HomeMy WebLinkAboutF - Geotechnical Investigation
GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION
PROPOSED WAREHOUSE
Beech Avenue, North of Foothill Boulevard
Fontana, California
For
AIREF ACQUISITIONS, LLC
22885 Savi Ranch Parkway Suite E Yorba Linda California 92887
voice: (714) 685-1115 fax: (714) 685-1118 www.socalgeo.com
December 7, 2021
AIREF ACQUISITIONS, LLC
4675 MacArthur Court, Suite 625
Newport Beach, California 92660
Attention: Mr. Peter F. Schafer
AVP, Development
Project No.: 21G260-1
Subject: Geotechnical Investigation
Proposed Warehouse
Beech Avenue, North of Foothill Boulevard
Fontana, California
Mr. Schafer:
In accordance with your request, we have conducted a geotechnical investigation at the subject
site. We are pleased to present this report summarizing the conclusions and recommendations
developed from our investigation.
We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to be of service on this project. We look forward to
providing additional consulting services during the course of the project. If we may be of further
assistance in any manner, please contact our office.
Respectfully Submitted,
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA GEOTECHNICAL, INC.
Ricardo Frias, RCE 91772
Project Engineer
Robert G. Trazo, GE 2655
Principal Engineer
Distribution: (1) Addressee
Proposed Warehouse – Fontana, CA
Project No. 21G260-1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1
2.0 SCOPE OF SERVICES 3
3.0 SITE AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION 4
3.1 Site Conditions 4
3.2 Proposed Development 4
4.0 SUBSURFACE EXPLORATION 5
4.1 Scope of Exploration/Sampling Methods 5
4.2 Geotechnical Conditions 5
5.0 LABORATORY TESTING 7
6.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 9
6.1 Seismic Design Considerations 9
6.2 Geotechnical Design Considerations 11
6.3 Site Grading Recommendations 13
6.4 Construction Considerations 16
6.5 Foundation Design and Construction 17
6.6 Floor Slab Design and Construction 18
6.7 Retaining Wall Design and Construction 19
6.8 Pavement Design Parameters 21
7.0 GENERAL COMMENTS 24
APPENDICES
A Plate 1: Site Location Map
Plate 2: Boring Location Plan
B Boring Logs
C Laboratory Test Results
D Grading Guide Specifications
E Seismic Design Parameters
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Project No. 21G260-1
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1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Presented below is a brief summary of the conclusions and recommendations of this
investigation. Since this summary is not all inclusive, it should be read in complete context with
the entire report.
Geotechnical Design Considerations
• The native alluvial soils, within 4½± feet of the ground surface, generally consist of silty
sands which possess variable strength and unfavorable consolidation/collapse
characteristics. These soils, in their present condition, are not considered suitable for
support of the foundation loads of the new structure. The deeper alluvium generally consist
of well-graded sands and gravelly sands, and possesses higher strengths and densities and
more favorable consolidation/collapse characteristics.
• Remedial grading will be necessary to remove the undocumented fill soils in their entirety
and the upper portion of the near-surface native alluvial soils and replace these materials as
compacted structural fill soils.
Site Preparation Recommendations
• Initial site preparation should include removal of all vegetation, including tree root masses
and any organic topsoil.
• Remedial grading is recommended within the proposed building pad area to remove the
upper portion of the native alluvial soils and replace these as compacted fill. At a minimum,
the building pad area should also be overexcavated to a depth of at least 5 feet below
existing grade and to a depth of at least 3 feet below proposed pad grade, whichever is
greater. Overexcavation within the foundation areas is recommended to extend to a depth
of at least 3 feet below proposed foundation bearing grade.
• Following completion of the overexcavation, the exposed soils should be scarified to a depth
of at least 12 inches, and thoroughly flooded to raise the moisture content of the underlying
soils to at least 0 to 4 percent above optimum moisture content, extending to a depth of at
least 24 inches. The overexcavation subgrade soils should then be recompacted to at least
90 percent of the ASTM D-1557 maximum dry density. The previously excavated soils may
then be replaced as compacted structural fill.
• The new pavement and flatwork subgrade soils are recommended to be scarified to a depth
of 12± inches, moisture conditioned and recompacted to at least 90 percent of the ASTM D-
1557 maximum dry density.
Building Foundation Recommendations
• Conventional shallow foundations, supported in newly placed compacted fill.
• Maximum, net allowable soil bearing pressure: 2,500 lbs/ft2.
• Reinforcement consisting of at least two (2) No. 5 rebars (1 top and 1 bottom) in strip
footings. Additional reinforcement may be necessary for structural considerations.
Building Floor Slab Design Recommendations
• Conventional Slab-on-Grade: minimum 6 inches thick.
• Modulus of Subgrade Reaction: k = 150 psi/in.
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Project No. 21G260-1
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• Reinforcement is not expected to be necessary for geotechnical considerations. The actual
thickness and reinforcement of the floor slab should be determined by the structural
engineer.
Pavement Design Recommendations
ASPHALT PAVEMENTS (R=50)
Materials
Thickness (inches)
Auto Parking and
Auto Drive Lanes
(TI = 4.0 to 5.0)
Truck Traffic
TI = 6.0 TI = 7.0 TI = 8.0 TI = 9.0
Asphalt Concrete 3 3½ 4 5 5½
Aggregate Base 3 4 5 5 7
Compacted Subgrade 12 12 12 12 12
PORTLAND CEMENT CONCRETE PAVEMENTS (R=50)
Materials
Thickness (inches)
Autos and Light
Truck Traffic
(TI = 6.0)
Truck Traffic
TI = 7.0 TI = 8.0 TI = 9.0
PCC 5 5½ 6½ 8
Compacted Subgrade
(95% minimum compaction) 12 12 12 12
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Project No. 21G260-1
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2.0 SCOPE OF SERVICES
The scope of services performed for this project was in accordance with our Proposal No.
21P453R, dated October 19, 2021. The scope of services included a visual site reconnaissance,
subsurface exploration, field and laboratory testing, and geotechnical engineering analysis to
provide criteria for preparing the design of the building foundations, building floor slab, and
parking lot pavements along with site preparation recommendations and construction
considerations for the proposed development. The evaluation of the environmental aspects of
this site was beyond the scope of services for this geotechnical investigation.
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3.0 SITE AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION
3.1 Site Conditions
The site is located on the west side of Beech Avenue, 330± feet north of Foothill Boulevard in
Fontana, California. The site is bounded to the north by a vacant lot, to the west by an existing
commercial/industrial building and a vacant lot, to the south by a single-family residence and a
vacant lot, and to the east by the Beech Avenue easement. The general location of the site is
illustrated on the Site Location Map, included as Plate 1 of this report.
The site consists of an irregular-shaped parcel, 8.38± acres in size. The site is presently vacant
and undeveloped. Ground surface consists of exposed soil and cobbles with sparse grass and
weed growth. One large tree is located in the central area of the site.
Detailed topographic information was not available at the time of this report. Based on
elevations obtained from Google Earth and visual observations made at the time of the
subsurface investigation, the overall site generally slopes downward to the south at a gradient
of 1.5± percent.
3.2 Proposed Development
Based on a conceptual site plan provided to our office by the client, the site will be developed
with one (1) new industrial building, 185,380± ft2 in size, located in the west-central area of the
site. Dock-high doors will be constructed along a portion of the east building wall. The building
will be surrounded by asphaltic concrete pavements in the parking and drive lanes, Portland
cement concrete pavements in the loading dock areas, and limited areas of concrete flatwork
and landscape planters throughout. Beech Avenue will be paved with asphaltic concrete for this
new development.
Detailed structural information has not been provided. It is assumed the building will be of tilt-
up concrete construction, typically supported on conventional shallow foundations with a
concrete slab-on-grade floor. Based on the assumed construction, maximum column and wall
loads are expected to be on the order of 100 kips and 4 to 7 kips per linear foot, respectively.
No significant amounts of below grade construction, such as crawl spaces or new basements,
are expected to be included in the proposed development. Based on the assumed topography,
cuts and fills of up to 3 to 4± feet are expected to be necessary to achieve the proposed site
grades.
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Project No. 21G260-1
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4.0 SUBSURFACE EXPLORATION
4.1 Scope of Exploration/Sampling Methods
The subsurface exploration for this project consisted of seven (7) borings advanced to depths of
5 to 25± feet below the existing site grades. All of the borings were logged during drilling by a
member of our staff.
The borings, except Boring No. B-7, were advanced with hollow stem augers, by a conventional
truck-mounted drilling rig. Boring No. B-7 was advanced with manually operated hand auger
equipment. Representative bulk and relatively undisturbed soil samples were taken during
drilling. Relatively undisturbed soil samples were taken with a split barrel “California Sampler”
containing a series of one inch long, 2.416± inch diameter brass rings. This sampling method is
described in ASTM Test Method D-3550. In-situ samples were also taken using a 1.4± inch
inside diameter split spoon sampler, in general accordance with ASTM D-1586. Both of these
samplers are driven into the ground with successive blows of a 140-pound weight falling 30
inches. The blow counts obtained during driving are recorded for further analysis. Bulk samples
were collected in plastic bags to retain their original moisture content. The relatively
undisturbed ring samples were placed in molded plastic sleeves that were then sealed and
transported to our laboratory.
The approximate locations of the borings are indicated on the Boring Location Plan, included as
Plate 2 in Appendix A of this report. The Boring Logs, which illustrate the conditions
encountered at the boring locations, as well as the results of some of the laboratory testing, are
included in Appendix B.
4.2 Geotechnical Conditions
Alluvium
Native alluvium was encountered at the ground surface of all boring locations, extending to at
least the maximum depth explored of 25± feet below ground surface. The near-surface alluvial
soils, within the upper 2½ to 4½± feet, generally consist of medium dense to dense silty fine
sands and silty fine to coarse sands with varying cobble content. At depths greater than 4½±
feet, the alluvial soils generally consist of medium dense to very dense fine to coarse sands with
little fine to coarse gravel and occasional to abundant cobbles. Boring No. B-3 encountered
gravelly fine to coarse sands from the ground surface, extending to 15± feet below ground
surface.
Groundwater
Free water was not encountered during the drilling of any of the borings. Based on the lack of
any water within the borings, and the moisture contents of the recovered soil samples, the
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static groundwater table is considered to have existed at a depth in excess of 25± feet at the
time of the subsurface exploration.
Recent water level data was obtained from the California Department of Water Resources
website, http://www.water.ca.gov/waterdatalibrary/. One monitoring well on record is located
5,121± feet north of the site. Water level readings within this monitoring well indicates a high
groundwater level of 492± feet below ground surface in April 2016.
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5.0 LABORATORY TESTING
The soil samples recovered from the subsurface exploration were returned to our laboratory for
further testing to determine selected physical and engineering properties of the soils. The tests
are briefly discussed below. It should be noted that the test results are specific to the actual
samples tested, and variations could be expected at other locations and depths.
Classification
All recovered soil samples were classified using the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS), in
accordance with ASTM D-2488. Field identifications were then supplemented with additional
visual classifications and/or by laboratory testing. The USCS classifications are shown on the
Boring Logs and are periodically referenced throughout this report.
Dry Density and Moisture Content
The density has been determined for selected relatively undisturbed ring samples. These
densities were determined in general accordance with the method presented in ASTM D-2937.
The results are recorded as dry unit weight in pounds per cubic foot. The moisture contents are
determined in accordance with ASTM D-2216, and are expressed as a percentage of the dry
weight. These test results are presented on the Boring Logs.
Consolidation
Selected soil samples have been tested to determine their consolidation potential, in accordance
with ASTM D-2435. The testing apparatus is designed to accept either natural or remolded
samples in a one-inch-high ring, approximately 2.416 inches in diameter. Each sample is then
loaded incrementally in a geometric progression and the resulting deflection is recorded at
selected time intervals. Porous stones are in contact with the top and bottom of the sample to
permit the addition or release of pore water. The samples are typically inundated with water at
an intermediate load to determine their potential for collapse or heave. The results of the
consolidation testing are plotted on Plates C-1 through C-4 in Appendix C of this report.
Maximum Dry Density and Optimum Moisture Content
A representative bulk sample has been tested to determine its maximum dry density and
optimum moisture content. The results have been obtained using the Modified Proctor
procedure, per ASTM D-1557 and are presented on Sheet C-5 in Appendix C of this report.
These tests are generally used for comparison with the densities of undisturbed field samples,
and for later compaction testing. Additional testing of other soil types or soil mixes may be
necessary at a later date.
R-value
R (resistance)-value testing was conducted on a representative sample of the near-surface soils
obtained from the subject site. The R-value was determined in accordance with CA Test Method
301. This test provides a measure of the pavement support characteristics of the soils, and is
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Project No. 21G260-1
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used in the pavement thickness design procedure. The result of the R-value testing is as
follows:
Sample ID R-Value
B-7 @ 0 to 5 feet 77
Soluble Sulfates
A representative sample of the near-surface soil was submitted to a subcontracted analytical
laboratory for determination of soluble sulfate content. Soluble sulfates are naturally present in
soils, and if the concentration is high enough, can result in degradation of concrete which
comes into contact with these soils. The results of the soluble sulfate testing are presented
below, and are discussed further in a subsequent section of this report.
Sample Identification Soluble Sulfates (%) Sulfate Classification
B-5 @ 0 to 5 feet 0.002 Not Applicable (S0)
Corrosivity Testing
One representative sample of the near-surface soils was submitted to a subcontracted corrosion
engineering laboratory to identify potentially corrosive characteristics with respect to common
construction materials. The corrosivity testing included a determination of the electrical
resistivity, pH, chloride and nitrate concentrations of the soils, as well as other tests. The results
of some of these tests are presented below.
Sample Identification Saturated Resistivity
(ohm-cm) pH Chlorides
(mg/kg)
Nitrates
(mg/kg)
B-5 @ 0 to 5 feet 10,000 7.0 20 23
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6.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the results of our review, field exploration, laboratory testing and geotechnical
analysis, the proposed development is considered feasible from a geotechnical standpoint. The
recommendations contained in this report should be taken into the design, construction, and
grading considerations.
The recommendations are contingent upon all grading and foundation construction activities
being monitored by the geotechnical engineer of record. The recommendations are provided
with the assumption that an adequate program of client consultation, construction monitoring,
and testing will be performed during the final design and construction phases to verify
compliance with these recommendations. Maintaining Southern California Geotechnical, Inc.,
(SCG) as the geotechnical consultant from the beginning to the end of the project will provide
continuity of services. The geotechnical engineering firm providing testing and observation
services shall assume the responsibility of Geotechnical Engineer of Record.
The Grading Guide Specifications, included as Appendix D, should be considered part of this
report, and should be incorporated into the project specifications. The contractor and/or owner
of the development should bring to the attention of the geotechnical engineer any conditions
that differ from those stated in this report, or which may be detrimental for the development.
6.1 Seismic Design Considerations
The subject site is located in an area which is subject to strong ground motions due to
earthquakes. The performance of a site specific seismic hazards analysis was beyond the scope
of this investigation. However, numerous faults capable of producing significant ground motions
are located near the subject site. Due to economic considerations, it is not generally considered
reasonable to design a structure that is not susceptible to earthquake damage. Therefore,
significant damage to structures may be unavoidable during large earthquakes. The proposed
structures should, however, be designed to resist structural collapse and thereby provide
reasonable protection from serious injury, catastrophic property damage and loss of life.
Faulting and Seismicity
Research of available maps indicates that the subject site is not located within an Alquist-Priolo
Earthquake Fault Zone. Furthermore, SCG did not identify any evidence of faulting during the
geotechnical investigation. Therefore, the possibility of significant fault rupture on the site is
considered to be low.
The potential for other geologic hazards such as seismically induced settlement, lateral
spreading, tsunamis, inundation, seiches, flooding, and subsidence affecting the site is
considered low.
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Seismic Design Parameters
The 2019 California Building Code (CBC) provides procedures for earthquake resistant structural
design that include considerations for on-site soil conditions, occupancy, and the configuration
of the structure including the structural system and height. The seismic design parameters
presented below are based on the soil profile and the proximity of known faults with respect to
the subject site.
Based on standards in place at the time of this report, the proposed development is expected to
be designed in accordance with the requirements of the 2019 edition of the California Building
Code (CBC), which was adopted on January 1, 2020.
The 2019 CBC Seismic Design Parameters have been generated using the SEAOC/OSHPD
Seismic Design Maps Tool, a web-based software application available at the website
www.seismicmaps.org. This software application calculates seismic design parameters in
accordance with several building code reference documents, including ASCE 7-16, upon which
the 2019 CBC is based. The application utilizes a database of risk-targeted maximum considered
earthquake (MCER) site accelerations at 0.01-degree intervals for each of the code documents.
The tables below were created using data obtained from the application. The output generated
from this program is included as Plate E-1 in Appendix E of this report.
The 2019 CBC requires that a site-specific ground motion study be performed in accordance
with Section 11.4.8 of ASCE 7-16 for Site Class D sites with a mapped S1 value greater than 0.2.
However, Section 11.4.8 of ASCE 7-16 also indicates an exception to the requirement for a site-
specific ground motion hazard analysis for certain structures on Site Class D sites. The
commentary for Section 11 of ASCE 7-16 (Page 534 of Section C11 of ASCE 7-16) indicates that
“In general, this exception effectively limits the requirements for site-specific hazard analysis to
very tall and or flexible structures at Site Class D sites.” Based on our understanding of the
proposed development, the seismic design parameters presented below were
calculated assuming that the exception in Section 11.4.8 applies to the proposed
structure at this site. However, the structural engineer should verify that this
exception is applicable to the proposed structure. Based on the exception, the spectral
response accelerations presented below were calculated using the site coefficients (Fa and Fv)
from Tables 1613.2.3(1) and 1613.2.3(2) presented in Section 16.4.4 of the 2019 CBC.
2019 CBC SEISMIC DESIGN PARAMETERS
Parameter Value
Mapped Spectral Acceleration at 0.2 sec Period SS 1.979
Mapped Spectral Acceleration at 1.0 sec Period S1 0.745
Site Class --- D
Site Modified Spectral Acceleration at 0.2 sec Period SMS 1.979
Site Modified Spectral Acceleration at 1.0 sec Period SM1 1.267
Design Spectral Acceleration at 0.2 sec Period SDS 1.319
Design Spectral Acceleration at 1.0 sec Period SD1 0.844
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It should be noted that the site coefficient Fv and the parameters SM1 and SD1 were not included
in the SEAOC/OSHPD Seismic Design Maps Tool output for the 2019 CBC. We calculated these
parameters-based on Table 1613.2.3(2) in Section 16.4.4 of the 2019 CBC using the value of S1
obtained from the Seismic Design Maps Tool, assuming that a site-specific ground motion
hazards analysis is not required for the proposed building at this site.
Liquefaction
Liquefaction is the loss of strength in generally cohesionless, saturated soils when the pore-
water pressure induced in the soil by a seismic event becomes equal to or exceeds the
overburden pressure. The primary factors which influence the potential for liquefaction include
groundwater table elevation, soil type and grain size characteristics, relative density of the soil,
initial confining pressure, and intensity and duration of ground shaking. The depth within which
the occurrence of liquefaction may impact surface improvements is generally identified as the
upper 50 feet below the existing ground surface. Liquefaction potential is greater in saturated,
loose, poorly graded fine sands with a mean (d50) grain size in the range of 0.075 to 0.2 mm
(Seed and Idriss, 1971). Clayey (cohesive) soils or soils which possess clay particles
(d<0.005mm) in excess of 20 percent (Seed and Idriss, 1982) are generally not considered to
be susceptible to liquefaction, nor are those soils which are above the historic static
groundwater table.
The California Geological Survey (CGS) has not yet conducted detailed seismic hazards mapping
in the area of the subject site. The general liquefaction susceptibility of the site was determined
by research of the San Bernardino County Land Use Plan, General Plan, Geologic Hazard
Overlays. Map FH29 indicates that the subject site is not located within an area of liquefaction
susceptibility. Based on the mapping performed by the county of San Bernardino and the
subsurface conditions encountered at the boring locations, liquefaction is not considered to be a
design concern for this project.
6.2 Geotechnical Design Considerations
General
Based on the subsurface condition encountered at the boring locations, the subject site is
underlain by native alluvial soils, extending to the maximum depth explored of 25± feet below
the existing site grades. The near-surface alluvium encountered at the boring locations consists
of medium dense to dense silty fine sands and silty fine to coarse sands with varying cobble
content. The near-surface native alluvial soils possess moisture contents well below the
optimum moisture content for compaction. The results of laboratory testing indicate that the
near-surface soils encountered at Boring No. B-5 are compressible when loaded and may be
subject to hydrocollapse when inundated with water to depths of 3 to 4± feet below the
existing site grades. Based on these conditions, the near-surface alluvial soils, in their present
condition, are not considered suitable to support the foundation loads of the new building. At
greater depths, the underlying alluvial soils generally consist of high strength, medium dense to
very dense fine to coarse sands and gravelly fine to coarse sands with little fine to coarse gravel
and occasional to abuntant cobbles. Based on these conditions, remedial grading is considered
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warranted within the proposed building area in order to remove a portion of the near-surface
native alluvial soils.
Settlement
The recommended remedial grading will remove the existing undocumented fill soils and a
portion of the upper native alluvial soils and replace these materials as compacted structural fill.
The native soils that will remain in place below the recommended depth of overexcavation will
not be subject to large stress increases from the foundations of the new structure. Therefore,
following completion of the recommended grading, post-construction settlements are expected
to be within tolerable limits.
Expansion
The near-surface soils consist of gravelly sands, sands, and silty sands with no appreciable clay
content. These materials have been visually classified as non-expansive. Therefore, no design
considerations related to expansive soils are considered warranted for this site.
Soluble Sulfates
The results of the soluble sulfate testing indicated that the selected sample of the near-surface
soils possesses a sulfate concentration of approximately 0.002 percent. This concentration is
considered to be “not applicable” (S0) with respect to the American Concrete Institute (ACI)
Publication 318-14 Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete and Commentary,
Section 4.3. Therefore, specialized concrete mix designs are not considered to be necessary,
with regard to sulfate protection purposes. It is, however, recommended that additional soluble
sulfate testing be conducted at the completion of rough grading to verify the soluble sulfate
concentrations of the soils which are present at pad grade within the building area.
Corrosion Potential
The results of laboratory testing indicate that the on-site soils possess a saturated resistivity
value of 10,000 ohm-cm, and a pH value of 7.0. The test results have been evaluated in
accordance with guidelines published by the Ductile Iron Pipe Research Association (DIPRA).
The DIPRA guidelines consist of a point system by which characteristics of the soils are used to
quantify the corrosivity characteristics of the site. Sulfides and redox potential are factors that
are also used in the evaluation procedure. We have evaluated the corrosivity characteristics of
the on-site soils using resistivity, pH, and moisture content. Based on these factors, and utilizing
the DIPRA procedure, the on-site soils are not considered to be corrosive to ductile iron pipe.
Therefore, polyethylene protection is not expected to be required for cast iron or ductile iron
pipes.
The results of laboratory testing indicate that the on-site soils possess a non-detectable level of
chlorides concentration. In general, soils possessing chloride concentrations in excess of 500
parts per million (ppm) are considered to be corrosive with respect to steel reinforcement within
reinforced concrete. Based on the lack of any significant chlorides in the tested sample, the site
is considered to have a C1 chloride exposure in accordance with the American Concrete
Institute (ACI) Publication 318 Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete and
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Commentary. Therefore, a specialized concrete mix design for reinforced concrete for protection
against chloride exposure is not considered warranted.
Nitrates present in soil can be corrosive to copper tubing at concentrations greater than 50
mg/kg. The tested sample possesses a nitrate concentration of 23 mg/kg. Based on this test
result, the on-site soils are not considered to be corrosive to copper pipe.
Since SCG does not practice in the area of corrosion engineering, we recommend that the client
contact a corrosion engineer to provide a more thorough evaluation.
Shrinkage/Subsidence
Removal and recompaction of the existing fill soils and near-surface alluvium is estimated to
result in an average shrinkage of 0 to 10 percent. It should be noted that the potential
shrinkage estimate is based on our experience with similar projects at nearby sites. It was not
practical to obtain undisturbed samples based on the gravel, cobble, and boulder content of the
onsite soils. Therefore, the actual amount of shrinkage could vary considerably from these
estimates. If a more accurate and precise shrinkage estimate is desired, SCG can perform a
shrinkage study involving several excavated test-pits where in-place densities are determined
using in-situ testing methods. Please contact SCG for details and a cost estimate regarding a
shrinkage study, if desired.
Minor ground subsidence is expected to occur in the soils below the zone of removal, due to
settlement and machinery working. The subsidence is estimated to be 0.1 feet.
These estimates are based on previous experience and the subsurface conditions encountered
at the boring locations. The actual amount of subsidence is expected to be variable and will be
dependent on the type of machinery used, repetitions of use, and dynamic effects, all of which
are difficult to assess precisely.
Grading and Foundation Plan Review
No grading or foundation plans were available at the time of this report. It is therefore
recommended that we be provided with copies of the preliminary plans, when they become
available, for review with regard to the conclusions, recommendations, and assumptions
contained within this report.
6.3 Site Grading Recommendations
The grading recommendations presented below are based on the subsurface conditions
encountered at the boring locations and our understanding of the proposed development. We
recommend that all grading activities be completed in accordance with the Grading Guide
Specifications included as Appendix D of this report, unless superseded by site-specific
recommendations presented below.
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Site Stripping
Initial site preparation should include stripping of any surficial vegetation from the site. This
should include any weeds, grasses, and shrubs. The actual extent of site stripping should be
determined in the field by the geotechnical engineer, based on the organic content and stability
of the materials encountered.
Treatment of Existing Soils: Building Pad
Remedial grading will be necessary within the proposed building pad area to remove a portion
of the variable strength native alluvium. At a minimum, the overexcavation is recommended to
extend to a depth of at least 5 feet below existing grade and 3 feet below proposed building
pad subgrade elevation, whichever is greater. Within the influence zones of the new
foundations, the overexcavation should extend to a depth of at least 3 feet below proposed
foundation bearing grade.
The overexcavation areas should extend at least 5 feet beyond the building perimeters, and to
an extent equal to the depth of fill below the new foundations. If the proposed structure
incorporates any exterior columns (such as for a canopy or overhang) the area of
overexcavation should also encompass these areas.
Following completion of the overexcavation, the subgrade soils within the building area should
be evaluated by the geotechnical engineer to verify their suitability to serve as the structural fill
subgrade, as well as to support the foundation loads of the new structure. This evaluation
should include proofrolling and probing to identify any soft, loose or otherwise unstable soils
that must be removed. Some localized areas of deeper excavation may be required if loose,
porous, or low density native soils are encountered at the base of the overexcavation.
After a suitable overexcavation subgrade has been achieved, the exposed soils should be
scarified to a depth of at least 12 inches thoroughly flooded to achieve a moisture content of 0
to 4 percent above optimum moisture content to a depth of at least 24 inches. The subgrade
soils should then be recompacted to at least 90 percent of the ASTM D-1557 maximum dry
density. All structural fill soils present within the proposed building area should be compacted to
at least 90 percent of the ASTM D-1557 maximum dry density.
Treatment of Existing Soils: Retaining Walls and Site Walls
The existing soils within the areas of any proposed retaining walls and site walls should be
overexcavated to a depth of 2 feet below foundation bearing grade and replaced as compacted
structural fill as discussed above for the proposed building pad. Any undocumented fill soils or
disturbed native alluvium within any of these foundation areas should be removed in their
entirety. Any erection pads used to construct the walls are considered to be part of the
foundation system with respect to these remedial grading recommendations. The
overexcavation subgrade soils should be evaluated by the geotechnical engineer prior to
scarifying, moisture conditioning, and recompacting the upper 12 inches of exposed subgrade
soils, as discussed for the building area. The previously excavated soils may then be replaced as
compacted structural fill.
Proposed Warehouse – Fontana, CA
Project No. 21G260-1
Page 15
If the recommended remedial grading cannot be completed for screen walls located along
property lines, such walls should be designed for a reduced allowable bearing pressure. The
allowable bearing pressure will be determined based on the actual extent of remedial grading
that can be accomplished.
Treatment of Existing Soils: Flatwork, Parking and Drive Areas
Based on economic considerations, removal and replacement of the variable strength existing
fill and alluvial soils is not considered warranted within the proposed flatwork, parking, and
drive areas. Subgrade preparation in the new parking and drive areas should initially consist of
removal of all soils disturbed during stripping and demolition operations.
The geotechnical engineer should then evaluate the subgrade to identify any areas of additional
unsuitable soils. The subgrade soils should then be scarified to a depth of 12± inches, moisture
conditioned to 0 to 4 percent above optimum moisture content (to a depth of at least 24
inches) and recompacted to at least 90 percent of the ASTM D-1557 maximum dry density.
Based on the presence of variable strength surficial soils throughout the site, it is expected that
some isolated areas of additional overexcavation may be required to remove zones of lower
strength, unsuitable soils.
The grading recommendations presented above for the proposed flatwork, parking, and drive
areas assume that the owner and/or developer can tolerate minor amounts of settlement within
the proposed parking areas. The grading recommendations presented above do not completely
mitigate the extent of undocumented fill soils variable density alluvium in the parking areas. As
such, settlement and associated pavement distress could occur. Typically, repair of such
distressed areas involves significantly lower costs than completely mitigating these soils at the
time of construction. If the owner cannot tolerate the risk of such settlements, the flatwork,
parking and drive areas should be overexcavated to a depth of 2 feet below proposed
pavement subgrade elevation, with the resulting soils replaced as compacted structural fill.
Fill Placement
• Fill soils should be placed in thin (6 inches), near-horizontal lifts, moisture conditioned
to 0 to 4 percent above the optimum moisture content, and compacted.
• On-site soils may be used for fill provided they are cleaned of any debris to the
satisfaction of the geotechnical engineer.
• All grading and fill placement activities should be completed in accordance with the
requirements of the 2019 CBC and the grading code of the city of Fontana and/or the
county of San Bernardino.
• All fill soils should be compacted to at least 90 percent of the ASTM D-1557 maximum
dry density.
• Compaction tests should be performed periodically by the geotechnical engineer as
random verification of compaction and moisture content. These tests are intended to aid
the contractor. Since the tests are taken at discrete locations and depths, they may not
be indicative of the entire fill and therefore should not relieve the contractor of his
responsibility to meet the job specifications.
Proposed Warehouse – Fontana, CA
Project No. 21G260-1
Page 16
Imported Structural Fill
All imported structural fill should consist of very low expansive (EI < 20), well graded soils
possessing at least 10 percent fines (that portion of the sample passing the No. 200 sieve).
Additional specifications for structural fill are presented in the Grading Guide Specifications,
included as Appendix D.
Utility Trench Backfill
In general, all utility trench backfill should be compacted to at least 90 percent of the ASTM D-
1557 maximum dry density. As an alternative, a clean sand (minimum Sand Equivalent of 30)
may be placed within trenches and compacted in place (jetting or flooding is not
recommended). It is recommended that materials in excess of 3 inches in size not be used for
utility trench backfill. Compacted trench backfill should conform to the requirements of the local
grading code, and more restrictive requirements may be indicated by the city of Fontana and/or
the county of San Bernardino. All utility trench backfills should be witnessed by the geotechnical
engineer. The trench backfill soils should be compaction tested where possible; probed and
visually evaluated elsewhere.
Utility trenches which parallel a footing, and extending below a 1h:1v plane projected from the
outside edge of the footing should be backfilled with structural fill soils, compacted to at least
90 percent of the ASTM D-1557 standard. Pea gravel backfill should not be used for these
trenches.
Any soils used to backfill voids around subsurface utility structures, such as manholes or vaults,
should be placed as compacted structural fill. If it is not practical to place compacted fill in
these areas, then such void spaces may be backfilled with lean concrete slurry. Uncompacted
pea gravel or sand is not recommended for backfilling these voids since these materials have a
potential to settle and thereby cause distress of pavements placed around these subterranean
structures.
6.4 Construction Considerations
Excavation Considerations
The near-surface soils are predominately granular in nature. These materials will likely be
subject to caving within shallow excavations. Where caving occurs within shallow excavations,
flattened excavation slopes may be sufficient to provide excavation stability. On a preliminary
basis, the inclination of temporary slopes should not exceed 2h:1v. Maintaining adequate
moisture content within the near-surface soils will improve excavation stability. All excavation
activities on this site should be conducted in accordance with Cal-OSHA regulations.
Moisture Sensitive Subgrade Soils
Based on their granular composition, the on-site soils are susceptible to erosion. The site
should, therefore, be graded to prevent ponding of surface water and to prevent water from
running into excavations.
Proposed Warehouse – Fontana, CA
Project No. 21G260-1
Page 17
Groundwater
The static groundwater table at this site is considered to exist at a depth of more than 25 feet.
Therefore, groundwater is not expected to impact the grading or foundation construction
activities.
6.5 Foundation Design and Construction
Based on the preceding grading recommendations, it is assumed that the new building pad will
be underlain by structural fill soils used to replace existing near-surface alluvial soils. These new
structural fill soils are expected to extend to depths of at least 3 feet below proposed
foundation bearing grade. Based on this subsurface profile, the proposed structure may be
supported on conventional shallow foundations.
Foundation Design Parameters
New square and rectangular footings may be designed as follows:
• Maximum, net allowable soil bearing pressure: 2,500 lbs/ft2.
• Minimum wall/column footing width: 14 inches/24 inches.
• Minimum longitudinal steel reinforcement within strip footings: Two (2) No. 5 rebars (1
top and 1 bottom).
• Minimum foundation embedment: 12 inches into suitable structural fill soils, and at least
18 inches below adjacent exterior grade. Interior column footings may be placed
immediately beneath the floor slab.
• It is recommended that the perimeter building foundations be continuous across all
exterior doorways. Any flatwork adjacent to the exterior doors should be doweled into
the perimeter foundations in a manner determined by the structural engineer.
The allowable bearing pressure presented above may be increased by one-third when
considering short duration wind or seismic loads. The minimum steel reinforcement
recommended above is based on geotechnical considerations; additional reinforcement may be
necessary for structural considerations. The actual design of the foundations should be
determined by the structural engineer.
Foundation Construction
The foundation subgrade soils should be evaluated at the time of overexcavation, as discussed
in Section 6.3 of this report. It is further recommended that the foundation subgrade soils be
evaluated by the geotechnical engineer immediately prior to steel or concrete placement. Soils
suitable for direct foundation support should consist of newly placed structural fill, compacted to
at least 90 percent of the ASTM D-1557 maximum dry density. Any unsuitable materials should
be removed to a depth of suitable bearing compacted structural fill, with the resulting
Proposed Warehouse – Fontana, CA
Project No. 21G260-1
Page 18
excavations backfilled with compacted fill soils. As an alternative, lean concrete slurry (500 to
1,500 psi) may be used to backfill such isolated overexcavations.
The foundation subgrade soils should also be properly moisture conditioned to 0 to 4 percent
above the Modified Proctor optimum, to a depth of at least 12 inches below bearing grade.
Since it is typically not feasible to increase the moisture content of the floor slab and foundation
subgrade soils once rough grading has been completed, care should be taken to maintain the
moisture content of the building pad subgrade soils throughout the construction process.
Estimated Foundation Settlements
Post-construction total and differential settlements of shallow foundations designed and
constructed in accordance with the previously presented recommendations are estimated to be
less than 1.0 and 0.5 inches, respectively. Differential movements are expected to occur over a
30-foot span, thereby resulting in an angular distortion of less than 0.002 inches per inch.
Lateral Load Resistance
Lateral load resistance will be developed by a combination of friction acting at the base of
foundations and slabs and the passive earth pressure developed by footings below grade. The
following friction and passive pressure may be used to resist lateral forces:
• Passive Earth Pressure: 300 lbs/ft3
• Friction Coefficient: 0.30
These are allowable values, and include a factor of safety. When combining friction and passive
resistance, the passive pressure component should be reduced by one-third. These values
assume that footings will be poured directly against compacted structural fill. The maximum
allowable passive pressure is 3,000 lbs/ft2.
6.6 Floor Slab Design and Construction
Subgrades which will support new floor slab should be prepared in accordance with the
recommendations contained in the Site Grading Recommendations section of this report.
Based on the anticipated grading which will occur at this site, the floor of the new structure
may be constructed as a conventional slab-on-grade supported on newly placed structural fill
soils. These fill soils are expected to extend to a depth of at least 3 feet below finished pad
grade. Based on geotechnical considerations, the floor slab may be designed as follows:
• Minimum slab thickness: 6 inches.
• Minimum slab reinforcement: Reinforcement is not expected to be required for
geotechnical conditions. The actual floor slab reinforcement should be determined by
the structural engineer, based upon the imposed loading.
• Modulus of subgrade reaction, k =150 psi/in
Proposed Warehouse – Fontana, CA
Project No. 21G260-1
Page 19
• Slab underlayment: If moisture sensitive floor coverings will be used the minimum slab
underlayment should consist of a moisture vapor barrier constructed below the entire
area of the proposed slab. The moisture vapor barrier should meet or exceed the Class
A rating as defined by ASTM E 1745-97 and have a permeance rating less than 0.01
perms as described in ASTM E 96-95 and ASTM E 154-88. A polyolefin material such as
Stego® Wrap Vapor Barrier or equivalent will meet these specifications. The moisture
vapor barrier should be properly constructed in accordance with all applicable
manufacturer specifications. Given that a rock free subgrade is anticipated and that a
capillary break is not required, sand below the barrier is not required. The need for sand
and/or the amount of sand above the moisture vapor barrier should be specified by the
structural engineer or concrete contractor. The selection of sand above the barrier is not
a geotechnical engineering issue and hence outside our purview. Where moisture
sensitive floor coverings are not anticipated, the vapor barrier may be eliminated.
• Moisture condition the floor slab subgrade soils to 0 to 4 percent above the Modified
Proctor optimum moisture content, to a depth of 12 inches. The moisture content of the
floor slab subgrade soils should be verified by the geotechnical engineer within 24 hours
prior to concrete placement.
• Proper concrete curing techniques should be utilized to reduce the potential for slab
curling or the formation of excessive shrinkage cracks.
The actual design of the floor slab should be completed by the structural engineer to verify
adequate thickness and reinforcement.
6.7 Retaining Wall Design and Construction
Small retaining walls are expected to be necessary in the truck dock areas and may also be
required to facilitate the new site grades. The parameters recommended for use in the design
of these walls are presented below.
Retaining Wall Design Parameters
Based on the soil conditions encountered at the boring locations, the following parameters may
be used in the design of new retaining walls for this site. We have provided parameters
assuming the use of on-site soils for retaining wall backfill. The on-site soils generally consist of
sands, silty sands, and gravelly sands. Based on their classification, these materials are
expected to possess a friction angle of at least 32 degrees when compacted to at least 90
percent of the ASTM D-1557 maximum dry density.
If desired, SCG could provide design parameters for an alternative select backfill material
behind the retaining walls. The use of select backfill material could result in lower lateral earth
pressures. In order to use the design parameters for the imported select fill, this material must
be placed within the entire active failure wedge. This wedge is defined as extending from the
heel of the retaining wall upwards at an angle of approximately 60° from horizontal. If select
backfill material behind the retaining wall is desired, SCG should be contacted for
supplementary recommendations.
Proposed Warehouse – Fontana, CA
Project No. 21G260-1
Page 20
RETAINING WALL DESIGN PARAMETERS
Design Parameter
Soil Type
On-site Sands and Silty Sands
Internal Friction Angle () 32
Unit Weight 130 lbs/ft3
Equivalent
Fluid Pressure:
Active Condition
(level backfill) 40 lbs/ft3
Active Condition
(2h:1v backfill) 62 lbs/ft3
At-Rest Condition
(level backfill) 62 lbs/ft3
The walls should be designed using a soil-footing coefficient of friction of 0.30 and an
equivalent passive pressure of 300 lbs/ft3. The structural engineer should incorporate
appropriate factors of safety in the design of the retaining walls.
The active earth pressure may be used for the design of retaining walls that do not directly
support structures or support soils that in turn support structures and which will be allowed to
deflect. The at-rest earth pressure should be used for walls that will not be allowed to deflect
such as those which will support foundation bearing soils, or which will support foundation
loads directly.
Where the soils on the toe side of the retaining wall are not covered by a "hard" surface such
as a structure or pavement, the upper 1 foot of soil should be neglected when calculating
passive resistance due to the potential for the material to become disturbed or degraded during
the life of the structure.
Retaining Wall Foundation Design
The retaining wall foundations should be underlain by at least 2 feet of newly placed structural
fill. Foundations to support new retaining walls should be designed in accordance with the
general Foundation Design Parameters presented in a previous section of this report.
Seismic Lateral Earth Pressures
In accordance with the 2019 CBC, any retaining walls more than 6 feet in height must be
designed for seismic lateral earth pressures. If walls 6 feet or more are required for this site,
the geotechnical engineer should be contacted for supplementary seismic lateral earth pressure
recommendations.
Backfill Material
On-site soils may be used to backfill the retaining walls. However, all backfill material placed
within 3 feet of the back-wall face should have a particle size no greater than 3 inches. The
retaining wall backfill materials should be well graded.
Proposed Warehouse – Fontana, CA
Project No. 21G260-1
Page 21
It is recommended that a minimum 1 foot thick layer of free-draining granular material (less
than 5 percent passing the No. 200 sieve) be placed against the face of the retaining walls. This
material should extend from the top of the retaining wall footing to within 1 foot of the ground
surface on the back side of the retaining wall. This material should be approved by the
geotechnical engineer. In lieu of the 1 foot thick layer of free-draining material, a properly
installed prefabricated drainage composite such as the MiraDRAIN 6000XL (or approved
equivalent), which is specifically designed for use behind retaining walls, may be used. If the
layer of free-draining material is not covered by an impermeable surface, such as a structure or
pavement, a 12-inch thick layer of a low permeability soil should be placed over the backfill to
reduce surface water migration to the underlying soils. The layer of free draining granular
material should be separated from the backfill soils by a suitable geotextile, approved by the
geotechnical engineer
All retaining wall backfill should be placed and compacted under engineering-controlled
conditions in the necessary layer thicknesses to ensure an in-place density between 90 and 93
percent of the maximum dry density as determined by the Modified Proctor test (ASTM D1557-
91). Care should be taken to avoid over-compaction of the soils behind the retaining walls, and
the use of heavy compaction equipment should be avoided.
Subsurface Drainage
As previously indicated, the retaining wall design parameters are based upon drained backfill
conditions. Consequently, some form of permanent drainage system will be necessary in
conjunction with the appropriate backfill material. Subsurface drainage may consist of either:
• A weep hole drainage system typically consisting of a series of 2-inch diameter holes in
the wall situated slightly above the ground surface elevation on the exposed side of the
wall and at an approximate 10-foot on-center spacing. Alternatively, 4-inch diameter
holes at an approximate 20-foot on-center spacing can be used for this type of drainage
system. In addition, the weep holes should include a 2 cubic foot pocket of open graded
gravel, surrounded by an approved geotextile fabric, at each weep hole location.
• A 4-inch diameter perforated pipe surrounded by 2 cubic feet of gravel per linear foot of
drain placed behind the wall, above the retaining wall footing. The gravel layer should
be wrapped in a suitable geotextile fabric to reduce the potential for migration of fines.
The footing drain should be extended to daylight or tied into a storm drainage system.
The actual design of this type of system should be determined by the civil engineer to
verify that the drainage system possesses the adequate capacity and slope for its
intended use.
6.8 Pavement Design Parameters
Site preparation in the pavement area should be completed as previously recommended in the
Site Grading Recommendations section of this report. The subsequent pavement
recommendations assume proper drainage and construction monitoring, and are based on
either PCA or CALTRANS design parameters for a twenty (20) year design period. However,
these designs also assume a routine pavement maintenance program to obtain the anticipated
20-year pavement service life.
Proposed Warehouse – Fontana, CA
Project No. 21G260-1
Page 22
Pavement Subgrades
It is anticipated that the new pavements will be supported on the newly-placed engineered fill
soils and/or native soils that have been scarified, moisture conditioned, and recompacted.
These materials generally consist of sands and silty sands. These materials are expected to
exhibit good to very good pavement support characteristics. Based on the R-value testing
performed as part of our scope for this project and the variability of the on-site soils, the
subsequent pavement designs are based upon an R-value of 50. Any fill material imported to
the site should have support characteristics equal to or greater than that of the on-site soils and
be placed and compacted under engineering-controlled conditions. It may be desirable to
perform R-value testing after the completion of rough grading to verify the R-value of the as-
graded parking subgrade.
Asphaltic Concrete
Presented below are the recommended thicknesses for new flexible pavement structures
consisting of asphaltic concrete over a granular base. An alternate pavement section has been
provided for use in parking stall areas due to the anticipated lower traffic intensity in these
areas. However, truck traffic must be excluded from areas where the thinner pavement section
is used; otherwise premature pavement distress may occur. The pavement designs are based
on the traffic indices (TI’s) indicated. The client and/or civil engineer should verify that these
TI’s are representative of the anticipated traffic volumes.
Traffic Index No. of Heavy Trucks per Day
4.0 0
5.0 1
6.0 3
7.0 11
8.0 35
9.0 93
For the purpose of the traffic volumes indicated above, a truck is defined as a 5-axle tractor
trailer unit with one 8-kip axle and two 32-kip tandem axles. All of the traffic indices allow for
1,000 automobiles per day.
ASPHALT PAVEMENTS (R=50)
Materials
Thickness (inches)
Auto Parking and
Auto Drive Lanes
(TI = 4.0 to 5.0)
Truck Traffic
TI = 6.0 TI = 7.0 TI = 8.0 TI = 9.0
Asphalt Concrete 3 3½ 4 5 5½
Aggregate Base 3 4 5 5 7
Compacted Subgrade 12 12 12 12 12
Proposed Warehouse – Fontana, CA
Project No. 21G260-1
Page 23
The aggregate base course should be compacted to at least 95 percent of the ASTM D-1557
maximum dry density. The asphaltic concrete should be compacted to at least 95 percent of the
Marshall maximum density, as determined by ASTM D-2726. The aggregate base course may
consist of crushed aggregate base (CAB) or crushed miscellaneous base (CMB), which is a
recycled gravel, asphalt and concrete material. The gradation, R-Value, Sand Equivalent, and
Percentage Wear of the CAB or CMB should comply with appropriate specifications contained in
the current edition of the “Greenbook” Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction.
Portland Cement Concrete
The preparation of the subgrade soils within Portland cement concrete pavement areas should
be performed as previously described in Section 6.3 “Treatment of Existing Soils: Flatwork,
Parking, and Drive Areas”. The minimum recommended thicknesses for the Portland Cement
Concrete pavement sections are as follows:
PORTLAND CEMENT CONCRETE PAVEMENTS (R=50)
Materials
Thickness (inches)
Autos and Light
Truck Traffic
(TI = 6.0)
Truck Traffic
TI = 7.0 TI = 8.0 TI = 9.0
PCC 5 5½ 6½ 8
Compacted Subgrade
(95% minimum compaction) 12 12 12 12
The concrete should have a 28-day compressive strength of at least 3,000 psi. Reinforcing
within all pavements should be designed by the structural engineer. The maximum joint spacing
within all of the PCC pavements is recommended to be equal to or less than 30 times the
pavement thickness. The actual joint spacing and reinforcing of the Portland cement concrete
pavements should be determined by the structural engineer.
Proposed Warehouse – Fontana, CA
Project No. 21G260-1
Page 24
7.0 GENERAL COMMENTS
This report has been prepared as an instrument of service for use by the client, in order to aid
in the evaluation of this property and to assist the architects and engineers in the design and
preparation of the project plans and specifications. This report may be provided to the
contractor(s) and other design consultants to disclose information relative to the project.
However, this report is not intended to be utilized as a specification in and of itself, without
appropriate interpretation by the project architect, civil engineer, and/or structural engineer.
The reproduction and distribution of this report must be authorized by the client and Southern
California Geotechnical, Inc. Furthermore, any reliance on this report by an unauthorized third
party is at such party’s sole risk, and we accept no responsibility for damage or loss which may
occur. The client(s)’ reliance upon this report is subject to the Engineering Services Agreement,
incorporated into our proposal for this project.
The analysis of this site was based on a subsurface profile interpolated from limited discrete soil
samples. While the materials encountered in the project area are considered to be
representative of the total area, some variations should be expected between boring locations
and sample depths. If the conditions encountered during construction vary significantly from
those detailed herein, we should be contacted immediately to determine if the conditions alter
the recommendations contained herein.
This report has been based on assumed or provided characteristics of the proposed
development. It is recommended that the owner, client, architect, structural engineer, and civil
engineer carefully review these assumptions to ensure that they are consistent with the
characteristics of the proposed development. If discrepancies exist, they should be brought to
our attention to verify that they do not affect the conclusions and recommendations contained
herein. We also recommend that the project plans and specifications be submitted to our office
for review to verify that our recommendations have been correctly interpreted.
The analysis, conclusions, and recommendations contained within this report have been
promulgated in accordance with generally accepted professional geotechnical engineering
practice. No other warranty is implied or expressed.
S
I
T
E
PROPOSED WAREHOUSE
SCALE: 1" = 2000'
DRAWN: MD
CHKD: RGT
SCG PROJECT
21G260-1
PLATE 1
SITE LOCATION MAP
FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
SOURCE: USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP OF THE FONTANA
QUADRANGLE, SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA, 2018.
B-1
B-2
B-4 B-5
B-6
B-7
FU
T
U
R
E
B
E
E
C
H
A
V
E
N
U
E
B-3
PROPERTY LINE
SCALE: 1" = 80'
DRAWN: MD
CHKD: RGT
PLATE 2
SCG PROJECT
21G260-1
FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
PROPOSED WAREHOUSE
BORING LOCATION PLAN
NO
R
T
H
So
C
a
l
G
e
o
APPROXIMATE BORING LOCATION
GEOTECHNICAL LEGEND
NOTE: SITE PLAN PREPARED BY HPA ARCHITECTURE.
AERIAL PHOTO OBTAINED FROM GOOGLE EARTH.
BORING LOG LEGEND
SAMPLE TYPE GRAPHICAL
SYMBOL SAMPLE DESCRIPTION
AUGER SAMPLE COLLECTED FROM AUGER CUTTINGS, NO FIELD
MEASUREMENT OF SOIL STRENGTH. (DISTURBED)
CORE ROCK CORE SAMPLE: TYPICALLY TAKEN WITH A DIAMOND-TIPPED CORE BARREL. TYPICALLY USED ONLY IN HIGHLY CONSOLIDATED BEDROCK.
GRAB 1
SOIL SAMPLE TAKEN WITH NO SPECIALIZED
EQUIPMENT, SUCH AS FROM A STOCKPILE OR THE GROUND SURFACE. (DISTURBED)
CS CALIFORNIA SAMPLER: 2-1/2 INCH I.D. SPLIT BARREL SAMPLER, LINED WITH 1-INCH HIGH BRASS RINGS.
DRIVEN WITH SPT HAMMER. (RELATIVELY UNDISTURBED)
NSR
NO RECOVERY: THE SAMPLING ATTEMPT DID NOT RESULT IN RECOVERY OF ANY SIGNIFICANT SOIL OR
ROCK MATERIAL.
SPT STANDARD PENETRATION TEST: SAMPLER IS A 1.4 INCH INSIDE DIAMETER SPLIT BARREL, DRIVEN 18 INCHES WITH THE SPT HAMMER. (DISTURBED)
SH SHELBY TUBE: TAKEN WITH A THIN WALL SAMPLE
TUBE, PUSHED INTO THE SOIL AND THEN EXTRACTED. (UNDISTURBED)
VANE VANE SHEAR TEST: SOIL STRENGTH OBTAINED USING A 4 BLADED SHEAR DEVICE. TYPICALLY USED IN SOFT CLAYS-NO SAMPLE RECOVERED.
COLUMN DESCRIPTIONS
DEPTH: Distance in feet below the ground surface.
SAMPLE: Sample Type as depicted above.
BLOW COUNT: Number of blows required to advance the sampler 12 inches using a 140 lb
hammer with a 30-inch drop. 50/3” indicates penetration refusal (>50 blows)
at 3 inches. WH indicates that the weight of the hammer was sufficient to
push the sampler 6 inches or more.
POCKET PEN.: Approximate shear strength of a cohesive soil sample as measured by pocket
penetrometer.
GRAPHIC LOG: Graphic Soil Symbol as depicted on the following page.
DRY DENSITY: Dry density of an undisturbed or relatively undisturbed sample in lbs/ft3.
MOISTURE CONTENT: Moisture content of a soil sample, expressed as a percentage of the dry weight.
LIQUID LIMIT: The moisture content above which a soil behaves as a liquid.
PLASTIC LIMIT: The moisture content above which a soil behaves as a plastic.
PASSING #200 SIEVE: The percentage of the sample finer than the #200 standard sieve.
UNCONFINED SHEAR: The shear strength of a cohesive soil sample, as measured in the unconfined state.
SM
SP
COARSE
GRAINEDSOILS
SW
TYPICAL
DESCRIPTIONS
WELL-GRADED GRAVELS, GRAVEL -
SAND MIXTURES, LITTLE OR NOFINES
SILTY GRAVELS, GRAVEL - SAND -
SILT MIXTURES
LETTERGRAPH
POORLY-GRADED GRAVELS,
GRAVEL - SAND MIXTURES, LITTLEOR NO FINES
GC
GM
GP
GW
POORLY-GRADED SANDS,
GRAVELLY SAND, LITTLE OR NOFINES
SILTSAND
CLAYS
MORE THAN 50%
OF MATERIAL ISLARGER THANNO. 200 SIEVE
SIZE
MORE THAN 50%OF MATERIAL IS
SMALLER THANNO. 200 SIEVESIZE
MORE THAN 50%OF COARSEFRACTION
PASSING ON NO.4 SIEVE
MORE THAN 50%OF COARSE
FRACTIONRETAINED ON NO.4 SIEVE CLAYEY GRAVELS, GRAVEL - SAND -
CLAY MIXTURES
FINEGRAINED
SOILS
SYMBOLSMAJOR DIVISIONS
SOIL CLASSIFICATION CHART
PT
OH
CH
MH
OL
CL
ML
CLEAN SANDS
SC
SILTY SANDS, SAND - SILTMIXTURES
CLAYEY SANDS, SAND - CLAY
MIXTURES
INORGANIC SILTS AND VERY FINESANDS, ROCK FLOUR, SILTY OR
CLAYEY FINE SANDS OR CLAYEYSILTS WITH SLIGHT PLASTICITY
INORGANIC CLAYS OF LOW TO
MEDIUM PLASTICITY, GRAVELLYCLAYS, SANDY CLAYS, SILTY CLAYS,LEAN CLAYS
ORGANIC SILTS AND ORGANICSILTY CLAYS OF LOW PLASTICITY
INORGANIC SILTS, MICACEOUS OR
DIATOMACEOUS FINE SAND ORSILTY SOILS
INORGANIC CLAYS OF HIGH
PLASTICITY
ORGANIC CLAYS OF MEDIUM TO
HIGH PLASTICITY, ORGANIC SILTS
PEAT, HUMUS, SWAMP SOILS WITHHIGH ORGANIC CONTENTS
SILTS
AND
CLAYS
GRAVELS WITH
FINES
SAND
AND
SANDY
SOILS (LITTLE OR NO FINES)
SANDS WITH
FINES
LIQUID LIMITLESS THAN 50
LIQUID LIMIT
GREATER THAN 50
HIGHLY ORGANIC SOILS
NOTE: DUAL SYMBOLS ARE USED TO INDICATE BORDERLINE SOIL CLASSIFICATIONS
GRAVEL
AND
GRAVELLYSOILS
(APPRECIABLE
AMOUNT OF FINES)
(APPRECIABLE
AMOUNT OF FINES)
(LITTLE OR NO FINES)
WELL-GRADED SANDS, GRAVELLYSANDS, LITTLE OR NO FINES
CLEAN
GRAVELS
ALLUVIUM: Gray Brown Silty fine to coarse Sand, occasional toabundant Cobbles, dense-dry
Gray Brown fine to coarse Sand, little fine to coarse Gravel,
occasional to abundant Cobbles, dense to very dense-dry to damp
Boring Terminated at 25'
Disturbed Sample
61
56
46
77/11"
54
42
43
50/5"
118
120
127
1
2
2
2
1
2
2
5
10
15
20
25
LABORATORY RESULTS
CO
M
M
E
N
T
S
TEST BORING LOG
PA
S
S
I
N
G
#2
0
0
S
I
E
V
E
(
%
)
BL
O
W
C
O
U
N
T
DESCRIPTION
SURFACE ELEVATION: --- MSL LI
Q
U
I
D
LI
M
I
T
PL
A
S
T
I
C
LI
M
I
T
SA
M
P
L
E
FIELD RESULTS
WATER DEPTH: Dry
CAVE DEPTH: 8 feet
READING TAKEN: At Completion
GR
A
P
H
I
C
L
O
G
BORING NO.
B-1
PO
C
K
E
T
P
E
N
.
(T
S
F
)
DRILLING DATE: 11/1/21
DRILLING METHOD: Hollow Stem Auger
LOGGED BY: Jamie Hayward
OR
G
A
N
I
C
CO
N
T
E
N
T
(
%
)
DR
Y
D
E
N
S
I
T
Y
(P
C
F
)
DE
P
T
H
(
F
E
E
T
)
MO
I
S
T
U
R
E
CO
N
T
E
N
T
(
%
)
JOB NO.: 21G260-1
PROJECT: Proposed Warehouse
LOCATION: Fontana, California
PLATE B-1
TB
L
2
1
G
2
6
0
-
1
.
G
P
J
S
O
C
A
L
G
E
O
.
G
D
T
1
2
/
8
/
2
1
ALLUVIUM: Gray Brown Silty fine to coarse Sand, trace fine tocoarse Gravel, dense-dry
Gray Brown fine to coarse Sand, little fine to coarse Gravel, trace
Silt, dense to very dense-damp
Boring Terminated at 20'
30
33
47
71
50/5"
50/4"
1
2
2
2
2
2
5
10
15
20
LABORATORY RESULTS
CO
M
M
E
N
T
S
TEST BORING LOG
PA
S
S
I
N
G
#2
0
0
S
I
E
V
E
(
%
)
BL
O
W
C
O
U
N
T
DESCRIPTION
SURFACE ELEVATION: --- MSL LI
Q
U
I
D
LI
M
I
T
PL
A
S
T
I
C
LI
M
I
T
SA
M
P
L
E
FIELD RESULTS
WATER DEPTH: Dry
CAVE DEPTH: 7 feet
READING TAKEN: At Completion
GR
A
P
H
I
C
L
O
G
BORING NO.
B-2
PO
C
K
E
T
P
E
N
.
(T
S
F
)
DRILLING DATE: 11/1/21
DRILLING METHOD: Hollow Stem Auger
LOGGED BY: Jamie Hayward
OR
G
A
N
I
C
CO
N
T
E
N
T
(
%
)
DR
Y
D
E
N
S
I
T
Y
(P
C
F
)
DE
P
T
H
(
F
E
E
T
)
MO
I
S
T
U
R
E
CO
N
T
E
N
T
(
%
)
JOB NO.: 21G260-1
PROJECT: Proposed Warehouse
LOCATION: Fontana, California
PLATE B-2
TB
L
2
1
G
2
6
0
-
1
.
G
P
J
S
O
C
A
L
G
E
O
.
G
D
T
1
2
/
8
/
2
1
ALLUVIUM: Gray Brown Gravelly fine to coarse Sand, occasionalCobbles, very dense-dry to damp
@ 13½ feet, dense
Boring Terminated at 15'
Disturbed Sample
50/5"
87/10"
50/5"
50/2"
76/11"
49
1
1
2
5
10
15
LABORATORY RESULTS
CO
M
M
E
N
T
S
TEST BORING LOG
PA
S
S
I
N
G
#2
0
0
S
I
E
V
E
(
%
)
BL
O
W
C
O
U
N
T
DESCRIPTION
SURFACE ELEVATION: --- MSL LI
Q
U
I
D
LI
M
I
T
PL
A
S
T
I
C
LI
M
I
T
SA
M
P
L
E
FIELD RESULTS
WATER DEPTH: Dry
CAVE DEPTH: 7 feet
READING TAKEN: At Completion
GR
A
P
H
I
C
L
O
G
BORING NO.
B-3
PO
C
K
E
T
P
E
N
.
(T
S
F
)
DRILLING DATE: 11/1/21
DRILLING METHOD: Hollow Stem Auger
LOGGED BY: Jamie Hayward
OR
G
A
N
I
C
CO
N
T
E
N
T
(
%
)
DR
Y
D
E
N
S
I
T
Y
(P
C
F
)
DE
P
T
H
(
F
E
E
T
)
MO
I
S
T
U
R
E
CO
N
T
E
N
T
(
%
)
JOB NO.: 21G260-1
PROJECT: Proposed Warehouse
LOCATION: Fontana, California
PLATE B-3
TB
L
2
1
G
2
6
0
-
1
.
G
P
J
S
O
C
A
L
G
E
O
.
G
D
T
1
2
/
8
/
2
1
ALLUVIUM: Gray Brown Silty fine Sand, little medium to coarseSand, trace fine to coarse Gravel, medium dense-dry
Gray Brown fine to coarse Sand, little Silt, little fine to coarse
Gravel, occasional to abundant Cobbles, medium dense to verydense-dry to damp
Boring Terminated at 20'
34
41
38
75
36
52
71/9"
134
118
121
123
1
1
2
2
2
2
5
10
15
20
LABORATORY RESULTS
CO
M
M
E
N
T
S
TEST BORING LOG
PA
S
S
I
N
G
#2
0
0
S
I
E
V
E
(
%
)
BL
O
W
C
O
U
N
T
DESCRIPTION
SURFACE ELEVATION: --- MSL LI
Q
U
I
D
LI
M
I
T
PL
A
S
T
I
C
LI
M
I
T
SA
M
P
L
E
FIELD RESULTS
WATER DEPTH: Dry
CAVE DEPTH: 4 feet
READING TAKEN: At Completion
GR
A
P
H
I
C
L
O
G
BORING NO.
B-4
PO
C
K
E
T
P
E
N
.
(T
S
F
)
DRILLING DATE: 11/1/21
DRILLING METHOD: Hollow Stem Auger
LOGGED BY: Jamie Hayward
OR
G
A
N
I
C
CO
N
T
E
N
T
(
%
)
DR
Y
D
E
N
S
I
T
Y
(P
C
F
)
DE
P
T
H
(
F
E
E
T
)
MO
I
S
T
U
R
E
CO
N
T
E
N
T
(
%
)
JOB NO.: 21G260-1
PROJECT: Proposed Warehouse
LOCATION: Fontana, California
PLATE B-4
TB
L
2
1
G
2
6
0
-
1
.
G
P
J
S
O
C
A
L
G
E
O
.
G
D
T
1
2
/
8
/
2
1
ALLUVIUM: Gray Brown Silty fine Sand, little medium to coarseSand, medium dense-dry
Gray Brown fine to coarse Sand, little fine to coarse Gravel,medium dense to very dense-dry to damp
@ 7 feet, occasional to abundant Cobbles
Boring Terminated at 25'
Disturbed Sample
42
49
41
56
22
68
50/2"
50/5"
110
126
121
121
1
3
2
2
2
3
3
5
10
15
20
25
LABORATORY RESULTS
CO
M
M
E
N
T
S
TEST BORING LOG
PA
S
S
I
N
G
#2
0
0
S
I
E
V
E
(
%
)
BL
O
W
C
O
U
N
T
DESCRIPTION
SURFACE ELEVATION: --- MSL LI
Q
U
I
D
LI
M
I
T
PL
A
S
T
I
C
LI
M
I
T
SA
M
P
L
E
FIELD RESULTS
WATER DEPTH: Dry
CAVE DEPTH: 6 feet
READING TAKEN: At Completion
GR
A
P
H
I
C
L
O
G
BORING NO.
B-5
PO
C
K
E
T
P
E
N
.
(T
S
F
)
DRILLING DATE: 11/1/21
DRILLING METHOD: Hollow Stem Auger
LOGGED BY: Jamie Hayward
OR
G
A
N
I
C
CO
N
T
E
N
T
(
%
)
DR
Y
D
E
N
S
I
T
Y
(P
C
F
)
DE
P
T
H
(
F
E
E
T
)
MO
I
S
T
U
R
E
CO
N
T
E
N
T
(
%
)
JOB NO.: 21G260-1
PROJECT: Proposed Warehouse
LOCATION: Fontana, California
PLATE B-5
TB
L
2
1
G
2
6
0
-
1
.
G
P
J
S
O
C
A
L
G
E
O
.
G
D
T
1
2
/
8
/
2
1
ALLUVIUM: Light Gray Brown Silty fine Sand, little medium tocoarse Sand, trace fine Gravel, medium dense-dry to damp
Gray Brown fine to coarse Sand, little fine to coarse Gravel, trace
Silt, dense to very dense-dry to damp
Boring Terminated at 20'
17
38
57
63
53
47
2
1
1
1
2
3
5
10
15
20
LABORATORY RESULTS
CO
M
M
E
N
T
S
TEST BORING LOG
PA
S
S
I
N
G
#2
0
0
S
I
E
V
E
(
%
)
BL
O
W
C
O
U
N
T
DESCRIPTION
SURFACE ELEVATION: --- MSL LI
Q
U
I
D
LI
M
I
T
PL
A
S
T
I
C
LI
M
I
T
SA
M
P
L
E
FIELD RESULTS
WATER DEPTH: Dry
CAVE DEPTH: 6 feet
READING TAKEN: At Completion
GR
A
P
H
I
C
L
O
G
BORING NO.
B-6
PO
C
K
E
T
P
E
N
.
(T
S
F
)
DRILLING DATE: 11/1/21
DRILLING METHOD: Hollow Stem Auger
LOGGED BY: Jamie Hayward
OR
G
A
N
I
C
CO
N
T
E
N
T
(
%
)
DR
Y
D
E
N
S
I
T
Y
(P
C
F
)
DE
P
T
H
(
F
E
E
T
)
MO
I
S
T
U
R
E
CO
N
T
E
N
T
(
%
)
JOB NO.: 21G260-1
PROJECT: Proposed Warehouse
LOCATION: Fontana, California
PLATE B-6
TB
L
2
1
G
2
6
0
-
1
.
G
P
J
S
O
C
A
L
G
E
O
.
G
D
T
1
2
/
8
/
2
1
ALLUVIUM: Light Brown Silty fine to medium Sand, trace fineGravel, medium dense-dry
Brown fine to medium Sand, little Silt, little fine Gravel, traceSand, dense-dry
Boring Terminated at 5'
5
LABORATORY RESULTS
CO
M
M
E
N
T
S
TEST BORING LOG
PA
S
S
I
N
G
#2
0
0
S
I
E
V
E
(
%
)
BL
O
W
C
O
U
N
T
DESCRIPTION
SURFACE ELEVATION: --- MSL LI
Q
U
I
D
LI
M
I
T
PL
A
S
T
I
C
LI
M
I
T
SA
M
P
L
E
FIELD RESULTS
WATER DEPTH: Dry
CAVE DEPTH: 5 feet
READING TAKEN: At Completion
GR
A
P
H
I
C
L
O
G
BORING NO.
B-7
PO
C
K
E
T
P
E
N
.
(T
S
F
)
DRILLING DATE: 11/16/21
DRILLING METHOD: Hand Auger
LOGGED BY: Caleb Brackett
OR
G
A
N
I
C
CO
N
T
E
N
T
(
%
)
DR
Y
D
E
N
S
I
T
Y
(P
C
F
)
DE
P
T
H
(
F
E
E
T
)
MO
I
S
T
U
R
E
CO
N
T
E
N
T
(
%
)
JOB NO.: 21G260-1
PROJECT: Proposed Warehouse
LOCATION: Fontana, California
PLATE B-7
TB
L
2
1
G
2
6
0
-
1
.
G
P
J
S
O
C
A
L
G
E
O
.
G
D
T
1
2
/
8
/
2
1
Classification: Gray Brown fine to coarse Sand, lttle fine to coarse Gravel
Boring Number:B-1 Initial Moisture Content (%)2
Sample Number:---Final Moisture Content (%)11
Depth (ft)5 to 6 Initial Dry Density (pcf)118.3
Specimen Diameter (in)2.4 Final Dry Density (pcf)125.2
Specimen Thickness (in)1.0 Percent Collapse (%)0.41
Proposed Warehouse
Fontana, California
Project No. 21G260-1
PLATE C-1
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
0.1 1 10 100
Consolidation
Strain
(%)
Load (ksf)
Consolidation/Collapse Test Results
Water Added
at 1600 psf
Classification: Gray Brown fine to coarse Sand, lttle fine to coarse Gravel
Boring Number:B-5 Initial Moisture Content (%)2
Sample Number:---Final Moisture Content (%)12
Depth (ft)3 to 4 Initial Dry Density (pcf)126.1
Specimen Diameter (in)2.4 Final Dry Density (pcf)138.1
Specimen Thickness (in)1.0 Percent Collapse (%)2.16
Proposed Warehouse
Fontana, California
Project No. 21G260-1
PLATE C-2
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
0.1 1 10 100
Consolidation
Strain
(%)
Load (ksf)
Consolidation/Collapse Test Results
Water Added
at 1600 psf
Classification: Gray Brown fine to coarse Sand, lttle fine to coarse Gravel
Boring Number:B-5 Initial Moisture Content (%)2
Sample Number:---Final Moisture Content (%)13
Depth (ft)5 to 6 Initial Dry Density (pcf)121.4
Specimen Diameter (in)2.4 Final Dry Density (pcf)129.3
Specimen Thickness (in)1.0 Percent Collapse (%)0.19
Proposed Warehouse
Fontana, California
Project No. 21G260-1
PLATE C-3
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
0.1 1 10 100
Consolidation
Strain
(%)
Load (ksf)
Consolidation/Collapse Test Results
Water Added
at 1600 psf
Classification: Gray Brown fine to coarse Sand, lttle fine to coarse Gravel
Boring Number:B-5 Initial Moisture Content (%)2
Sample Number:---Final Moisture Content (%)11
Depth (ft)7 to 8 Initial Dry Density (pcf)121.4
Specimen Diameter (in)2.4 Final Dry Density (pcf)128.1
Specimen Thickness (in)1.0 Percent Collapse (%)0.29
Proposed Warehouse
Fontana, California
Project No. 21G260-1
PLATE C-4
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
0.1 1 10 100
Consolidation
Strain
(%)
Load (ksf)
Consolidation/Collapse Test Results
Water Added
at 1600 psf
Proposed Warehouse
Fontana, California
Project No. 21G260-1
PLATE C-5
116
118
120
122
124
126
128
130
132
134
136
138
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14
Dry
Density
(lbs/ft3)
Moisture Content (%)
Moisture/Density Relationship
ASTM D-1557
Soil ID Number B-5 @ 0-5'
Optimum Moisture (%)8
Maximum Dry Density (pcf)128.5
Soil
Classification Gray Brown Silty fine to coarse
Sand, trace fine to coarse Gravel
Zero Air Voids Curve:
Specific Gravity = 2.7
Grading Guide Specifications Page 1
GRADING GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS
These grading guide specifications are intended to provide typical procedures for grading operations.
They are intended to supplement the recommendations contained in the geotechnical investigation
report for this project. Should the recommendations in the geotechnical investigation report conflict
with the grading guide specifications, the more site specific recommendations in the geotechnical
investigation report will govern.
General
• The Earthwork Contractor is responsible for the satisfactory completion of all earthwork in
accordance with the plans and geotechnical reports, and in accordance with city, county,
and applicable building codes.
• The Geotechnical Engineer is the representative of the Owner/Builder for the purpose of
implementing the report recommendations and guidelines. These duties are not intended to
relieve the Earthwork Contractor of any responsibility to perform in a workman-like manner,
nor is the Geotechnical Engineer to direct the grading equipment or personnel employed by
the Contractor.
• The Earthwork Contractor is required to notify the Geotechnical Engineer of the anticipated
work and schedule so that testing and inspections can be provided. If necessary, work may
be stopped and redone if personnel have not been scheduled in advance.
• The Earthwork Contractor is required to have suitable and sufficient equipment on the job-
site to process, moisture condition, mix and compact the amount of fill being placed to the
approved compaction. In addition, suitable support equipment should be available to
conform with recommendations and guidelines in this report.
• Canyon cleanouts, overexcavation areas, processed ground to receive fill, key excavations,
subdrains and benches should be observed by the Geotechnical Engineer prior to placement
of any fill. It is the Earthwork Contractor's responsibility to notify the Geotechnical Engineer
of areas that are ready for inspection.
• Excavation, filling, and subgrade preparation should be performed in a manner and
sequence that will provide drainage at all times and proper control of erosion. Precipitation,
springs, and seepage water encountered shall be pumped or drained to provide a suitable
working surface. The Geotechnical Engineer must be informed of springs or water seepage
encountered during grading or foundation construction for possible revision to the
recommended construction procedures and/or installation of subdrains.
Site Preparation
• The Earthwork Contractor is responsible for all clearing, grubbing, stripping and site
preparation for the project in accordance with the recommendations of the Geotechnical
Engineer.
• If any materials or areas are encountered by the Earthwork Contractor which are suspected
of having toxic or environmentally sensitive contamination, the Geotechnical Engineer and
Owner/Builder should be notified immediately.
Grading Guide Specifications Page 2
• Major vegetation should be stripped and disposed of off-site. This includes trees, brush,
heavy grasses and any materials considered unsuitable by the Geotechnical Engineer.
• Underground structures such as basements, cesspools or septic disposal systems, mining
shafts, tunnels, wells and pipelines should be removed under the inspection of the
Geotechnical Engineer and recommendations provided by the Geotechnical Engineer and/or
city, county or state agencies. If such structures are known or found, the Geotechnical
Engineer should be notified as soon as possible so that recommendations can be
formulated.
• Any topsoil, slopewash, colluvium, alluvium and rock materials which are considered
unsuitable by the Geotechnical Engineer should be removed prior to fill placement.
• Remaining voids created during site clearing caused by removal of trees, foundations
basements, irrigation facilities, etc., should be excavated and filled with compacted fill.
• Subsequent to clearing and removals, areas to receive fill should be scarified to a depth of
10 to 12 inches, moisture conditioned and compacted
• The moisture condition of the processed ground should be at or slightly above the optimum
moisture content as determined by the Geotechnical Engineer. Depending upon field
conditions, this may require air drying or watering together with mixing and/or discing.
Compacted Fills
• Soil materials imported to or excavated on the property may be utilized in the fill, provided
each material has been determined to be suitable in the opinion of the Geotechnical
Engineer. Unless otherwise approved by the Geotechnical Engineer, all fill materials shall be
free of deleterious, organic, or frozen matter, shall contain no chemicals that may result in
the material being classified as “contaminated,” and shall be very low to non-expansive with
a maximum expansion index (EI) of 50. The top 12 inches of the compacted fill should
have a maximum particle size of 3 inches, and all underlying compacted fill material a
maximum 6-inch particle size, except as noted below.
• All soils should be evaluated and tested by the Geotechnical Engineer. Materials with high
expansion potential, low strength, poor gradation or containing organic materials may
require removal from the site or selective placement and/or mixing to the satisfaction of the
Geotechnical Engineer.
• Rock fragments or rocks less than 6 inches in their largest dimensions, or as otherwise
determined by the Geotechnical Engineer, may be used in compacted fill, provided the
distribution and placement is satisfactory in the opinion of the Geotechnical Engineer.
• Rock fragments or rocks greater than 12 inches should be taken off-site or placed in
accordance with recommendations and in areas designated as suitable by the Geotechnical
Engineer. These materials should be placed in accordance with Plate D-8 of these Grading
Guide Specifications and in accordance with the following recommendations:
• Rocks 12 inches or more in diameter should be placed in rows at least 15 feet apart, 15
feet from the edge of the fill, and 10 feet or more below subgrade. Spaces should be
left between each rock fragment to provide for placement and compaction of soil
around the fragments.
• Fill materials consisting of soil meeting the minimum moisture content requirements and
free of oversize material should be placed between and over the rows of rock or
Grading Guide Specifications Page 3
concrete. Ample water and compactive effort should be applied to the fill materials as
they are placed in order that all of the voids between each of the fragments are filled
and compacted to the specified density.
• Subsequent rows of rocks should be placed such that they are not directly above a row
placed in the previous lift of fill. A minimum 5-foot offset between rows is
recommended.
• To facilitate future trenching, oversized material should not be placed within the range
of foundation excavations, future utilities or other underground construction unless
specifically approved by the soil engineer and the developer/owner representative.
• Fill materials approved by the Geotechnical Engineer should be placed in areas previously
prepared to receive fill and in evenly placed, near horizontal layers at about 6 to 8 inches in
loose thickness, or as otherwise determined by the Geotechnical Engineer for the project.
• Each layer should be moisture conditioned to optimum moisture content, or slightly above,
as directed by the Geotechnical Engineer. After proper mixing and/or drying, to evenly
distribute the moisture, the layers should be compacted to at least 90 percent of the
maximum dry density in compliance with ASTM D-1557-78 unless otherwise indicated.
• Density and moisture content testing should be performed by the Geotechnical Engineer at
random intervals and locations as determined by the Geotechnical Engineer. These tests
are intended as an aid to the Earthwork Contractor, so he can evaluate his workmanship,
equipment effectiveness and site conditions. The Earthwork Contractor is responsible for
compaction as required by the Geotechnical Report(s) and governmental agencies.
• Fill areas unused for a period of time may require moisture conditioning, processing and
recompaction prior to the start of additional filling. The Earthwork Contractor should notify
the Geotechnical Engineer of his intent so that an evaluation can be made.
• Fill placed on ground sloping at a 5-to-1 inclination (horizontal-to-vertical) or steeper should
be benched into bedrock or other suitable materials, as directed by the Geotechnical
Engineer. Typical details of benching are illustrated on Plates D-2, D-4, and D-5.
• Cut/fill transition lots should have the cut portion overexcavated to a depth of at least 3 feet
and rebuilt with fill (see Plate D-1), as determined by the Geotechnical Engineer.
• All cut lots should be inspected by the Geotechnical Engineer for fracturing and other
bedrock conditions. If necessary, the pads should be overexcavated to a depth of 3 feet
and rebuilt with a uniform, more cohesive soil type to impede moisture penetration.
• Cut portions of pad areas above buttresses or stabilizations should be overexcavated to a
depth of 3 feet and rebuilt with uniform, more cohesive compacted fill to impede moisture
penetration.
• Non-structural fill adjacent to structural fill should typically be placed in unison to provide
lateral support. Backfill along walls must be placed and compacted with care to ensure that
excessive unbalanced lateral pressures do not develop. The type of fill material placed
adjacent to below grade walls must be properly tested and approved by the Geotechnical
Engineer with consideration of the lateral earth pressure used in the design.
Grading Guide Specifications Page 4
Foundations
• The foundation influence zone is defined as extending one foot horizontally from the outside
edge of a footing, and proceeding downward at a ½ horizontal to 1 vertical (0.5:1)
inclination.
• Where overexcavation beneath a footing subgrade is necessary, it should be conducted so
as to encompass the entire foundation influence zone, as described above.
• Compacted fill adjacent to exterior footings should extend at least 12 inches above
foundation bearing grade. Compacted fill within the interior of structures should extend to
the floor subgrade elevation.
Fill Slopes
• The placement and compaction of fill described above applies to all fill slopes. Slope
compaction should be accomplished by overfilling the slope, adequately compacting the fill
in even layers, including the overfilled zone and cutting the slope back to expose the
compacted core
• Slope compaction may also be achieved by backrolling the slope adequately every 2 to 4
vertical feet during the filling process as well as requiring the earth moving and compaction
equipment to work close to the top of the slope. Upon completion of slope construction,
the slope face should be compacted with a sheepsfoot connected to a sideboom and then
grid rolled. This method of slope compaction should only be used if approved by the
Geotechnical Engineer.
• Sandy soils lacking in adequate cohesion may be unstable for a finished slope condition and
therefore should not be placed within 15 horizontal feet of the slope face.
• All fill slopes should be keyed into bedrock or other suitable material. Fill keys should be at
least 15 feet wide and inclined at 2 percent into the slope. For slopes higher than 30 feet,
the fill key width should be equal to one-half the height of the slope (see Plate D-5).
• All fill keys should be cleared of loose slough material prior to geotechnical inspection and
should be approved by the Geotechnical Engineer and governmental agencies prior to filling.
• The cut portion of fill over cut slopes should be made first and inspected by the
Geotechnical Engineer for possible stabilization requirements. The fill portion should be
adequately keyed through all surficial soils and into bedrock or suitable material. Soils
should be removed from the transition zone between the cut and fill portions (see Plate D-
2).
Cut Slopes
• All cut slopes should be inspected by the Geotechnical Engineer to determine the need for
stabilization. The Earthwork Contractor should notify the Geotechnical Engineer when slope
cutting is in progress at intervals of 10 vertical feet. Failure to notify may result in a delay
in recommendations.
• Cut slopes exposing loose, cohesionless sands should be reported to the Geotechnical
Engineer for possible stabilization recommendations.
• All stabilization excavations should be cleared of loose slough material prior to geotechnical
inspection. Stakes should be provided by the Civil Engineer to verify the location and
dimensions of the key. A typical stabilization fill detail is shown on Plate D-5.
Grading Guide Specifications Page 5
• Stabilization key excavations should be provided with subdrains. Typical subdrain details
are shown on Plates D-6.
Subdrains
• Subdrains may be required in canyons and swales where fill placement is proposed. Typical
subdrain details for canyons are shown on Plate D-3. Subdrains should be installed after
approval of removals and before filling, as determined by the Soils Engineer.
• Plastic pipe may be used for subdrains provided it is Schedule 40 or SDR 35 or equivalent.
Pipe should be protected against breakage, typically by placement in a square-cut
(backhoe) trench or as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Filter material for subdrains should conform to CALTRANS Specification 68-1.025 or as
approved by the Geotechnical Engineer for the specific site conditions. Clean ¾-inch
crushed rock may be used provided it is wrapped in an acceptable filter cloth and approved
by the Geotechnical Engineer. Pipe diameters should be 6 inches for runs up to 500 feet
and 8 inches for the downstream continuations of longer runs. Four-inch diameter pipe
may be used in buttress and stabilization fills.
GRADING GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS
NOT TO SCALE
DRAWN: JAS
CHKD: GKM
PLATE D-2
FILL ABOVE CUT SLOPE DETAIL
9' MIN.
4' TYP.
MINIMUM 1' TILT BACK
OR 2% SLOPE
(WHICHEVER IS GREATER)
REMOVE U
N
S
U
I
T
A
B
L
E
M
A
T
E
R
I
A
L
BENCHING DIMENSIONS IN ACCORDANCE
WITH PLAN OR AS RECOMMENDED
BY THE GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER
CUT SLOPE TO BE CONSTRUCTED
PRIOR TO PLACEMENT OF FILL
BEDROCK OR APPROVED
COMPETENT MATERIAL
CUT SLOPE
NATURAL GRADE
CUT/FILL CONTACT TO BE
SHOWN ON "AS-BUILT"
COMPETENT MATERIAL CUT/FILL CONTACT SHOWN
ON GRADING PLAN
NEW COMPACTED FILL
10' TYP.
KEYWAY IN COMPETENT MATERIAL
MINIMUM WIDTH OF 15 FEET OR AS
RECOMMENDED BY THE GEOTECHNICAL
ENGINEER. KEYWAY MAY NOT BE
REQUIRED IF FILL SLOPE IS LESS THAN 5
FEET IN HEIGHT AS RECOMMENDED BY
THE GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER.
GRADING GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS
NOT TO SCALE
DRAWN: JAS
CHKD: GKM
PLATE D-4
FILL ABOVE NATURAL SLOPE DETAIL
10' TYP.4' TYP.
(WHICHEVER IS GREATER)
OR 2% SLOPE
MINIMUM 1' TILT BACK
REMOVE UN
S
U
I
T
A
B
L
E
M
A
T
E
R
I
A
L
NEW COMPACTED FILL
COMPETENT MATERIAL
KEYWAY IN COMPETENT MATERIAL.
RECOMMENDED BY THE GEOTECHNIAL
ENGINEER. KEYWAY MAY NOT BE REQUIRED
IF FILL SLOPE IS LESS THAN 5' IN HEIGHT
AS RECOMMENDED BY THE GEOTECHNICAL
ENGINEER.
2' MINIMUM
KEY DEPTH
OVERFILL REQUIREMENTS
PER GRADING GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS
TOE OF SLOPE SHOWN
ON GRADING PLAN
BACKCUT - VARIES
PLACE COMPACTED BACKFILL
TO ORIGINAL GRADE
PROJECT SLOPE GRADIENT
(1:1 MAX.)
NOTE:
BENCHING SHALL BE REQUIRED
WHEN NATURAL SLOPES ARE
EQUAL TO OR STEEPER THAN 5:1
OR WHEN RECOMMENDED BY
THE GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER.
FINISHED SLOPE FACE
MINIMUM WIDTH OF 15 FEET OR AS
BENCHING DIMENSIONS IN ACCORDANCE
WITH PLAN OR AS RECOMMENDED
BY THE GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER
GRADING GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS
NOT TO SCALE
DRAWN: JAS
CHKD: GKM
PLATE D-5
STABILIZATION FILL DETAIL
FACE OF FINISHED SLOPE
COMPACTED FILL
MINIMUM 1' TILT BACK
OR 2% SLOPE
(WHICHEVER IS GREATER)
10' TYP.
2' MINIMUM
KEY DEPTH
3' TYPICAL
BLANKET FILL IF RECOMMENDED
BY THE GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER
COMPETENT MATERIAL ACCEPTABLE
TO THE SOIL ENGINEER
KEYWAY WIDTH, AS SPECIFIED
BY THE GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER
TOP WIDTH OF FILL
AS SPECIFIED BY THE
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER
BENCHING DIMENSIONS IN ACCORDANCE
WITH PLAN OR AS RECOMMENDED
BY THE GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER
4' TYP.
PROPOSED WAREHOUSE
DRAWN: MD
CHKD: RGT
SCG PROJECT
21G260-1
PLATE E-1
SEISMIC DESIGN PARAMETERS - 2019 CBC
FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
SOURCE: SEAOC/OSHPD Seismic Design Maps Tool
<https://seismicmaps.org/>