HomeMy WebLinkAboutRS_Geotech_201201_v1.pdfSouth Sound Geotechnical Consulting
August 3, 2020
LSB Petroleum, LLC
11706 - 164th Ave SE
Renton, WA 98059
Attention: Mr. Lakhpal Brar
Subject: Geotechnical Engineering Report
Brar Short Plat
8054 S. 132nd Street
Renton, Washington
SSGC Project No. 20058
Ms. Brar,
South Sound Geotechnical Consulting (SSGC) has completed a geotechnical assessment for the planned
short plat on the above addressed property in Renton, Washington. Our services have been completed in
general conformance with our proposal P20050 (dated June 23, 2020) and authorized per signature of our
agreement for services. Our scope of services included completion of five test pits, one infiltration test,
laboratory testing, engineering analyses, and preparation of this report.
PROJECT INFORMATION
The project property is on the north side of S. 132nd Street and encompasses approximately 0.75 acres. It
is rectangular with the long axis trending in a north-south direction. A single-family residence currently
occupies the southern portion. One shop/garage structure is in the northwestern portion. The property is
on a south-facing slope with elevation change on the order of 30 feet (+/-) per Google satellite imagery.
Proposed development includes short plating the property into four individual lots. We understand the
existing residence will remain as one of the lots. Conventional spread footing foundations are anticipated
for support of new structures with concrete slab-on-grade garage floors.
SUBSURFACE CONDITIONS
Subsurface conditions were characterized by completing four test pits and one infiltration test on the site
on July 8, 2020. Test holes were advanced to final depths between 6 and 10 feet below existing ground
surface. Approximate locations of the test pits and infiltration test site are shown on Figure 1,
Exploration Plan. Logs of these explorations are provided in Appendix A. A summary description of
observed subgrade conditions is provided below.
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
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Soil Conditions
Fill was observed at the surface in two of the test pits and extended to depths of about 1 to 1.5
feet. It consisted of loose silt, sand, and gravel and likely sourced from the property during
construction of existing improvements.
Topsoil was below the fill (and below the surface in the remaining excavations) and ranged in
thickness from about 6 inches to 1 foot at the test locations. Native soil below the topsoil
consisted of an upper silty sand with variable gravel. This soil was in a loose condition and
ranged in thickness from about 6 inches to 2 feet, where present. An interpreted weathered
glacial till was below the upper soil and consisted of silty sand with gravel and occasional cobbles
in a loose to medium dense condition. This weathered zone extended to depths between 3 and
46feet. Dense glacial till was below the weathered zone and extended to the termination depths
of the explorations.
Groundwater Conditions
Groundwater was not observed in the test holes at the time of excavation. However, mottling of
the upper native silty sand and weathered till layer implies perched groundwater conditions
during the wetter seasons of the year. The presence of dense glacial till can create perched
groundwater in the upper soils. Groundwater levels will vary throughout the year based on
seasonal precipitation and on- and off-site drainage patterns.
Geologic Setting
Soils within the development area have been classified by the NRCS in the Soil Survey of King
County, Washington. Surface soils are mapped as Alderwood gravelly sandy loam. This soil is
described as forming in glacial till. Native soils observed in the test holes appear to consist of a
thin layer of alluvium over glacial till, conforming to the mapped soil type.
GEOTECHNICAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
Development for the proposed plat is considered feasible based on observed soil conditions in the test
pits. Properly prepared native soils can be used for support of conventional spread footing foundations,
floor slabs, and pavements.
Infiltration to assist in stormwater control will be difficult at this site. The presence of dense glacial till at
fairly shallow depth will limit infiltration to lateral flow through the upper silty sand and weathered till
horizons. Infiltration systems will be limited to shallow dispersion facilities as allowed by the city.
Recommendations presented in the following sections should be considered general and may require
modifications at the time of construction. They are based upon the subsurface conditions observed in the
test pits and the assumption that finish site grades will not be substantially different than existing grades.
It should be noted subsurface conditions across the site can vary from those depicted on the exploration
logs and can change with time. It should be expected that fill of unknown type and thickness may be
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
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present due to historic uses of this site. Therefore, proper site preparation will depend upon the weather
and soil conditions encountered at the time of construction. We recommend SSGC review final plans and
further assess subgrade conditions at the time of construction, as warranted.
General Site Preparation
Site grading and earthwork should include procedures to control surface water runoff. Grading the site
without adequate drainage control measures may negatively impact site soils, resulting in increased export
of impacted soil and import of fill materials, t hereby potentially increasing the cost of the earthwork and
subgrade preparation phases of the project.
Site grading should include removal (stripping) of fill and topsoil or very loose or soft soils in building
and pavement areas. Topsoil/fill extended to depths ranging from about 6 inches to 2 feet in the observed
test holes, but may be deeper in other areas. Final stripping depths can only be determined at the time of
construction. Subgrades should consist of firm, undisturbed native soils following stripping.
General Subgrade Preparation
Subgrades in building footprints and pavement areas should consist of firm, undisturbed native soils. We
recommend exposed subgrades in building and conventional pavement areas are proofrolled using a large
roller, loaded dump truck, or other mechanical equipment to assess subgrade conditions following
stripping. Proofrolling efforts should result in the upper 1 foot of subgrade soils in building and
conventional pavement areas achieving a compaction level of at least 95 percent of the maximum dry
density (MDD) per the ASTM D1557 test method. Wet, loose, or soft subgrades that cannot achieve this
compaction level should be removed (over-excavated) and replaced with structural fill. The depth of
over-excavation should be based on soil conditions at the time of construction. A representative of SSGC
should be present to assess subgrade conditions during proofrolling.
Grading and Drainage
Positive drainage should be provided during construction and maintained throughout the life of the
development. Surface water should not be allowed to flow into construction excavations or fill areas.
Structural Fill Materials
The suitability of soil for use as structural fill will depend on the gradation and moisture content of the
soil when it is placed. Soils with higher fines content (soil fraction passing the U.S. No. 200 sieve) will
become sensitive with higher moisture content. It is often difficult to achieve adequate compaction if soil
moisture is outside of optimum ranges for soils that contain more than about 5 percent fines.
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
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Site Soils: Topsoil and existing fill are not considered suitable for use as structural fill. Native
soils contain sufficient fines (silt and clay) that make them moisture sensitive and difficult to use
as structural fill. These soils would have to be moisture conditioned within optimal moisture
content to use as structural fill. Optimum moisture is considered within about +/- 2 percent of the
moisture content required to achieve the maximum dry density (MDD) per the ASTM D-1557
test method. If moisture content is higher or lower than optimum, soils would need to be dried or
wetted prior to placement as structural fill.
Import Fill Materials: We recommend imported structural fill placed during dry weather consist
of material which meets the specifications for Gravel Borrow as described in Section 9-03.14(1)
of the 2018 Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Specifications for Road,
Bridge, and Municipal Construction manual (Publication M 41-10). Gravel Borrow should be
protected from disturbance if exposed to wet conditions after placement.
During wet weather, or for backfill on wet subgrades, import soil suitable for compaction in
wetter conditions should be provided. Imported fill for use in wet conditions should conform to
specifications for Select Borrow as described in Section 9-03.14(2), or Crushed Surfacing per
Section 9-03.9(3) of the 2018 WSDOT M-41 manual, with the modification that a maximum of 5
percent by weight shall pass the U.S. No. 200 sieve for these soil types.
Structural fill placement and compaction is weather-dependent. Delays due to inclement weather
are common, even when using select granular fill. We recommend site grading and earthwork be
scheduled for the drier months of the year. Frozen soil is not suitable as structural fill.
Structural Fill Placement
We recommend structural fill is placed in lifts not exceeding about 10 inches in loose measure. It may be
necessary to adjust lift thickness based on site and fill conditions during placement and compaction. Finer
grained soil used as structural fill and/or lighter weight compaction equipment may require significantly
thinner lifts to attain required compaction levels. Granular soil with lower fines contents could potentially
be placed in thicker lifts (1 foot maximum) if they can be adequately compacted. Structural fill should be
compacted to attain the recommended levels presented in Table 1, Compaction Criteria.
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
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Table 1. Compaction Criteria
Fill Application Compaction Criteria*
Footing areas 95 %
Upper 2 feet in pavement areas, flatwork, and utility trenches 95 %
Below 2 feet in pavement areas, flatwork, and utility trenches 92 %
Utility trenches or general fill in non-paved or -building areas 90 %
*Per the ASTM D 1557 test method.
Trench backfill within about 2 feet of utility lines should not be over-compacted to reduce the risk of
damage to the line. In some instances, the top of the utility line may be within 2 feet of the surface.
Backfill in these circumstances should be compacted to a firm and unyielding condition.
We recommend fill procedures include maintaining grades that promote drainage and do not allow
ponding of water within the fill area. The contractor should protect compacted fill subgrades from
disturbance during wet weather. In the event of rain during structural fill placement, the exposed fill
surface should be allowed to dry prior to placement of additional fill. Alternatively, the wet soil can be
removed. We recommend consideration is given to protecting haul routes and other high traffic areas
with free-draining granular fill material (i.e. sand and gravel containing less than 5 pe rcent fines) or
quarry spalls to reduce the potential for disturbance to the subgrade during inclement weather.
Structural fill placed on sloping ground should be constructed using a benched (stairstep) methodology.
Benches should be cut level or with a slight downward incline into the slope in firm native soil. Benches
should be wide enough to accommodate a minimum 20-ton vibratory roller and be a maximum of about
two feet high.
Earthwork Procedures
Conventional earthmoving equipment should be suitable for earthwork at this site. Earthwork may be
difficult during periods of wet weather or if elevated soil moisture is present. Excavated site soils may
not be suitable as structural fill depending on the soil moisture content and weather conditions at the time
of earthwork. If soils are stockpiled and wet weather is anticipated, the stockpile should be protected with
securely anchored plastic sheeting. If stockpiled soils become wet and unusable, it will become necessary
to import clean, granular soils to complete wet weather site work.
Wet or disturbed subgrade soils should be over-excavated to expose firm, non-yielding, non-organic soils
and backfilled with compacted structural fill. We recommend the earthwork portion of this project be
completed during extended periods of dry weather. If earthwork is completed during the wet season
(typically October through April) it may be necessary to take extra measures to protect subgrade soils.
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
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If earthwork takes place during freezing conditions, we recommend the exposed subgrade is allowed to
thaw and re-compacted prior to placing subsequent lifts of structural fill. Alternatively, the frozen soil
can be removed to unfrozen soil and replaced with structural fill.
The contractor is responsible for designing and constructing stable, temporary excavations (including
utility trenches) as required to maintain stability of excavation sides and bottoms. Excavations should be
sloped or shored in the interest of safety following local and federal regulations, including current OSHA
excavation and trench safety standards. Temporary excavation cuts should be sloped at inclinations of
1.5H:1V (Horizontal:Vertical) or flatter, unless the contractor can demonstrate the safety of steeper cut
slopes. It should be noted outwash soils have the tendency to cave into open excavations. Shoring may
be necessary for deeper utility trenches on this site. Permanent cut and fill slopes should be inclined at
grades of 2H:1V, or flatter.
A geotechnical engineer and accredited materials testing firm should be retained during the construction
phase of the project to observe earthwork operations and to perform necessary tests and observations
during subgrade preparation, placement and compaction of structural fill, and backfilling of excavations.
Foundations
Foundations can be placed on firm native soils or on a zone of structural fill above prepared subgrades as
described in this report. The following recommendations are for conventional spread footing foundations:
Bearing Capacity (net allowable): 3,000 pounds per square foot (psf) for footings
supported on firm native soils or structural fill over
native subgrades prepared as described in this report.
Footing Width (Minimum): 16 inches (Strip)
24 inches (Column)
Embedment Depth (Minimum): 18 inches (Exterior)
12 inches (Interior)
Settlement: Total: < 1 inch
Differential: < 1/2 inch (over 30 feet)
Allowable Lateral Passive Resistance: 325 psf/ft* (below 12 inches)
Allowable Coefficient of Friction: 0.40*
*These values include a factor of safety of approximately 1.5.
The net allowable bearing pressures presented above may be increased by one-third to resist transient,
dynamic loads such as wind or seismic forces. Lateral resistance to footings should be ignored in the
upper 12-inches from exterior finish grade unless restricted.
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
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Foundation Construction Considerations
All foundation subgrades should be free of water and loose soil prior to placing concrete , and
should be prepared as recommended in this report. Concrete should be placed soon after
excavating and compaction to reduce disturbance to bearing soils. Should soils at foundation
level become excessively dry, disturbed, saturated, or frozen, the affected soil should be removed
prior to placing concrete. We recommend SSGC observe foundation subgrades prior to
placement of concrete.
Foundation Drainage
Ground surface adjacent foundations should be sloped away to facilitate drainage. We recommend
footing drains are installed around perimeter footings. Footing drains should include a minimum 4-
inch diameter perforated rigid plastic or metal drain line installed along the exterior base of the
footing. The perforated drain lines should be connected to a tight line pipe that discharges to an
approved storm drain receptor. The drain line should be surrounded by a zone of clean, free-draining
granular material having less than 5 percent passing the No. 200 sieve or meeting the requirements of
section 9-03.12(2) “Gravel Backfill for Walls” in the 2018 WSDOT (M41-10) manual. The free-
draining aggregate zone should be at least 12 inches wide and wrapped in filter fabric. The granular
fill should extend to within 6 inches of final grade where it should be capped with compacted fill
containing sufficient fines to reduce infiltration of surface water into the footing drains. Alternately,
the ground surface can be paved with asphalt or concrete. Cleanouts are recommended for
maintenance of the drain system.
On-Grade Floor Slabs
On-grade floor slabs should be placed on native soils or structural fill prepared as described in this report.
We recommend a modulus subgrade reaction of 175 pounds per square inch per inch (psi/in) for native
soil or compacted granular structural fill over properly prepared native soil.
We recommend a capillary break is provided between the prepared subgrade and bottom of slab.
Capillary break material should be a minimum of 4 inches thick and consist of compacted clean, free-
draining, well graded coarse sand and gravel. The capillary break material should contain less than 5
percent fines, based on that soil fraction passing the U.S. No. 4 sieve . Alternatively, a clean angular
gravel such as No. 7 aggregate per Section 9-03.1(4) C of the 2018 WSDOT (M41-10) manual could be
used for this purpose.
We recommend positive separations and/or isolation joints are provided between slabs and foundations,
and columns or utility lines to allow independent movement where needed. Backfill in interior trenches
beneath slabs should be compacted in accordance with recommendations presented in this report.
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
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A vapor retarder should be considered beneath concrete slabs that will be covered with moisture sensitive
or impervious coverings (such as tile, wood, etc.), or when the slab will support equipment or stored
materials sensitive to moisture. We recommend the slab designer refer to ACI 302 and/or ACI 360 for
procedures and limitations regarding the use and placement of vapor retarders.
Seismic Considerations
Recommended seismic parameters and values in Table 2 are based on the 2015 International Building
Code (IBC).
Table 2. Seismic Parameters
PARAMETER VALUE
2015 International Building Code (IBC)
Site Classification1 D
Ss Spectral Acceleration for a Short Period 1.46
S1 Spectral Acceleration for a 1-Second Period 0.546g
Fa Site Coefficient for a Short Period 1.00
Fv Site Coefficient for a 1-Second Period 1.50
1 Note: In general accordance with 2015 International Building Code, Section 1613.3.1 for risk categories
I,II,III. IBC Site Class is based on the estimated characteristics of the upper 100 feet of the subsurface profile.
Ss, S1, Fa, and Fv values based on the OSHPD Seismic Design Maps website.
Liquefaction
Soil liquefaction is a condition where loose, typically granular soils located below the
groundwater surface lose strength during ground shaking, and is often associated with
earthquakes. The Seattle Hazard Explorer website does not show the site in a liquefaction prone
area. Native soils consist of principally dense to very dense glacially consolidated materials at
relatively shallow depth. The risk of liquefaction at this site is considered low for the design level
earthquake.
Lateral Earth Pressures
We anticipate retaining walls may be required in portions of the development. Below grade or retaining
walls will be subject to lateral earth pressures. Subgrade walls are typically designed for “active” or “at-
rest” earth pressure conditions. Active earth pressure is commonly used for design of free-standing
cantilever retaining walls and assumes lateral movement at the top of the wall of around 0.002H to
0.004H, where H is the height of the wall. The at-rest condition assumes no wall movement.
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
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We anticipate most walls will retain native outwash or new structural fill to accommodate final site
grades. The following recommended earth pressures (Table 3) should be applied as a triangular
distribution starting at the top of the wall (for active and at-rest) and bottom of wall (for passive) and
assume:
▪ Backfill behind walls is level and no surcharge loads will be applied;
▪ Drainage is provided behind the wall to prevent the development of hydrostatic pressures.
Table 3. Lateral Earth Pressures
Soil Type Earth Pressure
Coefficient*
Equivalent Fluid
Pressure (pcf)*
Loose Native Soils
(0 to 4 feet)
Active: 0.36
At-rest: 0.53
Passive: 2.80
Active: 40
At-rest: 55
Passive: 300
Dense Glacial Till
(Below 4 feet)
Active: 0.25
At-rest: 0.38
Passive: 350
Active: 30
At-rest: 45
Passive: 350
* A factor of safety of about 1.5 should be applied to these values.
Additional lateral pressure should be added to these values to model surcharges such as adjacent
structures, sloped backfill behind the wall, traffic, construction equipment, or seismic loads. We
recommend an active seismic pressure of 5H psf (where H is the height of the subgrade wall) and an at-
rest seismic pressure of 8H. The effects of other surcharge loads should be accounted for as appropriate.
Wall Backfill
Backfill behind retaining walls should consist of granular material that satisfies the criteria of
Section 9-03.12(2) “Gravel Backfill for Walls” per the 2018 WSDOT (M 41-10) manual, or as
approved by the engineer.
Wall backfill should be placed in lifts not exceeding 8 inches and compacted with hand-operated
compaction equipment. Compaction of wall backfill should be between 90 to 92 percent of the
maximum dry density (MDD) per the ASTM D1557 test method within 3 feet of the back of the
wall. At a distance greater than 3 feet behind the back of the wall, backfill can be compacted
using conventional rollers, with backfill compacted to at least 92 percent of the MDD (ASTM
D1557).
Wall Drainage
Drainage should be provided behind subgrade walls to reduce the potential for hydrostatic pressure
developing against the wall and to reduce the risk of groundwater from entering subgrade floors.
We recommend a minimum 12-inch wide zone of free draining granular soil (WSDOT Section 9-
03.12(4), or as approved by the design engineer) is placed directly behind the wall. Alternatively,
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
10
an approved drainage mat can be used behind the wall. A perforated rigid plastic drainpipe at least
6-inches in diameter should be installed behind the base of the wall within 6-inches of the bottom of
the footing. The drain line should be surrounded with the free-draining granular soil zone and sloped
to provide flow to an approved storm water receptor. The granular fill zone should extend to within 1
foot of final grade of the wall, where it should be capped with compacted low permeable fill
containing sufficient fines to reduce infiltration of surface water into the drainage zone. A filter
fabric (such as Mirafi 140N, or other approved material) should be placed between native soils and
the granular drain material to limit siltation into the drainage zone. Cleanouts are recommended for
maintenance of the drain system.
Infiltration Characteristics
We understand stormwater control will use infiltration facilities. General assessment of infiltration
potential of native soils was performed by completing one small-scale Pilot Infiltration Test (PIT) in the
proposed storm tract per the 2016 King County Surface Water Design Manual. Test PIT-1 was completed
in the upper native silty sand. Results of the infiltration test are presented in Table 3.
Table 3. Infiltration Test Results
Infiltration
Test No.
Depth of
Test
from
Surface
(feet)
Soil Type
Field Infiltration
Rate
(in/hr)
Corrected
Infiltration
Rate
(in/hr)
Correction
Factors*
(Fg/Ft/Fp)
PIT-1 2 Alluvium/Weathered
Till 3 1.2 (1.0/0.5/0.8)
* Correction Factors from the 2017 City of Renton Surface Water Design Manual. Correction factors applied to the
field rate per equation 5-11 of the County Manual.
The tested infiltration rate from PIT-1 is considered appropriate for the soil tested. However, the presence
of dense glacial till below the alluvium/weathered till will form a barrier to vertical groundwater flow.
We interpret the infiltration rate to be reflective of mostly horizontal flow through the upper soils.
Infiltration facilities planned in the upper 3 to 4 feet of site soils should be restricted to shallow dispersion
systems as the dense glacial till is considered a barrier which should be accounted for in design . An
infiltration rate of 1.2 inches per hour is recommended for dispersion systems in the upper silty sand and
weathered till. No infiltration should be accounted for in the dense (unweathered) glacial till.
Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) and organic content test were completed on samples from the two test
holes in the storm track area to assess treatment characteristics of the upper outwash soil. Test results are
summarized in Table 4.
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
11
Table 4. CEC and Organic Content Results
Test Location,
Depth
Soil Type CEC Results
(milliequivalents)
CEC Required*
(milliequivalents)
Organic
Content
Results (%)
Organic
Content
Required* (%)
PIT-1, 2 feet Alluvium 10 ≥ 5 2.79 ≥1.0
*Per the 2017 City of Renton Surface Water Design Manual.
CEC and organic test results satisfy City criteria on the tested soil.
Conventional Pavement Sections
Subgrades for conventional pavement areas should be prepared as described in the “Subgrade
Preparation” section of this report. Subgrades below pavement sections should be graded or crowned to
promote drainage and not allow for ponding of water beneath the section. If drainage is not provided and
ponding occurs, the subgrade soils could become saturated, lose strength, and result in premature distress
to the pavement. In addition, the pavement surfacing should also be graded to promote drainage and
reduce the potential for ponding of water on the pavement surface.
Minimum recommended pavement section for private driveways are presented in Table 5. Pavement
sections in public right-of-ways (S. 132nd Street) should conform to City of Renton requirements for the
road designation.
Table 5. Preliminary Pavement Sections
Traffic Area
Minimum Recommended Pavement Section Thickness (inches)
Asphalt
Concrete
Surface1
Portland
Cement
Concrete
Aggregate
Base
Course2
Subbase
Aggregate3
Driveways 2 - 4 12
1 1/2 –inch nominal aggregate hot-mix asphalt (HMA) per WSDOT 9-03.8(1)
2 Crushed Surfacing Base Course per WSDOT 9-03.9(3)
3 Native granular soils compacted to 95% of the ASTM D1557 test method, or Gravel Borrow per
WSDOT 9-03.14(1) or Crushed Surfacing Base Course WSDOT 9-03.9(3)
Conventional Pavement Maintenance
The performance and lifespan of pavements can be significantly impacted by future maintenance.
The above pavement sections represent minimum recommended thicknesses and, as such, periodic
maintenance should be completed. Proper maintenance will slow the rate of pavement deterioration
and will improve pavement performance and life. Preventative maintenance consists of both
localized maintenance (crack and joint sealing and patching) and global maintenance (surface
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
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sealing). Added maintenance measures should be anticipated over the lifetime of the pavement
section if any existing fill or topsoil is left in-place beneath pavement sections.
Geologic Hazard Area Discussion
The City of Renton’s COR Map for critical areas identifies the south-facing slope as having inclinations
between 15 and 25 percent which satisfies criteria per Title IV, Chapter 3 of the City of Renton Municipal
Code (RMC) as a regulated slope. The slope is not mapped as a high erosion hazard.
Landslide Hazard
Native soils on site slopes consist of a relatively thin layer of alluvium, over weathered glacial
till, over dense to very dense glacial till. No evidence of recent landslide activity was apparent on
site slopes or near the property at the time of our fieldwork. In addition, we are unaware of active
landslides within 300 feet of the property. The proposed development should not adversely
impact slope stability on the site or on adjacent properties.
Erosion Hazard
Native glacial soils on the site mapped by the USDA are considered to have a moderate potential
to erosion. We observed no evidence of excessive erosion on the property, including the west-
facing slope. Regarding planned development, it is our opinion that Best Management Practices
(BMP) for erosion control (silt fencing, straw bales, etc) can be utilized such that the risk of off -
site transport of sediment is limited during construction. Additional erosion control measures
may be necessary if earthwork is scheduled during the wetter seasons. All erosion control
provisions should follow City of Renton regulations to reduce the risk of off-site transport of
sediments. Exposed soils following construction should be vegetated as soon as possible.
REPORT CONDITIONS
This report has been prepared for the exclusive use of Mr. Lakhpal Brar and his agents for specific
application to the project discussed, and has been prepared in accordance with generally accepted
geotechnical engineering practices in the area. No warranties, either express or i mplied, are intended or
made. The analysis and recommendations presented in this report are based on observed soil conditions
and test results at the indicated locations, and from other geologic information discussed. This report
does not reflect variations that may occur across the site, or due to the modifying effects of construction
or weather or other natural events. The nature and extent of such variations may not become evident until
during or after construction. If variations appear, we should be immediately notified so that further
evaluation and supplemental recommendations can be provided.
N
South Sound Geotechnical Consulting
P.O. Box 39500
Lakewood, WA 98496
(253) 973-0515
Figure 1 – Exploration Plan
Brar Short Plat
Renton, WA SSGC Project #20058
Approximate Test Pit Location
PIT - 1
TP - 1
PIT - 1
Approximate Infiltration Test
Location
Scale: NTS
Base map from plan titled “Brar Short Plat - Plot
Plan”, by Kaul Design Architecture, PLLC, undated.
Legend
TP-1
PIT-1
TP-2
TP-3
TP-4
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
A-1
Appendix A
Field Exploration Procedures and Exploration Logs
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
Field Exploration Procedures
Our field exploration for this project included four test pits and one infiltration test completed on July 8,
2020. The approximate locations of the explorations are shown on Figure 1, Exploration Plan. The
exploration locations were determined by pacing from site features. Ground surface elevations referenced
on the logs were inferred from topography from Google Earth satellite imagery. Exploration locations and
elevations should be considered accurate only to the degree implied by the means and methods used.
A private excavation company subcontracted to SSGC dug the test holes. Soil samples were collected and
stored in moisture tight for further assessment and laboratory testing. Explorations were backfilled with
excavated soils and tamped when completed. Please note that backfill in the explorations will likely settle
with time. Backfill material located in building areas should be re-excavated and recompacted, or
replaced with structural fill.
The following logs indicate the observed lithology of soils and other materials observed in the
explorations at the time of excavation. Where a soil contact was observed to be gradational, our log
indicates the average contact depth. Our logs also indicate the approximate depth to groundwater (where
observed at the time of excavation), along with sample numbers and approximate sample depths. Soil
descriptions on the logs are based on the Unified Soil Classification System.
Project: Brar Short Plat SSGC Job # 20058 TEST PIT LOGS PAGE 1 OF 3
Location: S. 132nd Street, Renton, WA
TEST PIT LOGS FIGURE A-1
South Sound Geotechnical Consulting PIT-1, TP-1 through TP-4 Logged by: THR
Infiltration Test PIT-1
Depth (feet)
Material Description
0 – 1
1 – 6
6 – 10
Topsoil
Silty SAND with occasional gravel: Loose to medium dense
moist, brownish gray. (SM) (Sample S-1 @ 3 feet)
Silty SAND with gravel: Dense to very dense, moist, gray.
(SM) (Glacial Till)
Test hole completed at approximately 10 feet on 7/8/20.
Infiltration test completed at 2.5 feet.
Groundwater not observed at time of excavation.
Approximate surface elevation: 250 feet
Test Pit TP-1
Depth (feet)
Material Description
0 – 0.5
0.5 – 1.5
1.5 – 3
3 – 6
Topsoil
Silty SAND: Loose, moist, orangish brown. (SM)
Silty SAND with occasional gravel and cobbles: Medium
dense to dense, moist, mottled orange-gray. (SM)
(Weathered Glacial Till)
Silty SAND with gravel and cobbles: Very dense, moist,
gray. (SM) (Glacial Till)
Test pit completed at approximately 6 feet on 7/8/20.
Groundwater not observed at time of excavation.
Approximate surface elevation: 275 feet
Project: Brar Short Plat SSGC Job # 20058 TEST PIT LOGS PAGE 2 OF 3
Location: S. 132nd Street, Renton, WA
TEST PIT LOGS FIGURE A-1
South Sound Geotechnical Consulting PIT-1, TP-1 through TP-4 Logged by: THR
Test Pit TP-2
Depth (feet)
Material Description
0 – 0.5
0.5 – 2.5
2.5 – 4
4 – 6
Topsoil
Silty SAND: Loose, moist, orangish brown. (SM)
Silty SAND with occasional gravel and cobbles: Medium
dense to dense, moist, mottled orange-gray. (SM)
(Weathered Glacial Till)
Silty SAND with gravel and cobbles: Very dense, moist,
gray. (SM) (Glacial Till)
Test pit completed at approximately 6 feet on 7/8/20.
Groundwater not observed at time of excavation.
Approximate surface elevation: 273 feet
Test Pit TP-3
Depth (feet)
Material Description
0 – 1.5
1.5 – 2
2 – 3
3 – 4
4 – 6
Fill: Silt, sand, and occasional gravel: Loose, moist, light
brown.
Topsoil
Silty SAND: Loose, moist, orangish brown. (SM)
Silty SAND with some gravel: Medium dense, moist,
mottled orange-gray. (SM) (Weathered Glacial Till)
SAND with silt and occasional gravel: Dense to very dense,
moist, gray. (SM) (Glacial Till)
Test pit completed at approximately 6 feet on 7/8/20.
Groundwater not observed at time of excavation.
Approximate surface elevation: 255 feet
Project: Brar Short Plat SSGC Job # 20058 TEST PIT LOGS PAGE 3 OF 3
Location: S. 132nd Street, Renton, WA
TEST PIT LOGS FIGURE A-1
South Sound Geotechnical Consulting PIT-1, TP-1 through TP-4 Logged by: THR
Test Pit TP-4
Depth (feet)
Material Description
0 – 1
1 – 1.5
1.5 – 2
2 – 4
4 – 6
Fill: Silt, sand, and occasional gravel: Loose, moist, brown.
Topsoil
Silty SAND: Loose, damp, orangish brown. (SM)
Silty SAND with some gravel: Medium dense, moist,
mottled orange-gray. (SM) (Weathered Glacial Till)
Silty SAND with gravel and occasional cobble: Dense to
very dense, moist, gray. (SM) (Glacial Till)
Test pit completed at approximately 6 feet on 7/8/20.
Groundwater not observed at time of excavation.
Approximate surface elevation: 262 feet
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
C-1
Appendix B
Laboratory Testing and Results
Geotechnical Engineering Report SSGC
Brar Short Plat – S. 132nd St
Renton, WA
SSGC Project No. 20058
August 3, 2020
B-1
Laboratory Testing
Select soil samples were tested for organic content and cation exchange capacity (CEC) by Northwest
Agricultural Consultants of Kennewick, Washington. Results of the laboratory testing are included in this
appendix.
2545 W Falls Avenue
Kennewick, WA 99336
509.783.7450
www.nwag.com
lab@nwag.com
Sample ID Organic Matter Cation Exchange Capacity
PIT-1, S-1 2.79% 10.0 meq/100g
Method ASTM D2974 EPA 9081
South Sound Geotechnical Consulting
PO Box 39500
Lakewood, WA 98496
Report: 51979-1-1
Date: July 14, 2020
Project No: 20058
Project Name: Brar
UNIFIED SOIL CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
Criteria for Assigning Group Symbols and Group Names Using Laboratory TestsA Soil Classification
Group
Symbol
Group NameB
Coarse Grained Soils
More than 50% retained
on No. 200 sieve
Gravels
More than 50% of coarse
fraction retained on
No. 4 sieve
Clean Gravels
Less than 5% finesC
Cu 4 and 1 Cc 3E GW Well-graded gravelF
Cu 4 and/or 1 Cc 3E GP Poorly graded gravelF
Gravels with Fines
More than 12% finesC
Fines classify as ML or MH GM Silty gravelF,G, H
Fines classify as CL or CH GC Clayey gravelF,G,H
Sands
50% or more of coarse
fraction passes
No. 4 sieve
Clean Sands
Less than 5% finesD
Cu 6 and 1 Cc 3E SW Well-graded sandI
Cu 6 and/or 1 Cc 3E SP Poorly graded sandI
Sands with Fines
More than 12% finesD
Fines classify as ML or MH SM Silty sandG,H,I
Fines Classify as CL or CH SC Clayey sandG,H,I
Fine-Grained Soils
50% or more passes the
No. 200 sieve
Silts and Clays
Liquid limit less than 50
inorganic PI 7 and plots on or above “A” lineJ CL Lean clayK,L,M
PI 4 or plots below “A” lineJ ML SiltK,L,M
organic Liquid limit - oven dried 0.75 OL Organic clayK,L,M,N
Liquid limit - not dried Organic siltK,L,M,O
Silts and Clays
Liquid limit 50 or more
inorganic PI plots on or above “A” line CH Fat clayK,L,M
PI plots below “A” line MH Elastic SiltK,L,M
organic Liquid limit - oven dried 0.75 OH Organic clayK,L,M,P
Liquid limit - not dried Organic siltK,L,M,Q
Highly organic soils Primarily organic matter, dark in color, and organic odor PT Peat
A Based on the material passing the 3-in. (75-mm) sieve
B If field sample contained cobbles or boulders, or both, add “with cobbles
or boulders, or both” to group name.
C Gravels with 5 to 12% fines require dual symbols: GW -GM well-graded
gravel with silt, GW -GC well-graded gravel with clay, GP-GM poorly
graded gravel with silt, GP-GC poorly graded gravel with clay.
D Sands with 5 to 12% fines require dual symbols: SW -SM well-graded
sand with silt, SW -SC well-graded sand with clay, SP-SM poorly graded
sand with silt, SP-SC poorly graded sand with clay
E Cu = D60/D10 Cc =
6010
2
30
DxD
)(D
F If soil contains 15% sand, add “with sand” to group name.
G If fines classify as CL-ML, use dual symbol GC-GM, or SC-SM.
HIf fines are organic, add “with organic fines” to group name.
I If soil contains 15% gravel, add “with gravel” to group name.
J If Atterberg limits plot in shaded area, soil is a CL-ML, silty clay.
K If soil contains 15 to 29% plus No. 200, add “with sand” or “with
gravel,” whichever is predominant.
L If soil contains 30% plus No. 200 predominantly sand, add
“sandy” to group name.
M If soil contains 30% plus No. 200, predominantly gravel,
add “gravelly” to group name.
N PI 4 and plots on or above “A” line.
O PI 4 or plots below “A” line.
P PI plots on or above “A” line.
Q PI plots below “A” line.