Summary

The first step in deciding on the type of foundation is to carry out a detailed soil investigation to ascertain the characteristics of the subsoil. Field tests of soil could also be carried out for quicker output. At the basis of these tests and investigations, a depth of foundation could be arrived at and the safe bearing capacity of the soil can be estimated. Taking within consideration the properties of soil substrata and the load because of the proposed building, it should be possible to decide on the type of foundation that would be appropriate. The details of shallow foundations such as strip, pad, grillage and raft have been elaborate in the foundation. If the soil in the top layer, near the ground, does not have adequate bearing capacity to support the superimposed load, it would be essential to adopt pile foundations. The details of several kinds of pile foundation have also been explained in this foundation.

Towards at the end of the unit, design of wall footing has been discussed. After being acquainted along with the foundations, we will try to understand the details of superstructure, i.e. structure above the ground level further.