FOUNDATION DESIGN

Site-Specific Designs

MLAW Engineers relies on a comprehensive soils report, resulting in site-specific foundation designs that are responsive to the unique site conditions and client expectations.

Soil Analysis

The diverse soil conditions in Texas necessitate in-depth soil analysis, typically performed by a Geotechnical Engineering firm like MLA Labs, Inc. This detailed analysis is crucial for understanding the subsurface conditions that influence foundation design.

Expansive Soils

The American Society of Civil Engineers estimates that 1/4 of all homes in the United States suffer from damage caused by expansive soils. These soils cause more financial loss to property owners annually than earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes combined. (Source: geology.com)

Soils and Structural Engineering

This seamless integration of soils and structural engineering ensures that each site is thoroughly examined, soil testing is performed, and a site-specific design is produced for every project. This approach guarantees a foundation that is appropriately designed for the site conditions.

Design for Site Conditions

MLAW Engineers emphasizes soils investigations to ensure that foundations are designed heavy enough when necessary and light enough where site conditions allow. The goal is to minimize over-designed foundations and eliminate under-designed, under-performing slabs, which can lead to structural distress and litigation.

Challenges of Soil Conditions

With subsurface soil conditions ranging from solid rock to highly expansive clays, often within the same community, construction in many areas of Texas can be high-stakes and expensive if not handled correctly. MLAW Engineers is committed to helping clients spend their money wisely by ensuring that foundations are tailored to the specific soil conditions of each site.