HomeMy WebLinkAboutSubsoils Study for Foundation Designffi GTLITHOMPSON
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING INVESTIGATION
SWEETWATER RANCH
MAIN RESIDENCE
4894 SWEETWATER ROAD
GARFIELD COUNTY, COLORADO
Prepared for:
Beck Building Company
P.O. Box 4030
Vail, CO 81658
CTLIT Project No. GS06935.000-1 25-R1
January 20,2025
CTllThompson, lnc.
Denver, Fort Collins, @!orag!q;$Bd!lgs, Glenwood Sprinqs,.Pueblg,, Summit Countv - Colorado
Chevenne, Wyoming and Bozeman, Montana
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Table of Contents
SCOPE.
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
UPPER BUILDINGS SITE.................
PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION .,......
stTE GEOLOGY...,..........
SUBSURFACE CONDtTtONS...........
SITE EARTHWORK......,..
Excavations
Subexcavation and Structural Fi|1....,......
Foundation Wall Backfi llUtilities........ ....................:...
BU I LDTNG FOU NDATTON ......,.............,....
Footings......
SLAB-ON.GRADE CONSTRUCTION .......
CRAWL SPACE CONSTRUCTION......,....
FOUNDATION WALLS
su BsuRFAc E DRA| NAGE.......................
SURFACE DRAINAGE
CONCRETE
CONSTRUCTION OBSERVATIONS
GEOTECHNICAL RISK .......
LtMtTATtONS .............
FIGURE 1 - PROPERTY BOUNDARY
FIGURE 2 - DEVELOPMENT PLAN
FIGURE 3 - PROPOSED UPPER BUILDINGS
FIGURE 4 - PROPOSED MAIN RESIDENCE
FIGURE 5 _ SUMMARY LOGS OF EXPLORATORY PITS
FIGURE 6 _ GMDATION TEST RESULTS
FIGIJRES 7 AND B - FOUNDATION WALL DRAIN CONCEPTS
TABLE I- SUMMARY OF LABORATORY TESTING
APPENDIX A - EXPLORATORY PIT PHOTOGRAPHS
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH. MAIN RESIDENCE
CTLIT PROJECT NO. GS06935.000-12s-R1
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SCOPE
CTLIThompson, lnc. (CTLIT) has completed a geotechnicalengineering investigation
regarding the main residence proposed at Sweetwater Ranch in Garfield County, Colorado. We
conducted this investigation to evaluate subsurface conditions at the site and provide geotech-
nical engineering recommendations for the planned construction. The scope of our investigation
was set forth in our Proposal No. GS 24-0170-CM1
Our report was prepared from data developed from our field exploration, laboratory test-
ing, engineering analysis, and our experience with similar conditions. This report includes a de-
scription of the subsurface conditions found in our exploratory pits and provides geotechnical
engineering recommendations for design and construction of the foundation, floor systems, be-
low-grade walls, subsudace drainage, and details influenced by the subsoils. Recommendations
in this report were developed based on our understanding of the currently planned construction.
We should be provided with architectural plans, as they are further developed, so that we can
provide geotechnical/geo-structural engineering input.
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
The Sweetwater Ranch property is located west of the intersection of Sweetwater Road
(County Road 40) and Sheep Greek Road (Forest Road 8450) in Eagle County, Colorado. The
road intersection is about 1,000 feet northeast of the confluence of Sweetwater Creek and the
East Fork of Sheep Creek. A property boundary map is included as Figure 1.
The property is comprised of an east parcel of approximately 732 acres in Eagle County
and a west parcel of about 1,953 acres in Garfield County. Sweetwater Creek flows to the south
along the east property boundary. Mason Creek and Morris Creek, which are tributaries to
Sweetwater Creek, flow down to the east in the north and south parts of the property, respec-
tively. The HMS Relocated Ditch trends south across the property on the west side of the county
line.
The property is generally comprised of a hummocky terrace that slopes down to the
southeast. Steep slopes drop down from higher elevations adjacent to the property boundary at
the west and south. The creek channels are incised in the terrace terrain. The east edge of the
property is on the valley floor of the Sweetwater Creek drainage. Several reservoirs and ponds
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH. MAIN RESIDENCE
GTLIT PROJECT NO. GSo6935.000-125-R1
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are present on the upper pafts property. Ranch roads provide access to various parts of the
property and facilities, including residences and agricultural buildings. Numerous irrigated hay-
fields and pastures are on the property. Natural vegetation adjacent to the irrigated areas con-
sists of oak brush, pinion and juniper trees, aspen trees, and sage brush.
UPPER BUILDINGS SITE
The upper buildings are proposed within, and adjacent to, an irrigated hayfield that is
about 1,200 feet west of the county line. The center of the development areas is about 700 feet
from the crest of the steep slope that drops down to the Morris Creek drainage. The alignment
of the HMS Relocated Ditch is downhill of the general location, about 800 feet to the northeast.
At this writing, the proposed buildings include a main residence, community barn, and three
guest cabins. The development plan is shown on Figure 2.
The main residence is planned on a topographic knob that is east of the hayfield.
Ground surface at the location slopes down to the north, east, and south at grades of about 5 to
20 percent. Vegetation at the main residence consists of sage brush and grass with scattered
pinion and juniper trees. We observed numerous sandstone cobbles and boulders at the ground
surface. A photograph of the main residence site is below. The upper buildings site is shown on
Figure 3.
Looking east across main residence site
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SWEETWATER RANCH. MAIN RESIDENCE
cTLIT PROJECT NO. GS06935.000-125-R1
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PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION
CTLIT was provided with schematic design drawings for the main residence by Centre
Sky Architecture, LTD (dated December 13,2024). The residence is planned with a twoJevel
core living area. Three, one-level building wings will extend from the upper level of the core liv-
ing area. The north wing will be the master suite, the south wing will.be the guest wing, and the
west wing will be the garage. Floor elevations in the wings will be at or near the main floor ele-
vation in the core living area. The proposed main residence footprint is shown on Figure 4.
It appears the lower-levelfloors in the core living area will be slabs-on-grade near eleva-
tion7682 feet. A slab-on-grade floor is planned in the garage near elevation 7694 feel The
schematic design drawings indicate the floors in the master suite and guest wing will be at ele-
vation 7694 feet and may be structurally supported with crawlspace areas below. Patios, walk-
ways, and an auto court will be adjacent to the building exterior.
The building will likely be steel-framing with cast-in-place foundation walls. Maximum
foundation excavation depths of about 10 to 15 feet are anticipated at the uphill side of the lower
level. We expect foundation loads between 3,000 and 4,000 pounds per linear foot of foundation
wall and column loads of less than 75 kips.
SITE GEOLOGY
As pafi of our geotechnical engineering investigation, we reviewed geologic mapping by
the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) titled, "Geologic Map of the Leadville 1 Degree x 2 Degree
Quadrangle, Northwestern Colorado", by Tweto, Moench, and Reed (dated 1978). We also re-
viewed mapping by the Colorado geological survey titled, "Geologic Map of the Dotsero Quad-
rangle, Eagle and Garfield Counties. The maps indicate the soils at the planned site of the up-
per buildings consist of landslide deposits of the Holocene and Pleistocene Epochs. These ma-
terials are unconsolidated, unsorted, and unstratified. The materials are homogeneous and
range in size from cobbles and boulders to silt and clay. We judge the soils found in our explora-
tory pits for the main residence are consistent with landslide deposits.
Based on geologic mapping and our site observations, it appears the overburden soils
are underlain at depth by bedrock of the Minturn Formation (Middle Pennsylvanian Period) and
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH - MAIN RESIDENCE
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Belden Formation (Lower Pennsylvanian Period). The Minturn Formation is generally gray, tan,
and red sandstone, conglomerate, and shale. The Belden Formation is dark gray to black shale
and carbonate rocks and sandstone. The mapping indicates the bedrock formations are undi-
vided in the vicinity of Sweetwater Creek. The weathered sandstone and sandstone bedrock
encountered in our MR-C pit appeared consistent with The Minturn Formation.
SUBSURFACE CONDITIONS
Subsurface conditions at the main residence site were investigated by directing excava-
tion of three exploratory pits (MR-A through MR-C) at the approximate locations shown on Fig-
ures 3 and 4. The pits were excavated with a trackhoe on November 18, 2025. Exploratory ex-
cavation operations were directed by our engineer, who logged subsurface conditions encoun-
tered and obtained samples of the subsoils. Graphic logs of subsurface conditions found in our
exploratory pits are shown on Figure 5.
Subsurface conditions encountered in our exploratory pits, MR-A and MR-8, consisted
of about 6 to 12 inches of topsoil, underlain by clayey gravel and sandy clay to the total exca-
vated depths of 14 and 1 1.5 feet, respectively. Exploratory pit, MR-C, exposed 1 foot of topsoil,
5 feet of clayey gravel and sandy clay, and 3.5 feet of weathered sandstone, underlain by com-
petent sandstone. The hardness of the sandstone made exploratory excavation deeper than 10
feet not practical. Photographs of the exploratory pits and excavated materials are attached as
Appendix A.
Groundwater was not encountered in our exploratory pits at the time of our subsurface
investigation. The pits were backfilled immediately after exploratory excavation operations were
completed.
Samples of the subsoils obtained from our exploratory pits were returned to our laborato-
ry for pertinent testing. Laboratory testing included Atterberg limits and gradation analyses.
Gradation analysis results are shown on Figure 6. Laboratory testing is summarized on Table l.
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH. MAIN RESIDENCE
cTLIT PROJECT NO. GS06935.000-125-Rl
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SITE EARTHWORK
Excavations
Based on our subsurface investigation, we expect excavations for construction of the
main residence can be accomplished using conventional, heavy-duty excavating equipment,
such as a medium-sized trackhoe. Excavations more than a few feet into the bedrock may re-
quire a hydraulic hammer attachment on a trackhoe.
From a "trench safety" standpoint, sides of excavations must be sloped or retained to
meet local, state, and federal safety regulations. The soils in excavations at this site will likely
classify as Type B and Type C soils, based on OSHA criteria. Excavations deeper than 5 feet
and above groundwater should be sloped no steeper than 1 to 1 (horizontal to vertical) in Type
B soils and 1.5 to 1 in Type C soils. Groundwater seepage into excavations can cause slumps
and sloughing and the need for flatter slopes. Contractors are responsible for site safety and
providing and maintaining safe and stable excavations. Contractors should identify the soils en-
countered in excavations and ensure that OSHA standards are met.
CTLIT did not encounter a groundwater table in our exploratory pits. Our experience in
similar geologic conditions in the region indicates that the upper soils can become saturated
during snowmelt in spring and early summer. Zones of groundwater seepage could occur in ex-
cavations at the site. lt appears feasible that construction dewatering can be accomplished by
sloping excavations to gravity outlets or to sump pits where water can be removed by pumping.
Trenches along the perimeter of the excavation, outside the structure footprint, can help convey
water to outlets or sumps. We recommend that excavation and earthwork operations commence
after peak snowmelt has occurred.
Subexcavation and Structural Fill
The overburden soils at this site are relatively heterogeneous. Furthermore, the soils
have not been subject to geologic loads and have potentialfor consolidation when wetted under
building loads. We judge the use of footings and slabs-on-grade is reasonable, provided poten-
tialfor differential building movement is mitigated.
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SWEETWATER RANCH - MAIN RESIDENCE
cTLlr PROJECT NO. GS06935.000-125-R1
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To create more uniform support conditions and reduce the potential for differential
movement of foundations for the building, we recommend subexcavation of the soils below the
bottoms of footings and floor slabs to a depth at least 3 feet. The sub-excavated areas should
extend laterally at least 1 foot beyond the edges of footings and slabs. The excavated soils
should be replaced with densely-compacted, structural fill.
The excavated soils can be reused as structuralfill, provided they are screened to re-
move rocks larger than 4 inches in diameter, organics, and debris. lmport soil needed for struc-
tural fill should consist of a clayey sand or gravel with a maximum rock size of 4 inches and 20
to 40 percent sit and clay material. A sample of potential import soil for structural fill should be
subntitted to CTLIT for approval prior to the hauling to the site.
Structural fill should be placed in loose lifts of I inches thick or less, moisture-
conditioned to within 2 percent of optimum moisture content and compacted to at least g8 per-
cent of standard Proctor (ASTM D 698) maximum dry density. Moisture content and density of
structuralfill should be checked by a representative of CTLIT during placement. Observation of
the compaction procedure is necessary.
Foundation Wall Backfill
Proper placement and compaction of foundation backfill is important to reduce infiltration
of surface water and settlement from consolidation of backfill soils. This is especially important
for backfill areas that will support exterior concrete flatwork, such as patios, walkways, and
driveways.
The excavated soils can be reused as backfill, provided they are screened to remove or-
ganics, debris, and rocks larger than 6 inches in diameter. Backfill should be placed in loose lifts
of approximately 10 inches thick or less and moisture-conditioned to within 2 percent of opti-
mum moisture content.
Backfill soils that will not support exterior concrete slabs should be compacted to at least
95 percent of standard Proctor (ASTM D 698) maximum dry density. Backfill soils that will sup-
port exterior concrete slabs should be compacted to at least 98 percent of ASTM D 698 maxi-
BFCK BIIII NING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH. MAIN RESIDENCE
CTLIT PROJECT NO. cs06935.000-12s-R,l
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mum dry density. Moisture content and density of the backfill should be checked during place-
ment by CTLIT. Observation of the compaction procedure is necessary
Foundation backfill that will support exterior slabs requires strict adherence to specifica-
tions. Even well-placed backfill will settle 0.5 to 1 percent of total backfill thickness. Structures
placed over backfill zones will need to be designed to accommodate differential movement with
respect to the building. lf slabs and structures that are sensitive to settlement will be located
above deeper zones of backfill, consideration should be given to designing these elements as
structurally supported.
Utilities
Sides of utility trenches should be sloped or braced to meet local, state and federal safe-
ty requirements. Anticipated OSHA soiltype classifications were provided in the Excavations
section.
We believe the natural soils at this site have low corrosion potential. We can perform re-
sistivity testing to assist in judging corrosivity of the native soils, if desired. Water mains and
other utilities may be constructed of common ductile iron pipe. Some municipalities recommend
iron fittings, joints, couplings and appurtenances be wrapped with polyethylene for corrosion
protection regardless of soil resistivity.
Properly compacted backfill in utility trenohes is important to reduce subsequent oonsoli-
dation of backfill soils and infiltration of sudace water. Backfill soils should consist of the on-site
soils, free of rocks larger than 4 inches in diameter, organic matter and debris. Backfill should
be placed in thin lifts, moisture conditioned to within 2 percent of optimum moisture content and
compacted to at least 95 percent of standard Proctor (ASTM D 698) maximum dry density.
Density and moisture content of backfill should be checked by CTLIT during placement.
BUILDING FOUNDATION
The overburden soils at this site are relatively heterogeneous. Furthermore, the soils
have not been subject to geologic loads and have potentialfor consolidation when wetted under
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH - MAIN RESIDENCE
cTLIT PROJECT NO. GS06935.000-125-Rl
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building loads. We judge the use of a footing foundation is reasonable for the main residence,
provided potentialfor differential building movement is mitigated.
To create more uniform support conditions and reduce the potential for differential
movement of foundations for the building, we recommend subexcavation of the soils below the
bottoms of footings to a depth at least 3 feet. The sub-excavated areas should extend laterally
at least 1 foot beyond the edges of the building footprint. The excavated soils should be re-
placed with densely-compacted, structural fill in accordance with recommendations in the
Subexcavation and Structural Fill section.
Recommended design and construction criteria for footings are below. These criteria
were developed based on our analysis of field and laboratory data, as well as our engineering
experience.
Footinqs
Footings should be supported by densely-compacted, structuralfill that is at least
3 feet thick. The structuralfill should be in accordance with recommendations in
the Subexcavation and Structural Fill section.
Footings on densely-compacted, structuralfill can be designed for a maximum
net allowable soil bearing pressure of 3,000 psf. The weight of backfill soils
above the footings can be neglected for bearing pressure calculation. A 1,000 psf
increase in this bearing pressure is acceptable when using the alternative load
combination of IBC 2015, Section 1605.3.2 that include wind and earthquake
load.
A friction factor of 0.35 can be used to calculate resistance to sliding between
concrete footings and the structural fill.
Continuous wall footings should have a minimum width of at least 18 inches.
Foundations for isolated columns should have minimum dimensions of 30 inches
by 30 inches. Larger sizes may be required, depending upon foundation loads.
Grade beams and foundation walls should be well-reinforced. We recommend re-
inforcement sufficient to span an unsupported distance of at least 12 feet.
The soils under exterior footings should be protected from freezing. We recom-
mend the bottom of footings be constructed at least 42 inches below finished ex-
terior grades for frost protection. The Garfield County building department should
be consulted regarding frost protection requirements.
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH. MAIN RESIDENCE
CTLIT PROJECT NO. GS06935.000-1 25-R1
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SLAB-ON.GRADE CONSTRUCTION
The overburden soils at this site are relatively heterogeneous. Furthermore, the soils
have potential for consolidation when wetted under building loads. We judge the use of slab-on-
grade floors and exterior flatwork is reasonable, provided potential for differential movement is
mitigated.
To create more uniform support conditions and reduce the potentialfor differential
movement of foundations for the building, we recommend subexcavation of the soils below the
bottoms of interior slabs to a depth at least 3 feet. The sub-excavated areas should extend lat-
erally at least 1 foot beyond the edges of the slabs. A minimum structuralfillthickness of 12
inches is recommended below exterior flatwork. The excavated soils should be replaced with
densely-compacted, structural fill in accordance with recommendations in the Subexcavation
--and Structural Fill section
Based on our analysis of field and laboratory data, as well as our engineering experi-
ence, we recommend the following precautions for slab-on-grade construction at this site.
Slabs should be separated from footings and columns pads with slip joints which
allow free vertical movement of the slabs.
The use of underslab plumbing should be minimized. Underslab plumbing should
be pressure tested for leaks before the slabs are constructed. Plumbing and utili-
ties which pass through slabs should be isolated from the slabs with sleeves and
provided with flexible couplings to slab supported appliances.
Exterior patio slabs and concrete flatwork should be isolated from the building
These slabs should be well-reinforced to function as independent units.
Frequent controljoints should be provided, in accordance with American Con-
crete lnstitute (ACl) recommendations, to reduce problems associated with
shrinkage and curling.
The lnternational Building Code (lBC) may require a vapor retarder be placed be-
tween the base course or subgrade soils and concrete slab-on-grade floors. The
merits of installation of a vapor retarder below floor slab depend on the sensitivity
of floor coverings and building to moisture. A properly installed vaper retarder (10
mil minimum) is more beneficial below concrete slab-on-grade floors where floor
coverings will be sensitive to moisture. The vapor barrier/retarder is most effec-
tive when concrete is placed directly on top of it. A sand or gravel leveling course
should not be placed between the vapor barrier/retarder and the floor slab.
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SWEETWATER RANCH - MAIN RESIDENCE
CTLIT PROJECT NO- GS06935.000-1 25-R1
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CRAWL SPACE CONSTRUCTION
The schematic design drawings indicate that crawl space areas may be constructed be-
low parts of the main-level floors in the master suite and guest wing. The required crawl space
height depends on the materials used to construct the floor system above the crawl space.
Building codes normally require a clear space of at least 18 inches between exposed earth and
untreated wood components of the structural floor.
Utility connections, including water, gas, air duct, and exhaust stack connections to ap-
pliances on structural floors should be capable of absorbing some deflection of the floor. Plumb-
ing that passes through the floor should ideally be hung from the underside of the structural floor
and not laid on the bottom of the excavation.
Control of humidity in crawl spaces is important for indoor air quality and performance of
wood floor systems. We believe the best current practice to control humidity involve the use of a
vapor retarder or vapor barrier (10 mil minimum) placed on the soils below accessible subfloor
areas. The vapor retarder/barrier should be sealed at joints and attached to concrete foundation
elements. lt may be appropriate to install a ventilation system that is controlled by a humidistat.
FOUNDATION WALLS
Foundation walls that extend below-grade should be designed for lateral earth pressures
where backfill is not present to about the same extent on both sides of the wall, such as in
basements and crawl spaces. Many factors affect the values of the design lateral earth pres-
sure. These factors include, but are not limited to, the type, compaction, slope, and drainage of
the backfill, and the rigidity of the wall against rotation and deflection.
For a very rigid wallwhere negligible or very littte deflection will occur, an "at-rest" lateral
earth pressure should be used in design. For walls that can deflect or rotate 0.5 to 1 percent of
wall height (depending upon the backfill types), design for a lower "active" lateral earth pressure
may be appropriate. Our experience indicates typical below-grade walls in residences deflect or
rotate slightly under normal design loads, and that this deflection results in satisfactory wall per-
formance. Thus, the earth pressures on the walls will likely be between the "active" and "at-rest"
conditions.
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH - MAIN RESIDENCE
cTLIT PROJECT NO. cS0693s.000-1 zs-Rl
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For backfillsoils conforming with recommendations in the Foundation Wall Backfillsec-
tion that are not saturated, we recommend design of below-grade walls at this site using an
equivalent fluid density of at least 45 pcf. This value assumes deflection; some minor cracking
of walls may occur. lf very liftle wall deflection is desired, a higher design value for the "at-rest"
condition is appropriate using an equivalent fluid pressure of 60 pcf,.
SUBSURFACE DRAINAGE
Our experience in similar geology and topography in the region indicates the upper soils
can become saturated during snowmelt in spring and early summer months. Frozenground dur-
ing spring runoff can also create a perched condition. Additionally, water from precipitation,
snowmelt, and irrigation frequently flows through relatively permeable backfill placed adjacent to
a residence and collects on the surface of less permeable soils at the bottom of foundation ex-
cavatiohs. These sources of water can cause wet or moist conditions in below-grade areas after
construction. To reduce the likelihood water pressure will develop outside foundation walls, we
recommend provision of a foundation wall drain around the perimeter of the main residence
foundation.
The foundation wall drain should consist of 4-inch diameter, slotted PVC pipe encased in
free-draining gravel. A prefabricated drainage composite should be placed adjacent to founda-
tion wall exteriors. Care should be taken during backfill operations to prevent damage to drain-
age composites. The drain should discharge via positive gravity outlets. The gravity outlets
shoukl not be susceptible to cloggirrg or freezing. We recommend installation of a clean-outs
along the drainpipes. A representative of our firm should be called to observe the drain con-
struction, prior to backfilling.
To further mitigate subsurface water, we recommend a drainage layer (below slabs and
on crawl space floors) consisting of 4-inch diameter, slotted PVC pipe installed on 8 to 10-foot
centers and embedded in at least 6 inches of screened rock. lf a vapor barrierlretarder is placed
below the slabs, the gravel layer should be below the barrier. The pipes should convey water to
perimeter drain collector pipes. Water collected should be discharged via positive gravity out-
lets. The foundation walldrain concepts are shown on Figures 7 and 8.
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH. MAIN RESIDENCE
cTLIT PROJECT NO. GS06935.000-125-Rl
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SURFACE DRAINAGE
Surface drainage is critical to the performance of foundations, floor slabs, and concrete
flatwork. Surface drainage should be designed to provide rapid runoff of surface water away
from the residence. Proper surface drainage and irrigation practices can help controlthe amount
of surface water that penetrates to foundation levels and contributes to settlement of soils that
support the building foundation and slabs-on-grade. Positive drainage away from the building
fuurrdation and avoidance of lrrlgatlon near the foundation also help to avoid excessive wetting
of backfill soils, which can lead to increased backfill settlement and possibly to higher lateral
earth pressures, due to increased weight and reduced strength of the backfill. We recommend
the following precautions.
The ground surface surrounding the exterior of the residence should be sloped to
rapidly convey surface water away from the building in all directions. We recom-
mend a constructed slope of at least 12 inches in the first 10 feet (10 percent) in
landscaped areas around the residence, where practical.
Backfill around the foundation walls should be moisture-treated and compacted
pursuant to recommendations in the Foundation Wall8ackfill section.
We recommend that the residence be provided with roof drains or gutters and
downspouts. The drains or downspouts should discharge well beyond the limits
of all backfill. Splash blocks and/or extensions should be provided so water dis-
charges onto the ground beyond the backfill. We generaliy recommend against
burial of downspout discharge pipes.
4.Landscaping should be designed and maintained to minimize irrigation. Plants
placed close to foundation walls should be limited to those with low moisture re-
quirements. lrrigated grass should not be located within 5 feet of the foundations.
Sprinklers should not discharge within 5 feet of foundations. Plastic sheeting
should not be placed beneath landscaped areas adjacent to foundation walls.
Geotextile fabric will inhibit weed growth and allow some evaporation to occur.
CONCRETE
Concrete in contact with soil can be subject to sulfate attack. Our experience with pro-
jects in similar geology indicates the soils have water soluble sulfaie concentrations of less than
0.10 percent. Pursuant to our test and ACI 332-20, this concentration corresponds to a sulfate
exposure class of "Not Appticable" or RSO as indicated on the table below.
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SWEETWATER RANCH - MAIN RESIDENCE
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SULFATE EXPOSURE CLASSES PER ACI 332-20
A) Percent sulfate by mass by ASTM C1580
For this level of sulfate concentration, ACI 332-20,"Code Requirements for Residential
Concrete", indicates no special cement type requirements for sulfate resistance as indicated on
the table below.
CONCRETE DESIGN REQUIREMENTS FOR SULFATE EXPOSURE PER ACI 332-20
A) Concretecompressive
B) Alternatecombinations
strength be based on 28-day tests per ASTM C39/C39M
of cementitious materials of ihose listed in ACI 332-20 Table 5.4.2 shall be permitted
when tested for sulfate resistance meeting the criteria in section 5.5.
C) Other available types of cement such as Type lll or Type I are permitted in Exposure Classes RSI or RS2 if
the C3A contents are less than 8 or 5 percent, respectively.
D) The amount of the specific source of pozzolan or slag to be used shall not be less than the amount that has
been determined by service record to improve sulfate resistance when used in concrete containing Type V
cement. Alternatively, the amount of the specific source of the pozzolan or slab to be used shall not be less
than the amount tested in accordance wiih ASTM C10121C1012M and meeting the criteria in section 5.5.1 of
ACt332-20.
E) Water-soluble chloride ion content that is contributed from the ingredients including water aggregates, ce-
mentitious materials, and admixtures shall be determined on the concrete mixture ASTM C12181C1218M
between 29 and 42 days.
Superficial damage may occur to the exposed surfaces of highly permeable concrete. To
control this risk and to resist freeze thaw deterioration, the water-to-cementitious materials ratio
should not exceed 0.50 for concrete in contact with soils that are likely to stay moist due to sur-
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH. MAIN RESIDENCE
cTLlr pRoJEcT NO. GS06935.000-125-Rl .
Water-Solu ble Sulfate (SOr)
in SoilA
(o/o\
Exposure Classes
< 0.10Not Apolicable RSO
RS1 O-10 to 0.20Moderale
0.20 to 2.00SevereRS2
RS3 > 2.OOVery Severe
Exposure
Class
Maximum
Water/
Cement
Ratio
Minimum
Compressive
Strength A
(psi)
I B
Calcium Chlo-
ride Admix- '
tures
ASTM
c150/
c150M
ASTM
c595/
c595M
ASTM
c1157t
c1157M
RSO N/A 2500 No Type
Restrictions
No Type
Restrictions
No Type
Restrictions
No
Restrictions
RS1 0.50 2500 Type with (MS)
Designation MS No
Restrictions
RS2 0.45 3000 Vc Type with (HS)
Designation HS Not Permitted
RS3 0.45 3000 V + Pozzolan or
Slag Cement D
Type with (HS)
Designation plus
Pozzolan or Slag
Cement E
HS + Pozzolan or
Slag Cement E Not Permitted
Page 13 of 15
ffi
face drainage or high-water tables. Concrete should have a total air content of 60/o +/-1.5%. We
recommend foundation walls and grade beams in contact with the subsoils be damp-proofed.
CONSTRUCTION OBSERVATIONS
We recommend that CTLIT be retained to provide construction observation and materi-
als testing seryices for the project. This would allow r-rs the opportunity to verify whether goil
conditions are consistent with those found during this investigation. lf others perform these ob-
servations, they must accept responsibility to judge whether the recommendations in this report
remain appropriate. lt is also beneficialto projects, from economic and practicalstandpoints,
when there is continuity betwccn angineering consultation and the construction observation ancl
materials testing phases.
GEOTECHNICAL RISK
The concept of risk is an important aspect of any geotechnical evaluation. The primary
reason for this is that the analytical methods used to develop geotechnical recommendations do
not comprise an exact science. We never have complete knowledge of subsurface conditions.
Our analysis must be tempered with engineering judgment and experience. Therefore, the rec-
ommendations presented in any geotechnical evaluation should not be considered risk-free. We
cannot provide a guarantee that the interaction between the soils and the proposed residence
will lead to performance as desired or intended. Our recommendations represent our judgment
of those measures that are necessary to increase the chances that the building will perform sat-
isfactorily. lt is criticalthat all recommendations in this report are followed.
LIMITATIONS
This report was prepared for the exclusive use of Beck Building Company with respect to
the main residence proposed at Sweetwater Ranch. The information, conclusions, and recom-
mendations provided herein are based upon consideration of many factors including, but not
limited to, the type of structure proposed, the geologic setting, and the subsurface conditions
encountered. fhe conclusions and recommendations contained in the report are not valid for
use by others. Standards of practice continuously change in geotechnical engineering. The rec-
ommendations provided in this report are appropriate for about three years. lf the proposed
BEGK BUILDING COMFANY
SWEETWATER RANCH - MAIN RESIDENCE
CTLIT PROJECT NO. cS0693s.000-125-R1
Page 14 of 15
ffi
building is not constructed within three years, we should be contacted to determine if we should
update this report.
Our exploratory pits provide a reasonable characterization of subsurface conditions at
the site. Variations in subsurface conditions not indicated by the pits will occur. We should be
provided with architectural plans, as they are further developed, so we can provide geotech-
nical/geo-structural engineering input.
This investigation was conducted in a manner consistent with that level of care and skill
ordinarily exercised by geotechnical engineers currently practicing under similar conditions in
the locaiity of this project. No warranty, express or implied, is made. Please contact us if we can
be of further service in discussing the contents of this report.
OMPSON, IN Reviewed by:
lh l?-
D
or Principal Engin
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH - MAIN RESIDENCE
CTLIT PROJECT NO. GS06935.000-125-Rl
Barbone,
Division Manager
Page 15 of 15
+
LEGEND:tr
APPROXIMAIE LOCITION OT PROPERW BOUNDARY
APPROXIMATE LOCATION OF COUNTY UNE
0tm&Erl NOIE S{'IEIIJIE III^OE FROM MAOR
(coPYRrcHr 2022)
aggU[l,,E(rcarPNim|MGtAEl.urffi
Prq@t ilo. OAO@36.(n-125
Proper$
Boundary Eg. 1
{
0&t@r
3EA( BUllOSp @MpA$t.EMmN|.Hw
Frqsot r\b. CAO6O35.0OO-r 26
ffi
:_ APPROXTMATE LOCAIION OF PROPERTY BOUNDARIES
NolE: SATEILfE UAOE FROM GoOotE EAR]}I
(0AIED AUGUivt 3, 2025)
Fg. 2
Development
Plan
s .ag eEuFntlg
reddn
nerodo6
&
t€dgv tEEUoEfflE lg U.l!l|Wd l$rrE :gION
ud llo,aaoldxr Jo ltollllfi ilwfioudd,I
v1&t.
:0tEtroyl
9Z!'00O'I@O'91.1 lidoFrd'ffiM-ffi5Wtf{v4!66 5ptrllrl !5Ed
{C.J Cilr.ffi
J
I
ffi
LEGEND:
o
SCALE: 1'* '100'
MR_AI
NOTE:
100
APPROXIMATE LOCATION OF
EXPLORATORY PIT
BASE DRAWING BY BLUEGREEN ASPEN
(DATED DECEMBER 3, 2024)
\
--*
\
(
\
BECKBUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH - MAIN BESIDENOE
cTUr PROJECT NO. GSO6935.O0O-125
Proposed
Main
Residence Flg. 4
trMR.A
EL, 7€92
MR.B
E1,7684
MR.C
EL.7IM
7706
7700
7095
7690
tGOEilO:
MAIN LEVEL FLOOR
EL 7694
W
,n_
ffi rocsou cuv. snov, Mors, DARK BRM.u
cuEvomwLNsoYuy,asnErooNouwsmNEcoBEE.
muM ElsE oR flF, MO|ST, EROVIN, TN. (GC, Sq CU '
I
cuv, wov, uaouu $rrF ro sF, Morsr. sRM. (c0
Qwnzaeo
lunmrone
WDsuE, FMCruruO, MEDIUM HARO, SUGMY rcFT, IN.
INDISftS AUK SUPLE ONANEO MOM AqVATED S16.
F
CRAW- SFACE FLOOR
EL. 7682
NOIES:
7685
7680
7875
sUIII|MARY LOOE OF EXFLORATORY FITTI
1. gPtoMTRYPtrSWRE AUVATEDWTHARCffiOEOd NOWMEERT6, 20A.
2. *oUNDWATER wr€ Nfr FouE tN M wlomToRy ptrgAT fr E nffi 6F
SCAVATON. fiE PIre WSRE $CTIUb IWEDNTTY AMR gPLOSTfiY
gavaroN @EMlotra m* ffrEo.
LOWER LEVEL FLOOR
EL. 7682
3. qPrcMTffY PT EWATIONS WERE ESUEO Mil GROUNO SUtrrcE EilANON
4. THEAEI$&ESUilECTTnE qPlsTtds. IMtrAtrONSNOCOTLUSIdS|Rills sPoF.
BECK SUILOINO @PANYSWEilAER MNCH. HN EEErcEcnII PROJffi NO ffiS6.mtH!FIG. 5
B
a
E
ffi
SANDS GRAVEL
MEDIUM COARS FINE COARSE COBBLEScLAY (PLASTTC) TO SILT (NON.PLASTIC)
FINE
SIEVEHYOROMETER ANALYSIS
2roa,6
s60
Fz
H50Et!d40
30
20
10
0
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
F2trl(,tU
100
.00r 0.002 .005 .009 ,019 .037 .o74 .149
DIAMETER OF PARTICLE IN MILLIMETERS
CLEAR SOUARETIME REAOINGS
60 MtN. 19 MtN. 4 MtN. 1 MtN. '200
U,S. STANDARO SERIES
.100 .50 '40'30
.297 .590
0.42
't.19 2.O 2.38 4.76 9.52 19.1 36.1 76.2 12\s22OO
.4 3/8" 3t4', 'lli', 3' 5"6' 8"
25 HR. 7 HR.
45MtN. lsMtN.
Somple of cLAy, sANDy (cL)From Mn-e Af s-sFEEi
Somple of GRAVEL, cLAyEy (cc)From un:.c Ai z-J FEEf
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH - MAIN RESIDENCE
PROJECT NO. GS06935.000-125-R1
GRAVEL 16%
srlr a cuv of %
PLASTICITY INDEX
GRAVEL 37 o/o
srLT & oLAY i7 ,t"
pusrtctrv tnoef
SAND
LIAUID LIMIT
SAND 26
t-tOUtO t-ttritlt
23%
Vo
o/o
To
o/o
o/o
Gradation
Test Results
GRAVELSANDS
FINE MEDIUM COARS FINE COARSE COBBLEScLAY (PLASTTC) TO SILT (NON-PIASTTC)
ANALYSIS
100
90
80
(no
zo
@
fl60
Fz
350EUoro
30
20
t0
0
l0
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
-
=
-
127 200
152
s.52 1S.l 36.1 76.2.001 0.002 .005 .009 .019 .037
U.S. STANDARD SERIES.100 '50 '40'30 ''16 '10 '8
CLEAR SOUARE OPENINGS
3/8" 3t4' 1vl', 3" 5"6"
TIME READINGS
50 MtN. t9 MtN. 4 MtN. I MlN. ',200
.o74 .149 .2970.42.590 1.'19 2.O 23A 4.76
DIAMETER OF PARTICLE IN MILLIMETERS
25 HR. 7 HR.
45 MtN. 15 MtN.
FIG.6
tr
SLOPE
2-5'
BACKN\
PREFABRICATED
DRNMGE
coMPosm
(MTMDMTN So0O
oR EOUTVAENT)
SLOPE ATTACH PLASTE SHEENNG
OSHA TO FOUNDATIONPER
S]JP JOINT
COVER ENNRE WDTH OF
GRA!'EL |TTH NON-WOVEN
CEOTEfiI.E FABRIC (MIRAFI
14ON OR EAUVATENi)..r aaa:].a
ENCASE PIPE IN
GRAVEL DfiEND
AtlD AT LEASf
ENNRE TRE}.ICH
BECKBUILDING COMPAI{Y
AWEETWATEfi nANcFl - lvlAlN 8E9IDENCE
ProJect No. GS06935.OOO-1 25
1/2'TO 1-1/2'SCREENED
GMVEL IATERAI.I-Y TO FOOTINGl/2 HACW OF FOOING. Rrr-
WTH GRAI/EL
t+.r
I
ruC DRNN NETIYORK
EMBEDDED IN WASHED
CONCRETE AGGREGAIE
J
a
a
:
:2.;:;i
MINIMUM
6, MINIMUM
OR BETONDI:1 SLOPE FROM
BOTTOM OF FOOTING
(wHrcHflER tS GREATER)
4-INCH DIA}JIEIER PERFORATED RIGID DMIN PIPE.
THE PIPE SHOUII) BE PIACED IN A TRENCH WNH
4_9!OPE .ol ir lEAsr lrlE-tNcH DRop pER
FOOT OF DRAIN.
NOIE:
THE BOTTOM OF THE DRAIN SHOUL.D BE AT IEAST 2 INCHES BETOIV BOTTOM OF
FOOTING AT IHE HIGHST PONT AND SLOPE DOTVNTVARD TO A POSfiTVE GRAVTTY
O.l.jTi.EI OR TO A SUMP IVHERE WATER cAI{ EE REI,o\IED Br PUMPING.
Foundation
Wall Drain
Concept
Flg.7
STRUCruRAL FLOOR
SLOPE
2-3'
BACKN\
PREFABRICATED
DRNMGE
coMPosm
(MTRADRNN 6000
oR EQUTVAT.EM)
GRAVET WITH NON-WOVEN
GEOTEfltE FABRIC (UNATI
r40N oR EauvArEl$).
BECK BUILDING COMPAI{Y
AiVEETWATEF RANCII' MAIN BESIDENCE
ProJect No. GSO6935.O0O-1 25
ATTACH PI.ASNC SHEENNG
TO FOUNDATION
E, MINIMUM
OR BEYOND
1:1 SLOPE FROM
BOTTOM OF FOOTING
(wHrcHR/ER rS GREATER)
4-INCH DIAIJ|ETER PERFT}RATED RIGID DRAN PIPE.
THE PIPE SHOUTD BE PIACED IN A TRB{CH wlIH
A SLOPE OF AT LEASr trlE-tNCH DROP PER
FOOT OF DRAIN.
SLOPE
PER
OSHA
COVER ENNRE WIDTTI OF
'-cMwL
sPece -/
I
t .r rrl'. .}r trl: ..r
I 't2i tf,l ..i t a
.MUD SLAB' oR
BA,RRIER
l
ts'
WC DRAIN NETWORK
EMBEDDED lN WNHED
CONCRETE AGGREGATE
ENCASE ptpE tN 1/2'TO 1-l/2' SCREENED
GRAVEL DfiEND GRAIGL I.ATEM,I.LY TO FOOTING
AltD AT tEASr 1/2 HEtCt{l OF FOOTING. Fru-
E}MRE TRENCH WITH GRAVEL
NOTE
TIIE BOTTOM OF TTIE DRAIN SHOUTD BE AT I.EAST 2 NCHES BELOW BOTTOM OF
FOONNC AT THE HIGHEST PONT AND SLOPE DOTT}.ITTARD TO A POSIITVE GRAVTTY
OI'N..ET OR TO A SUMP WHERE WATER CAI{ BE RE},IOVED Ff PUMPING.
Foundation
Wall Drain
Concept Flg.8
TABLE I
SUMMARY OF LABORATORY TESTING
CTLIT PROJECT NO. GS06935.000-125-R1
ffi
DESCRIPTION
SANDY
cc)
CLAY, SANDY
PASSING
NO.200
SIEVE
(o/o\
62
61
37
PERCENT
SAND
(%\
23
26
PERCENT
GRAVEL
(o/o\
16
37
SOLUBLE
SULFATES
(o/o)
*SWELL
(%)
ATTERBERG LIMITS
PLASTICITY
INDEX
(%)
20
LIQUID
LIMIT
(o/o\
40
DRY
DENSITY
(PCF)
MOISTURE
CONTENT
(o/o\
15.4
8.7
6.7
DEPTH
(FEET)
4-5
8-9
2-3
EXPLOMTORY
BORING
MR-A
MR-B
MR-C
*SWELL MEASURED UNDER 1,OOO PSF APPLIED PRESSURE. NEGATIVE VALUE INDICATES CONSOLIDATION.Page 1 of 1
ffi
APPENDIX A
EXPLORATORY PIT PHOTOGRAPHS
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH - MAIN RESIDENCE
cTLIT PROJECT NO. GS06935.000-125-R1
ffi
,,i++
Mr+Y{trsi, a.
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH - MAIN RESIDENCE
oTLIT PROJECT NO. GS06935.000-125-Rl
Looking north at Main Residence - Pit A
Looking east from Main Residence - Pit C
A-1
ffi
Soils exposed in Main Residence - Pit A
Soils excavated from Main Residence - Pit A
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH. MAIN RESIDENCE
CTLIT PROJECT NO. GS06935.000-125-R1
A-2
ffir
Soils exposed in Main Residence - Pit B
Soils excavated from Main Residence - Pit B
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH - MAIN RESIDENCE
cTLIT PROJECT NO. cS06935.000-1 25.R1
A-3
ffi
Soils exposed in Main Residence - Pit C
Soils excavated from Main Residence - Pit C
BECK BUILDING COMPANY
SWEETWATER RANCH. MAIN RESIDENCE
cTLIT PROJECT NO. GS06935.000-125-R1
A-4