ST1002-SY111214Geotechnical Engineering Report
Main Street Development
SWC of W. Bethel and S. Coppell
Coppell, Texas
December 14, 2011
Terracon Project No. 94115231
Prepared for:
SCE Commercial Real Estate, LP
Irving, Texas
Prepared by:
Terracon Consultants, Inc.
Dallas, Texas
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1.0INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 1
2.0PROJECT INFORMATION ................................................................................................. 1
2.1Site Location and Description ..................................................................................... 1
2.2Project Description ..................................................................................................... 1
3.0SUBSURFACE CONDITIONS ............................................................................................ 2
3.1Typical Profile ............................................................................................................. 2
3.2Groundwater ............................................................................................................... 3
4.0RECOMMENDATIONS FOR DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ......................................... 4
4.1Geotechnical Considerations ...................................................................................... 4
4.2Earthwork ................................................................................................................... 5
4.2.1
Fill and Subgrade Preparation ....................................................................... 5
4.2.2
Select Fill ....................................................................................................... 5
4.2.3
Building Pad Preparation ............................................................................... 5
4.2.4
Compaction Requirements ............................................................................ 6
4.2.5
Drainage and Utilities .................................................................................... 6
4.3Monolithic, Post-Tensioned Slabs-on-Grade .............................................................. 7
4.4Auger Cast Piles ......................................................................................................... 8
4.4.1
Lateral Capacity ............................................................................................. 9
4.4.2
Auger Cast Piles Construction Considerations .............................................. 9
4.4.3
Grade Beams, Pier Caps and Wall Panels .................................................. 10
4.5Seismic Considerations ............................................................................................ 10
4.6Conventionally Reinforced Floor Systems ................................................................ 10
4.6.1
Structural Floor Slabs .................................................................................. 11
4.6.2
Floor Slabs/Flatwork on Prepared Subgrade .............................................. 11
4.7Pavements ................................................................................................................ 11
4.7.1
Pavement Subgrades .................................................................................. 11
4.7.2
Pavement Traffic ......................................................................................... 12
4.7.3
Pavement Sections ...................................................................................... 12
5.0GENERAL COMMENTS ................................................................................................... 13
APPENDIX A – FIELD EXPLORATION
Exhibit A-1 Boring Location Plan
Exhibit A-2 Field Exploration Description
Exhibits A-3 through A-31 Boring Logs
APPENDIX B – LABORATORY TESTING
Exhibit B-1 Laboratory Testing
APPENDIX C – SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
Exhibit C-1 General Notes
Exhibit C-2 Unified Soil Classification
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING REPORT
MAIN STEET DEVELOPMENT
Coppell, Texas
Terracon Project No. 94115231
December 14, 2011
1.0 INTRODUCTION
A multi-use development is planned at the intersection of W. Bethel and S. Coppell in Coppell, Texas.
Our scope of services included drilling and sampling twenty-nine (29) borings to depths of 5 to 20 feet,
laboratory testing, and engineering analyses. The purpose of these services is to provide information
and geotechnical engineering recommendations relative to:
subsurface soil conditions seismic considerations
groundwater conditions floor slab design and construction
earthwork pavement and associated drives
foundation design and construction
2.0 PROJECT INFORMATION
2.1 Site Location and Description
ItemDescription
An approximate 22 acre tract at the in the southwest corner of West
Location
Bethel Road and South Coppell Road in Coppell, Texas
Vacant site, currently under mass grading operations at the time of
Existing conditions
the geotechnical exploration
Current ground cover Primarily bare ground
Existing topography The site is relatively flat
2.2 Project Description
ItemDescription
Site layout See Appendix A, Exhibit A-1, Boring Location Plan.
ResponsiveReliableResourceful
1
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
ItemDescription
Multi-use site with 13 office cottages, 11 retail/service buildings, 2
Planned construction
restaurants, and 44 patio homes.
Finished floor elevation Not known at this time, assumed to be ±2 feet of existing grades
Columns: 100 kips
Assumed maximum loads Walls: 2 to 3 kips per linear foot
Slabs: 150 psf max
Columns: 1 inch
Assumed maximum allowable
Walls: 1 inch
vertical movement
Floor slab: 1 inch
Site grading Not known at this time
Cut and fill slopes: 4H: 1V (Horizontal to vertical) max (recommended)
3.0 SUBSURFACE CONDITIONS
3.1 Typical Profile
Conditions encountered at each boring location are indicated on the individual boring logs.
Stratification boundaries on the boring logs represent the approximate location of changes in soil
types; in-situ, the transition between materials may be gradual. Details for each of the boring
locations can be found on the boring logs in Appendix A of this report.
Based on the results of the borings, subsurface conditions on the project site can be generalized as
follows:
Approximate Depth to
Stratum Materials Encountered (USCS symbol) Consistency
Bottom of Stratum
Fill materials consisting of crushed
Very stiff to
1 1 to 8 feet, when encountered limestone base, and tan, brown, gray, and
hard clays
dark gray clays (CL and CH)
10 ½ to 20 feet. Borings B-3, B-9,
Native soils consisting of tan, brown, light
2
and B-21 terminated in this gray, gray, and dark gray clays (CH) and Stiff to hard
stratum at 5 to 20 feet sandy clays (CL)
14 to 20 feet. Borings B-1, B-2,
B-6 through B-8, B-10 through
Tan and light gray clayey sands (SC) and Loose to very
3
B-14, B-16 through B-20, and
sands (SP) dense
B-22 through B-29 terminated in
this stratum at about 20 feet
ResponsiveResourcefulReliable
2
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
Approximate Depth to
Stratum Materials Encountered (USCS symbol) Consistency
Bottom of Stratum
Termination depth of 20 feet in Stiff to very
4Tan and light gray clays (CH and CL)
Borings B-5 and B-15 stiff
3.2 Groundwater
The borings were advanced in the dry using auger drilling techniques, which allows short-term
groundwater observations to be made while drilling. Groundwater seepage was encountered in
some of the borings. The following table presents the groundwater observations at the time of the
geotechnical exploration. Groundwater was not encountered in the remaining borings at that time.
Depth to groundwater
Depth to groundwater
Boring following the completion
observed while drilling
of drilling
B-2 12 feet 15 feet
B-8 17 feet 19 feet
B-11 18 feet 19 feet
B-12 18.5 feet 19 feet
B-13 18 feet Not encountered
B-14 18 feet 19 feet
B-15 18 feet 18 feet
B-16 16.5 feet 17 feet
B-17 18 feet 19 feet
B-18 17 feet 16 feet
B-19 19 feet 19 feet
B-22 18.5 feet 19 feet
B-23 19 feet 19 feet
B-24 17 feet 18 feet
B-25 17 feet 19 feet
B-27 12 feet 14 feet
B-29 18 feet Not encountered
Groundwater conditions may be different at the time of construction. Groundwater conditions may
change because of seasonal variations in rainfall and landscape irrigation.
ResponsiveResourcefulReliable
3
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
4.0 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION
4.1 Geotechnical Considerations
The soils at this site consist of highly expansive clays overlying sands at varying depths. Due to
the expansive nature of these clays, structures supported by shallow spread footings could be
subject to excessive movements. Furthermore, the presence of the sandy soils and groundwater
below about 11 feet in most borings would preclude the installation of a deeper foundation system
such as underreamed shafts. Lightly loaded structures can be supported on a monolithic, post-
tensioned foundation system. Greater column loads can be supported by installation of auger cast
piles.
A more refined selection of foundation types may be improved by the addition of a few deeper
borings in the areas of greater column loads. Heavier loads could ideally be supported by drilled
shafts bearing in the primary bedrock unit, which may be as deep as 30 to 40 feet on this site.
The clay soils at this site are considered active to highly active with respect to moisture-induced
volume changes (expansion or contraction). If floor slab movements must be limited to less than 1
inch, a floor system structurally supported above the subgrade is recommended. If potential slab
movements on the order of 1 inch are acceptable for at-grade slabs, the floor slab can be
supported on a modified subgrade. It should be noted that there is a risk that even ½ inch of
movement can result in unsatisfactory performance. Some of the risks that can affect performance
include uneven floors, floor and wall cracking, and sticking doors.
Fill soils were encountered at the surface in several borings. In the absence of documented
density control, the possibility of under-compacted zones or voids exists in these fills. Removal
and replacement of all the fills following the recommendations in subsequent sections of this report
is the only method of eliminating the risk of unusual settlement.
Asphaltic concrete pavement or portland cement concrete pavement can be used at this site. If
asphaltic concrete is used, the subgrade should be stabilized with lime. These pavements are not
equal in performance. The portland cement concrete pavement is expected to require less
maintenance.
Geotechnical recommendations for building foundations, floor slab subgrade preparation, below grade
construction, pavement, and earthwork are presented in the following report sections.
ResponsiveResourcefulReliable
4
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
4.2 Earthwork
4.2.1 Fill and Subgrade Preparation
The on-site soils, free of vegetation, debris, and rocks greater than 4 inches in maximum
dimension, are generally suitable for site grading. If imported fill materials are used, they should
be clean soil with a Liquid Limit preferably less than 40 percent and no rock greater than 4 inches
in maximum dimension.
Prior to placing any fill, the areas to receive fill will need to be stripped and grubbed. Any subgrade
areas to receive fill should be proofrolled with heavy pneumatic equipment. Any soft or pumping
areas identified should be excavated to firm ground and properly backfilled.
4.2.2 Select Fill
The material used as select fill should be sandy clay to clayey sand with a Liquid Limit (LL) of less
than 35 percent and a Plasticity Index (PI) preferably between 6 and 15. The first lift of select fill
should be placed wet of optimum to prevent drying the underlying subgrade. Positive drainage
must be provided away from the structure to prevent the ponding of water in the select fill.
As an alternate to select fill, flexible base can be used. The base should meet the requirements of
TxDOT Item 247, Type A, Grade 1 or 2. Recycled concrete meeting these requirements is
acceptable. The use of flexible base rather than low plasticity select fill is recommended in below
grade areas to provide for a more stable working surface.
4.2.3 Building Pad Preparation
The potential magnitude of the moisture induced movements is rather indeterminate. It is
influenced by the soil properties, overburden pressures, and to a great extent by soil moisture
levels at the time of construction. Based on the soil types encountered in the borings, movements
in slabs-on-grade placed near existing grades are estimated to be about 3 to 4 inches.
For the construction of monolithic, post-tensioned slab foundations, some degree of earthwork may
Section 4.3
be recommended to reduce the design parameters provided in . For these cases, the
recommended depths of subgrade preparation are listed alongside the corresponding PTI design
parameters. For these cases, the upper 1 foot of soils should also consist of select fill.
In conjunction with auger cast piles, interior slabs can be placed on a modified subgrade. The
building pad, sensitive flatwork areas, and one foot beyond should be excavated to permit
installation of modified soils. In order to achieve slab-on-grade movements of about 1 inch, we
recommend overexcavating to a depth of 10 feet below finished floor elevation and then placing
moisture conditioned site soils in conjunction with the upper one foot of select fill to reestablish
grade.
ResponsiveResourcefulReliable
5
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
In some instances it is considered advantageous to cap the moisture-conditioned pad with a lime
stabilized layer, rather than select fill. This provides a more all weather surface for construction,
and is often considered an economic advantage. The lime-stabilized section should be 6 inches
Section 4.7.1
deep and follow the TxDOT specifications referenced in of this report.
The select fill or lime cap and moisture conditioning processes should be extended beyond the
building line to include entrances, the canopy slab, abutting sidewalks, and other flatwork areas
sensitive to movement.
4.2.4 Compaction Requirements
Recommendations for compaction are presented in the following table.We recommend that
engineered fill be tested for moisture content and compaction during placement. Should the
results of the in-place density tests indicate the specified moisture or compaction limits have not
been met, the area represented by the test should be reworked and retested as required until the
specified moisture and compaction requirements are achieved.
ITEMDESCRIPTION
Subgrade preparation to
Surface scarified to a minimum depth of 6 inches
receive fill
Site soil and select fill
9-inches or less loose lift thickness
Lift thickness
A minimum of 95% maximum standard Proctor dry density (ASTM D
General site fills
698) placed at or above optimum moisture content
Moisture conditioned clays 92% to 98% standard Proctor dry density (ASTM D 698) placed at
beneath building pads least +4 percentage points above optimum moisture content
A minimum of 95% maximum standard Proctor dry density (ASTM D
Select fill/flexible base
698) at -2 to +2 percentage points of optimum moisture content
Lime-stabilized or untreated A minimum of 95% maximum standard Proctor dry density (ASTM D
pavement subgrade soils 698) at -1 to +3 percentage points of optimum moisture content
4.2.5 Drainage and Utilities
The flatwork abutting the structure should be sloped down to provide effective drainage away from
the building. Where paving or flatwork abuts the structure, the joints should be properly sealed and
maintained to prevent the infiltration of surface water. Open ground should be sloped on 5 percent
or steeper grades for 10 or more feet away from the building. Roof drains should discharge on
paved surface or be extended away from the structure. The on-site soils are susceptible to erosion
and will require protection.
Care should be taken that utility trenches are properly backfilled. Backfilling should be
accomplished with properly compacted on-site soils. A minimum 3-foot wide, properly compacted
ResponsiveResourcefulReliable
6
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
clay plug at the building line is recommended to help prevent water from migrating under the
building through the utility trench backfill.
4.3 Monolithic, Post-Tensioned Slabs-on-Grade
Post-tensioned or conventionally reinforced monolithic, slab-on-grade foundation systems used on
this site must be designed to resist potential movements due to volume changes in the soil without
inducing unacceptable distress in the foundation, structural elements or architectural finishes. The
movements will typically tend to occur differentially between more heavily loaded perimeter grade
beams and lightly loaded interior portions of the slab-on-grade system.
Design parameters are presented in the table below using the Post-Tensioning Institute's (PTI)
slab-on-grade design method (Third Edition, 2004). Design parameters provided are for slabs
placed on the existing soils and a modified subgrade.
Center Lift Edge Lift
Subgrade Treatment
eyey
mmmm
feet inchfeet inch
None; existing site soils 6.7 2.3 4.1 3.9
Overexcavating to a depth of 4 feet, and
reestablishing grade with moisture conditioned 6.7 2.3 4.1 2.0
soils and a 1 foot cap of select fill
Overexcavating to a depth of 10 feet, and
reestablishing grade with moisture conditioned 6.7 2.3 4.1 1.4
soils and a 1 foot cap of select fill
The grade beams of the slab-on-grade foundation system should exert a maximum bearing
pressure of 1,800 psf. These beams should extend a minimum of 18 inches below finished grade
and bear in native stiff clays, medium dense sands, or in properly compacted fill.
Design parameters are estimates based on assumptions that the area around the structure will be
well drained, landscape beds are not over watered, and utility leaks are promptly repaired. Trees
should be planted at least one-mature tree height from the building. Root barriers should be
installed if trees are planted within one mature tree height.
It should be noted that excessive water from any source could result in movements greater than
the slab was designed to accommodate. A greater risk of unsatisfactory foundation performance
exists with a slab-on-grade design than a drilled shaft foundation system. For example, should
leaks develop in underground water or sewer lines, or the grades around the building are changed
and cause ponding of water, unacceptable slab movements could develop. If the risk of movement
ResponsiveResourcefulReliable
7
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
is unacceptable, the building should be designed with a structural slab and deep, drilled shaft
foundations.
4.4 Auger Cast Piles
Based on the conditions encountered in the borings, a system of auger cast piles bearing in the
medium dense sands can be used to support loads. Augered cast-in-place piles are installed by
advancing a hollow-stem auger to a predetermined depth in the ground, and then pumping high-
strength flowable cement grout into the hole through the bottom of the hollow auger as the auger is
slowly withdrawn. The grout is pumped under relatively high pressure, and a positive head of grout
is maintained above the base of the auger during auger extraction. After the auger is completely
removed, reinforcing steel is then placed.
Full scale, on-site load tests are customarily performed on augered cast-in-place piles to verify that
the desired capacity is achievable prior to continuing construction. Design recommendations are
presented below.
Design Parameter Recommendation
Bearing stratum Medium dense sands
Minimum pile diameter 18 inches
Ultimate load capacity and settlement of the augered-cast
piles should be verified using load tests procedures as
described in ASTM D1143. Final design augered cast-in-
Final design augered cast-in-place pile place pile capacities and settlements should be based upon
capacities field load testing data. A safety factor of 2.0 (allowable
capacity reduction) is recommended for augered cast-in-
place pile after ultimate capacity is determined by the load
test (ASTM D1143).
A center to center spacing of 3 pile diameters is
Minimum center to center spacing of
recommended between adjacent piles. Closely spaced piles
adjacent piles
should be examined on a case by case basis.
Settlements of properly installed augered cast-in-place piles
Total and differential settlement are expected to be less than 1 inch. Most of this settlement
is expected to occur as the foundation loads are applied.
It is anticipated that an allowable design compressive capacity of about 50 kips will be supported
by load test on an 18 inch diameter shaft embedded to a depth of 20 feet, or a 24 inch diameter
shaft embedded to 20 feet can support up to 70 kips. A safety factor of 2 has been applied to the
preliminary allowable capacities.
ResponsiveResourcefulReliable
8
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
Auger-cast piles may be subject to some vertical movement due to the expansive nature of the
soils at the site. Embedment depths for vertical capacities are not likely to provide for sufficient
anchorage against pullout. We estimate that upward shaft movement be about ½ inch or less.
4.4.1 Lateral Capacity
The piles may be subject to lateral loads. Recommendations for design of laterally loaded piles
are presented in the table. This value recommended below may be increased by 20 percent when
considering wind loads. The passive resistance should be applied to the projected diameter of the
pile.
Soil Allowable Passive Resistance
Site clays (0-11 feet) 200 psf
Sands (below 11 feet) 500 psf
These recommended lateral earth pressures apply to shafts spaced at 5 or more shaft diameters,
center to center, in the direction parallel to loading. This office should review the lateral earth
pressure recommendations for shafts spaced closer than 5 shaft diameters.
4.4.2 Auger Cast Piles Construction Considerations
Augered cast-in-place piles shall be made by rotating a continuous flight, hollow-shaft auger into
the ground to design depth. High strength grout is injected through the auger shaft in such a way
as to exert positive upward grout pressure on the auger flights and positive lateral earth pressure
on the shaft walls, as the auger is being withdrawn. Grout used for the augered-cast piles should
have a flow rate of 10 to 25 seconds when a ¾ inch opening (Modified U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers) flow cone is used.
A minimum of two piles should be tested prior to commencement of foundation construction using
the ASTM D1143 axial pile load test procedure. The pile should be loaded until failure or at least
two times the design load. Test piles loaded to failure should not become part of the permanent
foundation system. Load testing should be performed by the augered-cast pile contractor in the
presence of the geotechnical engineer of record and/or his designee. Cost of the load tests
performed by the piling contractor should be included in the base bid price.
We recommend that Terracon be retained to observe and document the augered-cast pile
construction. The geotechnical engineer or his representative should document the shaft diameter,
drilling elevation, tip elevation, elevation of butt, quantity of grout placed, reinforcement steel,
plumbness, and the minimum penetration into the bearing soils. Significant deviations from the
specified or anticipated conditions should be reported to the owner’s representative and the
structural engineer.
ResponsiveResourcefulReliable
9
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
4.4.3 Grade Beams, Pier Caps and Wall Panels
In conjunction with auger-cast piles, all grade beams or wall panels should be supported by the
drilled shafts. A minimum void space of 8 inches is recommended between the bottom of grade
beams, pier cap extensions, or wall panels and the subgrade. This void will serve to minimize
distress resulting from swell pressures generated by the clay soils. Structural cardboard forms are
one acceptable means of providing this void beneath cast-in-place elements. Soil retainers should
be used to prevent infilling of the void.
The grade beams should be formed rather than cast against earth trenches. Backfill against the
exterior face of grade beams, wall panels and pier caps should be on site clay soils placed and
Section 4.2.4
compacted as described in .
4.5 Seismic Considerations
Code Used Site Classification
12
2009 International Building Code (IBC) D
1. In general accordance with the 2009 International Building Code, Table 1613.5.2.
2. The 2009 International Building Code (IBC) requires a site soil profile determination extending a
depth of 100 feet for seismic site classification. The current scope requested does not include the
required 100 foot soil profile determination. Borings were extended to a maximum depth of
approximately 20 feet and this seismic site class definition considers that stiff soils exist\s below the
maximum depth of the subsurface exploration. Additional exploration to deeper depths would be
required to confirm the conditions below the current depth of exploration. Alternatively, a geophysical
exploration could be utilized in order to attempt to justify a higher seismic site class.
4.6 Conventionally Reinforced Floor Systems
Lightly loaded floor slabs placed on-grade will be subject to movement as a result of moisture
induced volume changes in the active soils. The soils expand (heave) with increases in moisture
and contract (shrink) with decreases in moisture. The movement typically occurs as post
construction heave.
The potential magnitude of the moisture induced movements is rather indeterminate. It is
influenced by the soil properties, overburden pressures, and to a great extent by soil moisture
levels at the time of construction. Based on the soil types encountered in the borings, movements
in slabs-on-grade placed near existing grades are estimated to be about 3 to 4 inches.
Note that movements of ½ inch can result in uneven floors, sticking doors, and cracking of floor
slabs and wall partitions. If the risk of these movements is unacceptable, the floor slab should be
structural.
ResponsiveResourcefulReliable
10
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
4.6.1 Structural Floor Slabs
The building floor slab should be structurally supported above the subgrade if movements are to be
limited to less than 1 inch. A minimum void space of 12 inches is recommended beneath the slab.
The minimum void space can be provided by the use of cardboard carton forms, or a deeper crawl
space. The bottom of the void should preferably be higher than adjacent exterior grades. A
ventilated and drained crawl space is preferred under the building for several reasons, including
the following:
Ground movements will affect the project utilities, which can cause breaks in the lines and
distress to interior fixtures.
A crawl space permits utilities to be hung from the superstructure, which greatly reduces
the possibility of distress due to ground movements. It also can provide ready access in the
event repairs are necessary.
Ground movements are uneven. A crawl space can be positively drained preventing the
ponding of water and reducing the possibility of distress due to unexpected ground
movements.
4.6.2 Floor Slabs/Flatwork on Prepared Subgrade
Slab on-grade construction should only be considered if slab movements on the order of about 1
inch are considered acceptable. Reductions in anticipated movements can be achieved by using
methods developed in this area to reduce on-grade slab movements. These methods include
excavating and moisture conditioning the site soils and capping them with non-expansive select
Section 4.2.3
fills. Recommendations are presented in for the treatment of these soils to achieve
slab movements on the order of about 1 inch.
The use of a vapor retarder should be considered beneath concrete slabs on grade that will be
covered with wood, tile, or carpet. A vapor retarder should be used for other moisture sensitive
coverings, impervious coverings, or when the slab will support equipment sensitive to moisture.
When conditions warrant the use of a vapor retarder, the slab designer and slab contractor should
refer to ACI 302 and/or ACI 360 for procedures and cautions regarding the use and placement of a
vapor retarder.
4.7 Pavements
4.7.1 Pavement Subgrades
Subgrade materials at this site will consist of clay soils. These soils are subject to loss of support
with the moisture increases that can occur beneath paving. The clay soils react with hydrated lime,
which serves to improve and maintain their support value. Lime stabilization is recommended
ResponsiveResourcefulReliable
11
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
beneath flexible (asphalt) pavement sections. Rigid (concrete) pavements may be placed on
compacted subgrade without lime treatment.
For budgeting purposes, 7 percent hydrated lime (TxDOT Item 264), by dry weight, can be used for
treating the subgrade beneath flexible pavements. The lime application rate should be determined
by laboratory testing once the pavement subgrade is rough graded. The lime should be thoroughly
mixed and blended with the top 6 inches of the subgrade (TxDOT, Item 260). Stabilization should
extend a minimum of one foot beyond the edge of the pavement.
The lime stabilized or natural subgrade should then be uniformly compacted in accordance to the
Section 4.2.4
recommendations in . It should then be protected and maintained in a moist
condition until the pavement is placed. Pavement subgrades should be graded to prevent ponding
and infiltration of excessive moisture on or adjacent to the pavement subgrade surface.
Site grading is generally accomplished early in the construction phase. However as construction
proceeds, the subgrade may be disturbed due to utility excavations, construction traffic,
desiccation, or rainfall. As a result, the pavement subgrade may not be suitable for pavement
construction and corrective action will be required.
The subgrade should be carefully evaluated at the time of pavement construction for signs of
disturbance or excessive rutting. If disturbance has occurred, pavement subgrade areas should be
reworked, moisture conditioned, and properly compacted to the recommendations in this report
immediately prior to paving.
4.7.2 Pavement Traffic
Traffic patterns and anticipated loading conditions were not available; however, typical pavement
sections with subgrade stabilization alternatives for a 20 year design life are provided. These
represent a total of 45,000 18-Kip Equivalent Single Axle Loads (ESALs) for Light Duty pavement
and 100,000 18-Kip ESALs for the Medium Duty pavement. The Light Duty pavement is intended
for passenger car and pick up trucks. The Medium Duty pavement is intended for passenger car,
pickup trucks, small delivery trucks, fire lanes and tractor trailer trucks.
If the pavements are subject to heavier loading and higher traffic counts than the assumed values,
this office should be notified and provided with the information so that we may review these
pavement sections and make revisions if necessary.
4.7.3 Pavement Sections
Both asphalt and concrete pavement sections are presented in the following table. They are not
considered equal. Over the life of the pavement, concrete sections would be expected to require
less maintenance.
ResponsiveResourcefulReliable
12
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
Pavement Thickness, Inches
Pavement Section
Light Duty Medium Duty
Dumpster Apron
45,000 x 18-kip ESALs100,000 x 18-kip ESALs
Concrete 5 6 7
Portland
Cement
Compacted
6 6 6
Concrete
Subgrade
TxDOT Type D
TxDOT Item 340 2 2 NA
Asphaltic Concrete
Full Depth
Type A or B
Asphaltic
TxDOT Item 340 3 4 NA
Concrete
Asphaltic Concrete
TxDOT, Item 260
Lime Stabilized 6 6 NA
Subgrade
* All materials should meet the TxDOT Standard Specifications for Highway Construction.
The concrete should have a minimum 28-day compressive strength of 3,000 psi in light duty areas
and 3,500 psi in medium duty and dumpster areas. It should contain a minimum of 5 ±1.5 percent
entrained air. As a minimum, the section should be reinforced with No. 3 bars on 18-inch centers
in both directions.
Pavements will be subject to differential movement due to heave in the site soils. Flat grades
should be avoided with positive drainage provided away from the pavement edges. Backfilling of
curbs should be accomplished as soon as practical to prevent ponding of water.
Openings in pavement, such as landscape islands, are sources for water infiltration into
surrounding pavements. Water collects in the islands and migrates into the surrounding subgrade
soils thereby degrading support of the pavement. This is especially applicable for islands with
raised concrete curbs, irrigated foliage, and low permeability near-surface soils. The civil design
for the pavements with these conditions should include features to restrict or to collect and
discharge excess water from the islands. Examples of features are edge drains connected to the
storm water collection system or other suitable outlet and impermeable barriers preventing lateral
migration of water such as a cutoff wall installed to a depth below the pavement structure.
5.0 GENERAL COMMENTS
Terracon should be retained to review the final design plans and specifications so comments can
be made regarding interpretation and implementation of our geotechnical recommendations in the
design and specifications. Terracon also should be retained to provide observation and testing
services during grading, excavation, foundation construction and other earth-related construction
phases of the project.
ResponsiveResourcefulReliable
13
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
The analysis and recommendations presented in this report are based upon the data obtained from
the borings performed at the indicated locations and from other information discussed in this report.
This report does not reflect variations that may occur between borings, across the site, or due to
the modifying effects of weather. The nature and extent of such variations may not become
evident until during or after construction. If variations appear, we should be immediately notified so
that further evaluation and supplemental recommendations can be provided.
The scope of services for this project does not include either specifically or by implication any
environmental or biological (e.g., mold, fungi, bacteria) assessment of the site or identification or
prevention of pollutants, hazardous materials or conditions. If the owner is concerned about the
potential for such contamination or pollution, other studies should be undertaken.
This report has been prepared for the exclusive use of our client for specific application to the
project discussed and has been prepared in accordance with generally accepted geotechnical
engineering practices. No warranties, either express or implied, are intended or made. Site safety,
excavation support, and dewatering requirements are the responsibility of others. In the event that
changes in the nature, design, or location of the project as outlined in this report are planned, the
conclusions and recommendations contained in this report shall not be considered valid unless
Terracon reviews the changes and either verifies or modifies the conclusions of this report in
writing.
ResponsiveResourcefulReliable
14
APPENDIX A
FIELD EXPLORATION
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
Field Exploration Description
Subsurface conditions were explored by drilling twenty-nine borings at the approximate
locations indicated on the Boring Location Plan on Exhibit A-1 in Appendix A. The field
exploration was performed on November 15 through 18, 2011. The test locations were
established in the field by measuring from available reference features and estimating right
angles. The boring locations should be considered accurate only to the degree implied by the
methods employed to determine them.
The borings were performed using a truck-mounted drill rig. Hollow stem augers were used to
advance the borings. Samples of the soils encountered in the borings were obtained using thin-
walled tube sampling procedures and split-barrel samplers in conjunction with the Standard
Penetration Test. The samples were tagged for identification, sealed to reduce moisture loss,
and taken to the laboratory for further examination, testing, and classification.
Field logs of the borings were prepared by the drill crew. The logs included visual classifications
of the materials encountered as well as interpretation of the subsurface conditions between
samples. The boring logs included with this report represent the engineer’s interpretation of the
field logs and include modifications based on laboratory evaluation of the samples. Boring logs
are presented on Exhibit A-3 through A-31 in Appendix A. General notes to log terms and
symbols are presented on Exhibit C-1 in Appendix C.
Exhibit A-2
APPENDIX B
LABORATORY TESTING
Geotechnical Engineering Report
Coppell, Texas
Main Street Development
December 14, 2011 Terracon Project No. 94115231
Laboratory Testing
The Boring Logs and samples were reviewed by a geotechnical engineer who selected soil
samples for testing. Tests were performed by technicians working under the direction of the
engineer. A brief description of the tests performed follows.
Liquid and Plastic Limit tests, particle size analyses, and moisture content measurements were
made to aid in classifying the soils in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System
(USCS). The USCS is summarized on Exhibit C-2 in Appendix C. Absorption swell tests were
performed on selected samples of the cohesive materials. These tests were used to
quantitatively evaluate volume change potential at in-situ moisture levels. Strength of cohesive
soils was measured by hand penetrometer and unconfined compression tests.
The results of the swell tests are presented in the following table. The results of the other
laboratory tests are presented on the Boring Logs in Appendix A.
LiquidPlasticityInitialFinal
Boring Depth Surcharge Swell
LimitIndexMoisture Moisture
No. (feet) (psf) (%)
(%) (%) (%) (%)
B-1 8 – 10 67 41 18.4 21.0 1,250 2.8
B-7 8 – 10 45 23 13.6 18.8 1,250 0.8
B-8 6 – 8 62 34 20.6 24.4 875 3.1
B-10 8 – 10 59 36 16.0 19.8 1,250 2.5
B-11 8 – 10 70 44 20.2 24.3 1,250 3.4
B-12 6 – 8 53 27 15.7 19.0 875 1.5
B-13 8 – 10 63 38 21.0 25.3 1,250 1.8
B-19 8 – 10 72 45 22.0 25.7 1,250 1.8
B-22 8 – 10 64 38 19.5 27.2 1,250 2.6
B-26 6 – 8 60 35 21.9 24.1 875 1.4
B-28 8 – 10 61 37 17.7 23.9 1,250 1.7
Exhibit B-1
APPENDIX C
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
GENERAL NOTES
DRILLING & SAMPLING SYMBOLS:
3
SS: Split Spoon – 1-/" I.D., 2" O.D., unless otherwise noted HS: Hollow Stem Auger
8
ST: Thin-Walled Tube - 2" O.D., unless otherwise noted PA: Power Auger
TC: TxDOT Cone Penetrometer Test HA: Hand Auger
DB: Diamond Bit Coring - 4", N, B RB: Rock Bit
BS: Bulk Sample or Auger Sample WB: Wash Boring or Mud Rotary
The number of blows required to advance a standard 2-inch O.D. split-spoon sampler (SS) the last 12 inches of the total 18-inch
penetration with a 140-pound hammer falling 30 inches is considered the “Standard Penetration” or “N-value”. For TxDOT cone
penetrometer (TC) the penetration value is reported as the number of blows required to advance the sampler 12 inches or penetration in
inches after 100 blows using a 170-pound hammer falling 24 inches, reported as “blows per foot” or inches per 100 blows, and is not
considered equivalent to the “Standard Penetration” or “N-value”.
WATER LEVEL MEASUREMENT SYMBOLS:
WL: Water Level WS: While Sampling N/E: Not Encountered
WCI: Wet Cave in WD: While Drilling
DCI: Dry Cave in BCR: Before Casing Removal
AB: After Boring ACR: After Casing Removal
Water levels indicated on the boring logs are the levels measured in the borings at the times indicated. Groundwater levels at other
times and other locations across the site could vary. In pervious soils, the indicated levels may reflect the location of groundwater.
In low permeability soils, the accurate determination of groundwater levels may not be possible with only short-term observations.
DESCRIPTIVE SOIL CLASSIFICATION:
Soil classification is based on the Unified Classification System. Coarse Grained Soils
havemore than 50% of their dry weight retained on a #200 sieve; their principal descriptors are: boulders, cobbles, gravel or sand.
Fine Grained Soils have less than 50% of their dry weight retained on a #200 sieve; they are principally described as clays if they are
plastic, and silts if they are slightly plastic or non-plastic. Major constituents may be added as modifiers and minor constituents may
be added according to the relative proportions based on grain size. In addition to gradation, coarse-grained soils are defined on the
basis of their in-place relative density and fine-grained soils on the basis of their consistency.
CONSISTENCY OF FINE-GRAINED SOILSRELATIVE DENSITY OF COARSE-GRAINED SOILS
Unconfined
Standard Penetration Standard Penetration TxDOT Cone
Compressive
or N-value (SS)Consistencyor N-value (SS)Penetrometer (TC) Relative Density
Blows/Ft.Blows/Ft.Blows/Ft.
Strength, Qu, psf
< 5000 - 1 Very Soft 0 – 3 0-8 Very Loose
500 – 1,000 2 - 4 Soft 4 – 9 8-20 Loose
1,001 – 2,000 4 - 8 Medium Stiff 10 – 29 20-80 Medium Dense
2,001 – 4,000 8 -15 Stiff 30 – 49 80-5”/100 Dense
4,001 – 8,000 15 - 30 Very Stiff > 50 5”/100 to 0”/100 Very Dense
8,000+ > 30 Hard
RELATIVE PROPORTIONS OF SAND AND GRAVELGRAIN SIZE TERMINOLOGY
Descriptive Term(s) of other Percent oMajor Component
f
Particle Size
ConstituentsDry Weightof Sample
Trace< 15 Boulders Over 12 in. (300mm)
With 15 – 29 Cobbles 12 in. to 3 in. (300mm to 75 mm)
Modifier > 30 Gravel 3 in. to #4 sieve (75mm to 4.75 mm)
Sand #4 to #200 sieve (4.75mm to 0.075mm)
Silt or Clay Passing #200 Sieve (0.075mm)
PLASTICITY DESCRIPTION
RELATIVE PROPORTIONS OF FINES
Descriptive Term(s) of other Percent o
fPlasticity
Term
ConstituentsDry WeightIndex
Trace < 5 Non-plastic 0
With 5 – 12 Low 1-10
Modifiers > 12 Medium 11-30
High 30+
Exhibit C-1
UNIFIED SOIL CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
Soil Classification
A
Criteria for Assigning Group Symbols and Group Names Using Laboratory Tests
Group
B
Group Name
Symbol
F
E
Gravels:
GW Well-graded gravel
Cu 4 and 1 Cc 3
Clean Gravels:
More than 50% of
C
F
Less than 5% fines E
GP Poorly graded gravel
Cu 4 and/or 1 Cc 3
coarse
F,G, H
Fines classify as ML or MH GM Silty gravel
Gravels with Fines:
fraction retained on
Coarse Grained Soils:
C
F,G,H
More than 12% fines
Fines classify as CL or CH GC Clayey gravel
No. 4 sieve
More than 50% retained
I
E
SW Well-graded sand
Cu 6 and 1 Cc 3
Clean Sands:
Sands:
on No. 200 sieve
D
Less than 5% fines I
E
Cu 6 and/or 1 Cc 3SP Poorly graded sand
50% or more of coarse
fraction passes G,H,I
Fines classify as ML or MH SM Silty sand
Sands with Fines:
No. 4 sieve
D
More than 12% fines G,H,I
Fines Classify as CL or CH SC Clayey sand
K,L,M
J
CL Lean clay
PI 7 and plots on or above “A” line
Inorganic:
K,L,M
J
ML Silt
PI 4 or plots below “A” line
Silts and Clays:
Liquid limit less than 50 K,L,M,N
Liquid limit - oven dried Organic clay
Organic: OL
0.75
Fine-Grained Soils:
K,L,M,O
Liquid limit - not dried Organic silt
50% or more passes the
K,L,M
PI plots on or above “A” line CH Fat clay
No. 200 sieve
Inorganic:
K,L,M
PI plots below “A” line MH Elastic Silt
Silts and Clays:
Liquid limit 50 or more K,L,M,P
Liquid limit - oven dried Organic clay
Organic: OH
0.75
K,L,M,Q
Liquid limit - not dried Organic silt
Highly organic soils: Primarily organic matter, dark in color, and organic odor PT Peat
AH
Based on the material passing the 3-in. (75-mm) sieve If fines are organic, add “with organic fines” to group name.
B
I
If field sample contained cobbles or boulders, or both, add “with cobbles
If soil contains 15% gravel, add “with gravel” to group name.
J
or boulders, or both” to group name.
If Atterberg limits plot in shaded area, soil is a CL-ML, silty clay.
C
K
Gravels with 5 to 12% fines require dual symbols: GW-GM well-graded
If soil contains 15 to 29% plus No. 200, add “with sand” or “with
gravel with silt, GW-GC well-graded gravel with clay, GP-GM poorly
gravel,” whichever is predominant.
graded gravel with silt, GP-GC poorly graded gravel with clay. L
If soil contains 30% plus No. 200 predominantly sand, add “sandy”
D
Sands with 5 to 12% fines require dual symbols: SW-SM well-graded
to group name.
sand with silt, SW-SC well-graded sand with clay, SP-SM poorly graded
M
If soil contains 30% plus No. 200, predominantly gravel, add
sand with silt, SP-SC poorly graded sand with clay
“gravelly” to group name.
N
PI 4 and plots on or above “A” line.
2
30
O
E
(D)PI 4 or plots below “A” line.
Cu = D/D Cc =
6010
P
PI plots on or above “A” line.
1060
DxD
Q
PI plots below “A” line.
F
If soil contains 15% sand, add “with sand” to group name.
G
If fines classify as CL-ML, use dual symbol GC-GM, or SC-SM.
Exhibit C-2