admin@gsgeotechnical.comFAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about our services or how geotechnical engineering supports your project? We’ve answered some of the most common inquiries to help guide you through the process.
1. What is geotechnical engineering?
Geotechnical engineering is the study of soil, rock, and groundwater to assess how they interact with structures like buildings, roads, and retaining walls.
2. Why is geotechnical engineering important?
It helps ensure structures are built on safe and stable ground, reducing risks like settlement, foundation failure, or slope instability.
3. What do geotechnical engineers do?
Geotechnical engineers evaluate ground conditions, conduct soil and rock testing, and provide design recommendations for foundations, retaining walls, slopes, and other earth-related structures.
4. What types of projects do you typically work on?
We offer geotechnical engineering services for residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects, including foundations, retaining walls, shoring, pavement design, slope stability, and site servicing tailored to your project’s needs.
5. What is a geotechnical site investigation, and why is it important?
A geotechnical site investigation involves soil sampling, testing, and analysis to assess ground conditions. It’s essential for determining the most suitable foundation design and for identifying potential risks such as settlement, slope instability, or soil liquefaction. Proper investigation helps reduce construction risks and costly delays.
6. Do you provide stamped geotechnical reports for permit applications?
Yes. We provide detailed, professional geotechnical reports that are sealed by a licensed Professional Engineer (P.Eng.), which are accepted by municipalities across British Columbia for building permit submissions.
7. Do you provide engineering drawings?
Yes. We can provide geotechnical related drawings such as typical sections, retaining wall details, shoring layouts, and excavation plans. For structural or civil drawings, we may coordinate with other consultants as needed.
8. What should I provide before requesting a geotechnical services?
Site plans, proposed building layouts, and any available site history are helpful. If not, don’t worry we can still assist and will guide you through the process.
9. How quickly can I get a geotechnical report?
Turnaround times vary based on project complexity, but we typically deliver geotechnical reports within 1 to 2 weeks after completing the field investigation. Expedited options may be available for time sensitive projects.
10. What areas do you serve?
We serve clients throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley, Sunshine Coast, and Vancouver Island. If your project is outside these areas, feel free to contact us to see how we can help.