Foundations survey

The survey of foundations of existing structures consists in the excavation close to the building footings with mechanical or manual tools until reaching the bottom foundations level, and the geometrical survey of the foundation structures. Under specific circumstances (shallow water table) or following relevant excavation depth, it will be necessary to define prescribed excavation methods (draining water, clearing the excavation, …). The inspection is carried out to obtain the geometric definition – with adequate photographic documentation – of the foundation structures, to properly assess the stresses acting on the soil. In case of impossibility of direct excavation, it is possible to operate using indirect methods (methods specific to geophysics such as ground penetrating radar tests, electrical or down-hole tests) or through subvertical core drilling, pushed up to the foundation level. With different angles imposed to the core drilling machine it is also possible to define the shape of the foundations with a limited impact on the structures.