Geotechnical Engineering As well as offering factual reporting SWEL can also offer interpretive report, and as such offer advice on Foundation Design, Building on Made Ground, Building Near Trees and other common geotechnical problems. Building Near Trees Trees need water to grow, the roots in the soil suck up water and this effects the properties of the soil. Desiccation of soil from trees is particularly noticeable in clays with a high shrinking/swelling potential. As the water is removed from the soil it shrinks which can lead to settlement that may damage buildings. Conversely is a tree is removed from site shortly before construction starts soil that has been artificially desiccated by trees can swell or heave again causing damage to buildings. Geotechnical Consultants can offer advice on building near trees in line with NHBC guidelines.                       Geotechnical News Venice flood barrier risks questions raised A leading oceanographer has raised concerns that Venice’s €4.6bn (£3.8bn) flood barrier project could carry risks to public health and the environment that have not been properly investigated. More Information Design of foundations is not only crucial to the stability of proposed structures, it is also a significant portion of the building costs. At SWEL we can design foundations to ensure a good compromise between cost and stability, many firms will limit risks to themselves by over specifying foundations. You will not find that attitude at SWEL. Related Services: Geotechnical Investigation

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