Hello everyone,
Last week, the foundation pit for our planned single-family house was excavated. Tarpaulins were attached to the slope to secure the pit. Four days ago, there was a storm and the tarpaulins tore. We informed the contractor about this. He said he would fix it the same day. Three days ago: the same situation, the tarpaulins were hanging loosely. Two days ago: again the same, we called again. The responsible basement specialist said he was busy and would take care of it on Saturday. Yesterday, there was heavy rain and the foundation pit filled with water, which we reported to the contractor yesterday. He said not to worry and that he would fix it. So far today, nothing has happened. The foundation pit could now be used as a pool, and the tarpaulins are now submerged in the water.
What should we do now?
Best regards, wanderjupp
Last week, the foundation pit for our planned single-family house was excavated. Tarpaulins were attached to the slope to secure the pit. Four days ago, there was a storm and the tarpaulins tore. We informed the contractor about this. He said he would fix it the same day. Three days ago: the same situation, the tarpaulins were hanging loosely. Two days ago: again the same, we called again. The responsible basement specialist said he was busy and would take care of it on Saturday. Yesterday, there was heavy rain and the foundation pit filled with water, which we reported to the contractor yesterday. He said not to worry and that he would fix it. So far today, nothing has happened. The foundation pit could now be used as a pool, and the tarpaulins are now submerged in the water.
What should we do now?
Best regards, wanderjupp
S
Sebastian7923 Nov 2015 15:52Why is this interesting? For sandy soil, for example, it is required...
Hello, I’m digging up this topic again.
I’ve come across various statements about this issue.
1. If the excavation pit is wet → remove the top 15cm (6 inches)
2. Letting the excavation dry out is enough
3. The soil loses its load-bearing capacity after drying and must be removed even after drying
4. Diverting rainwater through trenches is sufficient, everything is fine as long as the rainwater can drain away
5. Rainwater no longer matters once the base layer of crushed stone is installed
These statements seem to contradict each other both in content and logic.
From my understanding, the soil isn’t getting wet for the first time. Water seeps down from above, right? Even if crushed stone is placed, the soil underneath becomes just as wet as without it. So what exactly is the difference here regarding the final load-bearing capacity?
I would appreciate it if someone could clarify these different points for a layperson. 🙂
I’ve come across various statements about this issue.
1. If the excavation pit is wet → remove the top 15cm (6 inches)
2. Letting the excavation dry out is enough
3. The soil loses its load-bearing capacity after drying and must be removed even after drying
4. Diverting rainwater through trenches is sufficient, everything is fine as long as the rainwater can drain away
5. Rainwater no longer matters once the base layer of crushed stone is installed
These statements seem to contradict each other both in content and logic.
From my understanding, the soil isn’t getting wet for the first time. Water seeps down from above, right? Even if crushed stone is placed, the soil underneath becomes just as wet as without it. So what exactly is the difference here regarding the final load-bearing capacity?
I would appreciate it if someone could clarify these different points for a layperson. 🙂
A
Allthewayup5 Jul 2023 21:21The original post was about the tarps (plastic sheeting) that were supposed to protect the excavation slope from erosion and slipping, which were torn away by the wind. I could not find any connection to the foundation.
If it rains and water temporarily collects in the still untouched excavation pit, I don’t see this as a problem.
If it rains and water temporarily collects in the still untouched excavation pit, I don’t see this as a problem.
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