Construction Guide for Soils and Foundations

This book discusses soils, soil behavior, and the construction of foundations. It emphasizes that soil is as much a part of the overall structure as is the concrete, steel, and wood superstructure.

Sooner or later, every contractor will face a situation difficult enough to require a broad knowledge of soils, but not so complex as to call for an outside expert. Available soil and soil behavior books, however, lack the basic, practical information needed by the busy contractor. Construction Guide for Soils and Foundations, written especially for those who will do the actual construction work, is the first sourcebook to provide that essential information and guidance. Construction Guide for Soils and Foundations presents clear discussions of the procedures, materials and equipment used in treating soils and installing foundations. Specific topics include reinforced earth retaining walls, the use of filter fabrics, the use of synthetic membranes, dynamic compaction, and the analysis of capacity of piles using the wave equation. Part One presents a simplified explanation of what to expect from soils encountered during construction. It discusses the nature and types of soils, soil behavior, and unusual soils, such as swelling soils and sensitive soils. Part Two, presents, in detail, aspects of soil, soil behavior, and foundations commonly encountered in construction. Construction Guide for Soils and Foundations will serve as an invaluable guide and reference not only for contractors, but for students, inspectors and soil technicians as well.