Subgrade Condition Assessments
Austin, TX
Severe weather events, such as tropical cyclones and thunderstorms, often result in extensive structural damage. Heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding can compromise the integrity of building foundations, leading to long-term subgrade issues that require thorough assessment.
Residential Subgrade Assessment Case Study
In this example, a residential home inspection was conducted to evaluate subgrade conditions following a major storm event. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), a key method in both Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE), was utilized to assess subsurface conditions and identify potential structural concerns.
GPR Methodology and Results
1. Subsurface Mapping
GPR scanning was performed to generate a high-resolution subsurface condition map, providing critical data on soil stability and potential voids beneath the foundation (See Picture 1).
Picture 1 - Residence
2. Damage Assessment
The collected GPR data was analyzed to determine the extent of subsurface degradation caused by storm-induced flooding. The virtual ground condition map (See Picture 2) highlighted areas of concern, such as soil displacement, erosion and potential void formation.
Picture 2 - GPR
3. Structural Support and Beam Detection
GPR scanning also identified the locations of grade beams and structural supports, enabling precise mapping of the beam layout (See BLUE area in Picture 3). This information is essential for assessing the foundation’s load-bearing capacity and planning necessary reinforcements.
Picture 3 - LiDAR documentation
4. Enhanced Visualization with LiDAR Integration
To improve the clarity of findings, the GPR dataset was integrated with LiDAR documentation, offering a comprehensive visualization of the subgrade conditions (See Picture 3). This multi-method approach enhances the accuracy of structural evaluations and facilitates informed decision-making for remediation efforts.
Conclusion
Utilizing GPR for subgrade assessments provides engineers and construction professionals with critical insights into subsurface conditions, enabling proactive risk mitigation and structural integrity verification. When combined with LiDAR and other geophysical methods, GPR enhances the accuracy of foundation assessments, ensuring safer and more resilient structures.
For expert GPR-based subgrade evaluations and structural integrity assessments, contact OmniVueNDT today.
