Drilled Pier Design and Construction Observation

September 25, 2019

Drilled and undereamed piers are a popular deep foundation element in Central Texas due to the predominance of expansive clay soils. The piers are drilled to a depth that meet the following criteria:

  • Below the depth of seasonal moisture variation (depth at which the moisture content in the soil is relatively unchanged throughout the years)
  • At a suitable bearing strata that can support the loads from the superstructure without excessive settlement
  • Ideally above the water table, although this sometimes cannot be avoided and casing is required.

Below is a photo of project structural engineering Chakri Gondi performing construction observations of the drilling for the piers.

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Additionally, see below for a video of the pier installation.