HomeMy WebLinkAbout501041038 Geotech Assessment (2005)
r_'f ...:..- t
""- /
1. ~ -.t
.
GEOl<CHNICAL ENGlNEEmNG STUDY ~ ~ ~y ~: :e ~
Proposed Residence and Guest House
Lot 4 - Thousand Trails
Donald Road
Jefferson County, Washington
J~FFrHcO!j COUNTY .
('IF!:'T, C~ (nl',1, 1~:!'I~.iY DfYELOr- r,'ENT
~
,.
This report presents the findings and recommendations of our geotechnical engineering study for
the property in unincorporated Jefferson County.
We were provided with a topographic survey showing the existing topography, and the locations of
the existing and proposed residences. Northwestern Territories, Inc. prepared this survey, which is
dated January 11, 2005. Based on the survey and conversations with Steve Hoedemaker of
Bosworth Hoedemaker, we understand that the existing residence will be demolished and replaced
with a new, larger residence west of the existing gravel driveway. The new residence will have a
partial basement on its southern side that will daylight onto the southern yard. This structure is
shown to be approximately 15 feet from the west slope and over 100 feet away from the south
slope. A detached guest house will be constructed on a flat bench located to the east of the
existing gravel driveway. Preliminary drawings and finish floor elevations for the proposed buildings
as well as grading information were not developed as of the writing of this report. No development
on the adjacent steep slopes is expected.
If the scope of the project changes from what we have described above, we should be provided
with revised plans in order to determine if modifications to the recommendations and conclusions of
this report are warranted.
SITE CONDITIONS
SURFACE
The Vicinity Map. Plate 1, illustrates the general location of the site in unincorporated Jefferson
County. The subject property is located on the southern tip of the Tonados Peninsula at the
terminus of Donald Road. Access to the property is by way of a private, unimproved driveway that
splits in two directions onto the two flat proposed building areas. A one-story, L-shaped log house
is located on a flat bench to the west of the existing driveway. The western portion of this house is
supported on small pier pads. The eastern portion of this house is supported on continuous
footings that showed some visible signs of foundation settlement. The proposed building areas are
level and separated by a 10-foot-high, moderate to steep slope. The southern yard of the existing
residence consists of two level tiers separated by a 10-foot-high moderate slope, then the ground
slopes at a gentle to moderate rate towards a steep slope on the southern portion of the property.
Bordering the development area to the west and south are steep slopes. The western slope is
approximately 40 to 50 feet high, and the southern slope is approximately 30 feet high. Both of
these slopes incline down towards the Hood Canal. Based on our observations and conversations
with Steve Hoedemaker, it appears that numerous slides have occurred on these steep slopes, on
and adjacent to the site. The toe of the southern slope adjacent to the Hood Canal shoreline
appears to have been undercut, with some evidence of recessional near-surface sliding. The
observed evidence of recent slides appears to indicate that they have involved relatively shallow
movement. rather than deep-seated failures. The most active slope is the steeper, southwest-
facing one.
GEOTECH CONSULTANTS, INC.
1 ~.. !-.
"
} ....... ..
Driscoll
October 13. 2005
IN 05289
Page 2
The native soils on this property as classified as PY, "Pre-Vashon Stratified Sediments", by the
Geologic Map of East-Central Jefferson County, Washington (Birdseye, 1976). The steep slopes
to the west and south of the existing residence are designated as an Erosion Hazard Area and
Landslide Hazard Area by the Jefferson County Code Title 18. Article VI-G.
SUBSURFACE
The subsurface conditions were explored by drilling three borings at the approximate locations
shown on the Site Exploration Plan, Plate 2. Our exploration program was based on the proposed
construction, anticipated subsurface conditions and those encountered during exploration, and the
scope of work outlined in our proposal.
The borings were drilled on September 12, 2005 using a track-mounted, hollow-stem auger drill.
Samples were taken at 5-foot intervals with a standard penetration sampler. This split-spoon
sampler, which has a 2-inch outside diameter, is driven into the soil with a 140-pound hammer
falling 30 inches. The number of blows required to advance the sampler a given distance is an
indication of the soil density or consistency. A geotechnical engineer from our staff observed the
drilling process, logged the test borings, and obtained representative samples of the soil
encountered. The Test Boring Logs are attached as Plates 3 through 5.
Soil Conditions
All borings encountered similar subsurface condijions. Approximately 4 feet of loose soils
(possible fill) was encountered directly below the surface in Boring 1. Medium-dense silty
sand was encountered underlying the loose soils in Boring 1, and below the surface in the
other two borings. Dense silt, silty sand, and sand were encountered within 5 to 15 feet
below existing grade; these soils became very dense with depth. The very dense soils were
encountered to the maximum explored depth of the borings.
We saw no indications of disturbed or fractured soils within the borings.
Although our explorations did not encounter cobbles or boulders. they are often found in
soils that have been deposited by glaciers or fast-moving water.
Groundwater Conditions
No groundwater seepage was observed in the borings. The borings were left open for only
a short time periOd and were conducted following a relatively dry summer. It should be
noted that groundwater levels vary seasonally with rainfall and other factors. We anticipate
that perched groundwater could be found atop the dense silty sand and sandy silt layers.
The stratification lines on the logs represent the approximate boundaries between soil types at the
exploration locations. The actual transition between soil types may be gradual, and subsurface
conditions can vary between exploration locations. The logs provide specific subsurface
information only at the locations tested. If a transijion in soil type occurred between samples in the
borings, the depth of the transition was interpreted. The relative densities and moisture
descriptions indicated on the boring logs are interpretive descriptions ba nditi
observed during drilling. [5)nl' - IE I W IE [R)
lm MAY 2 4 2006 lW
GEOTECH CONSULTANTS. INC.
JfFm',;(p COUNTY
m:r.T D? ('n~.", ,..,'."" ",;r'\TLliH~ENT
t - !
"
:\ ~ ,J
Driscoll
October 13, 2005
i5) IE It: Ifi'18,~ ~\
lnl\ MAY 2 4 ~2:~: J \ lVJ
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS L____~~
\ ....~F..c.H ~Ol. C(,ur-'"ry ":~
~ r~r~i"_!r- ___~~,._=-~_[-lr~~.
GENERAL
THIS SECTION CONTAINS A SUMMARY OF OUR STUDY AND FINDINGS FOR THE PURPOSES OF A
GENERAL OVERVIEW ONL Y. MORE SPECIFIC RECOMMENDA TlONS AND CONCLUSIONS ARE
CONTAINED IN THE REMAINDER OF THIS REPORT. ANY PARTY REL YING ON THIS REPORT SHOULD
READ THE ENTIRE DOCUMENT.
The borings conducted for this study encountered medium-dense soils within 4 feet of existing
grade that then became dense to very dense. It is our opinion that the proposed residence and
guest house can be supported on conventional foundations bearing on the medium-dense to dense
native soils. Due to the loose, near-surface nature of the native soils and the close proximity of the
proposed residence to the adjacent slopes, we recommend that the footings closest to the top of
the slopes be founded on the dense native soils encountered at least 5 feet below existing grade.
This will require that the western and southern erimeter foundation of the ro osed residence be
desiQned as a cantilever foundation wall, unless the western portion 0 the proposed residence will
contain a basement. From conversations with Steve Hoedemaker, we understand that the eastern
portion of the proposed residence will contain a basement. The structural design should include
details for a cantilever wall height varyinQ from 5 to 8 feet.
The plan provided to us shows a setback of up to 20 feet from the top of the adjacent steep slopes,
with a portion of the new residence situated within 5 feet of the north slope. Section 18.15.275 of
the Jefferson County Code states that a standard buffer of 30 feet from the toP. toe, and edges of
landslide areas is required. This buffer can be reduced to a minimum of 15 feet if it can be shown
that the proposed project and landslide hazard area will be "adequately protected", and that the
project cannot meet the required setback. If the recommendations in this report are followed, it is
our opinion that the proposed location of the proposed residence will be adequate and that the
cons ion of the osed residence will not adversely affect the overall stability of the eXlsflii(]
slopes, However, due to in' t r uired b e n ou e . n
of t e proposed residence mav need to be shifted sliohtly to the east to satisfy these criteria~ ~
reslClence should not be shifted closer to the south slope, which appears to be more active as a
result of wave undercutting. The recommendations of this report are intended to protect the
structures from damage in the event of future slope movement. However, a periOdic loss of ground
at the top of the slopes should be expected, due to ongoing natural processes of weathering and
wave undercutting.
It appears that the toe of the southern slope adjacent to the Hood Canal shoreline is periodically
undercut, with evidence of recessional near-surface sliding. These shallow landslides will likely
continue unless a bulkhead is constructed. However, it is our opinion that the construction of a
bulkhead is not necessary to protect the proposed buildings.
The steep slopes should not be disturbed. Soil and debris must not be placed on, or near, the
steep slopes. ater from do ns outs and im ervious surfaces uld . !lined to the base of
the steep slopes in an above-ground pipe anchored to the slope's surface"
The on-site silty soils are sensitive to moisture. Thus, it may be necessary to protect bearing
surfaces with a la er of crushed rock to protect the sub rades from disturbance curing penods of
wet weather. The silty sands can be reused as structural I I ey are placed in dry weather and
are at, or near,. their optimum moisture content. These soils can also be reused as wall backfill if a
minimum 12-inch thickness of free-draining soil or washed rock is placed between the fill and the
GEOTECH CONSULTANTS, INC.
,
."
rr\\lE(C[E~~IE~
,0)\ IN 05289 U
lr~\ MAY 2 4 ~6t\lr 4 . '\
I ____~
foundation wall. However, the on-site silts should not be reused as stru1tl!.r,!I}~II.beneath b'e~rlrig 'EN:
elements because of their high moisture contents and low compacted strengths.':'Theon-slte.sands--
can be reused as structural fill or wall backfill if they are placed in dry weather and are at. or near,
their optimum moisture content.
Driscoll
October 13, 2005
, ....
The erosion control measures needed during the site development will depend heavily on the
weather conditions that are encountered. We anticipate that a silt fence will be needed around the
downslope sides of any cleared areas. Rocked construction access roads should be provided to
reduce the amount of soil or mud carried off the property by trucks and equipment. Wherever
possible, these roads should follow the alignment of planned pavements, and trucks should not be
allowed to drive off of the rock-covered areas. Cut slopes and soil stockpiles should be covered
with plastic during wet weather. Following rough grading, it may be necessary to mulch or
hydroseed bare areas that will not be immediately covered with landscaping or an impervious
surface. As with any project, additional erosion control measures may be required depending on
conditions encountered during construction.
The drainage and/or waterproofing recommendations presented in this report are intended only to
prevent active seepage from flowing through concrete walls or slabs. Even in the absence of active
seepage into and beneath structures, water vapor can migrate through walls, slabs, and floors from
the surrounding soil, and can even be transmitted from slabs and foundation walls due to the
concrete curing process. Water vapor also results from occupant uses, such as cooking and
bathing. Excessive water vapor trapped within structures can result in a variety of undesirable
conditions, including, but not limited to, moisture problems with flooring systems, excessively moist
air within occupied areas, and the growth of molds, fungi, and other biological organisms that may
be harmful to the health of the occupants. The designer or architect must consider the potential
vapor sources and likely occupant uses, and provide sufficient ventilation, either passive or
mechanical, to prevent a build up of excessive water vapor within the planned structure.
Geotech Consultants, Inc. should be allowed to review the final development plans to verify that the
recommendations presented in this report are adequately addressed in the design. Such a plan
review would be additional work beyond the current scope of work for this study, and it may include
revisions to our recommendations to accommodate site, development, and geotechnical
constraints that become more evident during the review process.
We recommend including this report, in its entirety, in the project contract documents. This report
should also be provided to any future property owners so they will be aware of our findings and
recommendations.
SEISMIC CONSIDERA nONS
In accordance with Table 1615.1.1 of the 2003 International Building Code (IBC), the site soil
profile within 100 feet of the ground surface is best represented by Soil Profile Type C (Very Dense
Soil and Soft Rock). The site soils are not susceptible to seismic liquefaction because of their
dense nature.
SLOPE STABIUTY ANAL YSIS
In order to evaluate the potential for a future failure of the 40-foot-high, 60-percent slope to the
west of the existing residence, we completed a slope stability analysis using the PCSTABl5M
GEOTECH CONSULTANTS, INC.
,
'. ~
Driscoll
October 13. 2005
IN 05289
Page 5
computer program. This program was developed by Purdue University. Using a Modified Bishop's
analysis, we analyzed the slope's stability both under static and earthquake conditions. A potential
peak ground acceleration of 0.30g was included to account for a M7.0 earthquake. Of primary
concem from a geotechnical engineering standpoint is the potential for a failure at the interface
between the near-surface soils and the denser native soils. Our analysis yielded a static safety
factor of 1.3 and a dynamic safety factor of 1.2 for such a failure surface. The safety factor against
shallower slope movement is less, as exhibited by the shallow landslides that have affected the
slopes in the past. Hence our design recommendations for the minimum buffer and extended
foundation walls account for the potential of a slope failure near the interface between the two soil
units.
CONVENTIONAL FOUNDA TIONS
The proposed structures can be supported on conventional continuous and spread footings bearing
on undisturbed, medium-dense to dense native soil. The General section should be reviewed for
additional considerations related to the westemmost and southemmost footings of the main
residence.
We recommend that continuous and individual spread footings have minimum widths of 12 and 16
inches, respectively. Exterior footings should also generally be bottomed at least 18 inches below
the lowest adjacent finish ground surface for protection against frost and erosion. The local building
codes should be reviewed to determine if different footing widths or embedment depths are
required. Footing subgrades must be cleaned of loose or disturbed soil prior to pouring concrete.
Depending upon site and equipment constraints. this may require removing the disturbed soil by
hand.
An allowable bearing pressure of 3,000 pounds per square foot (psf) is appropriate for footings
supported on competent native soil. A one-third increase in this design bearing pressure may be
used when considering short-term wind or seismic loads. For the above design criteria. it is
anticipated that the total post-construction settlement of footings founded on competent native soil
will be less than one inch.
Lateral loads due to wind or seismic forces may be resisted by friction between the foundation and
the bearing soil, or by passive earth pressure acting on the vertical, embedded portions of the
foundation. For the latter condition, the foundation must be either poured directly against relatively
level, undisturbed soil or be surrounded by level structural fill. We recommend using the following
ultimate values for the foundation's resistance to lateral loading:
-~I
Coefficient of F rietion
Passive Earth Pressure
0.45
350 pef
Where: (I) pet is pounds per cubic foot. and (II) passive earth
pressure is computed using the equivalent fluid density.
15l1E1C IE D H ~
liUi MAY 24 2006 l~J
l_____
"r err :-f COUNTY
l""1':....,.- r' r - ~,( f.C -[NT
GEOTECH CONSULTANTS, INC.
'. 'lit
, ....
Driscoll
October 13, 2005
IN 05289
Page 6
If the ground in front of a foundation is loose or sloping, the passive earth pressure given above will
not be appropriate. We recommend maintaining a safety factor of at least 1.5 for the foundation's
resistance to lateral loading, when using the above ultimate values.
PERMANENT FOUNDATION AND RETAINING WALLS
Retaining walls backfilled on only one side should be designed to resist the lateral earth pressures
imposed by the soil they retain. The following recommended parameters are for walls that restrain
level backfill:
~~~R\'IE~
Active Earth Pressure . 35 pet
Passive Earth Pressure 350 pcf
Coefficient of Friction 0.45
Soil Unit Weight 140 pet
[D) [E (G ~ ~ W lE rm\
l.mIMAY 24 2o:lllJ.J:
I I__~! i
G q, '~r r'jUi~"'"Y. I
r~>'r I: r 1--\,.(. <N~' I
---"
--------
Where: (I) pet Is pounds per cubic foot, and (Ii) active and
passive earth pressures are computed using the equivalent fluid
pressures.
* For a restrained wall that cannot deflect at least 0.002 times Its
height, a uniform lateral pressure equal to 10 pst times the height
of the wall should be added to the above active equivalent fluid
pressure.
The values given above are to be used to design permanent foundation and retaining walls only.
The passive pressure given is appropriate for the depth of level structural fill placed in front of a
retaining or foundation wall only. The values for friction and passive resistance are ultimate values
and do not inclUde a safety factor. We recommend a safety factor of at least 1.5 for overtuming
and sliding, when using the above values to design the walls. Restrained wall soil parameters
should be utilized for a distance of 1.5 times the wall height from comers or bends in the walls.
This is intended to reduce the amount of cracking that can occur where a wall is restrained by a
comer.
The design values given above do not include the effects of any hydrostatic pressures behind the
walls and assume that no surcharges, such as those caused by slopes, vehicles, or adjacent
foundations will be exerted on the walls. If these conditions exist, those pressures should be added
to the above lateral soil pressures. Where sloping backfill is desired behind the walls, we will need
to be given the wall dimensions and the slope of the backfill in order to provide the appropriate
design earth pressures. The surcharge due to traffic loads behind a wall can typically be
accounted for by adding a uniform pressure equal to 2 feet multiplied by the above active fluid
density.
Heavy construction equipment should not be operated behind retaining and foundation walls within
a distance equal to the height of a wall, unless the walls are designed for the additional lateral
pressures resulting from the equipment. The wall design criteria assume that the backfill will be
well-compacted in lifts no thicker than 12 inches. The compaction of backfill near the walls should
be accomplished with hand-operated equipment to prevent the walls from being overloaded by the
higher soil forces that occur during compaction.
GEOTECH CONSULTANTS. INC.
,
. A
Driscoll
October 13, 2005
~!E(clE~.~
[i\1 I
"jl MAY 2 4 2006 L \
I L __-.-J
I .f "iU'., 'Y 'I
.::, \'~
Backfill placed behind retaining or foundation walls should be c6arse, free-:"drai~ing _" .
structural fill containing no organics. This backfill should contain no more than 5 percent silt
or clay particles and have no gravel greater than 4 inches in diameter. The percentage of
particles passing the NO.4 sieve should be between 25 and 70 percent. The on-site silt is
not acceptable for wall backfill. If the native sand is used as backfill, a drainage composite
similar to Miradrain 6000 should be placed against the backfilled retaining walls. The
drainage composites should be hydraulically connected to the foundation drain system.
Free-draining backfill or gravel should be used for the entire width of the backfill where
seepage is encountered. For increased protection, drainage composites should be placed
along cut slope faces. and the walls should be backfilled entirely with free-draining soil. The
later section entitled Drainage Considerations should also be reviewed for
recommendations related to subsurface drainage behind foundation and retaining walls.
RetaininQ Wall Backfill and Water1JroofinQ
The purpose of these backfill requirements is to ensure that the design criteria for a
retaining wall are not exceeded because of a build-up of hydrostatic pressure behind the
wall. The top 12 to 18 inches of the backfill should consist of a compacted, relatively
impermeable soil or topsoil, or the surface should be paved. The ground surface must also
slope away from backfilled walls to reduce the potential for surface water to percolate into
the backfill. The section entitled General Earthwork and Structural Fill contains
recommendations regarding the placement and cOl'1Jpaction of structural fill behind retaining
and foundation walls.
The above recommendations are not intended to waterproof below-grade walls, or to
prevent the formation of mold, mildew or fungi in interior spaces. Over time, the
performance of subsurface drainage systems can degrade, subsurface groundwater flow
patterns can change, and utilities can break or develop leaks. Therefore, waterproofinp
should be rovided where future see a e throu h the walls is not acce table. This typically
includes limiting cold-joints and wall penetra ions, and using bentonite panels or
membranes on the outside of the walls. There are a variety of different waterproofing
materials and systems, which should be installed by an experienced contractor familiar with
the anticipated construction and subsurface conditions. Applying a thin coat of asphalt
emulsion to the outside face of a wall is not considered waterproofing, and will only help to
reduce moisture generated from water vapor or capillary action from seeping through the
concrete. As with any project, adequate ventilation of basement and crawl space areas is
important to prevent a build up of water vapor that is commonly transmitted through
concrete walls from the surrounding soil. even when seepage is not present. This is
appropriate even when waterproofing is applied to the outside of foundation and retaining
walls. We recommend that you contact a specialty consultant if detailed recommendations
or specifications related to waterproofing design, or minimizing the potential for infestations
of mold and mildew are desired.
SLABS-ON-GRADE
The building floors can be constructed as ,slabs-on-gradE1, atop existing non-organic soils, or on
structural fill. The subgrade soil must be in a firm, non-yielding condition at the time of slab
construction or underslab fill placement. Any soft areas encountered should be excavated and
replaced with select, imported structural fill.
GEOTECH CONSULTANTS. INC.
" ~
~ IE <<; [E ~ 'w IE ~D
I IN 052
nll MAY 2 4 2005ag ~_ :
L_____._._____ \
Even where the exposed soils appear dry. water vapor will tend to naturflIlY,migr<ite upward t~rough", I
the soil to the new constructed space above it. All interior slabs-an-grade must be underlain by a-
capillary break or drainage layer consisting of a minimum 4-inch thickness of gravel or crushed
rock that has a fines content (percent passing the No. 200 sieve) of less than 3 percent and a sand
content (percent passing the NO.4 sieve) of no more than 10 percent. As noted by the American
Concrete Institute (ACI) in the Guides for Concrete Floor and Slab Structures, proper moisture
protection is desirable immediately below any on-grade slab that will be covered by tile, wood,
carpet, impermeable floor coverings, or any moisture-sensitive equipment or products. ACI also
notes that vapor retarders, such as 6-mil plastic sheetinQ, are tvpically us~. A vapor retarder is
defined as a material with a permeance of less than 0.3 US perms per square foot (pst) per hour,
as determined by ASTM E 96. It is possible that concrete admixtures may meet this specification,
although the manufacturers of the admixtures should be consulted. Where plastic sheeting is used
under slabs, joints should overlap by at least 6 inches and be sealed with adhesive tape. The
sheeting should extend to the foundation walls for maximum vapor protection. If no potential for
vapor passage through the slab is desired, a vapor barrier should be used. A vapor barrier, as
defined by ACI, is a product with a water transmission rate of 0.00 perms per square foot per hour
when tested in accordance with ASTM E 96. Reinforced membranes having sealed overlaps can
meet this requirement.
Driscoll
October 13, 2005
In the recent past, ACI (Section 4.1.5) recommended that a minimum of 4 inches of well-graded
compactable granular material, such as a 5/8 inch minus crushed rock pavement base, should be
placed over the vapor retarder or barrier for protection of the retarder or barrier and as a "blotter" to
aid in the curing of the concrete slab. Sand was not recommended by ACI for this purpose.
However, the use of material over the vapor retarder is controversial as noted in current ACI
literature because of the potential that the protection/blotter material can become wet between the
time of its placement and the installation of the slab. If the material is wet prior to slab placement,
which is always pOSSible in the Puget Sound area, it could cause vapor transmission to occur up
through the slab in the future, essentially destroying the purpose of the vapor barrier/retarder.
Therefore, if there is a potential that the protection/blotter material will become wet before the slab
is installed, ACI now recommends that no protection/blotter material be used. However, ACI then
recommends that, because there is a potential for slab cure due to the loss of the blotter material,
joint spacing in the slab be reduced, a low shrinkage concrete mixture be used, and "other
measures" (steel reinforcing, etc.) be used. ASTM E-1643-98 "Standard Practice for Installation of
Water Vapor Retarders Used in Contact with Earth or Granular Fill Under Concrete Slabs"
generally agrees with the recent AClliterature.
We recommend that the contractor, the project materials engineer, and the owner discuss these
issues and review recent AClliterature and ASTM E-1643 for installation guidelines and guidance
on the use of the protection/blotter material. Our opinion is that with impervious surfaces that all
means should be undertaken to reduce water vapor transmission.
EXCAVATIONS AND SLOPES
Excavation slopes should not exceed the limits specified in local, state. and national government
safety regulations. Temporary cuts to a depth of about 4 feet may be attempted vertically in
unsaturated soil. if there are no indications of slope instability. However. vertical cuts should not be
made near property boundaries, or eXisting utilities and structures. Based upon Washington
Administrative Code (WAC) 296, Part N, the soil at the subject site would generally be classified as
Type B. Therefore, temporary cut slopes greater than 4 feet in height should not be excavated at
GEOTECH CONSULTANTS, INC.
i
I '. <
1. ~:~ ,
I~ ~ rr: [f1 ~
..( Pag ~ )11
Ilnll MAY 2 4 2006 I.~.
an inclination steeper than 1:1 (Horizontal:Vertical), extending continuousILb~~;-e:'~J~~7Df~.,fP d j
the bottom of a cut. l.::::. ' err.' " Fer); 'le'!T
The above-recommended temporary slope inclination is based on the conditions exposed in our
explorations, and on what has been successful at other sites with similar soil conditions. It is
possible that variations in soil and groundwater conditions will require modifications to the
inclination at which temporary slopes can stand. Temporary cuts are those that will remain
unsupported for a relatively short duration to allow for the construction of foundations, retaining
walls, or utilities. Temporary cut slopes should be protected with plastic sheeting during wet
weather. It is also important that surface water be directed away from temporary slope cuts. The
cut slopes should also be backfilled or retained as soon as possible to reduce the potential for
instability. Please note that loose soil can cave suddenly and without warning. Excavation,
foundation, and utility contractors should be made especially aware of this potential danger. These
recommendations may need to be modified if the area near the potential cuts has been disturbed in
the past by utility installation, or if settlement-sensitive utilities are located nearby.
Driscoll
October 13, 2005
All permanent cuts into native soil should be inclined no steeper than 2.5:1 (H:V). Water should not
be allowed to flow uncontrolled over the top of any temporary or permanent slope. All permanently
exposed slopes should be seeded with an appropriate species of vegetation to reduce erosion and
improve the stability of the surficial layer of soil. .
Any disturbance to the existing slope outside of the building limits may reduce the stability of the
slope. Damage to the existing vegetation and ground should be minimized, and any disturbed
areas should be revegetated as soon as possible. Soil from the excavation should not be placed n
the slope, and this may require the oft-site disposal of any surplus soil.
DRAINAGE CONSIDERA TIONS
We recommend that foundation drains be installed at the base of all foundation and earth-retainin..Q.
walls, This includes installing a drain at the base of the extended west and south foundations of
the main house. These drains should be surrounded by at least 6 inches of 1-inch-minus, washed
ock and en wra ed n-woven eotextile filter fabric (Mirafi 140N, Supac 4NP, or Similar
ma erial). At its highest point, a perforated pipe invert should be at least 6 inches below the bottom
of a slab floor or the level of a crawl space, and it should be sloped for drainage. All roof and
surface water drains must be kept separate from the foundation drain system. A typical drain detail
is attached to this report as Plate 7. For the best long-term performance, perforated PVC pipe is
recommended for all subsurface drains.
Drainage inside the building's footprint should also be provided if the excavation encounters
significant seepage. We can provide recommendations for interior drains, should they become
necessary, during excavation and foundation construction.
As a minimum. a vapor retarder, as defined in the Slabs-On-Grade section, should be provided in
any crawl space area to limit the transmission of water vapor from the underlying soils. Also, an
outlet drain is recommended for all crawl spaces to prevent a build up of any water that may
bypass the footing drains.
No groundwater was observed during our field work. If seepage is encountered in an excavation, it
should be drained from the site by directing it through drainage ditches, perforated pipe, or French
GEOTECH CONSULTANTS, INC.
,
.~ ... t
Driscoll
October 13, 2005
IN 05289
Page 10
drains. or by pumping it from sumps interconnected by shallow connector trenches at the bottom of
the excavation.
The excavation and site should be graded so that surface water is directed off the site and away
from the tops of slopes. Water should not be allowed to stand in any area where foundations,
slabs, or pavements are to be constructed. Final site grading in areas adjacent to a building should
slope away at least 2 percent. except where the area is paved. Surface drains should be provided
where necessary to prevent ponding of water behind foundation or retaining walls.
GENERAL EARTHWORK AND STRUCTURAL FILL
All building and pavement areas should be stripped of surface vegetation, topsoil, organic soil, and
other deleterious material. It is important that existing foundations be removed before site
development. The stripped or removed materials should not be mixed with any materials to be
used as structural fill, but they could be used in non-structural areas, such as landscape beds.
Structural fill is defined as any fill, including utility backfill, placed under. or close to. a building,
behind permanent retaining or foundation walls, or in other areas where the underlying soil needs
to support loads. All structural fill should be placed in horizontal lifts with a moisture content at, or
near, the optimum moisture content. The optimum moisture content is that moisture content that
results in the greatest compacted dry density. The moisture content of fill is very important and
must be closely controlled during the filling and compaction process.
The allowable thickness of the fill lift will depend on the material type selected, the compaction
. equipment used, and the number of passes made to compact the lift. The loose lift thickness
should not exceed 12 inches. We recommend testing the fill as it is placed. If the fill is not
sufficiently compacted. it can be recompacted before another lift is placed. This eliminates the
need to remove the fill to achieve the required compaction. The following table presents
recommended relative compactions for structural fill:
1_()(\rl()'\()I~~\~
I'L \( I:\lr'\ r I CO\II' \( no'\ I
Beneath slabs or
walkwa s
Filled slopes and behind
retainin walls
95%
90%
Where: Minimum Relative Compaction. is the ratio, expressed in
percentages, of the compacted dry density to the maximum dry
density, as detennined in accordance with ASTM Test
Designation 0 1557.91 (Modified Proctor).
The General section should be reviewed for considerations related to the reuse of on-site soils.
Structural fill that will be placed in wet weather should consist of a coarse, granular soil with a silt or
clay content of no more than 5 percent. The percentage of particles passing the No. 200 sieve
should be measured from that portion of soil passing the three-quarter-inch sieve.
ID) IE!: IEn \'Q IE ~\
lnr~y: 4 ,: \~]
GEOTECH CONSULTANTS, INC. rr." ~' (" '_(oj'!ENT
, .r
o [E [: [E ~ J~
I ;a;Z~\\ !II
. ~~:~ r J
The conclusions and recommendations contained in this report are based on site conditions-as-
they existed at the time of our exploration and assume that the soil and groundwater conditions
encountered in the borings are representative of subsurface conditions on the site. If the
subsurface conditions encountered during construction are significantly different from those
observed in our explorations, we should be advised at once so that we can review these conditions
and reconsider our recommendations where necessary. Unanticipated soil conditions are
commonly encountered on construction sites and cannot be fully anticipated by merely taking soil
samples in borings. Subsurface conditions can also vary between exploration locations. Such
unexpected conditions frequently require making additional expenditures to attain a properly
constructed project. It is recommended that the owner consider providing a contingency fund to
accommodate such potential extra costs and risks. This is a standard recommendation for all
projects.
i'.. r
Driscoll
October 13, 2005
LIMITA TIONS
The recommendations presented in this report are directed toward the protection of only the
proposed structures from damage due to Slope movement. Predicting the future behavior of steep
slopes and the potential effects of development on their stability is an inexact and imperfect
science that is currently based mostly on the past behavior of slopes with similar characteristics.
Landslides and soil movement can occur on steep slopes before, during, or after the development
of property. The owner must ultimately accept the possibility that some slope movement could
occur, resulting in possible loss of ground or damage to the facilities around the proposed
residences.
This report has been prepared' for the exclusive use of William L. Driscoll, Bill and Lisa Hoffman,
and their representatives, for specific application to this project and site. Our recommendations
and conclusions are based on observed site materials and selective laboratory testing. Our
conclusions and recommendations are professional opinions derived in accordance with current
standards of practice within the scope of our services and within budget and time constraints. No
warranty is expressed or implied. The scope of our services does not include services related to
construction safety precautions, and our recommendations are not intended to direct the
contractor's methods, techniques, sequences, or procedures, except as specifically described in
our report for consideration in design. Our services also do not include assessing or minimizing the
potential for biological hazards, such as mold, bacteria, mildew and fungi in either the existing or
proposed site development.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
Geotech Consultants, Inc. should be retained to provide geotechnical consultation, testing, and
observation services during construction. This is to confirm that subsurface conditions are
consistent with those indicated by our exploration, to evaluate whether earthwork and foundation
construction activities comply with the general intent of the recommendations presented in this
report, and to provide suggestions for design changes in the event subsurface conditions differ
from those anticipated prior to the start of construction. However. our work would not include the
supervision or direction of the actual work of the contractor and its employees or agents. Also. jOb
and site safety, and dimensional measurements. will be the responsibility of the contractor.
During the construction phase, we will provide geotechnical observation and testing services when
requested by you or your representatives. Please be aware that we can only document site work
GEOTECH CONSULTANTS, INC.
~ L
Driscoll
'. .' [ October 13, 2005
IN 05289
Page 12
we actually observe. It is still the responsibility of your contractor or on-site construction team to
verify that our recommendations are being followed, whether we are present at the site or not.
The following plates are attached to complete this report:
Plate 1
Vicinity Map
Plate 2
Site Exploration Plan
Plates 3 - 5
Boring Logs
Plate 6
Grain-Size Analyses
Plate 7
Typical Footing Drain Detail
We appreciate the opportunity to be of service on this project. If you have any questions. or if we
may be of further service, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Respectfully submitted,
GEOTECH CONSULTANTS, INC.
~~
Gerry D. Bautista. Jr.
Geotechnical Engineer
GDB/MRM: alt
GEOTECH CONSULTANTS, INC.
rBl Ii: aa 1 \H ~\
ll'(~ 1006 IUJ]
JEJFr 'c.:0 I COU!'Jry
~~~I 0'- (:i'( ~~0r ,~ENT
l,... . ~1
.
,
.
I lE tIfT W IE
Inl1 MAY 24 2006
t ,
I I _______
\ !'r:.t' ,-;-.7 ~~. H .,
!
, \
',,' I
'. >
~ ~PI\ltST,_:
Sletr,.
.n,_... ..).
-:>
<"",
lt/C'~
~<I,Q
QI.....
Ii'"
~
t-_.
'"
I
.!
!
s.., R. :i
<:Oyle~=
0._... ,. """'q;
,...E1kRd.en
.;- "'" FOx Rd-
!o. 0..... 3:
"4' .
...: ~ '.- 'l:L
T C:!lii ,......
l M.~~ .~
(j en
E'lIIcn..fl~-
,
-'-'. I
f "'__,)
\C
.._'-'~
"~
\.,.,
;c..
':, .
"', .
0....
~i',;.
" .
\
'.
,
;.
/
./
c;
~~Rd,
EnII Rd .
-vr...---........
SmilIII,JI .
._,~
fJ.
02~ M~.com.lnc:.; C20Q!5
~~
,
.
.....
>-
VICINITY MAP
Lot 4 - Thousand Trails
Donald Road
Jefferson County, Washington
I JOb No' I Date' I
05289 Oct:. 2005
I Plate:
1 ,
GEOTECH
CONSULTANTS, INC.
.
,
....;. J
IE ~ f[ ~ IE
\\f~l\
\
/,1--___________________
/ ~,
, ,'-'~------ "
" " ------...... '...
,',' - ............ ....,
" " ,...... -...-------... ..... ......
,,' /' ;",/' '......... ......, .................
" " ... ...... '....... "',
"" .....' .....' '......... -',
.. " , ....... '... ..
" ,..' ", ,'-.......... ............. ............. '....
/' /' ...' ".........-..................',
",,'" .. ...... ............. ',',
// ,/ ,/ --,,/ ------ ---, \, "'--, ,
" " I / ............. ... ...... ... ,.....,\
.,,' 1/,' "",,- '... \, .......,\
" ,',' -...... '\, ", " I ...
"" ",,/ /' I "'.. .... " 'f ""'''''
.. ,',' l "''''... '...... "
,'" I ','.............
.. " "I . ... ... ........ 390
/ " /' l " '.... ...
" / ....' ,--------.............. ".... ......... ...............
I ,/ /", '''', ............. '''-, '...
.' " \,,~...... '......
"',, ~ ...... "...
" , / ...............-........... ...
" ," -...... "''-... " 400
,'/ / ,- ........ "''''...',
~,..' , " ......" "\,
,,- l " ........._... ',\
," B 1 / l \ \...
" .- ~/ / " \ 410
/ 0 ..,' " \', \
' .....--.......", ...
/' "....... '''''''' ...,..." ,I' '\ ... 420
/ ..J " \
/',/ ,
, ,
I.. '...
/' /' .. 430
" .
" ,
" ,
"" ,l
,,' "
/ /
/ ,
/
,....\ '
/ I ,/
, L_,"
//'
,/
....-...---..,'
MAY
"ENT 1
c'
""'-1
r"
(~.
-
...-----------...
~' ......--
----
,460
~~~
---~...--
-...-...
"
,......
"
...-'
,~
......'
~,
"
...-'
----------------...-----......
...-...---__...... 470
"
"
"
",-----------------------......'-------------------------,...-'-----------------~,'
~~
,
GEOTECH
CONSULTANTS, INe.
SITE EXPLORATION PLAN
Lot 4 - Thousand Trails
Donald Road
Jefferson County, Washington
I Plate,
z/
A
,..
I Job No,
05289
I Date,
Oct. 2005
r
No Scale
'-
0'" BORING 1
...~~ ,$!'" ~o l,.~
<tIO' ';<J'~ ~'o .o~~ ~~ ,,-c'"
,\0' 'cp <S~ Description
Grass over
FILL? Brown, silty SAND. fine- to medium-grained, moist, loose (FILL?)
\. )I ..,'
5
10
25
40
'-~
,
50/6" 5 I
1111111 .
::::: :: Redlbrown, gravelly, silty SAND, fine- to medium-grained, mOist, dense
SOlS" 1 I::: i i :: - blows may be overstated due to gravel in sampler
47
50/6"
: Brown. gravelly, silty SAND, fine- to medium-grained, moist, very dense
50/6" 4 1
- becomes more gravelly
8M
, "
, "
, "
, "
, "
, "
, "
, "
, "
, "
, "
, "
, "
, "
, "
, "
, "
II II
II III
II I'"
- brown, medium-grained sand lenses
fD) [E rr: [E n~ lE
~1J MAY 2 4 2006 .'
l 'Fr '.( COUN"( J
rEq C~ [1"- ~'r, L.01 ,:; ,'H
SOlS" 6 1
w::::::,' Brown, gravelly SAND, medium-grained, moist, very dense
50/1" 7 I::::i::
:~:
1: ~. . ,..':
';':;,: .......
50/3"
.....
8 I mmmmw - no gravel; becomes fine-grained
. Test boring was tenninated at 40.75 feet on September 12, 2005.
. No groundwater seepage was encountered during drilling.
BORING LOG
Lot 4 - Thousand Trails
Donald Road
Jefferson Coun ,Washin ton
IJObl Date: I Logged by: I Plate:
. 05289 .. Oct 2005 .. GOB. 3
GEOTECH
CONSULTANTS, INC.
I
;,>-
0....
....e,' ,;)J~ ~o ';"e,
-$0' ~~ -<9,0 db' <,<i:Q G'?
,\0' 'i <;0' \)~
"
~... ",.I
5
10
15
20
25
~"
,
BORING 2
Description
35
; I ; ; ; I r Grass over
1111111
: : : : : :: Orangelbrown, gravelly, silty SAND, fine- to medium-grained, damp, dense
"!IIII
1111111
1111111
III""
,
: 8M
1 Ii:::::: - becomes moist with fine-grained sand lenses, less gravels
111"11
IIIIII1
IIIIII1
r"1111
111,.11
1111111
33
Brown, sandy SILT, with fine-grained sand lenses, non-plastic, very moist,
2 I dense
ML
63
3 1.,;::11:111:1 Brown SAND, fine- to medium-grained, moist, very dense
. .
:;:::::;;:;:::::
5014"
4 I i.'!~;.}! - becomes gravelly
;:~~:Wji~!im
;~: ~:; n; n ~
:: : : : :: Brown, gravelly, silty SAND, fine- to medium-grained, moist, very dense
5012" 51111''''
IIIII11
Itlllll
: 8M
,
,
1111'"
11111/1
1111111
1111111
50/3" 6 II I r , . I I
.
-
* Test boring was terminated at 30.25 feet on September 12, 2005.
* No groundwater seepage was encountered during drilling.
IDJHIf!1H ~I
Ilr(",y ~ ~J .1
\ f-fr" JIJI'iTY
L~r."i ~ .r.i'_ - ," t..Li f:~EN.
GEOTECH
CONSULTANTS, INe.
BORING LOG
Lot 4 - Thousand Trails
Donald Road
Jefferson Coun ,Washin ton
I Job I Date: I Logged by: I Plate:
05289 , Oct. 2005 " GOB , 4
;r
0"
"q,~ ,j'" <10 :",q,
~O' ';<J\.q,<(J\.0 ~~ ~~ GC;;
",0' ~ <:,0' \)':3
t,
....... ,/
5
10
15
25
30
35
40
'-~
,
BORING 3
Description
:;::;;: Grass over
::::::: Orange/brown, gravelly, silty SAND, fine- to medium-grained, damp,
: : : : :: medium-dense .
111111
"'l'
24
1 I
8M
'"11
IIIII
11111
11111
IIIII
III1I
11111
"111
- becomes moist
27
>':>;},: Orange/brown SAND, fine-grained, moist, medium-dense
2 IIII'~~:I!I- becomes gray
......
~:~:::,::; :i:::;
....
30 31
38 41
42
51
:i:I:1
~
8M
55
50/5" 7 I
ML
..
-
65
Brown/gray, sandy SILT, with fine-grained sand lenses, non-plastic, moist,
dense
ML
- becomes very moist
Brown/gray SAND, with silt lenses, fine-grained, moist, dense
Brown/gray. sandy SILT, with fine-grained sand lenses, non-plastic, moist,
very dense
IQ)rE<<:~~W~ ~
lnl[uAY 24~] i
v" ,_ I
,~~'
GEOTECH
CONSULTANTS, INe.
8'
* Test boring was terminated at 41.5 feet on September 12,2005.
* No roundwater seepa e was encountered durin drillin .
BORING LOG
Lot 4 . Thousand trails
Donald Road
Jefferson Coun ,Washin ton
~
Job
05289
Plate:
5
DBte:
Oct. 2005
f, ...
'- -' .'
1~ . ~-OO 1. o. o.
\
/'\.
I., "-
"-
"- ~
0-
~
~r--. r-....
II '\ I"'-..
'-
:'\
'w.
-
Sieve Opening (mm.)
~
~
~
!
"
<;
!
o
"
8
IS
o
o
100
1
90
eo
70
eo
l
~
50 a
-:
.
.
<0 l!.
JO
'"
10
0
Sieve Opening (US Nnd.rd)
---Bomgf,f5fMt.8~moIIdJ.n
---Bomg1,3Sfeet.3.9'l1ornolsture I
[D) [E (G f] WlE fR\\
lntl"y 24 1o~lU)
1 .,,, ,_'v
[.p.'. c (r.' r .ul .ENT
~l"
,
GEOTECH
CONSULTANTS, INC.
GRAIN SIZE ANALYSES
Lot 4 - Thousand Trails
Donald Road
Jefferson Coun . Washin ton
I Job I Date: I I Plate: 6
05289 Oct 2005 ..
,
~...
>-
(.-.:-."
( .
Slope backfill away from
foundation. Provide surface
drains where necessary.
Washed Rock
(7/8" min. size)
Backfill
(See text for
requirements)
Tightline Roof Drain
(Do not connect to footing drain)
Nonwoven Geotextile
Filter Fabric
Vapor Retarder/Barrier and
Capillary Break/Drainage Layer
(Refer to Report text)
4" Perforated Hard PVC Pipe
(Invert at least 6 inches below
slab or crawl space. Slope to
drain to appropriate outfall.
Place holes downward.)
,0) [E ~ lE -TI W lE IR\. I
lnll'AY 2 4 ~lUJ
\ ... L,.,,; .'",. '!Ty
~ T C r u,> :ENT
NOTES:
(1) In crawl spaces, provide an outlet drain to prevent buildup of water that
bypasses the perimeter footing drains.
(2) Refer to report text for additional drainage, waterproofing, and slab considerations.
~~
)
.
-
r
FOOTING DRAIN DETAIL
Lot 4 - Thousand Trails
Donald Road
Jefferson Coun ,Washin ton
I Job I Date: I Scale: I Plate:
05289 Oct. 2005 Not to Scale 7
I
GEOTECH
CONSULTANTS, INC.