A basement is a crucial part of any residential or commercial building. It provides additional living or storage space, protects the foundation from moisture, and can even increase the property value. However, constructing a basement requires excavation, which can be daunting.
Choosing the correct method is essential to ensure the workers’ safety and the building’s stability. Let us discuss the five factors to consider when choosing a basement excavation method and the standard methods used in Canada.
1. Construction Type
The type of construction is the first factor to consider in choosing a basement excavation method. The excavation method used in residential construction may not be suitable for commercial construction. Therefore, knowing the purpose of the excavation is a must.
The size and complexity of the building will determine the excavation method used. For instance, a top-down excavation method may be the best option if the building has a complex design and a large footprint. Consult an expert on which basement excavation suits best for the project.
2. Soil Type
The soil type is another critical factor when choosing a basement excavation method. The soil can vary from soft and wet to rugged and rocky. Meanwhile, the ground can also be dense or loose. The excavation method used should be able to handle the soil conditions.
An anchored excavation method may be best if the soil is soft and wet. On the other hand, if the soil is hard and rocky, a top-down excavation method may be suitable. First, identify the soil type before hiring an excavation property to help them choose the best method.
3. Topography
Topography refers to the shape and slope of the land. The topography of the land can affect the excavation method used. A bracing excavation method may be needed to stabilise the site if the land has a steep slope. An open-cut excavation method may be the best option if the land is flat.
Several factors, including the underlying bedrock, the climate, and the action of water and wind, determine a region’s topography. The shape of the land can range from flat plains to rugged mountains, from rolling hills to deep valleys.
4. Building Size
The size of the building is an essential factor to consider when choosing a basement excavation method. The excavation method used should be able to handle the size of the building. If the building is tall, a top-down excavation method may be needed to ensure the stability of the building. An open-cut excavation method may be the best option if the building is small.
5. Building Scope
The building scope refers to the purpose of the building. The excavation method used should be able to accommodate the building’s purpose. For example, suppose the building is a parking garage. In that case, an island excavation method may be the best option as it allows for excavating a large area without disturbing the surrounding buildings.
The Common Methods For Basement Excavation
1. Open-Cut
Open-cut excavation is the most common and straightforward method used in basement excavation. It involves digging a trench around the building’s perimeter and removing the soil to the required depth. The method is suitable for buildings with a simple design and flat land. However, it can be time-consuming and disruptive to the surrounding area.
The process of open-cut excavation starts with removing any existing structures or debris from the site. Once the site is cleared, the excavation team will mark out the area to be excavated and then use heavy machinery, such as excavators and bulldozers, to dig out the soil and rocks. The excavated material is then loaded onto dump trucks and transported offsite for disposal.
2. Top-Down
The top-down excavation method involves excavating the basement from the top to the bottom. The excavation is done in sections, each supported by temporary shoring. The method is suitable for buildings with complex designs and tall buildings. It allows for the construction of the basement while maintaining the stability of the building.
3. Bracing Method
The bracing excavation method involves stabilising the excavation site using bracing or shoring. Bracing excavation is a technique to prevent soil from collapsing into the excavation site. It involves installing temporary structures that hold the soil in place, preventing it from caving in.
The bracing excavation method involves stabilising the excavation site using bracing or shoring. The method suits buildings on steep slopes or in areas with unstable soil. The bracing or shoring holds the soil in place, preventing it from collapsing into the excavation site.
4. Anchored Method
The anchored excavation method involves drilling anchors into the soil to support the excavation site. The anchors are then connected to a steel frame that holds the soil in place. The method is suitable for soft and wet soil areas, as the anchors provide additional support, preventing soil from collapsing into the excavation site.
One of the significant advantages of the island excavation method is that it allows for constructing a deeper basement without the risk of soil collapse. It is also safer than other excavation techniques, as the perimeter wall provides a stable structure that prevents soil collapse.
5. Island Method
The island excavation method involves excavating the basement in sections. A building section is mined, and the remaining part stands on an “island.” The excavation is then done in the next section, and the process is repeated until the entire basement is excavated. The method suits buildings with large footprints and areas with limited space.
Conclusion
Choosing the proper basement excavation method is crucial to ensure the stability and safety of the building. A basement provides additional living or storage space, protects the foundation from moisture, and can increase property value. It also allows installing a heating and cooling system to reduce energy costs. Moreover, a basement can offer protection from extreme weather conditions such as tornadoes and hurricanes. Overall, a basement is a valuable addition to any building, and choosing the suitable excavation method is essential to ensure its stability and safety.
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