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Corporate Office 17522 Bothell Way Northeast Bothell, Washington 98011
Phone 425.415.0551 ♦ Fax 425.415.0311
www.riley-group.com
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING REPORT
PREPARED BY:
THE RILEY GROUP, INC.
17522 BOTHELL WAY NORTHEAST
BOTHELL, WASHINGTON 98011
PREPARED FOR:
KUSHAL VARMA
4159 NORTHWEST WOODGATE AVENUE
PORTLAND, OREGON 97229
RGI PROJECT NO. 2020-317-1
VARMA 3-LOT SHORT PLAT
13014 156TH AVENUE SOUTHEAST
RENTON, WASHINGTON 98059
APRIL 8, 2025
Exhibit 7
RECEIVED
09/25/2025 IHarris
PLANNING DIVISION
Docusign Envelope ID: 85515A60-0856-8EA6-8102-3141314330A5
Corporate Office
17522 Bothell Way Northeast
Bothell, Washington 98011
Phone 425.415.0551 ♦ Fax 425.415.0311
www.riley-group.com
April 8, 2025
Kushal Varma
4159 Northwest Woodgate Avenue
Portland, Washington 97229
Subject: Geotechnical Engineering Report
Varma 3-Lot Short Plat
13014 156th Avenue Southeast
Renton, Washington
RGI Project No. 2020-317-1
Dear Mr. Varma:
As requested, The Riley Group, Inc. (RGI) has performed a Geotechnical Engineering Report
(GER) for the Varma 3-Lot Plat located at 13014 156th Avenue Southeast, Renton,
Washington. Our services were completed in accordance with our proposal 2020-317-PRP1
dated August 3, 2020. The information in this GER is based on our understanding of the
proposed construction, and the soil and groundwater conditions encountered in the test
pits and hand augers completed by RGI at the site on August 24, 2020.
RGI recommends that you submit the project plans and specifications to RGI for a general
review so that we may confirm that the recommendations in this GER are interpreted and
implemented properly in the construction documents. RGI also recommends that a
representative of our firm be present on site during portions of the project construction to
confirm that the soil and groundwater conditions are consistent with those that form the
basis for the engineering recommendations in this GER.
If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact us.
Respectfully submitted,
THE RILEY GROUP, INC.
04/08/2025
Collin McCracken, PE, LG
Senior Geotechnical Engineer
Docusign Envelope ID: 85515A60-0856-8EA6-8102-3141314330A5
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................... 1
2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................... 1
3.0 FIELD EXPLORATION AND LABORATORY TESTING .......................................................... 1 3.1 FIELD EXPLORATION ................................................................................................................................... 1
3.2 LABORATORY TESTING ................................................................................................................................ 2
4.0 SITE CONDITIONS ........................................................................................................................... 2
4.1 SURFACE .................................................................................................................................................. 2
4.2 GEOLOGY ................................................................................................................................................. 2
4.3 SOILS ....................................................................................................................................................... 2
4.4 GROUNDWATER ........................................................................................................................................ 2
4.5 SEISMIC CONSIDERATIONS ........................................................................................................................... 3
4.6 GEOLOGIC HAZARD AREAS .......................................................................................................................... 4
5.0 DISCUSSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................................. 4
5.1 GEOTECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS ................................................................................................................. 4
5.2 EARTHWORK ............................................................................................................................................. 4
5.2.1 Erosion and Sediment Control ..................................................................................................... 4
5.2.2 Stripping and Subgrade Preparation ............................................................................................ 5
5.2.3 Excavations .................................................................................................................................. 5
5.2.4 Structural Fill ................................................................................................................................ 6
5.2.5 Wet Weather Construction Considerations ................................................................................. 7
5.3 FOUNDATIONS .......................................................................................................................................... 8
5.4 RETAINING WALLS ..................................................................................................................................... 9
5.5 SLAB-ON-GRADE CONSTRUCTION ................................................................................................................. 9
5.6 DRAINAGE .............................................................................................................................................. 10
5.6.1 Surface ....................................................................................................................................... 10
5.6.2 Subsurface .................................................................................................................................. 10
5.6.3 Infiltration .................................................................................................................................. 10 5.7 UTILITIES ................................................................................................................................................ 10
6.0 ADDITIONAL SERVICES .............................................................................................................. 11
7.0 LIMITATIONS ................................................................................................................................. 11
LIST OF FIGURES AND APPENDICES
Figure 1 ..................................................................................................................... Site Vicinity Map
Figure 2 ............................................................................................... Geotechnical Exploration Plan
Figure 3 ............................................................................................... Retaining Wall Drainage Detail
Figure 4 ................................................................................................... Typical Footing Drain Detail
Appendix A .......................................................................... Field Exploration and Laboratory Testing
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Executive Summary
This Executive Summary should be used in conjunction with the entire Geotechnical
Engineering Report (GER) for design and/or construction purposes. It should be recognized
that specific details were not included or fully developed in this section, and the GER must
be read in its entirety for a comprehensive understanding of the items contained herein.
Section 7.0 should be read for an understanding of limitations.
RGI’s geotechnical scope of work included the advancement of 2 test pits to approximate
depths of 4.5 feet below existing site grades.
Based on the information obtained from our subsurface exploration, the site is suitable for
development of the proposed project. The following geotechnical considerations were
identified:
Soil Conditions: The soils encountered during field exploration include medium dense silty
sand with gravel over very dense glacial till.
Groundwater: No groundwater seepage was encountered during our subsurface
exploration.
Foundations: Foundations for the proposed residences may be supported on conventional
spread footings bearing on medium dense to dense native soil or structural fill.
Slab-on-grade: Slab-on-grade floors and slabs for the proposed residences can be
supported on medium dense to dense native soil or structural fill.
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1.0 Introduction
This Geotechnical Engineering Report (GER) presents the results of the geotechnical
engineering services provided for the Varma 3-Lot Plat in Renton, Washington. The purpose
of this evaluation is to assess subsurface conditions and provide geotechnical
recommendations for the construction of a 3-Lot Plat. Our scope of services included field
explorations, laboratory testing, engineering analyses, and preparation of this GER.
The recommendations in the following sections of this GER are based upon our current
understanding of the proposed site development as outlined below. If actual features vary
or changes are made, RGI should review them in order to modify our recommendations as
required. In addition, RGI requests to review the site grading plan, final design drawings
and specifications when available to verify that our project understanding is correct and
that our recommendations have been properly interpreted and incorporated into the
project design and construction.
2.0 Project description
The project site is located at 13014 156th Avenue Southeast in Renton, Washington. The
approximate location of the site is shown on Figure 1.
The site is currently undeveloped. RGI understands that it is proposed to construct a 3-Lot
Plat on the site.
At the time of preparing this GER, building plans were not available for our review. Based
on our experience with similar construction, RGI anticipates that the proposed building will
be supported on perimeter walls with bearing loads of two to six kips per linear foot, and a
series of columns with a maximum load up to 30 kips. Slab-on-grade floor loading of 250
pounds per square foot (psf) are expected.
3.0 Field Exploration and Laboratory Testing
3.1 FIELD EXPLORATION
On August 24, 2020, RGI observed the excavation of 2 test pits. The approximate
exploration locations are shown on Figure 2.
Field logs of each exploration were prepared by the geologist that continuously observed
the excavations. These logs included visual classifications of the materials encountered
during excavation as well as our interpretation of the subsurface conditions between
samples. The test pits and hand augers logs included in Appendix A represent an
interpretation of the field logs and include modifications based on laboratory observation
and analysis of the samples.
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3.2 LABORATORY TESTING
During the field exploration, a representative portion of each recovered sample was sealed
in containers and transported to our laboratory for further visual and laboratory
examination. Selected samples retrieved from the test pits were tested for moisture
content and grain size analysis to aid in soil classification and provide input for the
recommendations provided in this GER. The results and descriptions of the laboratory tests
are enclosed in Appendix A.
4.0 Site Conditions
4.1 SURFACE
The subject site consists of King County Tax Parcel number 3664500185, and is 1.07 acres
in size. The site is bounded to the north, south, and east by residential properties, and to
the west by 156th Avenue Southeast.
The existing site is undeveloped land covered by scattered trees and other vegetation. The
site is relatively flat with an overall elevation difference of approximately 5 feet.
4.2 GEOLOGY
Review of the Geologic map of the Renton quadrangle, King County, Washington by
Mullineaux, 1965 indicates that the soil in the project vicinity is mapped as Vashon-age
lodgment till (Qvt). Lodgment till consists of a non-sorted mixture of silt, sand, gravel,
cobbles, and boulders which looks like concrete mix. Till is very dense from compaction of
glacial ice and is considered a restrictive layer in stormwater planning. Drainage does occur
in the upper several feet of the till deposits, but water ponds and moves laterally along the
underlying unweathered till surface. These descriptions are generally similar to our
observations in the field.
4.3 SOILS
The soils encountered during field exploration include medium dense silty sand with gravel
over very dense glacial till.
More detailed descriptions of the subsurface conditions encountered are presented in the
test pits and hand augers included in Appendix A. Sieve analysis was performed on two
selected soil samples. Grain size distribution curves are included in Appendix A.
4.4 GROUNDWATER
No groundwater seepage was encountered during our subsurface exploration. Evidence of
high groundwater (mottling) was observed in the silty sand overlying the lodgment till in
some of the explorations.
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It should be recognized that fluctuations of the groundwater table will occur due to
seasonal variations in the amount of rainfall, runoff, and other factors not evident at the
time the explorations were performed. In addition, perched water can develop within
seams and layers contained in fill soils or higher permeability soils overlying less permeable
soils following periods of heavy or prolonged precipitation. Therefore, groundwater levels
during construction or at other times in the future may be higher or lower than the levels
indicated on the logs.
4.5 SEISMIC CONSIDERATIONS
Based on the International Building Code (IBC), RGI recommends the follow seismic
parameters for design.
Table 1 IBC
Parameter Value
Site Soil Class1 C2
Short Period Spectral Response Acceleration, SS (g) 1.372
1-Second Period Spectral Response Acceleration, S1 (g) 0.470
1. Note: In general accordance with Chapter 20 of ASCE 7-16. The Site Class is based on the average characteristics of the upper 100 feet
of the subsurface profile.
2. Note: ASCE 7-16 require a site soil profile determination extending to a depth of 100 feet for seismic site classification. The current scope of our services does not include the required 100 foot soil profile determination. Hand augers extended to a maximum depth of 4 feet, and this seismic site class definition considers that similar soil continues 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.
3. Note: In accordance with ASCE 11.4.8, a ground motion hazard analysis is not required for the following cases:
• Structures on Site Class E sites with SS greater than or equal to 1.0, provided the site coefficient Fa is taken as equal to that of
Site Class C.
• Structures on Site Class D sites with S1 greater than or equal to 0.2, provided that the value of the seismic response coefficient
Cs is determined by Eq. 12.8-2 for values of T ≤ 1.5Ts and taken as equal to 1.5 times the value computed in accordance with either Eq. 12.8-3 for TL ≥ T > 1.5Ts or Eq. 12.8-4 for T > TL.
• Structures on Site Class E sites with S1 greater than or equal to 0.2, provided that T is less than or equal to Ts and the equivalent static force procedure is used for design. The above exceptions do not apply to seismically isolated structures, structures with damping systems or structures designed using the
response history procedures of Chapter 16.
Liquefaction is a phenomenon where there is a reduction or complete loss of soil strength
due to an increase in water pressure induced by vibrations from a seismic event.
Liquefaction mainly affects geologically recent deposits of fine-grained sands that are
below the groundwater table. Soils of this nature derive their strength from intergranular
friction. The generated water pressure or pore pressure essentially separates the soil grains
and eliminates this intergranular friction, thus reducing or eliminating the soil’s strength.
RGI reviewed the results of the field and laboratory testing and assessed the potential for
liquefaction of the site’s soil during an earthquake. Since the site is underlain by glacial till,
RGI considers that the possibility of liquefaction during an earthquake is minimal.
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4.6 GEOLOGIC HAZARD AREAS
Regulated geologically hazardous areas include erosion, landslide, earthquake, or other
geological hazards. Based on the definition in the Renton Municipal Code, the site does not
contain geologically hazardous areas.
5.0 Discussion and Recommendations
5.1 GEOTECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Based on our study, the site is suitable for the proposed construction from a geotechnical
standpoint. Foundations for the proposed residences can be supported on conventional
spread footings bearing on competent native soil or structural fill. Slab-on-grade floors can
be similarly supported.
Detailed recommendations regarding the above issues and other geotechnical design
considerations are provided in the following sections. These recommendations should be
incorporated into the final design drawings and construction specifications.
5.2 EARTHWORK
The earthwork is expected to include excavating and backfilling the building foundations
and preparing slab subgrades.
5.2.1 EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL
Potential sources or causes of erosion and sedimentation depend on construction
methods, slope length and gradient, amount of soil exposed and/or disturbed, soil type,
construction sequencing and weather. The impacts on erosion-prone areas can be reduced
by implementing an erosion and sedimentation control plan. The plan should be designed
in accordance with applicable city and/or county standards.
RGI recommends the following erosion control Best Management Practices (BMPs):
Scheduling site preparation and grading for the drier summer and early fall months
and undertaking activities that expose soil during periods of little or no rainfall
Retaining existing vegetation whenever feasible
Establishing a quarry spall construction entrance
Installing siltation control fencing or anchored straw or coir wattles on the downhill
side of work areas
Covering soil stockpiles with anchored plastic sheeting
Revegetating or mulching exposed soils with a minimum 3-inch thickness of straw
if surfaces will be left undisturbed for more than one day during wet weather or
one week in dry weather
Directing runoff away from exposed soils and slopes
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Minimizing the length and steepness of slopes with exposed soils and cover
excavation surfaces with anchored plastic sheeting
Decreasing runoff velocities with check dams, straw bales or coir wattles
Confining sediment to the project site
Inspecting and maintaining erosion and sediment control measures frequently (The
contractor should be aware that inspection and maintenance of erosion control
BMPs is critical toward their satisfactory performance. Repair and/or replacement
of dysfunctional erosion control elements should be anticipated.)
Permanent erosion protection should be provided by reestablishing vegetation using
hydroseeding and/or landscape planting. Until the permanent erosion protection is
established, site monitoring should be performed by qualified personnel to evaluate the
effectiveness of the erosion control measures. Provisions for modifications to the erosion
control system based on monitoring observations should be included in the erosion and
sedimentation control plan.
5.2.2 STRIPPING AND SUBGRADE PREPARATION
Stripping efforts should include removal of pavements, vegetation, organic materials, and
deleterious debris from areas slated for building, pavement, and utility construction.
Minimal ground cover/mulch was observed in the test pit and hand auger locations,
however, deeper areas of stripping may be required in forested or heavily vegetated areas
of the site.
Subgrade soils that become disturbed due to elevated moisture conditions should be
overexcavated to reveal firm, non-yielding, non-organic soils and backfilled with
compacted structural fill. In order to maximize utilization of site soils as structural fill, RGI
recommends that the earthwork portion of this project be completed during extended
periods of warm and dry weather if possible. If earthwork is completed during the wet
season (typically November through May) it will be necessary to take extra precautionary
measures to protect subgrade soils. Wet season earthwork will require additional
mitigative measures beyond that which would be expected during the drier summer and
fall months.
5.2.3 EXCAVATIONS
All temporary cut slopes associated with the site and utility excavations should be
adequately inclined to prevent sloughing and collapse. The site soils consist of medium
dense silty sand with gravel over very dense glacial till.
Accordingly, for excavations more than 4 feet but less than 20 feet in depth, the temporary
side slopes should be laid back with a minimum slope inclination of 1H:1V
(Horizontal:Vertical). For open cuts at the site, RGI recommends:
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No traffic, construction equipment, stockpiles or building supplies are allowed at
the top of cut slopes within a distance of at least five feet from the top of the cut
Exposed soil along the slope is protected from surface erosion using waterproof
tarps and/or plastic sheeting
Construction activities are scheduled so that the length of time the temporary cut
is left open is minimized
Surface water is diverted away from the excavation
The general condition of slopes should be observed periodically by a geotechnical
engineer to confirm adequate stability and erosion control measures
In all cases, however, appropriate inclinations will depend on the actual soil and
groundwater conditions encountered during earthwork. Ultimately, the site contractor
must be responsible for maintaining safe excavation slopes that comply with applicable
OSHA or WISHA guidelines.
5.2.4 STRUCTURAL FILL
RGI recommends fill below the foundation and floor slab, behind retaining walls, and below
pavement and hardscape surfaces be placed in accordance with the following
recommendations for structural fill.
The suitability of excavated site soils and import soils for compacted structural fill use will
depend on the gradation and moisture content of the soil when it is placed. As the amount
of fines (that portion passing the U.S. No. 200 sieve) increases, soil becomes increasingly
sensitive to small changes in moisture content and adequate compaction becomes more
difficult or impossible to achieve. Soils containing more than about 5 percent fines cannot
be consistently compacted to a dense, non-yielding condition when the moisture content
is more than 2 percent above or below optimum. Optimum moisture content is that
moisture that results in the greatest compacted dry density with a specified compactive
effort.
Non-organic site soils are only considered suitable for structural fill provided that their
moisture content is within about two percent of the optimum moisture level as determined
by American Society of Testing and Materials D1557-09 Standard Test Methods for
Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil Using Modified Effort (ASTM D1557).
Excavated site soils may not be suitable for re-use as structural fill depending on the
moisture content and weather conditions at the time of construction. If soils are stockpiled
for future reuse and wet weather is anticipated, the stockpile should be protected with
plastic sheeting that is securely anchored. Even during dry weather, moisture conditioning
(such as, windrowing and drying) of site soils to be reused as structural fill may be required.
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The site soils are moisture sensitive and may require moisture conditioning prior to use as
structural fill. If on-site soils are or become unusable, it may become necessary to import
clean, granular soils to complete site work that meet the grading requirements listed in
Table 2 to be used as structural fill.
Table 2 Structural Fill Gradation
U.S. Sieve Size Percent Passing
4 inches 100
No. 4 sieve 22 to 100
No. 200 sieve 0 to 5*
*Based on minus 3/4 inch fraction.
Prior to use, an RGI representative should observe and test all materials imported to the
site for use as structural fill. Structural fill materials should be placed in uniform loose layers
not exceeding 12 inches and compacted as specified in Table 3. The soil’s maximum density
and optimum moisture should be determined by ASTM D1557.
Table 3 Structural Fill Compaction ASTM D1557
Location Material Type
Minimum
Compaction
Percentage
Moisture Content
Range
Foundations On-site granular or approved
imported fill soils: 95 +2 -2
Retaining Wall Backfill On-site granular or approved
imported fill soils: 92 +2 -2
Slab-on-grade On-site granular or approved
imported fill soils: 95 +2 -2
General Fill (non-
structural areas)
On-site soils or approved
imported fill soils: 90 +3 -2
Placement and compaction of structural fill should be observed by RGI. A representative
number of in-place density tests should be performed as the fill is being placed to confirm
that the recommended level of compaction is achieved.
5.2.5 WET WEATHER CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS
RGI recommends that preparation for site grading and construction include procedures
intended to drain ponded water, control surface water runoff, and to collect shallow
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subsurface seepage zones in excavations where encountered. It will not be possible to
successfully compact the subgrade or utilize on-site soils as structural fill if accumulated
water is not drained prior to grading or if drainage is not controlled during construction.
Attempting to grade the site without adequate drainage control measures will reduce the
amount of on-site soil effectively available for use, increase the amount of select import fill
materials required, and ultimately increase the cost of the earthwork phases of the project.
Free water should not be allowed to pond on the subgrade soils. RGI anticipates that the
use of berms and shallow drainage ditches, with sumps and pumps in utility trenches, will
be required for surface water control during wet weather and/or wet site conditions.
5.3 FOUNDATIONS
Following site preparation and grading, the proposed building foundation can be supported
on conventional spread footings bearing on competent native soil or structural fill. Loose,
organic, or other unsuitable soils may be encountered in the proposed building footprint.
If unsuitable soils are encountered, they should be overexcavated and backfilled with
structural fill. If loose soils are encountered, the soils should be moisture conditioned and
compacted to a firm and unyielding condition. The foundation design value assumes the
foundation is supported on at least two feet of medium dense native soil or structural fill.
Table 4 Foundation Design
Design Parameter Value
Allowable Bearing Capacity 2,000 psf1
Friction Coefficient 0.30
Passive pressure (equivalent fluid pressure) 250 pcf2
Minimum foundation dimensions Columns: 24 inches
Walls: 16 inches
1. psf = pounds per square foot
2. pcf = pounds per cubic foot
The allowable foundation bearing pressures apply to dead loads plus design live load
conditions. For short-term loads, such as wind and seismic, a 1/3 increase in this allowable
capacity may be used. At perimeter locations, RGI recommends not including the upper 12
inches of soil in the computation of passive pressures because they can be affected by
weather or disturbed by future grading activity. The passive pressure value assumes the
foundation will be constructed neat against competent soil or backfilled with structural fill
as described in Section 5.2.4. The recommended base friction and passive resistance value
includes a safety factor of about 1.5.
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Perimeter foundations exposed to weather should be at a minimum depth of 18 inches
below final exterior grades. Interior foundations can be constructed at any convenient
depth below the floor slab. Finished grade is defined as the lowest adjacent grade within 5
feet of the foundation for perimeter (or exterior) footings and finished floor level for
interior footings.
With spread footing foundations designed in accordance with the recommendations in this
section, maximum total and differential post-construction settlements of 1 inch and 1/2
inch, respectively, should be expected.
5.4 RETAINING WALLS
If retaining walls are needed in the building area, RGI recommends cast-in-place concrete
walls be used. The magnitude of earth pressure development on retaining walls will partly
depend on the quality of the wall backfill. RGI recommends placing and compacting wall
backfill as structural fill. Wall drainage will be needed behind the wall face. A typical
retaining wall drainage detail is shown in Figure 3.
With wall backfill placed and compacted as recommended, and drainage properly installed,
RGI recommends using the values in the following table for design.
Table 5 Retaining Wall Design
Design Parameter Value
Allowable Bearing Capacity 2,000 psf
Active Earth Pressure (unrestrained walls) 35 pcf
At-rest Earth Pressure (restrained walls) 50 pcf
For seismic design, an additional uniform load of 7 times the wall height (H) for
unrestrained walls and 14H in psf for restrained walls should be applied to the wall surface.
Friction at the base of foundations and passive earth pressure will provide resistance to
these lateral loads. Values for these parameters are provided in Section 5.3.
5.5 SLAB-ON-GRADE CONSTRUCTION
Once site preparation has been completed as described in Section 5.2, suitable support for
slab-on-grade construction should be provided. RGI recommends that the concrete slab be
placed on top of medium dense native soil or structural fill. Immediately below the floor
slab, RGI recommends placing a four-inch thick capillary break layer of clean, free-draining
sand or gravel that has less than five percent passing the U.S. No. 200 sieve. This material
will reduce the potential for upward capillary movement of water through the underlying
soil and subsequent wetting of the floor slab. Where moisture by vapor transmission is
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undesirable, an 8- to 10-millimeter thick plastic membrane should be placed on a 4-inch
thick layer of clean gravel.
For the anticipated floor slab loading, we estimate post-construction floor settlements of
1/4- to 1/2-inch.
5.6 DRAINAGE
5.6.1 SURFACE
Final exterior grades should promote free and positive drainage away from the building
area. Water must not be allowed to pond or collect adjacent to foundations or within the
immediate building area. For non-pavement locations, RGI recommends providing a
minimum drainage gradient of 3 percent for a minimum distance of 10 feet from the
building perimeter. In paved locations, a minimum gradient of 1 percent should be
provided unless provisions are included for collection and disposal of surface water
adjacent to the structure.
5.6.2 SUBSURFACE
RGI recommends installing perimeter foundation drains. A typical footing drain detail is
shown on Figure 4. The foundation drains and roof downspouts should be tightlined
separately to an approved discharge facility. Subsurface drains must be laid with a gradient
sufficient to promote positive flow to a controlled point of approved discharge.
5.6.3 INFILTRATION
The site is underlain by very dense glacial till, commonly referred to as “hardpan.” This
material does not allow for infiltration.
5.7 UTILITIES
Utility pipes should be bedded and backfilled in accordance with American Public Works
Association (APWA) specifications. For site utilities located within the right-of-ways,
bedding and backfill should be completed in accordance with City of Renton specifications.
At a minimum, trench backfill should be placed and compacted as structural fill, as
described in Section 5.2.4. Where utilities occur below unimproved areas, the degree of
compaction can be reduced to a minimum of 90 percent of the soil’s maximum density as
determined by the referenced ASTM D1557. As noted, soils excavated on site will not be
suitable for use as backfill material. Imported structural fill meeting the gradation provided
in Table 2 should be used for trench backfill.
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6.0 Additional Services
RGI is available to provide further geotechnical consultation throughout the design phase
of the project. RGI should review the final design and specifications in order to verify that
earthwork and foundation recommendations have been properly interpreted and
incorporated into project design and construction.
RGI is also available to provide geotechnical engineering and construction monitoring
services during construction. The integrity of the earthwork and construction depends on
proper site preparation and procedures. In addition, engineering decisions may arise in the
field in the event that variations in subsurface conditions become apparent. Construction
monitoring services are not part of this scope of work. If these services are desired, please
let us know and we will prepare a cost proposal.
7.0 Limitations
This GER is the property of RGI, Kushal Varma, and its designated agents. Within the limits
of the scope and budget, this GER was prepared in accordance with generally accepted
geotechnical engineering practices in the area at the time this GER was issued. This GER is
intended for specific application to the proposed Varma 3-Lot Plat in Renton, Washington,
and for the exclusive use of Kushal Varma and its authorized representatives. No other
warranty, expressed or implied, is made. Site safety, excavation support, and dewatering
requirements are the responsibility of others.
The scope of services for this project does not include either specifically or by implication
any environmental or biological (for example, 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, we can
provide a proposal for these services.
The analyses and recommendations presented in this GER are based upon data obtained
from the explorations performed on site. Variations in soil conditions can occur, the nature
and extent of which may not become evident until construction. If variations appear
evident, RGI should be requested to reevaluate the recommendations in this GER prior to
proceeding with construction.
It is the client’s responsibility to see that all parties to the project, including the designers,
contractors, subcontractors, are made aware of this GER in its entirety. The use of
information contained in this GER for bidding purposes should be done at the contractor’s
option and risk.
Docusign Envelope ID: 85515A60-0856-8EA6-8102-3141314330A5
USGS, 2020, Renton, Washington
USGS, 2020, Maple Valley, Washington
7.5-Minute Quadrangle
Approximate Scale: 1"=1000'
0 500 1000 2000 N
Site Vicinity Map
Figure 1
04/2025
Corporate Office
17522 Bothell Way Northeast
Bothell, Washington 98011
Phone: 425.415.0551
Fax: 425.415.0311
Varma 3-Lot Short Plat
RGI Project Number:
2020-317-1
Date Drawn:
Address: 13011 156th Avenue Southeast, Renton, Washington 98059
SITE
Docusign Envelope ID: 85515A60-0856-8EA6-8102-3141314330A5
TP-4
TP-3
04/2025
Corporate Office
17522 Bothell Way Northeast
Bothell, Washington 98011
Phone: 425.415.0551
Fax: 425.415.0311
Varma 3-Lot Short Plat
RGI Project Number:
2020-317-1
Date Drawn:
Address: 13011 156th Avenue Southeast, Renton, Washington 98059
Figure 2
Approximate Scale: 1"=50'
0 25 50 100 N
= Test pit locations by RGI, 08/24/2020
= Site boundary
Geotechnical Exploration Plan
Docusign Envelope ID: 85515A60-0856-8EA6-8102-3141314330A5
Incliniations)
12" Over the Pipe
3" Below the Pipe
Perforated Pipe
4" Diameter PVC
Compacted Structural
Backfill (Native or Import)
12" min.
Filter Fabric Material
12" Minimum Wide
Free-Draining Gravel
Slope to Drain
(See Report for
Appropriate
Excavated Slope
04/2025
Corporate Office
17522 Bothell Way Northeast
Bothell, Washington 98011
Phone: 425.415.0551
Fax: 425.415.0311
Varma 3-Lot Short Plat
RGI Project Number:
2020-317-1
Date Drawn:
Address: 13011 156th Avenue Southeast, Renton, Washington 98059
Retaining Wall Drainage Detail
Figure 3
Not to Scale
Docusign Envelope ID: 85515A60-0856-8EA6-8102-3141314330A5
Building Slab
Structural
Backfill
Compacted
04/2025
Corporate Office
17522 Bothell Way Northeast
Bothell, Washington 98011
Phone: 425.415.0551
Fax: 425.415.0311
Varma 3-Lot Short Plat
RGI Project Number:
2020-317-1
Date Drawn:
Address: 13011 156th Avenue Southeast, Renton, Washington 98059
Typical Foundation Drainage Detail
Figure 4
Not to Scale
Gravel or Crushed Stone
with less than 10% passing
No. 4 (4.75mm) Sieve
12" Minimum
4" Perforated Pipe
(See Report Text)
Approved Filter
Membrane Material
Docusign Envelope ID: 85515A60-0856-8EA6-8102-3141314330A5
Geotechnical Engineering Report April 8, 2025
Varma 3-Lot Short Plat, Renton, Washington RGI Project No. 2020-317-1
APPENDIX A
FIELD EXPLORATION AND LABORATORY TESTING
On August 24, 2020, RGI performed field explorations using a trackhoe. We explored
subsurface soil conditions at the site by observing the excavation of two test pits. The test
pit locations are shown on Figure 2. The test pit locations were approximately determined
by measurements from existing property lines and paved roads.
A geologist from our office conducted the field exploration and classified the soil conditions
encountered, maintained a log of each test exploration, obtained representative soil
samples, and observed pertinent site features. All soil samples were visually classified in
accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS).
Representative soil samples obtained from the explorations were placed in closed
containers and taken to our laboratory for further examination and testing. As a part of the
laboratory testing program, the soil samples were classified in our in house laboratory
based on visual observation, texture, plasticity, and the limited laboratory testing described
below.
Moisture Content Determinations
Moisture content determinations were performed in accordance with ASTM D2216-10
Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water (Moisture) Content of Soil
and Rock by Mass (ASTM D2216) on representative samples obtained from the exploration
in order to aid in identification and correlation of soil types. The moisture content of typical
sample was measured and is reported on the test pit logs.
Grain Size Analysis
A grain size analysis indicates the range in diameter of soil particles included in a particular
sample. Grain size analyses was determined using D6913-04(2009) Standard Test Methods
for Particle-Size Distribution (Gradation) of Soils Using Sieve Analysis (ASTM D6913) on two
of the samples.
Docusign Envelope ID: 85515A60-0856-8EA6-8102-3141314330A5
Project Name: Varma 3-Lot Short Plat
Project Number: 2020-317-1
Client: Kushal Varma
Test Pit No.: TP-3
Date(s) Excavated:08/24/20
Excavation Method:
Excavator Type:
Groundwater Level:Not encountered
Test Pit Backfill:Native Soil
Logged By LC
Bucket Size:n/a
Excavating Contractor:Client Provided
Sampling
Method(s)Grab
Location 13014 156th Avenue Southeast, Renton, Washington 98059
Surface Conditions:Mulch
Total Depth of Excavation:4.5 feet bgs
Approximate
Surface Elevation n/a
Compaction Method n/a
US
C
S
S
y
m
b
o
l
SM
SM
REMARKS AND OTHER TESTSGr
a
p
h
i
c
L
o
g
MATERIAL DESCRIPTION
Brown, silty SAND with some gravel, medium dense, moist
Gray, silty SAND with gravel (till), very dense, moist
Test pit excavated to 4.5 feet bgs
No groundwater encountered
De
p
t
h
(
f
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t
)
0
5
10
Sa
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N
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Sa
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T
y
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El
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i
o
n
(
f
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t
)
Sheet 1 of 1
The Riley Group, Inc.
17522 Bothell Way NE, Bothell, WA 98011
Docusign Envelope ID: 85515A60-0856-8EA6-8102-3141314330A5
Project Name: Varma 3-Lot Short Plat
Project Number: 2020-317-1
Client: Kushal Varma
Test Pit No.: TP-4
Date(s) Excavated:08/24/20
Excavation Method:
Excavator Type:
Groundwater Level:Not encountered
Test Pit Backfill:Native Soil
Logged By LC
Bucket Size:n/a
Excavating Contractor:Client Provided
Sampling
Method(s)Grab
Location 13014 156th Avenue Southeast, Renton, Washington 98059
Surface Conditions:Mulch
Total Depth of Excavation:4.5 feet bgs
Approximate
Surface Elevation n/a
Compaction Method n/a
US
C
S
S
y
m
b
o
l
SM
SM
REMARKS AND OTHER TESTSGr
a
p
h
i
c
L
o
g
MATERIAL DESCRIPTION
Brown, silty SAND with gravel, medium dense, moist
Gray, silty SAND with gravel (till), very dense, moist
Test pit excavated to 4.5 feet bgs
No groundwater encountered
De
p
t
h
(
f
e
e
t
)
0
5
10
Sa
m
p
l
e
N
u
m
b
e
r
Sa
m
p
l
e
T
y
p
e
El
e
v
a
t
i
o
n
(
f
e
e
t
)
Sheet 1 of 1
The Riley Group, Inc.
17522 Bothell Way NE, Bothell, WA 98011
Docusign Envelope ID: 85515A60-0856-8EA6-8102-3141314330A5
Project Name: Varma 3-Lot Short Plat
Project Number: 2020-317-1
Client: Kushal Varma
Key to Logs
US
C
S
S
y
m
b
o
l
REMARKS AND OTHER TESTSGr
a
p
h
i
c
L
o
g
MATERIAL DESCRIPTIONDe
p
t
h
(
f
e
e
t
)
Sa
m
p
l
e
N
u
m
b
e
r
Sa
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a
t
i
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n
(
f
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t
)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
COLUMN DESCRIPTIONS
1 Elevation (feet): Elevation (MSL, feet).
2 Depth (feet): Depth in feet below the ground surface.
3 Sample Type: Type of soil sample collected at the depth interval
shown.
4 Sample Number: Sample identification number.
5 USCS Symbol: USCS symbol of the subsurface material.
6 Graphic Log: Graphic depiction of the subsurface material
encountered.
7 MATERIAL DESCRIPTION: Description of material encountered.
May include consistency, moisture, color, and other descriptive
text.
8 REMARKS AND OTHER TESTS: Comments and observations
regarding drilling or sampling made by driller or field personnel.
FIELD AND LABORATORY TEST ABBREVIATIONS
CHEM: Chemical tests to assess corrosivity
COMP: Compaction test
CONS: One-dimensional consolidation test
LL: Liquid Limit, percent
PI: Plasticity Index, percent
SA: Sieve analysis (percent passing No. 200 Sieve)
UC: Unconfined compressive strength test, Qu, in ksf
WA: Wash sieve (percent passing No. 200 Sieve)
MATERIAL GRAPHIC SYMBOLS
Silty SAND (SM)
TYPICAL SAMPLER GRAPHIC SYMBOLS
Auger sampler
Bulk Sample
3-inch-OD California w/
brass rings
CME Sampler
Grab Sample
2.5-inch-OD Modified
California w/ brass liners
Pitcher Sample
2-inch-OD unlined split
spoon (SPT)
Shelby Tube (Thin-walled,
fixed head)
OTHER GRAPHIC SYMBOLS
Water level (at time of drilling, ATD)
Water level (after waiting)
Minor change in material properties within a
stratum
Inferred/gradational contact between strata
?Queried contact between strata
GENERAL NOTES
1: Soil classifications are based on the Unified Soil Classification System. Descriptions and stratum lines are interpretive, and actual lithologic changes may be
gradual. Field descriptions may have been modified to reflect results of lab tests.
2: Descriptions on these logs apply only at the specific boring locations and at the time the borings were advanced. They are not warranted to be representative
of subsurface conditions at other locations or times.
Sheet 1 of 1
The Riley Group, Inc.
17522 Bothell Way NE, Bothell, WA 98011
Docusign Envelope ID: 85515A60-0856-8EA6-8102-3141314330A5
Docusign Envelope ID: 85515A60-0856-8EA6-8102-3141314330A5