Geotechnical Engineering
Every successful construction development begins with selecting a project site and ends with managing the asset following construction. Vanguard provides expertise at every phase to support safe, resilient, and efficient development.
Site Selection & Pre-Planning
Our early-stage planning services set the foundation for informed decision-making and risk reduction.
Desktop Study: Review of geologic maps, soil surveys, and historic aerial imagery
Site Reconnaissance: On-site visual assessment of existing site conditions and identification of potential access or constructability constraints
Preliminary Geotechnical Study: Evaluation of foundation feasibility, anticipated geotechnical challenges and mitigation strategies, and preliminary foundation and earthwork construction recommendations
For Multiple Sites: Comparative assessment and ranking of candidate sites based on geotechnical risk
Engineering & Design
Vanguard’s engineering services ensure reliable, data-driven designs tailored to each project’s unique conditions.
Field Investigation: Soil borings, test pits, dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP) testing, exfiltration testing, groundwater monitoring (monitoring wells/piezometers), settlement monitoring, crack monitoring
Laboratory Testing: Comprehensive analysis of soil classification, strength, compressibility, moisture-density, and compaction
Engineering Analysis: foundation design and construction recommendations, ground improvement alternatives evaluations, slope stability and settlement analyses, and pavement design
Design Documentation: Preparation of geotechnical engineering reports, plan and specification reviews, and preliminary design assessments
Peer Review Services: Independent evaluation of third-party geotechnical report with expert recommendations
Construction
Our field support during construction ensures compliance with design intent and adaptation to real-world site conditions.
Monitoring & Testing: Oversight of earthwork, fill placement, compaction, subgrade evaluation, and utility trench backfill testing
Foundation Oversight: Verification of foundation bearing conditions and monitoring of deep foundations and ground improvement
Evaluation of Unexpected Soil/Rock Conditions: Identification and response to unexpected subsurface conditions
Vibration Monitoring and Reporting: Vibration monitoring and reporting services tailor made to the project specifications
Recommendations for Design Modifications or Construction Alternatives: Real-time recommendations for construction alternatives or design adjustments
Preconstruction and Postconstruction Condition Documentation, Inspection and Reporting: Investigation and documentation of pre- and post-construction site conditions of nearby/adjacent structures to document changed conditions due to construction activities
Post Construction & Asset Management
Our involvement doesn’t end when construction does. Vanguard provides ongoing evaluation and maintenance services to ensure long-term performance and value.
Settlement & Instrumentation Monitoring: Long-term settlement monitoring, crack monitoring, and groundwater monitoring using monitoring wells or piezometers
Pavements and Foundation Assessments: Periodic inspections, distress surveys, and rehabilitation recommendations
Forensic Investigations: Analysis of failure due to settlement, cracking, or slope movement, with actionable repair strategies
Expert Witness Services: Professional consultation and testimony for geotechnical and construction-related disputes