Understanding ‘Good Ground’ Conditions
Understanding Ground Conditions and How SuperSlab+ Can Benefit Your Residential Build
When embarking on a new residential project, the condition of the ground beneath your feet is crucial. The soil type can directly impact the stability of your foundation, making it essential to verify that the ground meets the required conditions before construction begins.
At Allied Concrete, we offer SuperSlab+, a foundation system designed for optimal performance on “good ground” conditions. But what exactly does “good ground” mean, and how can you ensure your site is suitable for SuperSlab+?
What is “Good Ground”?
In accordance with NZS3604 and the New Zealand Building Code B1, “good ground” refers to soil that is stable, with a consistent bearing capacity, and minimal risk of movement or instability. For a foundation to work effectively, the ground beneath it must meet certain criteria, including:
- Consistent Bearing Capacity: The ground must provide a solid foundation with uniform bearing strength.
- Stable Platform: The soil must be free from conditions that could cause vertical movement greater than 25mm over the lifespan of the building.
- Slightly Expansive Soils: Minimal expansive soils ensure that the ground doesn’t shrink or swell with seasonal moisture changes, which can destabilize the foundation.
- Imported Fill: In cases where imported fill is used, it must be compacted correctly to create a stable foundation.
How SuperSlab+ Helps
SuperSlab+ is a CodeMark-certified foundation system. As with any CodeMark, correct application depends on complying with its scope and limitations. Before specifying SuperSlab+, it’s essential to verify that the site conditions and the building design fall within the system’s certified parameters.
The SuperSlab+ system is designed specifically for sites that meet these “good ground” conditions. It’s a durable, energy-efficient, and easy-to-install foundation solution, ideal for residential builds that don’t face challenging soil conditions.
Key benefits include:
- Durability: Designed for long-term performance, SuperSlab+ ensures a stable foundation for your home.
- Energy Efficiency: Its design helps create a thermally efficient environment, making your home warmer and more energy efficient.
- Ease of Installation: SuperSlab+ simplifies the construction process, reducing time on-site.
- Sustainability: SuperSlab+ is a sustainable choice, reducing material waste through the use of QPOD and the carbon footprint compared to traditional slabs by using Allied Concret’s low carbon concrete, Ecrete™.
What If My Site Isn’t Suitable?
Not all sites will automatically meet the criteria for “good ground,” but that doesn’t mean SuperSlab+ is off the table. If your site has expansive soils or unstable conditions, specific engineering solutions can be implemented to ensure SuperSlab+ works for your project.
We always recommend obtaining a geotechnical report to assess the suitability of your site. If issues arise, a structural engineer can collaborate with a geotechnical engineer to adjust the design and ensure the foundation will perform as needed.
Steps to Ensure Your Site Is Ready for SuperSlab+
To ensure your site is suitable for SuperSlab+, follow these steps:
- Get a Geotechnical Report: A qualified engineer can assess the soil and provide the necessary information about the bearing capacity and stability.
- Review Local Building Requirements: Some local councils provide hazard maps and specific design standards that can assist in evaluating the site.
- Obtain Building Consent: Once you have your report, discuss it with your local building authority to confirm that all requirements are met before proceeding.
Why Choose SuperSlab+?
Choosing the right foundation system is critical to the stability and longevity of your home. SuperSlab+ from Allied Concrete offers a reliable, efficient, and sustainable option for projects on “good ground.” Even if your site presents challenges, our team is here to guide you through the process, ensuring the right foundation for your project.
Kick off your next project with confidence, use SuperSlab+ through Allied Concrete’s new DesignHub service.
