Foundation Systems Engineering, P.C.

How Elite Project Managers Leverage Geotechnical Expertise 1. Site Selection: ? Common Approach: Acquire a site and subsequently commission an Environmental Site Assessment (ESA). ? Elite Strategy: Engage geotechnical experts during the site selection phase to identify optimal conditions, thereby mitigating risks and potential costs. 2. Foundation Design: ? Common Approach: Specify a foundation type and request geotechnical validation. ? Elite Strategy: Collaborate with geotechnical engineers to determine the most suitable foundation system based on comprehensive soil analysis, ensuring structural integrity and cost-effectiveness. 3. Retaining Structures: ? Common Approach: Request the design of a specific retaining structure, such as a gabion wall. ? Elite Strategy: Provide site data to geotechnical professionals and seek recommendations for the most efficient and effective retaining solution tailored to the site’s unique conditions. 4. Risk Management: ? Common Approach: Address geotechnical challenges as they arise during construction. ? Elite Strategy: Implement proactive geotechnical risk assessments during the planning stages to anticipate and mitigate potential issues, ensuring smoother project execution. 5. Regulatory Compliance: ? Common Approach: Ensure designs meet basic code requirements. ? Elite Strategy: Collaborate with geotechnical engineers to not only comply with regulations but also to adopt best practices that enhance safety, sustainability, and performance.

Powering Safety from the Ground Up ??? Substations are the backbone of our power grid—ensuring their foundations and materials meet the highest standards is critical. At Foundation Systems Engineering (FSE) and our sister company, Construction Materials Laboratory (CML), we specialize in geotechnical investigations and materials testing for substation infrastructure. From drilled pier inspections to soil resistivity testing, we help ensure these essential facilities remain safe, stable, and reliable. ? Precision. Safety. Quality. ? Proud to support the infrastructure that keeps the lights on! ??: Scott Fitzgerald #GeotechnicalEngineering #MaterialsTesting #SubstationInspections #Infrastructure #PowerGridReliability #EngineeringExcellence

Why Test Windows? Because Water Always Finds a Way! ????? Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at fenestration testing—a critical part of ensuring building envelopes perform as designed. This setup is used to simulate wind-driven rain conditions and evaluate whether a window system can withstand real-world exposure without leaking. ?? What’s happening here? This controlled test applies water and air pressure to the window assembly, assessing its resistance to leakage under various conditions. The goal? Identify vulnerabilities before they turn into costly failures. ?? Why does this matter? ? Water intrusion can lead to structural damage, mold, and insulation failure ? Proper materials testing and quality control prevent costly repairs ? Ensuring compliance with ASTM and AAMA standards protects the integrity of the building envelope At Foundation Systems Engineering, we go beyond the ground—we test the materials and systems that protect your structures from the elements. From geotechnical engineering to construction materials testing, we ensure every component of your project meets the highest standards. ?? Have you ever seen the damage caused by a leaking window system? Share your experiences in the comments! #BuildingScience #MaterialsTesting #FenestrationTesting #WaterIntrusion #ConstructionQuality #GeotechnicalEngineering

Understanding Soil-Structure Interaction in Deep Excavations ????? What happens beneath the surface when we design deep excavations? This image is a geotechnical analysis of soil deformation and structural response for a basement excavation supported by piles and an SOE (Support of Excavation) wall with tiebacks. ?? What are we looking at? ? The Basement Structure is supported by deep piles, which transfer loads to stronger soil or rock. ? The SOE wall with tiebacks holds back soil and prevents collapse during excavation. ? The colored contours represent soil displacement, showing how the ground reacts to excavation and support systems. ?? Why does this matter? ? Understanding how soil moves helps engineers design safer, more efficient foundations. ? Proper support systems prevent failures that could impact surrounding buildings and infrastructure. ? Advanced numerical modeling like this allows us to simulate conditions before construction, reducing risks and costly surprises. At Foundation Systems Engineering, we use cutting-edge geotechnical analysis to ensure the ground beneath your project is as solid as your vision. ?? What’s the most challenging excavation project you’ve worked on? Share your experiences below! #GeotechnicalEngineering #FoundationDesign #SoilStructureInteraction #DeepExcavation #EngineeringInnovation

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What is Concrete Coring? And Why Does It Matter? ?????? When a project requires precise access through concrete—whether for testing, utilities, or structural modifications—concrete coring is the go-to method. This specialized drilling technique allows for clean, accurate, and minimally disruptive removal of concrete cores without damaging surrounding structures. ?? What is Concrete Coring Used For? ? Structural Testing – Extracting core samples to assess concrete strength & quality ? Utility Installations – Creating openings for plumbing, electrical, and HVAC ? Anchor Installation – Drilling precise holes for structural anchors ? Forensic & Failure Analysis – Investigating deterioration or defects in concrete structures ?? Why is this important? Concrete coring provides a non-destructive and controlled method to analyze and modify structures safely and efficiently. At Foundation Systems Engineering, we utilize state-of-the-art coring techniques as part of our materials testing and special inspections to ensure your project meets the highest standards of safety and performance. Need concrete coring for your next project? Let’s talk. ??: fsepc.com ??: 423-239-9226 ??: [email protected] #ConcreteCoring #MaterialsTesting #SpecialInspections #GeotechnicalEngineering #StructuralIntegrity #ConstructionTesting

What is Masonry Scanning? And Why Does It Matter? ????? Masonry structures—whether historic or newly built—can hide critical defects beneath the surface. That’s where masonry scanning comes in, providing a non-destructive way to evaluate the integrity of brick, block, and stone assemblies without invasive testing. ?? How does masonry scanning work? Using technologies like Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), ultrasonic testing, and thermal imaging, we can detect: ? Hidden voids – Gaps or inconsistencies that weaken the structure ? Rebar placement – Verification of reinforcement and spacing ? Moisture intrusion – Identifying trapped water that can cause long-term damage ? Cracks & delamination – Early detection of structural issues before they escalate ?? Why is this important? Unchecked masonry defects can lead to structural failures, costly repairs, and safety risks. Whether for historic preservation, quality control, or forensic investigations, masonry scanning gives engineers, contractors, and building owners the insights needed to make informed decisions. At Foundation Systems Engineering, we provide expert masonry scanning as part of our special inspections and forensic evaluation services—helping ensure your structures remain safe, sound, and built to last. ??: fsepc.com ??: 423-239-9226 ??: [email protected] #MasonryScanning #StructuralIntegrity #BuildingSafety #SpecialInspections #ForensicEngineering #GeotechnicalEngineering #ConstructionTesting