retarders/barriers do not provide full waterproofing for
structures constructed below free water surfaces. They are intended
to help reduce or prevent vapor transmission and/or capillary
migration through the soil and through the concrete slabs. Water-
proofing systems must be designed and properly constructed if full
waterproofing is desired. The owner and project designers should be
consulted to determine the specific level of protection required.
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17.4 Following placement of concrete floor slabs, sufficient drying time must
be allowed prior to placement of any floor coverings. Premature
placement of floor coverings may result in degradation of adhesive
materials and loosening of the finish floor materials.
Exterior Slab Reinforcement: As a minimum for protection of on-site 4
improvements, we recommend that all exterior pedestrian concrete slabs be
founded on properly compacted and tested fill, with No. 3 bars at 18-inch
centers, both ways, at the center of the slab, and contain adequate isolation
and control joints. The performance of on-site improvements can be greatly
affected by soil base preparation and the quality of construction. It is
therefore important that all improvements are properly designed and
constructed for the existing soil conditions. The improvements should not be
built on loose soils or fills placed without our observation and testing. The
exterior slabs should be provided with a thickened edge penetrating at least
8 inches into the on-site expansive soils and should include at least two No. 4
bars.
For exterior slabs with the minimum shrinkage reinforcement, control joints
should be placed at spaces no farther than 15 feet apart or the width of the
slab, whichever is less, and also at re-entrant corners. Control joints in
exterior slabs should be sealed with elastomeric joint sealant. The sealant
should be inspected every 6 months and be properly maintained.
D. Pavements
Concrete Pavement: We recommend that concrete driveway pavements,
including the garage slab, subject only to automobile and light truck traffic be
Proposed L.W. Office Building Job No. 15-10840
Carlsbad, California Page 20
5 inches thick and be supported directly on properly prepared/compacted on-
site subgrade soils. The concrete for areas subject to occasional heavy truck
traffic (such as fire access) should have a minimum thickness of 6 inches.
The upper 8 inches of the subgrade below the slab should be compacted to a
minimum degree of compaction of 90 percent just prior to paving. The
concrete should conform to Section 201 of The Standard Specifications for
Public Works Construction, 2006 Edition, for Class 560-C-3250.
In order to control shrinkage cracking, we recommend that saw-cut,
weakened-plane joints be provided at about 15-foot centers both ways. The
pavement slabs should be saw-cut as soon as practical but no more than 24
hours after the placement of the concrete. The depth of the joint should be
one-quarter of the slab thickness and its width should not exceed 0.02-feet.
Reinforcing steel is not necessary unless it is desired to increase the joint
spacing. recommended above.
Asphalt concrete pavement, if used, should consist of similar pavement
section to the existing adjacent areas.
E. General Recommendations
21. Project Start Up Notification: In order to minimize any work delays during
site development, this firm should be contacted 24 hours prior to any need
for observation of footing excavations or field density testing of compacted
fill soils. If possible, placement of formwork and steel reinforcement in
footing excavations should not occur prior to observing the excavations; in
the event that our observations reveal the need for deepening or redesigning
foundation structures at any locations, any formwork or steel reinforcement
Proposed L.W. Office Building Job No. 15-10840
Carlsbad, California Page 21
in the affected footing excavation areas would have to be removed prior to
correction of the observed problem (i.e., deepening the footing excavation,
recompacting soil in the bottom of the excavation, etc.).
IX. GRADING NOTES
Geotechnical Exploration, Inc recommends that we be retained to verify the
actual soil conditions revealed during site grading work and footing excavation to be
as anticipated in this "Report of Preliminary Geotechnical Investigation" for the
project. In addition, the compaction of any fill soils placed during site grading work
must be observed and tested by the soil engineer. It is the responsibility of the
grading contractor to comply with the requirements on the grading plans and the
local grading ordinance. All retaining wall and trench backfill should be properly
compacted. Geotechnical Exploration, Inc. will assume no liability for damage
occurring due to improperly or uncompacted backfill placed without our
observations and testing.
X. LIMITATIONS
Our conclusions and recommendations have been based on available data obtained
from our document review, field investigation and laboratory analysis, as well as
our experience with similar soils and formational materials located in this area of
San Diego. Of necessity, we must assume a certain degree of continuity between
exploratory excavations. It is, therefore, necessary that all observations,
conclusions, and recommendations be verified at the time grading operations begin
or when footing excavations are placed. In the event discrepancies are noted,
additional recommendations may be issued, if required.
ZAM
Proposed L.W. Office Building Job No. 15-10840
Carlsbad, California Page 22
The work performed and recommendations presented herein are the result of an
investigation and analysis that meet the contemporary standard of care in our
profession within the County of San Diego. No warranty is provided. This report
should be considered valid for a period of two (2) years, and is subject to review by
our firm following that time. If significant modifications are made to the building
plans, especially with respect to the height and location of any proposed structures,
this report must be presented to us for immediate review and possible revision.
It is the responsibility of the owner and/or developer to ensure that the
recommendations summarized in this report are carried out in the field operations
and that our recommendations for design of this project are incorporated in the
structural plans. We should be retained to review the project plans once they are
available, to see that our recommendations are adequately incorporated in the
plans.
This firm does not practice or consult in the field of safety engineering. We do not
direct the contractor's operations, and we cannot be responsible for the safety of
personnel other than our own on the site; the safety of others is the responsibility
of the contractor. The contractor should notify the owner if any of the
recommended actions presented herein are considered to be unsafe.
The firm of Geotechnical Exploration, Inc. shall not be held responsible for
changes to the physical condition of the property, such as addition of fill soils or
changing drainage patterns, which occur subsequent to issuance of this report and
the changes are made without our observations, testing, and approval.
Proposed L.W. Office Building Job No. 15-10840
Carlsbad, California Page 23
Once again, should any questions arise concerning this report, please feel free to
contact the undersigned. Reference to our Job No. 15-10840 will expedite a reply
to your inquiries.
Respectfully submitted,
GEOTECHNICAL EXPLORATION, INC.
<a—e— ~' -
1iThACerros, P.fi
R.C.E. 34422/G.E. 2007
Senior Geotechnical Engineer
Ja . elser
Senior Project Geologist
CESSI
No.002007
W- EXP9/3Q",
VICINITY MAP
Thomas Bros Guide San Diego Counti pg 1127-D3
LW Office Building
2055 Corte Del Nogal
Carlsbad, CA.
Figure No. I
Job No. 15-10840
W OFFJUILD?NG
ii =9
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C RTE DEL N O - - I
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/ LEGEND
- ApproxImate Location
F. 115 B-3 of Exploratory Boning
/ -
DEL \. -
-.- //
PLOT PLAN
/ - LWOffllce Building
/ --- - - 2086 Cofle Del NogaI
Carlsbad, CA
REFERENCE: This Plot plan was prepared from SITE PLAN Figure No.!!
an ejloflng SIW PLAN byArohftect-Bsuce W Job No. 15-10840
SI&ngreberdalsd 5-5-16 .smi from on-Me
field reconnaissance pet'tormed by GE1 IWTWM Exptlon, Inc.
August 2016
15-10810.p.d
EQUIPMENT DIMENSION & TYPE OF EXCAVATION DATE LOGGED
Truck-mounted Hollow Stem Drill Rig 84nch diameter Boring 8-11-15
SURFACE ELEVATION GROUNDWATER/ SEEPAGE DEPTH LOGGED BY
± 260' Mean Sea Level Not Encountered JAB
FIELD DESCRIPTION -
AND
CLASSIFICATION 0 l
DESCRIPTION AND REMARKS
(Gain size, Density, Moisture, Color) N Mel
- GRASS AND LANDSCAPE TOPSOIL - - - - - -
SILTY SAND, fine-grained, with roots and SM
- rootlets. Medium dense. Dry.
Yellow-brown.
2 FILL (Qaf)
CLAYEY SAND, fine-grained, low SC 50/ plasticity. Very dense. Moist. Light gray. 5.5"
- SANTIAGO FORMATION (Tsa)
83 2"
- Bulk sample from 2'- 41.
- 40% passing #200 sieve. 10.5 122.5 36
6 -
- abundant iron oxide staining from 6'- 7'.
- 50/ 31
5.5"
8-
67 2"
10- Bottom @9'
Y PERCHED WATER TABLE I JOSNAME
L.W. Office Building
BULK BAG SAMPLE SITE LOCATION
J IN-PLACE SAMPLE 2055 Corte del Nogal, Carlsbad, CA
MODIFIED CALIFORNIA SAMPLE JOB NUMBER REVIEWED BY LDRIJAC I LOG No.
15-10840 we B=1[] NUCLEAR FIELD DENSITY TEST
STANDARD PENETRATION TEST1 lila
'QUIPMENT DIMENSION & TYPE OF EXCAVATION DATE LOGGED
Truck-mounted Hollow Stem Drill Rig 8-inch diameter Boring 8-11-15
SURFACE ELEVATION GROUNDWATER/ SEEPAGE DEPTH LOGGED BY
1261' Mean Sea Level Not Encountered JAB
DESCRIPTION
loll
CLASSIFICATION
DESCRIPTION AND REMARKS _
AND
___
FIELD
______ NOMMIMrn!URJEU
SANDY CLAY, with minor angular gravel
;*!V*'N*1
to 1/2" in diameter. Very stiff. Moist. Dark
gray
iI'(i
wt. some !ran o)dde staining; low plasticity;
organics.
.
I.. •
flit
trace of 1
Bulk sample from X- 6'.
61% passing #200 sieve.
CLAYEY SAND, fine-grained. Very
•
dense Dark gray-brown with
SANTIAGO FORMATION (Tsa)
ØyUBulk Isample fromw#.-rsJ.1.
Ii
I
PERCHED WATER TABLE
BULK BAG SAMPLE
IN-PLACE SAMPLE
MODIFIED CALIFORNIA SAMPLE
[] NUCLEAR FIELD DENSITY TEST
STANDARD PENETRATION TEST
JOB NAME
L.W. Office Building
SITE LOCATION
2055 Corte del Nagai, Carlsbad, CA
JOB NUMBER REVIEWED BY LDR!JAC LOG No.
B-2 15-10840
FIGURE NUMBER
IlIb
EQUIPMENT DIMENSION & TYPE OF EXCAVATION DATE LOGGED
Truck-mounted Hollow Stem Drill Rig 8-inch diameter Boring 8-11.15
SURFACE ELEVATION GROUNDWATER/ SEEPAGE DEPTH LOGGED BY
1260' Mean Sea Level Not Encountered JAB
FIELD DESCRIPTION
AND
CLASSIFICATION
la 11
it 0
DESCRIPTION AND REMARKS
(Grain size, Density, MosIure, Color) ill g .6
J ft
DEAD GRASS AND LANDSCAPE TOPSOIL - - - - - -
CLAYEY SAND, fine-grained, with minor rootlets SC
- and organics; low plasticity. Medium dense. Dry to
slightly moist. Dark gray-brown.
FILL (Qaf)
2- 701 311 • _____________________________________
9.8 106.1
11.5' CLAYEY SAND, tine-grained. Very dense. SC
- Moist Light gray with some iron oxide and yellow
staining.
SANTIAGO FORMATION (Tsa) 81 2' 4-
Bulk sample from 3'- 7'.
6-
-
- heavy iron oxide staining; trace manganese
. staining, becomes red-brown.
8 84 2'
Bottom @ 8.5'
10-
1 PERCHED WATER TABLE
BULK BAG SAMPLE
J IN-PLACE SAMPLE
MODIFIED CALIFORNIA SAMPLE
[] NUCLEAR FIELD DENSITY TEST
STANDARD PENETRATION TEST
JOB NAME
L.W. Office Building
SITE LOCATION
2055 Corte del Nogal, Carlsbad, CA
JOB NUMBER REVIEWED BY LDR/JACI LOG No.
15.10840 _________ Gio(aduikall
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APPENDIX A
UNIFIED SOIL CLASSIFICATION CHART
SOIL DESCRIPTION
Coarse-grained (More than half of material is larger than a No. 200 sieve)
GRAVELS, CLEAN GRAVELS GW Well-graded gravels, gravel and sand mixtures, little
(More than half of coarse fraction or no fines.
is larger than No. 4 sieve size, but
smaller than 3") OP Poorly graded gravels, gravel and sand mixtures, little or
no fines.
GRAVELS WITH FINES
(Appreciable amount)
SANDS, CLEAN SANDS
(More than half of coarse fraction
is smaller than a No. 4 sieve)
SANDS WITH FINES
(Appreciable amount)
GC Clay gravels, poorly graded gravel-sand-silt mixtures
SW Well-graded sand, gravelly sands, little or no fines
SP Poorly graded sands, gravelly sands, little or no fines.
SM Silty sands, poorly graded sand and silty mixtures.
SC Clayey sands, poorly graded sand and clay mixtures.
Fine-grained (More than half of material is smaller than a No. 200 sieve)
SILTS AND CLAYS
Liquid Limit Less than 50 ML Inorganic silts and very fine sands, rock flour, sandy silt
and clayey-silt sand mixtures with a slight plasticity
CL Inorganic clays of low to medium plasticity, gravelly
clays, silty clays, clean clays.
OL Organic silts and organic silty clays of low plasticity.
Liquid Limit Greater than 50 MH Inorganic silts, micaceous or diatomaceous fine sandy or
silty soils, elastic silts.
CH Inorganic clays of high plasticity, fat clays.
OH Organic clays of medium to high plasticity.
HIGHLY ORGANIC SOILS PT Peat and other highly organic soils
(rev. 6105)
4