Types of Shallow Foundations and Their Uses
A shallow foundation is also known as the spread footing which helps to transfer the weight of the building structure to the surrounding soils which is close to the surface area. Other types of foundations go deeper into the earth, whereas, the shallow foundation have a depth which is less than its width.
The shallow foundation had been constructed in those areas where the upper layer of the soil reaches a maximum depth of 1.5 meters and thus possesses the capacity to stand with the structural load of the construction structure. This type of foundation helps to ensure stability on the surface level of the soil.
Design requirements for Shallow Foundation
Certain design requirements should have to be met for the shallow foundation which are:
? There should be safety against the load-bearing capacity, that is strength exceedance of the underlying soil. ? Excessive settlement which can be damaging to the overlying structure or affects the functionality of the construction structure should be controlled.
Importance of Shallow Foundation
There are several advantages to choosing a shallow foundation in the construction site which are as follows:
Simpler construction process
The construction process of the shallow foundation is relatively straightforward as compared to the construction process of other foundations which helps to make this type of foundation more quicker.
Cost-effectiveness
Fewer materials and excavations are required for the construction of the shallow foundation as compared to the deep foundations. This helps to save the overall cost of constructing this type of foundation.
Suitability for various structures
The shallow foundation is suitable for various types of construction structures such as houses, garages, low-rise buildings, or some bridges on solid ground.
Limitations of shallow foundations
Apart from the advantages, there are also some limitations of shallow foundation which are: