Professional Documents
Culture Documents
SBC303 CR 180922
SBC303 CR 180922
SBC 303
Key List of the Saudi Codes: Designations and brief titles
Title Code Req.1 Code & Com.2 Arabic Prov. 3
The General Building Code SBC 201-CR SBC 201-CC SBC 201-AR
Structural – Loading and Forces SBC 301-CR SBC 301-CC SBC 301-AR
Structural – Construction SBC 302- CR SBC 302-AR
Structural – Soil and
SBC 303-CR SBC 303-CC SBC 303-AR
Foundations
Structural – Concrete Structures SBC 304-CR SBC 304-CC SBC 304-AR
Structural – Masonry Structures SBC 305-CR SBC 305-CC SBC 305-AR
Structural – Steel Structures
Electrical Code SBC 401-CR SBC 401-AR
Mechanical Code SBC 501- CR SBC 501-CC SBC 501-AR
Energy Conservation-
SBC 601- CC SBC 601- AR
Nonresidential
Energy Conservation-Residential SBC 602- CC SBC 602- AR
Plumbing Code SBC 701- CR SBC 701-CC SBC 701-AR
Private sewage Code SBC 702- CR SBC 702-AR
Fire Code SBC 801- CR SBC 801-CC SBC 801-AR
Existing Buildings Code SBC 901- CR SBC 901-CC SBC 901-AR
Green Construction Code SBC 1001- CR SBC 1001-CC SBC 1001-AR
Residential Building Code* SBC 1101- CR SBC 1101-CC SBC 1101-AR
Fuel Gas Code* SBC 1201- CR SBC 1201-CC SBC 1201-AR
1. CR: Code Requirements without Commentary
2. CC: Code Requirements with Commentary
3. AR: Arabic Code Provisions
* Under Development
COPYRIGHT © 2018
by
The Saudi Building Code National Committee (SBCNC).
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. All intellectual property rights of this Saudi Code is owned by the
National Committee of Saudi Building Code as per the regulations of the intellectual property system
in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. No part of this code may be reproduced, distributed or leased in any
form or by any means, including but not limited to publishing on cloud sites, computer networks or
any electronic means of communication, without prior written permission from the National
Committee for the Saudi Building Code. The purchase of an electronic or paper copy does not exempt
the individual or entity from complying with the above limitations.
SBC 303-CR-18 ii
TECHNICAL COMMITTEE (SBC 303):
1 Prof. Mosleh A. Al-Shamrani Chairman
2 Dr. Abdullah H. Alsabhan Member
3 Dr. Muawia A. Daf'allah Member
REVIEW COMMITTEE:
1 Dr. Naif M. Alabbadi Chairman
2 Dr. Khaled M. Aljammaz Member
3 Dr. Abdulrahman G. Al-enizi Member
4 Eng. Saeed K. Kadasah Member
5 Eng. Tawifik I. Aljrayed Member
ADVISORY COMMITTEE :
PREFACE
The Saudi Building Code for Soils and Foundations referred to as SBC 303 provides minimum
requirements pertaining to material properties of soils, and design and construction of foundation
systems. The first edition of SBC 303 was published in the year of 2007. SBC 303-18 is the second
edition of SBC 303 and covers: geotechnical investigations; excavation grading and fill; presumptive
load-bearing of soils; spread footings; foundation walls; retaining walls; combined footings and mats;
design for expansive soils; design for collapsible soils; design for sabkha soils; design for vibratory
loads; dampproofing and waterproofing; and deep foundations.
The current edition of the Code has been substantially reorganized and reformatted relative to its 2007
edition. The code is reorganized into 14 chapters. The reorganization was in response to past requests
concerning the difficulty in finding provisions. The new layout is more user-friendly and will better
facilitate the use of the design provisions.
The International Code Council (ICC) materials, especially Chapter 18 of IBC, and local and regional
geotechnical reports were used in the development of this Code. Saudi Building Code National
Committee (SBCNC) has made an agreement with the ICC to use their materials and modify them as
per the local construction needs and regulatory requirements of Saudi Arabia. The ICC is not
responsible or liable in any way to SBCNC or to any other party or entity for any modifications or
changes that SBCNC makes to such documents.
The writing process of SBC 303-18 followed the methodology approved by the Saudi Building Code
National Committee. Many changes and modifications were made in the referred sources to meet the
local weather, materials, construction and regulatory requirements.
The committees responsible for SBC 303 Code have taken all precautions to avoid ambiguities,
omissions, and errors in the document. Despite these efforts, the users of SBC 303 may find
information or requirements that may be subject to more than one interpretation or may be incomplete.
The SBCNC alone possesses the authority and responsibility for updating, modifying and interpreting
the Code.
It is a common assumption that engineering knowledge is a prerequisite in understanding code
provisions and requirements; thus, the code is oriented towards individuals who possess the
background knowledge to evaluate the significance and limitations of its content and
recommendations. They shall be able to determine the applicability of all regulatory limitations before
applying the Code and must comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
SBC 303-CR-18 iv
PREFACE
The requirements related to administration and enforcement of this Code are advisory only. SBCNC
and governmental organizations, in charge of enforcing this Code, possess the authority to modify
these administrative requirements.
SBC 303-CR-18 v
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE ........................................................................................................................................................... IV
TABLE OF CONTENTS ..................................................................................................................................... VI
CHAPTER 1 —GENERAL .................................................................................................................................. 1
1.1 —SCOPE ............................................................................................................................................................ 1
1.2 —DESIGN BASIS ................................................................................................................................................ 1
1.3 —DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................................. 1
CHAPTER 2 —GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATIONS ....................................................................................... 6
2.1 —GENERAL ....................................................................................................................................................... 6
2.2 —SCOPE OF INVESTIGATION .............................................................................................................................. 6
2.3 —SOIL CLASSIFICATION .................................................................................................................................... 9
2.4 —INVESTIGATION.............................................................................................................................................. 9
2.5 —SOIL BORING AND SAMPLING ....................................................................................................................... 10
2.6 —REPORTING .................................................................................................................................................. 10
CHAPTER 3 —EXCAVATION, GRADING AND FILL ..................................................................................... 13
3.1 —GENERAL ..................................................................................................................................................... 13
3.2 —COMMENCEMENT......................................................................................................................................... 13
3.3 —EXCAVATIONS NEAR FOUNDATIONS ............................................................................................................ 13
3.4 —SLOPE LIMITS ............................................................................................................................................... 13
3.5 —SURCHARGE ................................................................................................................................................. 14
3.6 —PLACEMENT OF BACKFILL ............................................................................................................................ 14
3.7 —SITE GRADING .............................................................................................................................................. 14
3.8 —GRADING DESIGNATION ............................................................................................................................... 14
3.9 —GRADING AND FILL IN FLOOD HAZARD AREAS ............................................................................................. 14
3.10 —COMPACTED FILL MATERIAL...................................................................................................................... 15
3.11 —CONTROLLED LOW-STRENGTH MATERIAL (CLSM) ................................................................................... 15
CHAPTER 4 —PRESUMPTIVE LOAD-BEARING VALUES OF SOILS ......................................................... 16
4.1 —LOAD COMBINATIONS .................................................................................................................................. 16
4.2 —PRESUMPTIVE LOAD-BEARING VALUES ........................................................................................................ 16
4.3 —LATERAL LOAD RESISTANCE ........................................................................................................................ 16
4.4 —COMPUTED LOAD-BEARING VALUES ............................................................................................................ 16
CHAPTER 5 —SPREAD FOOTINGS ............................................................................................................... 19
5.1 —GENERAL ..................................................................................................................................................... 19
5.2 —DEPTH AND WIDTH OF FOOTINGS ................................................................................................................. 19
5.3 —FOOTINGS ON OR ADJACENT TO SLOPES ....................................................................................................... 19
5.4 —DESIGN OF FOOTINGS ................................................................................................................................... 20
5.5 —EMBEDDED POSTS AND POLES ...................................................................................................................... 21
5.6 —SEISMIC REQUIREMENTS .............................................................................................................................. 22
CHAPTER 6 —FOUNDATION WALLS ............................................................................................................ 26
6.1 —GENERAL ..................................................................................................................................................... 26
6.2 —DESIGN LATERAL SOIL LOADS ...................................................................................................................... 26
6.3 —UNBALANCED BACKFILL HEIGHT ................................................................................................................. 26
6.4 —RUBBLE STONE FOUNDATION WALLS ........................................................................................................... 26
6.5 —CONCRETE FOUNDATION WALLS .................................................................................................................. 26
SBC 303-CR-18 vi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1—GENERAL
SBC 303-CR-18 1
CHAPTER 1—GENERAL
Collapse Potential. The percentage of vertical the diameter of the remainder of the pile.
relative magnitude of soil collapse The enlarged base is designed to increase
determined at any stress level as per ASTM the load-bearing area of the pile in end
D 5333. bearing.
Collapsible Soils. Soil deposits that are Erosion. The wearing away of the ground surface
characterized by sudden and large volume as a result of the movement of wind and
decrease upon wetting. These deposits are water.
comprised primarily of silt or fine sand- Excavation. The mechanical or manual removal of
sized particles with small amounts of clay, earth material.
and may contain gravel. Collapsible soils Expansion Index The percent swell of soil
have low density, but are relatively stiff and determined in accordance with ASTM-
strong in their dry state. D4829 multiplied by fraction passing No. 4
Column. A structural member with a ratio of sieve multiplied by 100.
height-to-least-lateral dimension exceeding Expansion Joints. Intentional plane of weakness
three, used primarily to support axial between parts of a concrete structure
compressive loads. designed to prevent the crushing and
Combined Footing. A structural unit or assembly distortion, including displacement,
of units supporting more than one column buckling, warping of abutting concrete
load. structural units that might otherwise be
Compaction. Increasing the dry density of soils by developed by expansion, applied loads, or
means such as impact or by rolling the differential movements arising from the
surface layers. configuration of the structure or its
Contact Pressure. The pressure acting at and settlement.
perpendicular to the contact area between Expansive Soil. A soil or rock material that has a
footing and soil, produced by the weight of potential for shrinking or swelling under
the footing and all other forces acting on it. changing moisture conditions.
Continuous or Strip Footing. A combined footing Factor of Safety. The ratio of ultimate bearing
of prismatic or truncated shape, supporting capacity to the allowable load-bearing.
two or more columns in a row. Continuous Fill. A deposit of earth material placed by artificial
or strip footings may be of fixed thickness means.
or upper face can be stepped or inclined Flexural Length. The length of a pile from the first
with inclination or steepness not exceeding point of zero lateral deflection to the
1 unit vertical in 2 units horizontal. underside of the pile cap or grade beam.
Deep Foundation. A foundation element that does Footing. That portion of the foundation of a
not satisfy the definition of a shallow structure which spreads and transmits loads
foundation. directly to the soil.
Distortion Resistance. Distortion resistance Foundation. The portion of a structure which
corresponds to moment resistance to transmits the building load to the ground.
bending of beams, columns, footings and Helical Pile. Manufactured steel deep foundation
joints between them. element consisting of a central shaft and
Drilled Shaft. A cast-in-place deep foundation one or more helical bearing plates. A
element constructed by drilling a hole (with helical pile is installed by rotating it into the
or without permanent casing) into soil or ground. Each helical bearing plate is
rock and filling it with fluid concrete. formed into a screw thread with a uniform
Driven Uncased Piles. Piles constructed by driving defined pitch.
a steel shell into the soil to shore an Geotechnical Engineer. An engineer
unexcavated hole that is later filled with knowledgeable and experienced in soil and
concrete. The steel casing is lifted out of rock engineering.
the hole during the deposition of the Geotechnical Engineering. The application of the
concrete. principles of soils and rock mechanics in
Effective Depth of Section. The distance measured the investigation, evaluation and design of
from the extreme compression fiber to the civil works involving the use of earth
centroid of tension reinforcement. materials and the inspection and/or testing
Enlarged Based Piles. Cast-in-place concrete piles of the construction thereof.
constructed with a base that is larger than
SBC 303-CR-18 2
CHAPTER 1—GENERAL
Grade. Grade is the vertical location of the ground machinery (train) is above all natural
surface. frequencies of the system.
Grade Beam. A continuous beam subject to flexure Machine Support/Foundation System. A system
longitudinally, loaded by the line of consisting of the machinery (train)
columns it supports. including base plate and the foundation,
Gravity Concrete Wall. A gravity wall consists of support structure plus all piers, equipment
mass concrete, generally without and process piping supported on the
reinforcement. It is proportioned so that the foundation or machinery. The supporting
resultant of the forces acting on any internal soil, piling or structure shall be considered
plane through the wall falls within, or close part of the machine foundation system.
to, the kern of the section. Mat Area. The contact area between mat
Grid Foundation. A combined footing, formed by foundation and supporting soil.
intersecting continuous footings, loaded at Mat Foundation. A continuous footing supporting
the intersection points and covering much an array of columns in several rows in each
of the total area within the outer limits of direction, having a slab like shape with or
assembly. without depressions or openings, covering
Group R Occupancy. See SBC 201. an area of at least 75 % of the total area
Group U Occupancy. See SBC 201. within the outer limits of the assembly.
Heavy Machinery. Any machinery having rotating Micropile. A bored, grouted-in-place deep
or reciprocating masses as the major foundation element that develops its load-
moving parts (such as compressors, pumps, carrying capacity by means of a bond zone
electric motors, diesel engines and in soil, bedrock or a combination of soil and
turbines). bedrock.
High-Tuned System. A machine Mixed System. A machine support/foundation
support/foundation system in which the system having one or more of its natural
operating frequency (range) of the frequencies below and the rest above the
machinery (train) is below all natural operating frequency (range) of the
frequencies of the system. machinery (train).
Influence Zone. The zone under a foundation Modulus of Elasticity. The ratio of normal stress
within the vertical stress contours of 10% to corresponding strain for tensile or
of the applied pressure. compressive stresses below proportional
Karst Formation. A type of topography that is limit of material.
formed by limestone, dolomite, marble, Modulus of Subgrade Reaction. The ratio
gypsum, anhydrite, halite or other soluble between the vertical pressure against the
rocks. Its formation is the result of chemical footing or mat and the deflection at a point
solution of these rocks by percolating of the surface of contact.
waters that commonly follow the pre- Mortar. A mixture of cementitious material and
existing joint patterns and enlarge them to aggregate to which sufficient water and
caverns. Sinkholes and solution cavities at approved additives, if any, have been added
or near the ground surface are characteristic to achieve a workable, and plastic
features of karst, and pose a hazard in the consistency.
Eastern and Central regions of Saudi Natural Frequency. The frequency with which an
Arabia. Collapse features are widespread in elastic system vibrates under the action of
these regions and are commonly associated forces inherent in the system and in the
with carbonate and evaporite formations absence of any externally applied force.
that have been subjected to karst Net Pressure. The pressure that can be applied to
development during Quaternary pluvial the soil in addition to the overburden due to
epochs. the lowest adjacent grade.
Lateral Sliding Resistance. The resistance of Overburden. The weight of soil or backfill from
structural walls or foundations to lateral base of foundation to ground surface.
sliding, and it is controlled by interface Overturning. The horizontal resultant of any
friction and vertical loads. combination of forces acting on the
Low-Tuned System. A machine structure tending to rotate as a whole about
support/foundation system in which the a horizontal axis.
operating frequency (range) of the
SBC 303-CR-18 3
CHAPTER 1—GENERAL
Pier Foundations. Isolated cast-in-place concrete Sabkhas. Salt bearing arid climate sediments
structural elements extending into firm covering vast areas of the coasts of Saudi
materials. Piers are relatively short in Arabia. These soils either border partially
comparison to their width, with lengths less land-locked seas or cover a number of
than or equal to 12 times the least continental depressions. The development
horizontal dimension of the pier. Piers of this material is due to low wave energy
derive their load-carrying capacity through allowing the settlement of silt and clay
skin friction, through end bearing, or a particles to take place and then be loosely
combination of both. cemented by soluble material. Varying
Pile Foundations. Concrete or steel structural quantities of calcium carbonate,
elements either driven into the ground or magnesium carbonate, calcium sulphate
cast in place. Piles are relatively slender in and calcium, magnesium, and sodium
comparison to their length, with lengths chlorides are found. The sabkha sediments
exceeding 12 times the least horizontal are highly variable in lateral and vertical
dimension. Piles derive their load-carrying extent; various soil types, primarily
capacity through skin friction, end bearing, composed of clays, silts, fine sands, and
or a combination of both. organic matter are interlayered at random.
Pressed Edge. The edge of footing or mat along In general, sabkha sediments are
which the greatest soil pressure occurs characterized by high void ratios and low
under the condition of overturning. dry densities. Accordingly, upon wetting
Rectangular Combined Footing. A combined sabkha soil is renowned for being highly
footing used if the column which is compressible material with low bearing
eccentric with respect to a spread footing resistance, and hence considered among the
carries a smaller load than the interior weakest of foundation materials.
columns. Settlement. The gradual downward movement of
Registered Design Professional. An individual an engineering structure, due to
who is registered or licensed to practice the compression of the soil below the
respective design profession as defined by foundation.
the statutory requirements of the Shallow Foundation. a relatively near-surface
professional registration laws of the state or individual or strip footing, a mat
jurisdiction in which the project is to be foundation, a slab-on-grade foundation or a
constructed. similar foundation element.
Reinforced Concrete. Structural concrete Shoring. The process of strengthening the side of
reinforced with no less than the minimum excavation during construction stage.
amounts of non-prestressed reinforcement Slope. The inclined surface of any part of the
as specified in SBC 304. earth’s surface.
Reinforcement. A material that conforms to SBC Socketed Drilled Shaft. A drilled shaft with a
304 Section 3.5, excluding prestressing permanent pipe or tube casing that extends
steel unless specifically included. down to bedrock and an uncased socket
Retaining Walls. Structures that laterally support drilled into the bedrock.
and provide stability for soils or other Soils. Un-cemented or weakly cemented
materials, where existing conditions do not accumulation of solid particles that have
provide stability with either natural or resulted from the disintegration of rocks.
artificial slope. Soil Mechanics. The branch of geotechnical
Rocks. Natural aggregate of minerals or engineering that deals with the physical
mineraloids that are connected together by properties of soil and the behavior of soil
strong bonds or attractive forces and have masses subjected to various types of forces.
some degree of chemical and mineralogical It applies the basic principles of kinematics,
constancy. dynamics, fluid mechanics, and solid
Rock Quality Designation (RQD). An index or mechanics to soils.
measure of the quality of a rock mass, and Spiral Reinforcement. Continuously wound
is calculated as summation of length of reinforcement in the form of a cylindrical
intact pieces of core greater than 100 mm in helix.
length divided by the whole length of core Spread Footing. A concrete pad supporting
advance. column load. It can take a rectangular,
SBC 303-CR-18 4
CHAPTER 1—GENERAL
SBC 303-CR-18 5
CHAPTER 2—GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATIONS
SBC 303-CR-18 6
CHAPTER 2—GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATIONS
SBC 303-CR-18 7
CHAPTER 2—GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATIONS
2.2.3.10 Alternate setback and clearance. Where (i) Estimation of total and
setbacks or clearances other than those required in differential settlement.
Section 5.3 are desired, the building official shall be (ii) Lateral soil movement.
permitted to require a geotechnical investigation by (iii) Lateral soil loads on
a registered design professional to demonstrate that foundations.
the intent of Section 5.3 would be satisfied. Such an (iv) Reduction in foundation
investigation shall include consideration of soil-bearing capacity and lateral
material, height of slope, slope gradient, load soil reaction.
intensity and erosion characteristics of slope (v) Soil downdrag and reduction in
material. axial and lateral soil reaction for
pile foundations.
2.2.3.11 Seismic Design Category C through F. (vi) Increases in soil lateral
For structures assigned to Seismic Design Category pressures on retaining walls.
C, D, E or F, a geotechnical investigation shall be (vii) Flotation of buried structures.
conducted, and shall include an evaluation of all of
the following potential geologic and seismic (4) Discussion of mitigation measures such
hazards: as, but not limited to, the following
SBC 303-CR-18 8
CHAPTER 2—GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATIONS
considered in the design of the (1) Very soft, with SPT values in the range
structure. of 0 to 8, determined in accordance with
ASTM D1586.
2.3—Soil classification
(2) Precipitated salts of different sizes,
2.3.1 Where required, soils shall be classified in
shape, and composition within the
accordance with Sections 2.3.2, 2.3.3, 2.3.4, or
sediments.
2.3.5 .
(3) High soluble salt content.
2.3.2 General. For the purposes of this section,
the definition and classification of soil materials for (4) Soil exhibits significant variations in its
use in Table 4-1shall be in accordance with ASTM chemical composition.
D 2487. (5) Soil exhibits high degree of variability of
2.3.3 Expansive soils. Soils meeting all four of its sediments in both vertical and lateral
the following provisions shall be considered extent within a considerably short
expansive. Compliance with Items 1, 2 and 3 shall distance.
not be required if the test prescribed in Item 4 is (6) Upon wetting soil becomes impassible.
conducted:
2.4—Investigation
(1) Plasticity index of 15 or greater,
determined in accordance with ASTM D 2.4.1 Soil investigation shall be based on
4318. observation and any necessary tests of the materials
disclosed by borings, test pits or other subsurface
(2) More than 10 percent of the soil particles
exploration made in appropriate locations.
pass a No. 200 sieve (75 micrometers),
Additional studies shall be made as necessary to
determined in accordance with ASTM D
evaluate slope stability, soil strength, position and
422.
adequacy of load-bearing soils, the effect of
(3) More than 10 percent of the soil particles moisture variation on soil-bearing capacity,
are less than 5 micrometers in size, compressibility, liquefaction, expansiveness, and
determined in accordance with ASTM D collapsibility.
422.
2.4.2 Exploratory boring. The scope of the
(4) Expansion index greater than 20, geotechnical investigation including the number
determined in accordance with ASTM D and types of borings or soundings, the equipment
4829. used to drill and sample, the in-situ testing
equipment and the laboratory testing program shall
2.3.4 Collapsible soils. Soils meeting all four of
be determined by a registered design professional.
the following provisions shall be considered
In areas likely to have problematic soils, field
collapsible. Compliance with Items 1, 2 and 3 shall
explorations shall include:
not be required if the test prescribed in Item 4 is
conducted: (1) Investigations of soils between the
ground surface and the bottom of the
(1) Desiccated Alluvial (Wadi) soils.
foundation, as well as materials beneath
(2) Dry field density less than 17 kN/m3 the proposed depth of foundation.
determined in accordance with ASTM
(2) Evaluations and interpretations of the
D1556.
environmental conditions that would
(3) Clay content 10 to 30 percent, contribute to moisture changes and their
determined in accordance with ASTM probable effects on the behavior of such
D422. soils.
(4) Collapse index greater than 1-percent, 2.4.3 Number of boreholes. The minimum
determined in accordance with ASTM number of boreholes in a given site shall be taken in
D5333. accordance with Table 2-1 and its provisions. The
2.3.5 Sabkha soils. Soils meeting the following values included in Table 2-1 shall be considered as
shall be suspected as sabkha soils: minimum guideline.
2.4.4 Depth of boreholes. The depth of
boreholes shall cover all strata likely to be affected
SBC 303-CR-18 9
CHAPTER 2—GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATIONS
by the loads from the building and adjacent (2) The depth of sampling shall be at least as
buildings. The minimum depth of boreholes shall be deep as the probable depth to which
taken from Table 2-1. moisture changes will occur but shall not
be less than 2 times the minimum width
2.5—Soil boring and sampling of foundation to a maximum of 30 meters
2.5.1 The soil boring and sampling procedure and a minimum of three base diameters
and apparatus shall be in accordance with generally beneath the base of shaft foundations.
accepted engineering practice. The registered
(3) Undisturbed samples shall be obtained at
design professional shall have a fully qualified intervals of not greater than 1500 mm of
representative on the site during all boring and depth.
sampling operations.
(4) In the event undisturbed samples cannot
2.5.2 Soil boring and sampling of expansive
be obtained from a borehole, test pits
soils. In areas likely to have expansive soils the
shall be excavated to sufficient depth and
following shall be taken into considerations: dry density of the soil shall be measured
(1) Air drilling shall be used to maintain the at various horizons in the pit.
natural moisture contents of the samples
(5) Where possible, hand carved undisturbed
more effectively.
samples taken in a vertical direction shall
(2) The use of lubricant that might react with be obtained for odometer testing.
the soil and change its properties shall be Alternately, plate load test in unsoaked
avoided. and soaked conditions shall be
performed to determine the most critical
(3) The depth of sampling shall be at least as
collapse potential below foundation
deep as the probable depth to which
level.
moisture changes will occur (active
zone) but shall not be less than 1.5 times 2.5.4 Soil boring and sampling of sabkha soils.
the minimum width of slab foundations In areas likely to have sabkha soils the following
to a maximum of 30 meters and a shall be taken into considerations:
minimum of three base diameters
(1) A full chemical analyses on soil and
beneath the base of shaft foundations.
ground water to determine the average
(4) Undisturbed samples shall be obtained at and range of the aggressive compounds
intervals of not greater than 1500 mm of and the variation in content with depth.
depth. Sampling interval may be (2) Grading of sabkha shall be determined
increased with depth. by using wet sieving with non-polar
(5) A coating of wax shall be brushed on the solvent (sabkha brine, methylene
sample before wrapping. chloride).
(6) The outer perimeter of the sample shall (3) Basic properties including moisture
be trimmed during the preparation of content and specific gravity shall be
specimens for laboratory tests, leaving determined by using oven drying at 60oC
the more undisturbed inner core. in accordance with ASTM D854 and
ASTM D2216.
(7) The sample shall be taken as soon as
possible, after advancing the hole to the 2.6—Reporting
proper depth and cleaning out the hole,
2.6.1 The soil classification and design load-
and personnel shall be well trained to
bearing capacity shall be shown on the construction
expedite proper sampling, sealing, and
document. Where geotechnical investigations are
storage in sample containers.
required a written report of the investigations shall
2.5.3 Soil boring and sampling of collapsible be submitted to the building official. The
soils. In areas likely to have collapsible soils the geotechnical report shall include, but need not be
following shall be taken into considerations: limited the following information:
(1) Air drilling shall be used to maintain the (1) Introduction with location map depicting
natural moisture content of the samples. adjacent buildings, existing roads, and
utility lines.
SBC 303-CR-18 10
CHAPTER 2—GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATIONS
(2) Climatic conditions such as rain rate, strength; and the effects of adjacent
storm water discharge, etc. if relevant loads. The recommendations for
effect is suspected on the soil or rock foundation design must be based on the
formations. facts stated in the report, i.e. on the
borehole records and test data. They must
(3) Description of site topography and
not be based on conjecture.
relevant geological information.
(11) Expected total and differential
(4) A plot showing the location of test
settlements.
borings and/or excavation pits.
(12) Deep foundation information in
(5) A complete record of the soil samples.
accordance with Section 14.2.
(6) A complete record of the borehole log
(13) Combined foundations and mats
with the stand ard penetration test, SPT,
information in accordance with Section
values at the corresponding depths for
8.1.
soil samples and RQD and TCR values
for rock samples. (14) Special design and construction
provisions for foundations founded on
(7) A record of the soil profile.
problematic soils in accordance with
(8) Elevation of the water table, if CHAPTER 9, CHAPTER 10, and
encountered and recommended CHAPTER 11, as necessary.
procedures for dewatering, if necessary.
(15) Compacted fill material properties and
(9) Brief description of conducted laboratory testing in accordance with Section 3.10.
and field tests (or its SASO or ASTM
(16) Controlled low-strength material
standards, or equivalent standard
properties and testing in accordance with
number) and a summary of the results.
Section 2.2.3.9 .
(10) Recommendations for foundation type
(17) Recommended sites for waste material
and design criteria, including but not
disposal.
limited to: bearing capacity of natural or
compacted soil; provisions to mitigate (18) Suitability of excavated material for
the effects of problematic soils reuse as fill material in site.
(expansive, collapsible, sabkha, etc.);
mitigation of the effects of liquefaction,
differential settlement and varying soil
SBC 303-CR-18 11
CHAPTER 2—GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATIONS
TABLES OF CHAPTER 2
MINIMUM DEPTHf
NO. OF BUILT AREA NO. OF MINIMUM DEPTHf OF
OF ONE THIRD OF
STORIES (m2) BOREHOLES TWO THIRDS OF THE
THE BOREHOLES
BOREHOLES (m)
(m)
< 600 3 4 6
SBC 303-CR-18 12
CHAPTER 3—EXCAVATION, GRADING AND FILL
SBC 303-CR-18 13
CHAPTER 3—EXCAVATION, GRADING AND FILL
SBC 303-CR-18 14
CHAPTER 3—EXCAVATION, GRADING AND FILL
increase the design flood elevation more fills within 1.5 m, measured vertically, from the
than 3 m at any point. bottom of the foundation or lowest finished floor
elevation, whichever is lower, within the building
3.10—Compacted fill material pad. Oversized fill material shall be placed so as to
3.10.1 Where shallow foundations will bear on assure the filling of all voids with well-graded soil.
compacted fill material, the compacted fill shall Specific placement and inspection criteria shall be
comply with the provisions of an approved stated and continuous special inspections shall be
geotechnical report as set forth in CHAPTER 2. carried out during the placement of any oversized
fill material.
3.10.2 Exception: Compacted fill material 300
mm in depth or less need not comply with an 3.11—Controlled low-strength material
approved report, provided the in-place dry density (CLSM)
is not less than 90 percent of the maximum dry
density at optimum moisture content determined in 3.11.1 Where shallow foundations will bear on
accordance with ASTM D 1557. The compaction controlled low-strength material (CLSM), the
shall be verified by special inspection in accordance CLSM shall comply with the provisions of an
with Section 1705.6 SBC 201. approved geotechnical report, as set forth in
CHAPTER 2.
3.10.3 Oversized materials. No rock or similar
irreducible material with a maximum dimension
greater than 300 mm shall be buried or placed in
SBC 303-CR-18 15
CHAPTER 4—PRESUMPTIVE LOAD-BEARING VALUES OF SOILS
SBC 303-CR-18 16
CHAPTER 4—PRESUMPTIVE LOAD-BEARING VALUES OF SOILS
SBC 303-CR-18 17
CHAPTER 4—PRESUMPTIVE LOAD-BEARING VALUES OF SOILS
TABLES OF CHAPTER 4
SBC 303-CR-18 18
CHAPTER 5—SPREAD FOOTINGS
SBC 303-CR-18 19
CHAPTER 5—SPREAD FOOTINGS
discharge and away from the structure is provided behind equipment, where the grade is not increased
at all locations on the site. more than 300 mm from original design grade or
where approved by the building official.
5.3.6 Alternate setback and clearance.
Alternate setbacks and clearances are permitted, 5.4.1.2 Eccentric loads. When the footings are
subject to the approval of the building official. The subjected to moments or eccentric loads, the
building official shall be permitted to require a maximum stresses shall not exceed the allowable
geotechnical investigation as set forth in CHAPTER bearing capacity of the soil specified in CHAPTER
2 Section 2.2.3.10 . 4. The centeroid of the loads exerted on the footings
shall coincide with the centeroid of the footing area,
5.4—Design of footings and if not possible the eccentricity shall not exceed
5.4.1 General. Footings shall be designed that 1/6 times the dimensions of the footing on both
the allowable bearing capacity of the soil is not sides. For the purpose of estimating the ultimate
exceeded, and that the total and differential load-bearing, the effective width shall be taken as
settlements are tolerable. The design of footings the actual width minus twice the eccentricity.
shall be under the direct supervision of a registered 5.4.1.3 Inclined loads. For design of footings
design professional who shall certify to the building
subjected to inclined loads, it shall be permitted to
official that the footing satisfies the design criteria.
use the following simplified formula or any method
Footings in areas with expansive soils shall be
of analysis, subject to the approval of the building
designed in accordance with the provisions of
official.
CHAPTER 9. Footings in areas with collapsible
soils shall be designed in accordance with the
provisions of CHAPTER 10. Footings in areas with 𝑉 𝐻
+ < 1.0 (5-1)
sabkha soils shall be designed in accordance with 𝑃𝑣 𝑃ℎ
the provisions of CHAPTER 11. Footings subject to
vibratory loads shall be designed in accordance where:
with the provisions of CHAPTER 12.
𝑉 = Vertical component of inclined load;
5.4.1.1 Design loads. Footings shall be designed
for the most unfavorable effects due to the 𝐻 = Horizontal component of inclined load;
combinations of loads specified in SBC 301 Section 𝑃𝑣 = Allowable vertical load; and
2.4. The dead load is permitted to include the weight
of foundations, footings and overlying fill. Reduced 𝑃ℎ = Allowable horizontal load.
live loads, as specified in SBC 301 Section 4.8, 5.4.1.3.1 Horizontal component shall not exceed
shall be permitted to be used in the design of soil passive resistance along the footing vertical
footings. edge and friction resistance at the footing soil
5.4.1.1.1 Seismic overturning. Where foundations interface taking a factor of safety of 2.
are proportioned using the load combinations of 5.4.1.4 Adjacent loads. Where footings are placed
Section 2.3.2 SBC 301, and the computation of at varying elevations the effect of adjacent loads
seismic overturning effects is by equivalent lateral shall be included in the footing design.
force analysis or modal analysis, the proportioning
shall be in accordance with Section 12.13.4 of SBC 5.4.1.5 Design settlements. Settlements shall be
301. estimated by a registered design professional based
on methods of analysis approved by the building
5.4.1.1.2 Surcharge. No fill or other surcharge official. The least value found from Table 5-1 and
loads shall be placed adjacent to any building or Table 5-2 shall be taken as the allowable differential
structure unless such building or structure is settlement.
capable of withstanding the additional loads caused
by the fill or the surcharge. Existing footings or Exceptions: Structures designed to stand excessive
foundations that will be affected by any excavation total settlement in coastal areas or heavily loaded
shall be underpinned or otherwise protected against structures, like silos and storage tanks, shall be
settlement and shall be protected against allowed to exceed these limits subject to a
detrimental lateral or vertical movement or both. recommendation of a registered design professional
and approval of a building official.
Exception: Minor grading for landscaping
purposes shall be permitted where done with walk-
SBC 303-CR-18 20
CHAPTER 5—SPREAD FOOTINGS
5.4.1.6 Factor of safety. Factor of safety shall not 5.4.2.6 Minimum concrete cover to
be less than 3 for permanent structures and 2 for reinforcement. When the concrete of footings is
temporary structures. Consideration shall be given poured directly on the ground or against excavation
to all possible circumstances including, but not walls the minimum concrete cover to reinforcement
limited to, flooding of foundation soil, removal of shall not be less than 75 mm. This cover shall also
existing overburden by scour or excavation, and satisfy other requirements with regard to concrete
change in groundwater table level. exposure conditions presented in SBC 304.
5.4.2 Concrete Foundations. The design, 5.4.2.7 Concrete cover. The concrete cover
materials and construction of concrete foundations provided for prestressed and nonprestressed
shall comply with Sections 5.4.2.1 through 5.4.2.8 reinforcement in foundations shall be no less than
and the provisions of SBC 304 where applicable. the largest applicable value specified in section
20.6 of SBC 304. Longitudinal bars spaced less
Exception: Where a specific design is not provided,
than 40 mm bundled bars for which the concrete
concrete footings supporting walls of light-frame
cover provided shall also be no less than that
construction are permitted to be designed in
required by Section 20.6.1.3.4 of SBC 304.
accordance with Table 5-3.
Concrete cover shall be measured from the
5.4.2.1 Concrete or grout strength and mix concrete surface to the outermost surface of the
proportioning. Concrete or grout in footings shall steel to which the cover requirement applies.
have a specified compressive strength (𝑓′𝑐 ) of not Where concrete is placed in a temporary or
less than 20 MPa at 28 days. permanent casing or a mandrel, the inside face of
the casing or mandrel shall be considered the
5.4.2.2 Footing seismic ties. Where a structure is
concrete surface.
assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E or F, in
accordance with Chapters 9 through 16, SBC 301, 5.4.2.8 Dewatering. Where footings are carried to
individual spread footings founded on soil defined depths below ground water level, the footings shall
in Section 9.4.2, SBC 301 as Site Class E or F shall be constructed by a method that will provide the
be interconnected by ties. Unless it is demonstrated depositing or construction of sound concrete in dry
that equivalent restraint is provided by reinforced conditions.
concrete beams within slabs on grade or reinforced
5.4.3 Steel grillage footings. Grillage footings of
concrete slabs on grade, ties shall be capable of
structural steel elements shall be separated with
carrying, in tension or compression, a force equal to
approved steel spacers and be entirely encased in
the lesser of the product of the larger footing design
concrete with at least 150 mm on the bottom and at
gravity load times the seismic coefficient 𝑆𝐷𝑆
least 100 mm at all other points. The spaces
divided by 10 and 25 percent of the smaller footing
between the elements shall be completely filled
design gravity load.
with concrete or cement grout.
5.4.2.3 Placement of concrete. Concrete shall be
placed in such a manner as to ensure the exclusion 5.5—Embedded posts and poles
of any foreign matter and to secure a full-size 5.5.1 Designs to resist both axial and lateral loads
foundation. Concrete shall not be placed through employing posts or poles as columns embedded in
water unless a tremie or other method approved by earth or embedded in concrete footings in the earth
the building official is used. Where placed under or shall conform to the requirements of Sections 5.5.2
in the presence of water, the concrete shall be through 5.5.4.
deposited by approved means to ensure minimum
5.5.2 Limitations. The design procedures
segregation of the mix and negligible turbulence of
outlined in this section are subject to the following
the water.
limitations:
5.4.2.4 Protection of concrete. Water shall not be
(1) The frictional resistance for structural
allowed to flow through the deposited concrete.
walls and slabs on silts and clays shall be
5.4.2.5 Forming of concrete. Concrete footings are limited to one-half of the normal force
permitted to be cast against the earth where, in the imposed on the soil by the weight of the
opinion of the building official, soil conditions do footing or slab.
not require forming. Where forming is required, it
(2) Posts embedded in earth shall not be used
shall be in accordance with Section 20.6 of SBC
to provide lateral support for structural or
304.
nonstructural materials such as plaster,
SBC 303-CR-18 21
CHAPTER 5—SPREAD FOOTINGS
ℎ = Distance in meter from ground surface to point (2) Backfill shall be of clean sand. The sand
of application of “𝑃”; shall be thoroughly compacted by
tamping in layers not more than 200 mm
𝐴 = 2.34𝑃/𝑆1 𝑏; in depth.
𝑃 = Applied lateral force in kN; (3) Backfill shall be of controlled low-
𝑆1 = Allowable lateral soil-bearing pressure in kPa strength material (CLSM) placed in
as set forth in Section 4.3 based on a depth of one- accordance with Section 3.11.
third the depth of embedment; and 5.6—Seismic requirements
𝑏 = Diameter of round post or footing or diagonal 5.6.1 For footings of structures assigned to
dimension of square post or footing in meter. Seismic Design Category C, D, E, or F provisions
5.5.3.2 Constrained. The following formula shall of SBC 301 and SBC 304 shall apply when not in
be used to determine the depth of embedment conflict with the provisions of CHAPTER 5.
required to resist lateral loads where constraint is
provided at the ground surface, such as by a rigid
floor or pavement.
SBC 303-CR-18 22
CHAPTER 5—SPREAD FOOTINGS
TOTAL SETTLEMENT
FOOTING TYPE (mm)
CLAY SAND
Spread Footings 60 40
Mat Foundations 80 60
SBC 303-CR-18 23
CHAPTER 5—SPREAD FOOTINGS
SBC 303-CR-18 24
CHAPTER 5—SPREAD FOOTINGS
SBC 303-CR-18 25
CHAPTER 6—FOUNDATION WALLS
6.5.1 Concrete and masonry foundation walls (4) In lieu of the reinforcement shown in
shall be designed in accordance with SBC 304, as Table 6-1, smaller reinforcing bar sizes
applicable. with closer spacings that provide an
equivalent cross-sectional area of
Exception: Concrete and masonry foundation walls reinforcement per unit length shall be
shall be permitted to be designed and constructed in permitted.
accordance with Section 6.6.
(5) Concrete cover for reinforcement
6.6—Prescriptive design of concrete measured from the inside face of the wall
foundation walls shall not be less than 20 mm. Concrete
cover for reinforcement measured from
6.6.1 Concrete and masonry foundation walls
the outside face of the wall shall not be
that are laterally supported at the top and bottom
less than 40 mm for bars diameter 16 mm
shall be permitted to be designed and constructed
and smaller, and not less than 50 mm for
in accordance with this section.
larger bars.
6.6.2 Foundation wall thickness. The thickness
(6) Concrete shall have a specified
of prescriptively designed foundation walls shall not
compressive strength, 𝑓𝑐′ , of not less than
be less than the thickness of the wall supported,
20 MPa.
except that foundation walls of at least 200 mm
nominal width shall be permitted to support brick- (7) The unfactored axial load in kN per
veneered frame walls and 250 mm cavity walls linear meter of wall shall not exceed
provided the requirements of Section 6.6.3 is met.
SBC 303-CR-18 26
CHAPTER 6—FOUNDATION WALLS
0.1 × 𝑡 × 𝑓𝑐′ , where t is the specified wall with piers spaced 1800 mm on center
thickness in mm. (O.C.).
6.6.3.1 Seismic requirements. Based on the (3) Piers shall be constructed in accordance
seismic design category assigned to the structure in with chapter 21 SBC 201 and the
accordance with Section 1613 of SBC 201, concrete following:
foundation walls designed using Table 6-1 shall be
(i) The unsupported height of the
subject to the following limitations:
masonry piers shall not exceed
(1) Seismic Design Categories A and B. Not 10 times their least dimension.
less than one bar diameter 16 mm shall (ii) Where structural clay tile or
be provided around window, door and hollow concrete masonry units
similar sized openings. The bar shall be are used for piers supporting
anchored to develop fy in tension at the beams and girders, the cellular
corners of openings. spaces shall be filled solidly
with concrete or Type M or S
(2) Seismic Design Categories C, D, E, and
mortar.
F. Tables shall not be used except as
allowed for plain concrete members in Exception: Unfilled hollow piers shall be permitted
Section 1905.1.7 SBC 201. where the unsupported height of the pier is not more
than four times its least dimension.
6.6.4 Masonry foundation walls.
(iii) Hollow piers shall be capped
Empty
with 100 mm of solid masonry
6.7—Pier and curtain wall foundations or concrete or the cavities of the
top course shall be filled with
6.7.1 Except in Seismic Design Category D, E,
concrete or grout.
and F, pier and curtain wall foundations shall be
permitted to be used to support light- frame (4) The maximum height of a 100 mm load-
construction not more than two stories above grade bearing masonry foundation wall
plane, provided the following requirements are met: supporting wood frame walls and floors
shall not be more than 1220 mm in
(1) All load-bearing walls shall be placed on
height.
continuous concrete footings bonded
integrally with the exterior wall footings. (5) The unbalanced fill for 100 mm
foundation walls shall not exceed 600
(2) The minimum actual thickness of a load-
mm for solid masonry, nor 300 mm for
bearing masonry wall shall not be less
hollow masonry.
than 100 mm nominal or 90 mm actual
thickness, and shall be bonded integrally
SBC 303-CR-18 27
CHAPTER 6—FOUNDATION WALLS
TABLES OF CHAPTER 6
1200 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
1800 1500 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
1800 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
1200 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
1500 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
2100 Dia 16 at
1800 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
1200
Dia 16 at Dia 20 at
2100 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
1100 1200
1200 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
1500 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
Dia16 at
2400 1800 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
1100
Dia16 at Dia 20 at
2100 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
1000 1100
Dia16 at Dia 20 at Dia 20 at Dia 20 at
2400 PC PC PC PC pc
1200 1100 800 1100
1200 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
1500 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
Dia16 at
1800 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
1000
2700 Dia16 at Dia 20 at Dia16 at
2100 PC PC PC PC PC PC
900 900 900
Dia16 at Dia 20 at Dia16 at Dia 22 at Dia 20 at Dia 14 at
2400 PC PC PC
1000 900 900 1000 1000 1200
Dia 20 at Dia 22 at Dia 20 at Dia 22 at Dia 22 at Dia 20 at
2700d PC PC PC
1100 1000 1000 700 1000 1000
1200 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
1500 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
Dia 16 at
1800 PC PC PC PC PC PC PC PC
900
Dia 20 at Dia 20 at Dia 20 at
3000 2100 PC PC PC PC PC PC
1200 900 1200
Dia16 at Dia 22 at Dia 20 at Dia 22 at Dia 22 at Dia 20 at
2400 PC PC PC
900 1200 1200 800 1900 1100
Dia 20 at Dia 14 at Dia 22 at Dia 22 at Dia 14 at Dia 20 at Dia 22 at Dia 22 at
2700d PC
1000 1200 900 1200 1200 500 900 1200
Dia 22 at Dia 20 at Dia 22 at Dia 22 at Dia 20 at Dia 20 at Dia 22 at Dia22 at
3000d PC
1100 1100 700 1000 900 500 950 900
a. For design lateral soil loads, see Section 1610 SBC 201.
b. Provisions for this table are based on design and construction requirements specified in Section 6.6.3 .
c. "PC" means plain concrete.
d. Where unbalanced backfill height exceeds 2400 mm and design lateral soil loads from Table 1610.1 of SBC 201 are used, the requirements for 4.7
and 7.1 kPa/m per 300 mm of depth are not applicable (see Section 1610 of SBC 201).
SBC 303-CR-18 28
CHAPTER 7—RETAINING WALLS
SBC 303-CR-18 29
CHAPTER 7—RETAINING WALLS
It shall be permitted for design purposes to 𝜃 = Slope of wall back with respect to vertical;
considerer a distributed surface load surcharge on
𝛽 ∗ = Inclination of soil surface (upward slopes away
the order of 15 kPa to account for construction
from the wall are positives);
materials and equipment placed within 5 to 10
meters from the wall. Where construction 𝜃 ∗ = (𝜃 +𝜓)= Modified slope of wall back;
equipment is anticipated within 2 meters of the
𝛽 ∗ = (𝛽 + 𝜓)= Modified inclination of soil surface;
wall, it must be accounted for separately.
𝛾 = Unit weight of soil; and
7.2.6 Compaction. For backfill of granular soils
compacted in a confined wedge behind the wall, the 𝜓 = Seismic inertia angle given as follows:
horizontal pressure beyond those represented by
active or at-rest values shall be computed in 𝑘ℎ
accordance with Figure 7-2. Compaction-induced 𝜓 = tan−1 ( ) (7-2)
1 − 𝑘𝑣
pressures shall not be considered in bearing,
overturning and sliding analyses and need to be
considered for structural design only. Backfill shall 𝑘ℎ = Horizontal ground acceleration in g’s; and
be brought up equally on both sides until the lower 𝑘𝑣 = Vertical ground acceleration in g’s.
side finished grade is reached and precautions shall
be taken to prevent overcompaction which will 7.2.7.2 For modified slope angle * and *, the
modified coefficient of earth pressures k A ( *, *)
cause excessive lateral forces to be applied to the
wall.
shall be calculated from the Coulomb theory.
7.2.6.1 Clays and other fine-grained soils, as well as Dynamic pressure increment shall be obtained by
granular soils, with amount of clay and silt greater subtracting static active force (to be determined
than 15 percent shall not be used as a backfill from Coulomb theory for given 𝛽 and 𝜃) from
behind retaining wall. Where they must be used, the combined active force given by Equation (7-1).
lateral earth pressure shall be calculated based on Location of resultant shall be obtained by
at-rest conditions, with due consideration to considering the earth pressure to be composed of a
potential poor drainage conditions and swelling. static and dynamic component with the static
Where loose hydraulic fill is used it shall be placed component acts at the lowest third point, whereas
by procedures which permit runoff of wash water the dynamic component acts above the base at 0.6
and prevent building up of large hydrostatic times the height of the wall. Under the combined
pressures. effect of static and earthquake load the factor of
7.2.7 Earthquake loading. For retaining walls safety shall not be less than 1.2.
assigned to Seismic Design Category C, D, E, or F 7.2.7.3 Where soil is below groundwater table, the
provisions of SBC 301 and SBC 304 shall apply hydrodynamic pressure computed from the
when not in conflict with the provisions of following formula shall be added
CHAPTER 7.
7.2.7.1 The combined resultant active force due to 3
𝑃𝑤𝑧 = 𝑘 𝛾 (ℎ 𝑧)1/2 (7-3)
initial static pressure and increase in pressure from 2 ℎ 𝑤 𝑤
ground motion shall be computed from the
following formula:
where:
SBC 303-CR-18 30
CHAPTER 7—RETAINING WALLS
bearing pressure shall be made according to the compressible, settlement shall be computed based
bearing capacity of a foundation subjected to on any method approved by the building official.
eccentric loads. The bearing capacity shall be Tilt of rigid wall shall be obtained from the
checked for the same loading conditions as estimated settlement. Differential settlement shall
determined by the overturning analysis for each be limited to the amount of tilting that shall not
case analyzed. Where the wall is founded on sloped exceed 5 percent of wall height. If the consequent
ground, methods for determination of ultimate tilt exceeds acceptable limits, the wall shall be
bearing capacity that deal with this situation shall proportioned to keep the resultant force at the
be used. The factor of safety with respect to bearing middle third of base. The retaining wall shall be
capacity shall not be less than 3. For walls founded proportioned so that the factor of safety against
on rocks, high toe pressure that may cause breaking overturning is not less than 1.5. The value of
the toe from the remainder of the base shall be angular distortion (settlement/length of structure) of
avoided by proportioning the footing so that the retaining walls shall not exceed 0.002 radians.
resultant falls near its centroid.
Exception: Where earthquake loads are included,
7.4—Stability the minimum safety factor for retaining wall
overturning shall be 1.1.
7.4.1 Retaining walls shall be designed to ensure
stability against overturning, sliding, and stability 7.4.4 Deep-seated sliding. Where retaining
of supporting ground. Stability analyses shall walls are underlain by weak soils, the overall
conform to the provisions of Sections 7.4.2 through stability of the soil mass containing the retaining
7.4.5 . wall shall be checked with respect to the most
critical surface of sliding. The stability analysis
7.4.2 Sliding stability. The base shall be at least
shall be made for after construction and for long-
1000 mm below ground surface in front of the wall.
term conditions. The factor of safety for the overall
Sliding stability shall be adequate without including
stability of the soil mass containing the wall shall
passive pressure at the toe. Where insufficient
not be less than 2.
sliding resistance is available, one provision shall
be taken including, but not limited to, increasing the 7.4.5 Wall with key. Prior to performing an
width of the wall base, founding the wall on piles or overturning analysis, the depth of the key and width
lowering the base of the wall. If the wall is of the base shall be determined from the sliding
supported by rock or very stiff clay, it shall be stability analysis. For a wall with a horizontal base
permitted to install a key below the foundation to and a key, it shall be permitted to assume the
provide additional resistance to sliding. The key shearing resistance of the base to be zero and the
shall conform to the provisions of Section 7.4.5. horizontal resisting force acting on the key is that
Where a keyway is extended below the wall base required for equilibrium. For a wall with a sloping
with the intent to engage passive pressure and base and a key, the horizontal force required for
enhance sliding stability, lateral soil pressures on equilibrium shall be assumed to act on the base and
both sides of the keyway shall be considered in the the key. In both cases the resisting soil force down
sliding analysis. The safety factor against lateral to the bottom of the toe shall be computed using at-
sliding shall be taken as the available soil resistance rest earth pressure if the material on the resisting
at the base of the retaining wall foundation divided side will not lose its resistance characteristics with
by the net lateral force applied to the retaining wall. any probable change in water content or
The factor of safety against sliding shall not be less environmental conditions and will not be eroded or
than 1.5 for cohesionless backfill and 2.0 for excavated during the life of the wall.
cohesive backfill.
7.5—Wall dimensions
Exception: Where earthquake loads are included,
7.5.1 Thickness of the upper part of the wall shall
the minimum safety factor for retaining wall sliding
not be less than 300 mm, whereas thickness of the
shall be 1.1.
lower part of the wall shall be enough to resist shear
7.4.3 Overturning stability. For walls on without reinforcement. Depth of wall foundation
relatively incompressible foundations, overturning shall be located below line of seasonal changes and
check is ignored if the resultant is within the middle shall be deep enough to provide adequate bearing
third of the base for walls founded on soils and if capacity and soil sliding resistance. The wall
the resultant is within the middle half for walls foundation shall be proportioned such that the wall
founded on rocks. Where foundation soil is does not slide or overturn, the allowable bearing
SBC 303-CR-18 31
CHAPTER 7—RETAINING WALLS
capacity of the soil is not exceeded, and that total considered they shall be designed by a registered
and differential settlements are tolerable. The base design professional and subject to the approval of
and other dimensions shall be such that the resultant the building official. As a minimum, there shall be
falls within the middle third of the base. Where weep holes with pockets of coarse-grained material
additional front clearance is needed, it shall be at the back of the wall, and a gutter shall be
permitted to construct counterfort retaining walls provided for collecting runoff. All retaining walls
without a toe provided that the sliding and shall have adequate surface drainage to dispose of
overturning stability requirements stated in surface water. A layer of impervious soil shall be
Sections 7.4.2 and 7.4.3 are met. placed on top of the soil backfill to reduce surface
infiltration of rainfall. It shall be permitted to use
7.6—Wall construction inclined and horizontal drains in conjunction with
7.6.1 Concrete shall not be placed through water back drain.
unless a tremie or other method approved by the
7.6.4.1 The weep holes shall be of sufficient size
building official is used. Where placed under or in and be carefully surrounded with a granular filter or
the presence of water, the concrete shall be by the use of filter fabric on the backfill side and
deposited by approved means to ensure minimum
directly surrounding the entrance to the weep holes.
segregation of the mix and negligible turbulence of
The weep holes shall be spaced not more than 3 m
the water and that will provide the depositing or
apart vertically and horizontally. Where
construction of sound concrete in the dry condition. longitudinal drains along the back face are used, a
7.6.2 Minimum concrete cover to layer of free-draining granular material shall be
reinforcement. When the concrete of retaining placed along the back of the wall and surrounding
walls is poured directly on the ground or against the drain pipes opening. The gradation of the filter
excavation walls the minimum concrete cover to shall satisfy the following piping or stability
reinforcement shall not be less than 75 mm and not criterion.
less than 40 mm when concrete is poured against
lean concrete or vertical forms. This cover shall also 𝑑15𝐹
satisfy other requirements with regard to concrete ≤5 (7-4)
exposure conditions presented in SBC 304. 𝑑85𝐵
SBC 303-CR-18 32
CHAPTER 7—RETAINING WALLS
SBC 303-CR-18 33
CHAPTER 7—RETAINING WALLS
SBC 303-CR-18 34
CHAPTER 7—RETAINING WALLS
SBC 303-CR-18 35
CHAPTER 8—COMBINED FOOTINGS AND MATS
SBC 303-CR-18 36
CHAPTER 8—COMBINED FOOTINGS AND MATS
8.4.4 In determination of the contact pressures minimum soil pressures may then be calculated
and associated subgrade response, the validity of from the following formula, which applies only to
simplifying assumptions and the accuracy of any the rectangular base areas and only when
resulting computations shall be approved by the eccentricity is located along one of the principal
building official and evaluated on the basis of the axes of the footing.
following variables:
(1) The increased unit pressures developed ∑𝑃 6𝑒
𝑞𝑚𝑎𝑥,𝑚𝑖𝑛 = (1 ± ) (8-1)
along the edges of rigid footings on 𝐵𝐿 𝐿
cohesive soils and at the center for rigid
footings on cohesionless soils. where:
(2) The effect of embedment of the footing 𝑞𝑚𝑎𝑥 = Maximum soil contact pressure;
on pressure variation.
𝑞𝑚𝑖𝑛 = Minimum soil contact pressure;
(3) Consideration in the analysis of the
behavior of the foundations immediately 𝑃 = Any force acting perpendicular to base area;
after the construction as well as the 𝐵 = Foundation width or width of beam column
effects of long-term consolidation of element;
compressible layers.
𝑒 = Eccentricity of resultant of all vertical forces
(4) Consideration of size of the footing in with centroid of footing area (𝑒 ≤ 𝐿/6); and
determination of the modulus of
subgrade reaction of soil. 𝐿 = Foundation base length or length of beam
column element.
(5) The variation of contact pressures from
eccentric loading conditions. For footings with eccentricity about both axes (two-
way eccentricity), soil pressure is obtained from:
(6) Consideration of the influence of the
stiffness of the footing and the
superstructure on deformations that can ∑𝑃 6𝑒𝑥 6𝑒𝑦
𝑞= (1 ± ± ) (8-2)
occur at the contact surface and the 𝐵𝐿 𝐿 𝐵
corresponding variation on contact
pressure and redistribution of reactions where:
occurring within the superstructure
frame. 𝑞 = Soil contact pressure;
8.4.5 Distribution of soil reactions. Contact 𝑒𝑥 = Eccentricity of resultant of all vertical forces
pressures at the base of combined footings and mats with respect to the x-axis;
shall be determined in accordance with Sections 𝑒𝑦 = Eccentricity of resultant of all vertical forces
8.4.5.1 through 8.4.5.3 . with respect to the y-axis; and
8.4.5.1 General. Except for unusual conditions, the 𝑃 = Any force acting perpendicular to base area.
contact pressures at the base of a combined footings
and mats may be assumed to follow either a 8.4.5.2.2 Contact pressure over part of area. The
distribution governed by elastic subgrade reaction soil pressure distribution shall be assumed
or a straight-line distribution. At no place shall the triangular and the resultant has the same magnitude
calculated contact pressure exceed the allowable and colinear, but acts in the opposite direction of the
bearing capacity as determined from CHAPTER 4. resultant of the applied forces.
8.4.5.2 Straight-line distribution of contact 8.4.5.2.2.1 The maximum soil pressure at the
pressure. It shall be permitted to assume a linear footing edge under this condition shall be calculated
distribution for soil contact pressure if continuous from the following expression:
footings meet the requirement of Section 8.7.2 and
mats conform to the requirements of Section 2𝑃 𝐿
8.9.3.3 . 𝑞𝑢𝑙𝑡 = ( − 𝑒) (8-3)
3𝐵 2
8.4.5.2.1 Contact pressure over total base area. If
the resultant force is such that the entire contact area The minimum soil pressure at distance L1 is set
of foundation is in compression, the maximum and equal to zero, where L1 is the footing effective
SBC 303-CR-18 37
CHAPTER 8—COMBINED FOOTINGS AND MATS
length measured from the pressed edge to the plate load tests and shall be obtained using subgrade
position at which the contact pressure is zero and is reaction theory, but shall be modified to
given by: individually consider dead load, live load, size
effects, and the associated subgrade response.
𝐿 Zones of different constant subgrade moduli shall
𝐿1 = 3 ( − 𝑒) (8-4) be considered to provide a more accurate estimate
2
of the subgrade response as compared to that
predicted by a single modulus of subgrade reaction.
Equation (8-3) and Equation (8-4) are applied based
on the assumption that no tensile stresses exist 8.4.5.3.2.2.1 The value for the modulus of subgrade
between footing and soil and for cases where the reaction for use in elastic foundation analysis may
resultant force falls out of the middle third of the be estimated from a plate load test carried out in
base. accordance with ASTM D1194. Since plate load
tests are conducted on small plates, great care must
8.4.5.3 Distribution of contact pressure be exercised to ensure that results are properly
governed by the modulus of subgrade reaction. extrapolated. The modulus of subgrade reaction
It shall be permitted to get the distribution of contact from plate load test shall be converted to that of mat
pressure based on modulus of subgrade reaction using the following formula:
obtained from Section 8.4.5.3.2 . The thickness shall
be sized for shear without using reinforcement. The
flexural steel is then obtained by assuming a linear 𝐵𝑝 𝑛
𝑘𝑠 = 𝑘𝑝 ( ) (8-5)
soil pressure distribution and using simplified 𝐵𝑚
procedures in which the foundation satisfies static
equilibrium. The flexural steel may also be obtained where:
by assuming that the foundation is an elastic
member interacting with an elastic soil. 𝑘𝑠 = Coefficient (or modulus) of vertical subgrade
reaction; generic term dependent on dimensions of
8.4.5.3.1 Beams on elastic foundations. If the loaded area;
combined footing is assumed to be a flexible slab,
it may be analyzed as a beam on elastic foundation. 𝑘𝑝 = Coefficient of subgrade reaction from a plate
It shall be permitted to analyze a beam on elastic load test;
foundation using the discrete element method, the 𝐵𝑚 = Mat width;
finite element method, or any other method as
approved by the building official. 𝐵𝑝 = Plate width; and
8.4.5.3.2 Estimating the modulus of subgrade 𝑛 = Factor that ranges from 0.5 to 0.7.
reaction. The value for modulus of subgrade
8.4.5.3.2.2.2 Allowance shall be made for the depth
reaction may be obtained from one of the methods
of compressible strata beneath the mat and if it is
in Sections 8.4.5.3.2.1 through 8.4.5.3.2.4 . It shall be
less than about four times the width of footing,
permitted to use a constant value for the modulus of
lower values of “n” shall be used.
subgrade reaction except where the rigidity of the
footing and superstructure is considered small, the 8.4.5.3.2.3 Modulus of subgrade reaction from
decrease in the value of modulus of subgrade elastic parameters. It shall be permitted to estimate
reaction, 𝑘𝑠 , with increasing applied load shall be the value for the modulus of subgrade reaction
taken into consideration. based on laboratory or in situ tests to determine the
elastic parameters of the foundation material. This
8.4.5.3.2.1 Presumptive modulus of subgrade
shall be done by numerically integrating the strain
reaction values. It shall be permitted to use values
over the depth of influence to obtain a settlement
for the modulus of subgrade reaction for supporting
∆𝐻 and back computing 𝑘𝑠 as:
soils as set forth in Table 8-1 and Table 8-2 to
determine about the correct order of magnitude of
the subgrade modulus obtained from Sections 𝑞
𝑘𝑠 = (8-6)
8.4.5.3.2.1 through 8.4.5.3.2.5 . These values shall be ∆𝐻
used only as a representative guide.
where:
8.4.5.3.2.2 Modulus of subgrade reaction from
plate load test. For mat foundations, this soil 𝑞 = Applied pressure; and
property shall not be estimated on the basis of field
SBC 303-CR-18 38
CHAPTER 8—COMBINED FOOTINGS AND MATS
SBC 303-CR-18 39
CHAPTER 8—COMBINED FOOTINGS AND MATS
SBC 303-CR-18 40
CHAPTER 8—COMBINED FOOTINGS AND MATS
8.7.2.2.1 If the average length of two adjacent spans (2) Finite soil-strata thickness and variations
in soil properties both horizontally and
(as limited above) is greater than 1.75/𝜆, the beam-
vertically.
on-elastic foundation method noted in Section 8.7.3
shall be used. For general cases falling outside these (3) Shape of the mat.
limitations, the critical spacing at which the
(4) Variety of superstructure loads and
subgrade modulus theory becomes effective shall
probability of their occurrence.
be determined individually.
(5) Effect of superstructure stiffness on mat
8.7.3 Design for flexible footings. A flexible
and vice versa.
continuous footing (either isolated or taken from a
mat) shall be analyzed as a beam-on-elastic 8.9.1.1 The design and construction of mats shall be
foundation. Thickness shall be established on the under the direct supervision of a registered design
basis of allowable wide beam or punching shear professional having sufficient knowledge and
without use of shear reinforcement. The evaluation experience in foundation slab engineering, who
of moments and shears can be simplified from the shall certify to the building official that the mats as
procedure involved in the classical theory of a beam constructed satisfy the design criteria.
SBC 303-CR-18 41
CHAPTER 8—COMBINED FOOTINGS AND MATS
8.9.2 Excavation heaves. The influence of heave for columns. The reinforcing steel for bending is
on subgrade response shall be determined by a designed by treating the mat as a rigid body and
geotechnical engineer. Recovery of the heave considering strips both ways, if the following
remaining after placing the mat shall be treated as criteria are met:
either a recompression or as an elastic problem. If
(1) Column spacing is less than 1.75/λ or the
the problem is analyzed as a recompression
mat is very thick.
problem, the subsurface response related to
recompression shall be obtained by a geotechnical (2) Relative stiffness kr as noted in Equation
engineer. The subsurface response may be in the (8-9) is greater than 0.5.
form of a recompression index or deflections (3) Variation in column loads and spacing is
computed by the geotechnical engineer based on not over 20 percent.
elastic and consolidation subsurface behavior.
These strips are analyzed as combined footings with
8.9.3 Design. A mat may be designed using the multiple columns loaded with the soil pressure on
Strength Design Method of SBC 304. Analyses and the strip, and column reactions equal to the factored
designs using computer programs shall be permitted (or unfactored) loads obtained from the
provided design assumptions, user input, and superstructure analysis.
computer-generated output are submitted. The mat
plan shall be proportioned using unfactored loads 8.9.3.3.1 Consideration shall be given to the shear
and any overturning moments. The pressure transfer between strips to satisfy a vertical load
diagram is considered linear and computed from summation.
Equation (8-2) and shall be less than allowable load 8.9.3.4 Flexible design. For mats not meeting the
bearing capacity of soil. Loads shall include the criteria of Section 8.9.3.3, it shall be designed as a
effect of any column moments and any overturning flexible plate in accordance with Sections 8.9.3.4.1
moment due to wind or other effects. Any moments and 8.9.3.4.2 .
applied to the mat from columns or overturning,
etc., shall be included when computing the 8.9.3.4.1 Uniform loads and spacings. If variation
eccentricity. in adjacent column loads and in adjacent spans is
not greater than 20 percent it shall be permitted to
8.9.3.1 The contact pressure shall not exceed the analyze mats as continuous footings that can be
allowable load bearing capacity of soil determined analyzed according to the provisions of Section
from CHAPTER 4. The allowable soil pressure may 8.7.3 . The mat shall be divided into strips the width
be furnished as one or more values depending on of each is equal to the distance between adjacent
long-term loading or including transient loads such bays. Each strip shall be analyzed independently
as wind. The soil pressure furnished by the considering column loads in both directions. The
geotechnical engineer shall be factored to a pseudo contact pressure is equal to the average contact
“ultimate” value by multiplying the allowable pressure evaluated for each strip in each direction.
pressure with the ratio of the sum of factored design
loads to the sum of the unfactored design loads. 8.9.3.4.2 Nonuniform loads and spacings. If
columns have irregular spacings or loads, mats may
8.9.3.2 Mat thickness. The minimum mat be analyzed based on theory of modulus subgrade
thickness based on punching shear at critical reaction, elastic, plate method, finite difference
columns shall be computed based on column load method, finite grid method, finite element method,
and shear perimeter. The depth of the mat shall be or any other method approved by the building
computed without using shear reinforcement and official.
determined on the basis of diagonal-tension shear as
noted in SBC 304 Chapter 15. Investigation of a 8.9.4 Circular mats or plates. For tall structure,
two-sided (corner column) or three-sided diagonal differential settlements shall be carefully controlled
tension shear perimeter shall be made for columns to avoid toppling when the line of action of gravity
adjacent to mat edge. An investigation for wide- forces falls out of the base. The plate depth shall be
beam or diagonal tension shall be made for designed for wide-beam or diagonal-tension shear
perimeter load-bearing walls. as appropriate.
8.9.3.3 Rigid design. It shall be permitted to design 8.9.5 Ring foundations. For ring foundations
mats as rigid body with linear distribution for used for water-tower structures, transmission
contact pressure if the mat, superstructure, or both towers, television antennas, and various other
are rigid enough not to allow differential settlement possible superstructures, analysis and design shall
SBC 303-CR-18 42
CHAPTER 8—COMBINED FOOTINGS AND MATS
be carried out using advanced method of analysis shall apply when not in conflict with the provisions
and carried out by a registered design profession of CHAPTER 5. Strips between adjacent columns
knowledgeable in geotechnical and structural shall be capable of carrying, in tension or
engineering. compression, a force equal to the product of the
larger column load times the seismic coefficient SDS
8.10— Seismic requirements divided by 10 unless it is demonstrated that
8.10.1 For combined footings and mats of equivalent restraint is provided by the strips.
structures assigned to Seismic Design Category C,
D, E, or F, provisions of SBC 301 and SBC 304
SBC 303-CR-18 43
CHAPTER 8—COMBINED FOOTINGS AND MATS
TABLES OF CHAPTER 8
SBC 303-CR-18 44
CHAPTER 9—DESIGN FOR EXPANSIVE SOILS
SBC 303-CR-18 45
CHAPTER 9—DESIGN FOR EXPANSIVE SOILS
9.3.3.1 Shallow foundations. Continuous or expanded to include, but need not be limited to,
spread footings shall not be used on expansive soils the requirements of Sections 9.3.3.3.1 and
unless the soil deposit has a low expansion 9.3.3.3.2 .
potential, as determined in accordance with Table
9.3.3.3.1 General requirements.
9-1 or the superstructure is designed to account for
the potential foundation movement. The uplift (1) A void space shall be maintained beneath
pressures on the sides of the footing shall be the grade beam between the piers. The
minimized as much as possible. required void space shall be determined
based on the predicted heave of the soil
9.3.3.1.1 For continuous footings, the swell
beneath the beam but shall not be less
pressure shall be counteracted without exceeding
than 150 mm.
the bearing capacity of the soil deposit by
narrowing the width of the strip footing and/or (2) Care shall be taken in the design to
providing void spaces within the supporting beam provide for sealing the space between the
or wall. The continuous foundation shall be soil and the pier, such that deep seated
stiffened by increasing the reinforcement around heave that may result from water gaining
the perimeter and into the floor slab. access to soils below active zone along
the shaft of the pier, is prevented.
9.3.3.1.2 For spread footings, a void space shall be
provided beneath the grade beams using the same (3) Sufficient field penetration resistance
technique as described for pier and grade beam tests shall be performed not only to
construction in Section 9.3.3.3 . The footings shall establish the proper friction value but
be designed using as high bearing pressure, as also to ensure that soft soils are not the
practicable. cause of tensile forces developed in the
pier.
9.3.3.2 Slab-on-ground foundations. Moments,
shears and deflections for use in designing slab- (4) The upper 1.5 m of soil around the pier
on-ground, mat or raft foundations on expansive shall be excluded when calculating the
soils shall be determined in accordance with pier load capacity.
WRI/CRSI Design of Slab-on-Ground Foundations. (5) Friction piers shall not be used at sites
It shall be permitted to analyze and design such where groundwater table is either high or
slabs by other methods that account for soil- expected to become high in the future.
structure interaction, the deformed shape of the soil
support, the plate or stiffened plate action of the slab (6) Uplift skin friction shall be permitted to
as well as both center lift and edge lift conditions. be assumed constant throughout the
Such alternative methods shall be rational and the active zone.
basis for all aspects and parameters of the method (7) Where the upper soils are highly
shall be available for peer review. expansive or if there is a possibility of
9.3.3.2.1 A conventionally reinforced slab-on- loss of skin friction along the lower
ground mat or raft foundation shall conform to anchorage portion of the shaft due to rise
applicable provisions of SBC 304, where of groundwater table, the bottom of the
applicable. All variables affecting finished-slab shaft shall be belled or under-reamed.
performance shall be considered when selecting a The vertical side shall be a minimum of
slab type and when specifying or executing a slab 150 mm high and the sloping sides of the
design. All slab-on-ground mat or raft foundations, bell shall be formed at either 60o or 45o.
with the exception of conventionally reinforced For piers founded well below the active
2
slabs less than 50 m , shall be designed by a zone, the shaft may not be under-reamed.
registered design professional having sufficient (8) Upward movement of the top of the pier
knowledge and experience in structural and and the tensile forces developed in the
foundation engineering. Design of slab shall be pier shall be considered in the design of
conducted for conditions of both center and edge drilled piers.
heave. Construction joints shall be placed at
intervals not exceeding 4.5 m. (9) Mushrooming of the pier near the top
shall be avoided. Cylindrical cardboard
9.3.3.3 Beam-on-drilled pier. The design at/or extended above the top of the
provisions of Chapter 13 SBC 304 shall be
SBC 303-CR-18 46
CHAPTER 9—DESIGN FOR EXPANSIVE SOILS
SBC 303-CR-18 47
CHAPTER 9—DESIGN FOR EXPANSIVE SOILS
SBC 303-CR-18 48
CHAPTER 9—DESIGN FOR EXPANSIVE SOILS
TABLES OF CHAPTER 9
0 - 20 Very low
21 - 50 Low
51 - 90 Medium
91 - 130 High
SBC 303-CR-18 49
CHAPTER 10—DESIGN FOR COLLAPSIBLE SOILS
SBC 303-CR-18 50
CHAPTER 10—DESIGN FOR COLLAPSIBLE SOILS
in the form shown in Table 10-4 may be used for the is taken equal to the value corresponding to
raw data gathered during the test and for the reduced settlement of test plate determined from Equation
data. (10-3) as follows:
10.3.2.2 Design procedure. Based on the method
used in estimating the collapse potential of the soil 1 𝐵𝑜 2
𝛿𝑃 = {1 + } 𝛿𝐷 (10-3)
deposit as provided in Sections 10.3.2.1.1 , 4 𝐵𝑃
10.3.2.1.2 , or 10.3.2.1.3 , design for collapsible soils
shall be in accordance with Sections 10.3.2.2.1 , where:
10.3.2.2.2 , or 10.3.2.2.3 , respectively.
𝛿𝑃 = Settlement of test plate;
10.3.2.2.1 Design based on collapse index.
Potential settlement that may occur in a soil layer 𝛿𝐷 = Design settlement of prototype foundation
under the applied vertical stress is obtained as taken to be equal to half the allowable settlement
follows: value given from Section 5.4.1.5;
𝐵𝑜 = Width of prototype footing; and
𝐻
𝜌= 𝐼 (10-1) 𝐵𝑝 = Width of test plate.
100 𝑐
10.3.2.2.2.1 Based on the obtained allowable load
where: bearing, the foundation system shall be designed in
accordance with the provisions of CHAPTER 5 and
𝜌 = potential settlement; CHAPTER 8, where applicable.
𝐻 = Thickness of the collapsible soil layer; and Limitations. In determining the bearing pressure
𝐼𝑐 = Collapse potential, determined using a for the specified tolerable differential settlement,
predetermined applied vertical stress applied to a the validity and accuracy of any resulting
soil specimen taken from the soil layer as follows: computations shall be approved by the building
official and evaluated on the basis of the following
variables:
𝑑𝑓 − 𝑑𝑖
𝐼𝑐 = ( ) 100 (10-2) (1) Dependence of the amount of settlement
ℎ𝑜
on the extent of the wetting front and
availability of water, which can rarely be
where: predicted prior to collapse.
𝑑𝑖 = Specimen height at the appropriate stress level (2) The influence depth set to be four times
before wetting; the footing width is significantly
different for the model versus prototype
𝑑𝑓 = Specimen height at the appropriate stress level
footing.
after wetting; and
(3) Increased soil stiffness due to increase in
ℎ𝑜 = Initial specimen height. confinement with depth.
10.3.2.2.1.1 Based on settlement value determined 10.3.2.2.3 Design based on BPLT. Design of
by Equation (10-1), the foundation system shall be spread and strip footings shall conform to the
designed in accordance with the provisions of provisions of Section 10.3.2.2.3.1 and mats shall
CHAPTER 5 and CHAPTER 8, where applicable.
be designed in accordance with the provisions of
10.3.2.2.1.2 Limitations. Amount of settlement Section 10.3.2.2.3.2 .
depends on the extent of wetting front and
10.3.2.2.3.1 Spread
and continuous footings. Spread
availability of water, which can rarely be predicted and continuous footings are permitted to be used
prior to collapse. Prediction of settlement based on without modifications in areas with low collapse
collapse potential shall be viewed and interpreted potential, as determined in accordance with. In
accordingly. areas with higher collapse potential, strip footings
10.3.2.2.2 Design based on SPLT. From the load- are permitted, provided that the requirements for
deformation curve obtained from standard plate additional distortion resistance specified in Table
load test under soaked condition in accordance 10-8 are met.
with Section 10.3.2.1.2 , the allowable load bearing
SBC 303-CR-18 51
CHAPTER 10—DESIGN FOR COLLAPSIBLE SOILS
10.3.2.2.3.2 Stiffened mat foundations. The be evaluated to ensure that strength criteria are met.
design procedure for mat foundations in collapsible Great care must be exercised when using pre-
soils is summarized in Table 10-9. The mat shall be wetting near existing structures that underlain by
designed and constructed in accordance with the collapsible soils, particularly if the soil has strong
provisions of CHAPTER 8, where applicable, and stratification, as in the case of many alluvial soils,
the requirements for additional distortion and injected water may flow horizontally more than
resistance specified in Table 10-8 shall be met. it does vertically. Limitations and implementation
procedures of the contemplated stabilization
10.3.3 Removal of collapsible soil. Where
technique shall receive careful consideration and
collapsible soil is removed in lieu of designing
thorough evaluation.
footings or foundations in accordance with Section
10.3.2, the soil shall be removed to a sufficient 10.4—Inspections
depth to ensure constant moisture content in the
10.4.1 A pre-construction site inspection shall be
remaining soil. Fill material shall not contain
collapsible soils and shall comply with the conducted to verify that the provisions of Section
9.4 have been met.
provisions of Sections 3.6 and 3.10 or 3.11.
10.3.4 Stabilization. Where collapsible soils are 10.5—Concrete
stabilized in lieu of designing footings or 10.5.1 Material, construction, and placement of
foundations in accordance with Section 10.3.2, the concrete shall be in accordance with the provisions
soil shall be stabilized by compaction, pre-wetting, of Section 5.4.2 and Section 8.3. Prior to the
vibroflotation, chemical, or other techniques placement of concrete, an inspection of the beam
designed by a geotechnical engineer knowledgeable geometrics, reinforcements and other details of the
in unsaturated soil mechanics and approved by the design shall be made to verify conformance with the
building official. The provisions of Section 9.3.6 design plans.
shall also be considered, where applicable. In pre-
wetting technique, the effect of strength loss shall
SBC 303-CR-18 52
CHAPTER 10—DESIGN FOR COLLAPSIBLE SOILS
a Degree of Collapse
Collapse index (Ie) %
0 None
0.1-2.0 Slight
2.1-6.0 Moderate
6.1-10.0 Moderately severe
10 Severe
a, ∆𝑒
𝐼𝑒 = 100 where ∆𝑒 = change in void ratio resulting from wetting, and eo = initial void ratio.
1+𝑒0
SBC 303-CR-18 53
CHAPTER 10—DESIGN FOR COLLAPSIBLE SOILS
1. Excavate a trench or test pit to the desired depth of testing and provide a smooth flat surface for testing. Do not backfill to
achieve smoothness.
2. At a distance no less than 3 plate diameters (3D) from the trench or test pit excavated in step 1, excavate a shallow
infiltration pit to a depth of 60 to 100 mm and a diameter of 2D. This pit for the preliminary rate-of-infiltration test shall be
separated by 3D from the supports of the reference beam. Measure the depth of the dry infiltration pit at the center.
3. Fill the infiltration pit with water and note the time at which wetting was commenced. Add water during infiltration as
needed to keep the bottom of the pit covered.
4. After an infiltration time, 𝑡𝑝, of about 10 to 20 minutes, remove the excess water from the test pit, quickly excavate at the
center of the pit to locate the depth of wetting, and measure down to the wetting front. The depth of wetting from the
preliminary infiltration test (𝑍𝑤𝑝 ) is equal to depth of wetting front minus the original depth of the dry pit.
Where:
SBC 303-CR-18 54
CHAPTER 10—DESIGN FOR COLLAPSIBLE SOILS
1. For the BPLT, choose the target depth of infiltration (𝑍𝑡𝑎𝑟 ), equal to 0.5 plate diameters (0.5D).
2. 𝑍𝑡𝑎𝑟 2
Compute target time of infiltration (𝑡𝑡𝑎𝑟 ) from: 𝑡𝑡𝑎𝑟 = ( 𝐶𝑖𝑝 )
3. Place the loading plate on a smooth flat surface and twist and tap lightly. The bottom of the loading plate may be coated with
5-10 mm of quick setting epoxy before placing it on the soil.
4. Construct a berm to hold water in preparation for ponding. The outside diameter of the ponded water shall be about 2D.
5. Install the reference beam to rest on firm supports located at least 3D from center of loading plate.
6. Attach displacement gauges so that they touch the loading plate on opposite sides and approximately equidistant from the
center of the plate.
8. Apply a seating load of 3 to 8 kPa and zero the displacement gauges. It may be convenient to use the weight of the loading
jack and plate as the seating load.
9. Increase load to 15 kPa. Wait one minute and take displacement readings.
10. Commence wetting and note starting time. Maintain water level 10 to 20 mm above the top of the plate.
11. Continue wetting until 𝑡𝑡𝑎𝑟 (computed from step 2) has elapsed. Read displacement gauges, note time and increase load to 40
kPa.
12. Wait ∆𝑡 minutes, read displacement gauges, note time, increase load to 100 kPa. The time increment ∆𝑡 may be chosen as
the larger of 2 minutes or 0.1𝑡𝑡𝑎𝑟 . For convenience, ∆𝑡 may be rounded to the nearest minute.
13. Wait ∆𝑡 minutes, read displacement gauges, note time, increase load to 200 kPa.
14. Wait ∆𝑡 minutes, read displacement gauges, note time, increase load to 400 kPa.
15. Wait ∆𝑡 minutes, read displacement gauges, note time, remove load from the plate, remove the plate and quickly excavate to
determine the final depth (𝑍𝑤𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙 ) and note the corresponding time 𝑡𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙 .
SBC 303-CR-18 55
CHAPTER 10—DESIGN FOR COLLAPSIBLE SOILS
6. In column-6, the total load on the plate shall be recorded. This is obtained by adding column-5 to the weight (in kN) of the jack and
the loading plate.
7. In column-7, the left and right displacement gauges readings shall be recorded.
8. In column-8, the displacement, ∆𝐻, for the left and right gauges shall be recorded. They are obtained by subtracting the initial gauge
readings at seating load from each subsequent reading.
9. In column-9, the average displacement (∆𝐻𝑎𝑣𝑒 ) is obtained by averaging the ∆𝐻 values from the left and right reading in column-8.
10. In column-10, the depth of wetting (𝑍𝑤 ) shall be computed by first determining 𝐶𝑖𝑡𝑒𝑠𝑡 from:
𝐶𝑖𝑡𝑒𝑠𝑡 = (𝑍𝑤𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙 )/(𝑡𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙 )1/2 and then use it with 𝑡𝑤 to get 𝑍𝑤 from: 𝑍𝑤 = (𝐶𝑖𝑡𝑒𝑠𝑡 )(𝑡𝑤 )1/2
11. In column-11, 𝑍𝑤 /𝐷 shall be computed (column-10 divided by plate diameter).
12. In column-12, the influence factors 𝐼𝐹 and 𝐼𝑠 obtained from the below figure at 𝑍𝑤 /𝐷 shall be recorded.
13. In column-13, the contact pressure (𝑞𝑐𝑜𝑛 ) shall be calculated by dividing column-6 by the plate area.
14. In column-14, the average stress within the wetted zone (𝑞𝑎𝑣𝑒 ) shall be calculated by multiplying column-13 (𝑞𝑐𝑜𝑛 ) by column-12 (𝐼𝐹
for first loading or 𝐼𝑠 for subsequent loadings).
15. In column-15, the average strain (𝜀𝑎𝑣𝑒 ) shall be computed by dividing column-9 (∆𝐻𝑎𝑣𝑒 ) by column-10 (𝑍𝑤 ) and multiplying the
result by 100.
16. Plot 𝑞𝑎𝑣𝑒 versus 𝜀𝑎𝑣𝑒 for different tests on the same diagram. Obtain the average of all tests and draw a DESIGN CURVE.
SBC 303-CR-18 56
CHAPTER 10—DESIGN FOR COLLAPSIBLE SOILS
3. When pre-wetting is chosen or required, the DESIGN CURVE constructed in Table 10-4 is replaced with a recompression
design curve whose strain values are everywhere 15-percent of those on the original design curve, and the site is
4. reclassified
Use accordingly.
and Table 10-7 to obtain required design parameters 𝐷𝑓 (foundation depth), 𝐷𝑤𝑑𝑒𝑠 (depth of wetted bulb), foundation
5. From required
type, Table 10-7 use column
distortion spacing,
resistance, 𝐿, to/𝐿compute
∆𝐻𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓 and ∆𝐻∆𝐻 /∆𝐻
𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓
𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓
, then
𝑡𝑜𝑡 .
compute ∆𝐻𝑡𝑜𝑡 from the same table.
6. Compute 𝑍𝑤 = 𝐷𝑤𝑑𝑒𝑠 − 𝐷𝑓 .
7. Compute maximum allowable 𝜎𝑎𝑣𝑒 = ∆𝐻𝑡𝑜𝑡 /𝑍𝑤 .
SBC 303-CR-18 57
CHAPTER 10—DESIGN FOR COLLAPSIBLE SOILS
SBC 303-CR-18 58
CHAPTER 10—DESIGN FOR COLLAPSIBLE SOILS
and Table 10-7 to obtain required design parameters 𝐷𝑓 (foundation depth), 𝐷𝑤𝑑𝑒𝑠 (depth of wetted bulb), foundation
5. Compute
type, ∆𝐻𝑡𝑜𝑡
required .
distortion resistance, ∆𝐻𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓 /𝐿 and ∆𝐻𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓 /∆𝐻𝑡𝑜𝑡 .
6. Compute 𝑍𝑤 = 𝐷𝑤𝑑𝑒𝑠 − 𝐷𝑓 .
7. Compute maximum allowable 𝜀𝑎𝑣𝑒 = ∆𝐻𝑡𝑜𝑡 /𝑍𝑤 .
8. Compute the overburden pressure (𝑃𝑜𝑑𝑒𝑠 ) at 1/3 of the way from the base of the foundation to 𝐷𝑤𝑑𝑒𝑠 . For mat foundations,
only a fraction of the 𝑃𝑜𝑑𝑒𝑠 acts on the soil during wetting as seen from the table below.
9. The average contact stress under a mat, 𝑞𝑐𝑜𝑛 , is governed by the weight of the structure including the mat and the footprint
of the structure. Only 𝐷𝑓 and distortion stiffness can be changed in pursuit of an acceptable design.
10. Compute 𝑞𝑐𝑜𝑛 , 𝑍𝑤 /𝐵 and estimate 𝐼𝑎𝑣𝑒 from Table 10-5, using the curve for square footing or interpolate between the
curves as a function of the shape of structure in plan (length/width ≥ 4 can be interpreted as strip).
Note: 𝑃𝑑𝑒𝑠 = 𝑎𝑃𝑜 = That portion of the overburden stress assumed to produce strain upon wetting.
SBC 303-CR-18 59
CHAPTER 11—DESIGN FOR SABKHA SOILS
SBC 303-CR-18 60
CHAPTER 11—DESIGN FOR SABKHA SOILS
11.3.3.1 For lightly loaded buildings and structures (1) Domestic and irrigation water shall be
founded on sabkha soil areas, and provided that strictly controlled, especially in low
water table is always kept beneath the foundation density sands cemented with sodium
level, it shall be permitted to design and construct chloride. Protection by drainage around
foundations in accordance with Sections 11.3.3.3 major structures shall be considered to
through 11.3.3.5 , subject to the approval of building reduce the risks associated with
official, and under a direct supervision of a rainstorms or water mains burst.
geotechnical engineer knowledgeable in sabkha
(2) There shall be external protection against
soils.
corrosion for all pipelines, fittings and
11.3.3.2 Alternate foundation designs shall be valves, whether it is made of steel,
permitted subject to the provisions of Section ductile iron, or asbestos-cement. Ductile
11.1.2. Foundation design need not to comply with iron pipe work shall be factory coated
Section 11.3.2 and 11.3.3 where the soil is removed with a bituminous coating compatible
in accordance with Section 11.6, nor where the with a specified pipe wrapping material.
building official approves stabilization of the soil in Steel pipe work shall be factory coated
accordance with Section 11.7, nor where the with either a thermosetting, fusion
superstructure is designed by a registered design bonded, dry powder epoxy coating not
professional to accommodate the potential less than 300 micrometers thick or a
settlements. catalyst-cured epoxy coating applied in
three coats, to a total cured dry film
11.3.3.3 Water table below 5 meters depth.
thickness of 240 micrometers. Ductile
Where groundwater is 5 meters below the ground
iron, steel and asbestos-cement pipe
surface level, external and internal walls have to be
work shall then be wrapped with durable
supported by a concrete strip foundation. Water
self-adhesive, rubber bitumen compound
infiltration shall be prevented under the floor slabs
with PVC carrier strip. The pipe work
by installing durable polythene sheeting, or other
shall be sleeved with 0.2 mm thick
approved materials, as shown in Figure 11-1(a).
polyethylene sleeving.
Joints in the polythene sheeting shall be lapped and
sealed in accordance with the manufacturer’s 11.5—Concrete
installation instructions. Strip foundation shall be
supported by lean mix concrete to prevent 11.5.1 Material, construction, and placement of
contamination of the wet concrete when poured. concrete shall be in accordance with the provisions
of Section 5.4.2 and Section 8.3, where applicable.
11.3.3.4 Water table between 2.5 and 5 meters
11.5.2 Concrete protection. Concrete shall
depth. Where groundwater is between 2.5 meters
satisfy the durability criteria of SBC 304 Chapter 4.
and 5 meters below the ground surface level,
Protection against salt attack on foundation
provisions of Section 11.3.3.3 shall be satisfied.
Slab floors have to be supported by a strip materials, buried pipes, and metal objects shall be
foundation as illustrated in Figure 11-1(b). Coarse, provided by using sulfate resistance cement.
Concrete used in the construction of foundation on
durable gravels shall be placed beneath the floor
sabkha formations shall be made from Type V
slab and around the strip foundation.
Portland cement, with minimum cement content of
11.3.3.5 Water table between ground level and 370 kg/m3, and maximum water cement ratio of 0.4
2.5 meters depth. Where groundwater is between for corrosion protection and 0.45 for sulfate
ground level and 2.5 meters, the provisions of protection. Reinforcement type shall be epoxy
Section 11.3.3.4 shall be fulfilled. Further, the strip coated and a minimum cover to reinforcement of 75
foundation and the floor slab shall also be underlain mm shall be stringently enforced.
by a rolled coarse gravel capillary cut-off, not less
than 150 mm thick, resting on a compacted fill 11.6—Removal of sabkha soils
blanket as illustrated in Figure 11-1 (c). 11.6.1 Where sabkha soil is removed in lieu of
11.4—Required preventive measures designing foundations in accordance with Section
11.3.3, the soil shall be removed to a depth
11.4.1 The applicable provisions of Section 9.3.6 sufficient to ensure adequate load-bearing capacity
and CHAPTER 13 shall be expanded to include, but and tolerable settlement for the remaining soil. Fill
need not be limited to, the following: material shall not contain sabkha soils and shall
comply with the provisions of Sections 3.10 or 3.11.
SBC 303-CR-18 61
CHAPTER 11—DESIGN FOR SABKHA SOILS
SBC 303-CR-18 62
CHAPTER 11—DESIGN FOR SABKHA SOILS
Figure 11-1—Shallow foundation design strategies: (a) Water table below 5 m depth; (b) Water
table between 2.5 m and 5 m depth; (c) Water table between ground level and 2.5 m depth.
SBC 303-CR-18 63
CHAPTER 12—DESIGN FOR VIBRATORY LOADS
12.2.3 Transient dynamic loads. If not specified 𝑊 = Total mass of the rotating part in kg; and
by the equipment manufacturer, transient forces 𝑟𝑝𝑚 = Machine speed in revolutions per minute.
consisting of vertical, lateral, and longitudinal
forces equal to 25 percent of the total weight of the 12.3—Soil bearing pressures, pile
machine train and acting through the center capacities and settlements
machine bearing axis shall be used in design. These 12.3.1 Foundation adequacy for static bearing
forces need not be considered to act concurrently. capacity and settlement considerations shall be
For purposes of strength design, the forces shall be checked by a registered design professional. In
treated as quasi-static loads. addition, effect of dynamic loading on foundation
12.2.4 For low-tuned systems, dynamic load soil shall be investigated. In-situ or laboratory
effects due to transient resonance during machine testing to establish appropriate dynamic parameters
start-up or shut-down shall be considered. For of the foundation soils, whether in-situ treated or
transient response calculations, damping effects untreated, or compacted fill, shall be carried out by
shall be included to avoid unrealistically high an approved agency. If a requirement for piles is
results as the frequency ratio passes through the 0.7 established, appropriate dynamic parameters for the
to 1.3 range. Unless foundations or structures or piles shall be determined by an approved agency.
connecting piping are unusual, response due to 12.3.2 The site investigation report shall give
transient dynamic forces need not be evaluated. insight to the expected dynamic behavior of the soil
12.2.5 Steady state dynamic forces. Information or piles. As a minimum the report should give the
on steady state dynamic forces shall be furnished by density, Poisson’s ratio, dynamic modulus of sub-
the equipment manufacturer(s). For reciprocating grade reaction or dynamic pile spring constant and
machinery, the supplied information shall include the shear modulus for soils, or the equivalent fixate
weights of the machine and all auxiliary equipment level of piles.
SBC 303-CR-18 64
CHAPTER 12—DESIGN FOR VIBRATORY LOADS
12.3.3 Unless foundation settlement calculations machinery shall be large enough to avoid
for dynamic loads show otherwise, the allowable transmission of detrimental vibration
soil bearing pressures shall not exceed 50% of the amplitudes through the surrounding soil
allowable bearing pressure permitted for static or the foundations shall be protected in
loads, as determined from CHAPTER 4, for high- other ways. Transmissibility of
tuned foundations and 75% for low-tuned amplitudes shall be limited to 20 percent
foundations. The allowable soil bearing pressure between adjacent foundations, unless
shall be reduced for heavy machinery foundations otherwise agreed by the Building
to provide a factor of safety against excessive official.
settlement due to vibrations.
(6) Where practical and economical, the
12.4—Design requirements machine foundation system shall be
proportioned to be low-tuned.
12.4.1 Foundation and support structures designed
for machinery vibrations shall meet the provisions (7) High-tuned machine foundation systems
of Sections 12.4.2 through 12.4.8. shall be used only when a low-tuned
system is not practical or economical.
12.4.2 General. The provisions of CHAPTER 5
and CHAPTER 8 shall be expanded to include the (8) For elevated machinery, the flexibility of
following: the entire support structure shall be
considered in the dynamic analysis.
(1) Support structures or foundations for
centrifugal rotating machinery greater (9) The foundation design shall be capable
than 500 horsepower shall be designed of resisting all applied dynamic and static
for the expected dynamic forces using loads specified by the machinery
dynamic analysis procedures. For units manufacturer, loads from thermal
less than 500 horsepower, in the absence movement, dead and live loads, wind or
of a detailed dynamic analysis, the seismic forces as specified in SBC 301,
foundation weight shall be at least three any loads that may be associated with
times the total machinery weight, unless installation or maintenance of the
specified otherwise by the manufacturer. equipment, and fatigue. For fatigue, the
dynamic loads shall be increased by a
(2) For reciprocating machinery less than
factor of 1.5 and applied as quasi-static
200 horsepower, in the absence of a
loads.
detailed dynamic analysis, the
foundation weight shall be at least five The applied loads shall be combined to produce the
times the total machinery weight, unless most unfavorable effect on the supporting
specified otherwise by the manufacturer. foundations. The effect of both wind and seismic
activity need not be considered to act
(3) All coupled elements of the machinery
simultaneously. Design load combinations shall be
train shall be mounted on a common as specified in Section 2.4 SBC 301 except that
foundation or support structure. strength design of reinforced concrete systems and
(4) Foundations for heavy machinery shall elements shall comply with load combinations
be independent of adjacent foundations specified in SBC 304.
and buildings. Concrete slabs or paving
(1) Design shall be such that buried cables,
adjacent to the foundation shall have a pipes etc., will not be incorporated in the
minimum 12 mm isolation joint around foundation, and be protected from the
the foundation using an approved elastic
influence of foundation stresses. If
joint filler with sealant on top. Joint filler
incorporation in the foundation cannot be
material shall be an expansion joint
avoided, cables and pipes shall be
material according to ACI 504R Guide
sleeved.
for Sealing Joints in Concrete Structures.
Preformed expansion joint filler shall be (2) Where practical, operator platforms shall
of the full thickness and depth of the joint be independent from the main machinery
with splicing only on the length. carrying structure(s).
(5) The clear distance in any direction (3) Quantifying whole-body vibration in
between adjacent foundations for heavy relation to human health and comfort, the
SBC 303-CR-18 65
CHAPTER 12—DESIGN FOR VIBRATORY LOADS
SBC 303-CR-18 66
CHAPTER 12—DESIGN FOR VIBRATORY LOADS
12.4.5.1 For foundations and piers constructed with 12.4.6.1 The horizontal eccentricity, parallel to the
normal weight concrete, the dynamic modulus of bearing axis between the center of gravity of the
elasticity shall be taken as: machine foundation system and the centroid of the
soil contact area (or in the case of piled foundations,
𝐸𝐷 = 6560(𝑓𝑐′ )0.5 (12-2) the elastic support point of the pile group) shall not
exceed 0.05 times length of foundation in meters.
The machine bearing axis and the centroid of the
where: support (soil contact area, or pile group) shall lie in
𝐸𝐷 = Dynamic modulus of elasticity of concrete in a common vertical plane.
MPa; and 12.4.6.2 Piers and columns shall be proportioned in
𝑓𝑐′ =
Compressive strength of concrete at 28 days in such a manner that the centroid of their vertical
MPa. stiffness lies in the same vertical plane as the
bearing axis and center of gravity of the machinery.
12.4.5.2 The minimum thickness of the concrete
foundations shall not be less than (0.60+L/30) 12.4.7 Permissible frequency ratios. The ratio
where L is the length of foundation in meters between the operating frequency of the machinery,
parallel to the machine bearing axis in meters. Piers f, and each natural frequency of the machine
shall not be used unless absolutely required by foundation system, fn shall not lie in the range of 0.7
operation or maintenance or if required by machine to 1.3. Accordingly, for high-tuned systems, f/fn,
vendor specification. Block foundations for shall be less than 0.7 and for low-tuned systems f/fn
reciprocating machines shall have a minimum of 50 shall be greater than 1.3. A need for exceptions shall
% of the block thickness embedded in the soil, be approved by a registered design professional.
unless otherwise specified by the equipment 12.4.8 Permissible vibration. Where
manufacturer. Manufacturer’s vibration criteria are not available,
12.4.6 Allowable eccentricities for concrete the maximum velocity of movement during steady-
foundations with horizontal shaft machinery. state normal operation shall be limited to 3 mm per
Secondary moments that could significantly second for centrifugal machines and 4 mm per
influence the natural frequencies of the foundation second for reciprocating machines. For rocking and
shall be minimized. The horizontal eccentricity, torsional mode calculation the vibration velocities
perpendicular to the machine bearing axis, between shall be computed with the dynamic forces of the
the center of gravity of the machine foundation machinery train components assumed in phase and
system and the centroid of the soil contact area (or 180 degrees out of phase.
in case of piled foundations, the elastic support
point of the pile group) shall not exceed 0.05 times
the width of foundation in meters.
SBC 303-CR-18 67
CHAPTER 13—DAMPPROOFING AND WATERPROOFING
SBC 303-CR-18 68
CHAPTER 13—DAMPPROOFING AND WATERPROOFING
13.2.3.1 Surface preparation of walls. Prior to or masonry walls, the walls shall be prepared in
application of dampproofing materials on concrete accordance with Section 13.2.3.1 .
walls, holes and recesses resulting from the removal
13.3.4 Joints and penetrations. Joints in walls
of form ties shall be sealed with a bituminous
and floors, joints between the wall and floor and
material or other approved methods or materials.
penetrations of the wall and floor shall be made
Unit masonry walls shall be parged on the exterior
water-tight utilizing approved methods and
surface belowground level with not less than 10 mm
materials.
of Portland cement mortar. The parging shall be
coved at the footing. 13.4—Subsoil drainage system
Exception: Parging of unit masonry walls is not 13.4.1 Where a hydrostatic pressure condition
required where a material is approved for direct does not exist, dampproofing shall be provided and
application to the masonry. a base shall be installed under the floor and a drain
installed around the foundation perimeter. A subsoil
13.3—Waterproofing
drainage system designed and constructed in
13.3.1 Where the ground-water investigation accordance with Section 13.1.4 shall be deemed
required by Section 2.2.3 indicates that a hydrostatic adequate for lowering the ground-water table.
pressure condition exists, and the design does not
13.4.2 Floor base course. Floors of basements,
include a ground-water control system as described
except as provided for in Section 13.1.2, shall be
in Section 13.1.4, walls and floors shall be
placed over a floor base course not less than 100
waterproofed in accordance with this Section.
mm in thickness that consists of gravel or crushed
13.3.2 Floors. Floors required to be waterproofed stone containing not more than 10 percent of
shall be of concrete, designed and constructed to material that passes through a No.4 (4.75 mm)
withstand the hydrostatic pressures to which the sieve.
floors will be subjected.
Exception: Where a site is located in well-drained
13.3.2.1 Waterproofing shall be accomplished by gravel or sand/gravel mixture soils, a floor base
placing a membrane of rubberized asphalt, butyl course is not required.
rubber, fully adhered/fully bonded HDPE or
13.4.3 Foundation drain. A drain shall be placed
polyolefin composite membrane or not less than
around the perimeter of a foundation. It shall satisfy
0.15 mm polyvinyl chloride with joints lapped not
the requirements of Equation (7-4) through
less than 150 mm or other approved materials under
Equation (7-6) in lieu it shall consist of gravel or
the slab. Joints in the membrane shall be lapped and
crushed stone containing not more than 10-percent
sealed in accordance with the manufacturer’s
material that passes through a No. 4 (4.75 mm)
installation instructions.
sieve. The drain shall extend a minimum of 300 mm
13.3.3 Walls. Walls required to be waterproofed beyond the outside edge of the footing. The
shall be of concrete or masonry and shall be thickness shall be such that the bottom of the drain
designed and constructed to withstand the is not higher than the bottom of the base under the
hydrostatic pressures and other lateral loads to floor, and that the top of the drain is not less than
which the walls will be subjected. 150 mm above the top of the footing. The top of the
drain shall be covered with an approved filter
13.3.3.1 Waterproofing shall be applied from the
membrane material. Where a drain tile or perforated
bottom of the wall to not less than 300 mm above
pipe is used, the invert of the pipe or tile shall not
the maximum elevation of the groundwater table.
be higher than the floor elevation. The top of joints
The remainder of the wall shall be dampproofed in
or the top of perforations shall be protected with an
accordance with Section 13.2.3. Waterproofing
approved filter membrane material. The pipe or tile
shall consist of two-ply hot-mopped felts, not less
shall be placed on not less than 50 mm of gravel or
than 0.15 mm polyvinyl chloride, 1.0 mm polymer-
crushed stone complying with Section 13.4.2, and
modified asphalt, 0.150 mm polyethylene or other
shall be covered with not less than 150 mm of the
approved methods or materials capable of bridging
same material.
nonstructural cracks. Joints in the membrane shall
be lapped and sealed in accordance with the 13.4.4 Drainage discharge. The floor base and
manufacturer’s installation instructions. foundation perimeter drain shall discharge by
gravity or mechanical means into an approved
13.3.3.2 Surface preparation of walls. Prior to the
drainage system that complies with the SBC 701.
application of waterproofing materials on concrete
SBC 303-CR-18 69
CHAPTER 13—DAMPPROOFING AND WATERPROOFING
SBC 303-CR-18 70
CHAPTER 14—DEEP FOUNDATIONS
14.1—General 14.2—Analysis
14.1.1 Deep foundations shall be analyzed, 14.2.1 The analysis of deep foundations for design
designed, detailed and installed in accordance with shall be in accordance with Sections 14.2.2 through
Sections 14.1 through 14.4. 14.2.6.
14.1.2 Geotechnical investigation. Deep 14.2.2 Lateral support. Any soil other than fluid
foundations shall be designed and installed on the soil shall be deemed to afford sufficient lateral
basis of a geotechnical investigation as set forth in support to prevent buckling of deep foundation
CHAPTER 2. elements and to permit the design of the elements
in accordance with accepted engineering practice
14.1.3 Use of existing deep foundation
and the applicable provisions of this code.
elements. Deep foundation elements left in place
where a structure has been demolished shall not be 14.2.2.1 Where deep foundation elements stand
used for the support of new construction unless unbraced in air, water or fluid soils, it shall be
satisfactory evidence is submitted to the building permitted to consider them laterally supported at a
official, which indicates that the elements are sound point 1500 mm into stiff soil or 3050 mm into soft
and meet the requirements of this code. Such soil unless otherwise approved by the building
elements shall be load tested or redriven to verify official on the basis of a geotechnical investigation
their capacities. The design load applied to such by a registered design professional.
elements shall be the lowest allowable load as
14.2.3 Stability. Deep foundation elements shall
determined by tests or redriving data.
be braced to provide lateral stability in all directions.
14.1.4 Deep foundation elements classified as Three or more elements connected by a rigid cap
columns. Deep foundation elements standing shall be considered braced, provided that the
unbraced in air, water or fluid soils shall be elements are located in radial directions from the
classified as columns and designed as such in centroid of the group not less than 60 degrees (1
accordance with the provisions of this code from rad) apart. A two-element group in a rigid cap shall
their top down to the point where adequate lateral be considered to be braced along the axis
support is provided in accordance with Section connecting the two elements. Methods used to
14.2.2. brace deep foundation elements shall be subject to
the approval of the building official.
Exception: Where the unsupported height to least
horizontal dimension of a cast-in-place deep 14.2.3.1 Deep foundation elements supporting
foundation element does not exceed three, it shall walls shall be placed alternately in lines spaced at
be permitted to design and construct such an least (300 mm) apart and located symmetrically
element as a pedestal in accordance with SBC 304. under the center of gravity of the wall load carried,
unless effective measures are taken to provide for
14.1.5 Special types of deep foundations. The
eccentricity and lateral forces, or the foundation
use of types of deep foundation elements not
elements are adequately braced to provide for
specifically mentioned herein is permitted, subject
lateral stability.
to the approval of the building official, upon the
submission of acceptable test data, calculations and Exceptions:
other information relating to the structural
(1) Isolated cast-in-place deep foundation
properties and load capacity of such elements. The
elements without lateral bracing shall be
allowable stresses for materials shall not in any
permitted where the least horizontal
case exceed the limitations specified herein.
dimension is no less than 600 mm,
adequate lateral support in accordance
with Section 14.2.2 is provided for the
entire height and the height does not
SBC 303-CR-18 71
CHAPTER 14—DEEP FOUNDATIONS
exceed 12 times the least horizontal reinforcement is within seven times the
dimension. least element dimension of the pile cap
and within seven times the least element
(2) A single row of deep foundation
dimension of the interfaces of strata that
elements without lateral bracing is
are hard or stiff and strata that are
permitted for one- and two-family
liquefiable or are composed of soft- to
dwellings and lightweight construction
medium-stiff clay.
not exceeding two stories above grade
plane or 10,500 mm in building height, 14.2.6 Group effects. The analysis shall include
provided the centers of the elements are group effects on lateral behavior where the center-
located within the width of the supported to-center spacing of deep foundation elements in
wall. the direction of lateral force is less than eight times
the least horizontal dimension of an element. The
14.2.4 Settlement. The settlement of a single deep
analysis shall include group effects on axial
foundation element or group thereof shall be
behavior where the center-to-center spacing of
estimated based on approved methods of analysis.
deep foundation elements is less than three times
The predicted settlement shall cause neither harmful
the least horizontal dimension of an element.
distortion of, nor instability in, the structure, nor
Group effects shall be evaluated using a generally
cause any element to be loaded beyond its capacity.
accepted method of analysis; the analysis for uplift
14.2.5 Lateral loads. The moments, shears and of grouped elements with center-to-center spacing
lateral deflections used for design of deep less than three times the least horizontal dimension
foundation elements shall be established of an element shall be evaluated in accordance with
considering the nonlinear interaction of the shaft Section 14.3.4.1.6 .
and soil, as determined by a registered design
professional. Where the ratio of the depth of 14.3—Design and detailing
embedment of the element to its least horizontal 14.3.1 Deep foundations shall be designed and
dimension is less than or equal to six, it shall be detailed in accordance with Sections 14.3.2 through
permitted to assume the element is rigid. 14.3.14 .
14.2.5.1 Seismic Design Category D through F. 14.3.2 Design conditions. Design of deep
For structures assigned to Seismic Design Category foundations shall include the design conditions
D through F, as determined in Section 1613.3.2 of specified in Sections 14.3.2.1 through 14.3.2.6 , as
SBC 201, shall be designed and constructed to applicable.
withstand maximum imposed curvatures from
14.3.2.1 Design methods for concrete elements.
earthquake ground motions and structure response.
Where concrete deep foundations are laterally
Curvatures shall include free-field soil strains
supported in accordance with Section 14.2.2 for the
modified for soil-foundation-structure interaction
entire height and applied forces cause bending
coupled with foundation element deformations
associated with earthquake loads imparted to the moments no greater than those resulting from
foundation by the structure. accidental eccentricities, structural design of the
element using the load combinations of Section
Exception: Deep foundation elements that satisfy 1605.3 of SBC 201 and the allowable stresses
the following additional detailing requirements specified in this chapter shall be permitted.
shall be deemed to comply with the curvature Otherwise, the structural design of concrete deep
capacity requirements of this section. foundation elements shall use the load combinations
(1) Precast prestressed concrete piles of Section 1605.2 of SBC 201 and approved strength
detailed in accordance with Section design methods.
14.3.9.3 . 14.3.2.2 Composite elements. Where a single
(2) Cast-in-place deep foundation elements deep foundation element comprises two or more
with a minimum longitudinal sections of different materials or different types
reinforcement ratio of 0.005 extending spliced together, each section of the composite
the full length of the element and assembly shall satisfy the applicable requirements
detailed in accordance with Sections of this code, and the maximum allowable load in
18.7.5.2, 18.7.5.3 and 18.7.5.4 of SBC each section shall be limited by the structural
304 such that the transverse confinement capacity of that section.
SBC 303-CR-18 72
CHAPTER 14—DEEP FOUNDATIONS
14.3.2.3 Mislocation. The foundation or seismic hooks, as defined in SBC 304, and shall be
superstructure shall be designed to resist the effects turned into the confined concrete core.
of the mislocation of any deep foundation element
14.3.3.1.3 SBC 304 Equation (25.7.3.3). Where
by no less than 75 mm. To resist the effects of
this chapter requires detailing of concrete deep
mislocation, compressive overload of deep
foundation elements in accordance with Section
foundation elements to 110 percent of the
18.7.5.4 of SBC 304, compliance with Equation
allowable design load shall be permitted.
(25.7.3.3) of SBC 304 shall not be required.
14.3.2.4 Driven piles. Driven piles shall be
14.3.3.2 Prestressing steel. Prestressing steel shall
designed and manufactured in accordance with
conform to ASTM A 416.
accepted engineering practice to resist all stresses
induced by handling, driving and service loads. 14.3.3.3 Steel. Structural steel H-piles and
structural steel sheet piling shall conform to the
14.3.2.5 Helical piles. Helical piles shall be
material requirements in ASTM A 6. Steel pipe
designed and manufactured in accordance with
piles shall conform to the material requirements in
accepted engineering practice to resist all stresses
ASTM A 252. Fully welded steel piles shall be
induced by installation into the ground and service
fabricated from plates that conform to the material
loads.
requirements in ASTM A 36, ASTM A 283, ASTM
14.3.2.6 Casings. Temporary and permanent A 572, ASTM A 588 or ASTM A 690.
casings shall be of steel and shall be sufficiently
14.3.3.4 Timber.
strong to resist collapse and sufficiently water tight
to exclude any foreign materials during the placing 14.3.3.5 (Empty)
of concrete. Where a permanent casing is 14.3.3.6 Protection of materials. Where boring
considered reinforcing steel, the steel shall be records or site conditions indicate possible
protected under the conditions specified in Section deleterious action on the materials used in deep
14.3.3.6 . Horizontal joints in the casing shall be
foundation elements because of soil constituents,
spliced in accordance with Section 14.3.7. changing water levels or other factors, the elements
14.3.3 Materials. The materials used in deep shall be adequately protected by materials, methods
foundation elements shall satisfy the requirements or processes approved by the building official.
of Sections 14.3.3.1 through 14.3.3.9, as applicable. Protective materials shall be applied to the elements
so as not to be rendered ineffective by installation.
14.3.3.1 Concrete. Where concrete is cast in a
The effectiveness of such protective measures for
steel pipe or where an enlarged base is formed by
the particular purpose shall have been thoroughly
compacting concrete, the maximum size for
established by satisfactory service records or other
coarse aggregate shall be 19 mm. Concrete to be
evidence.
compacted shall have a zero slump.
14.3.3.7 Allowable stresses. The allowable stress
14.3.3.1.1 Concrete or grout strength and mix
for materials used in deep foundation elements shall
proportioning. Concrete or grout in foundations
not exceed those specified in
shall have a specified compressive strength (𝑓𝑐′ ) not
less than the largest applicable value indicated in
Table 14-1.
14.3.3.1.1.1 Where concrete is placed through a
funnel hopper at the top of a deep foundation
element, the concrete mix shall be designed and
proportioned so as to produce a cohesive workable
mix having a slump of not less than 100 mm and not
more than 200 mm. Where concrete or grout is to
be pumped, the mix design including slump shall be
adjusted to produce a pumpable mixture.
14.3.3.1.2 Seismic hooks. For structures assigned
to Seismic Design Category C or D the ends of
hoops, spirals and ties used in concrete deep
foundation elements shall be terminated with
SBC 303-CR-18 73
CHAPTER 14—DEEP FOUNDATIONS
SBC 303-CR-18 74
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SBC 303-CR-18 75
CHAPTER 14—DEEP FOUNDATIONS
with the same hammer through a comparable than three times the least horizontal dimension of
driving distance. the largest single element, the allowable working
uplift load for the group is permitted to be
14.3.4.1.3 Load test evaluation methods. It shall
calculated as the lesser of:
be permitted to evaluate load tests of deep
foundation elements using any of the following (1) The proposed individual allowable
methods: working uplift load times the number of
elements in the group.
(1) Davisson Offset Limit.
(2) Two-thirds of the effective weight of the
(2) Brinch-Hansen 90-percent Criterion.
group and the soil contained within a
(3) Butler-Hoy Criterion. block defined by the perimeter of the
(4) Other methods approved by the building group and the length of the element, plus
official. two-thirds of the ultimate shear
resistance along the soil block.
14.3.4.1.4 Allowable frictional resistance. The
assumed frictional resistance developed by any 14.3.4.1.7 Load-bearing capacity. Deep
uncased cast-in-place deep foundation element foundation elements shall develop ultimate load
shall not exceed one-sixth of the bearing value of capacities of at least twice the design working loads
the soil material at minimum depth as set forth in in the designated load-bearing layers. Analysis shall
Table 4-1, up to a maximum of 24 kPa, unless a
show that no soil layer underlying the designated
greater value is allowed by the building official on load-bearing layers causes the load-bearing
the basis of a geotechnical investigation as capacity safety factor to be less than two.
specified in CHAPTER 2 or a greater value is 14.3.4.1.8 Bent deep foundation elements. The
substantiated by a load test in accordance with load-bearing capacity of deep foundation elements
Section 14.3.4.1.2 . Frictional resistance and bearing discovered to have a sharp or sweeping bend shall
resistance shall not be assumed to act be determined by an approved method of analysis
simultaneously unless determined by a or by load testing a representative element.
geotechnical investigation in accordance with
14.3.4.1.9 Helical piles. The allowable axial
Section CHAPTER 2.
design load, 𝑃𝑎 , of helical piles shall be determined
14.3.4.1.5 Uplift capacity of a single deep as follows:
foundation element. Where required by the
design, the uplift capacity of a single deep
𝑃𝑎 = 0.5𝑃𝑢 (14-1)
foundation element shall be determined by an
approved method of analysis based on a minimum
factor of safety of three or by load tests conducted where 𝑃𝑢 is the least value of:
in accordance with ASTM D 3689. The maximum (1) Sum of the areas of the helical bearing
allowable uplift load shall not exceed the ultimate plates times the ultimate bearing capacity
load capacity as determined in Section 14.3.4.1.2 , of the soil or rock comprising the bearing
using the results of load tests conducted in stratum.
accordance with ASTM D 3689, divided by a factor
of safety of two. (2) Ultimate capacity determined from well-
documented correlations with
Exception: Where uplift is due to wind or seismic installation torque.
loading, the minimum factor of safety shall be two
where capacity is determined by an analysis and one (3) Ultimate capacity determined from load
and one-half where capacity is determined by load tests.
tests. (4) Ultimate axial capacity of pile shaft.
14.3.4.1.6 Uplift capacity of grouped deep (5) Ultimate axial capacity of pile shaft
foundation elements. For grouped deep couplings.
foundation elements subjected to uplift, the
allowable working uplift load for the group shall be (6) Sum of the ultimate axial capacity of
calculated by a generally accepted method of helical bearing plates affixed to pile.
analysis. Where the deep foundation elements in the 14.3.4.2 Allowable lateral load. Where required
group are placed at a center-to-center spacing less by the design, the lateral load capacity of a single
SBC 303-CR-18 76
CHAPTER 14—DEEP FOUNDATIONS
deep foundation element or a group thereof shall be 14.3.6.2.1 Cased. Cast-in-place deep foundation
determined by an approved method of analysis or elements with a permanent casing shall have a
by lateral load tests to at least twice the proposed nominal outside diameter of not less than 200 mm.
design working load. The resulting allowable load
14.3.6.2.2 Uncased. Cast-in-place deep foundation
shall not be more than one-half of the load that
elements without a permanent casing shall have a
produces a gross lateral movement of 25 mm at the
diameter of not less than 300 mm. The element
lower of the top of foundation element and the
length shall not exceed 30 times the average
ground surface, unless it can be shown that the
diameter.
predicted lateral movement shall cause neither
harmful distortion of, nor instability in, the Exception: The length of the element is permitted
structure, nor cause any element to be loaded to exceed 30 times the diameter, provided the
beyond its capacity. design and installation of the deep foundations
are under the direct supervision of a registered
14.3.5 Special soil conditions. Deep foundations
design professional knowledgeable in the field of
to be installed through subsiding or calcareous soils
soil mechanics and deep foundations. The
shall b e designed in accordance with Sections
registered design professional shall submit a report
14.3.5.1 through 14.3.5.2 , as applicable.
to the building official stating that the elements
14.3.5.1 Subsiding soils. Where deep foundation were installed in compliance with the approved
elements are installed through subsiding fills or construction documents.
other subsiding strata and derive support from
14.3.6.2.3 Micropiles. Micropiles shall have an
underlying firmer materials, consideration shall be
outside diameter of 300 mm or less. The minimum
given to the downward frictional forces that may
diameter set forth elsewhere in Section 14.3.6
be imposed on the elements by subsiding upper
shall not apply to micropiles.
strata.
14.3.6.3 Steel. Steel deep foundation elements
14.3.5.1.1 Where the influence of subsiding fills is
shall satisfy the requirements of this section.
considered as imposing loads on the element, the
allowable stresses specified in this chapter shall be 14.3.6.3.1 Structural steel H-piles. Sections of
permitted to be increased where satisfactory structural steel H-piles shall comply with the
substantiating data are submitted. requirements for HP shapes in ASTM A 6, or the
following:
14.3.5.2 Piles in calcareous soils. Where piles are
driven through calcareous soils and derive support (1) The flange projections shall not exceed
from frictional forces developed between the pile 14 times the minimum thickness of metal
and the surrounding soil, consideration shall be in either the flange or the web and the
given to loss of frictional forces due to driving. For flange widths shall not be less than 80
bored cast in-situ piles within calcareous soils percent of the depth of the section.
where support is derived from both friction and tip (2) The nominal depth in the direction of the
resistance, consideration shall be given to the web shall not be less than 200 mm.
possibility of presence of voids/cavities below the
tip of the bored pile. (3) Flanges and web shall have a minimum
nominal thickness of 9.5 mm.
14.3.6 Dimensions of deep foundation
elements. The dimensions of deep foundation 14.3.6.3.2 Fully welded steel piles fabricated
elements shall be in accordance with Sections from plates. Sections of fully welded steel piles
14.3.6.1 through 14.3.6.3 , as applicable. fabricated from plates shall comply with the
following:
14.3.6.1 Precast. The minimum lateral dimension
of precast concrete deep foundation elements shall (1) The flange projections shall not exceed
be 200 mm. Corners of square elements shall be 14 times the minimum thickness of metal
chamfered. in either the flange or the web and the
flange widths shall not be less than 80
14.3.6.2 Cast-in-place or grouted-in-place. Cast- percent of the depth of the section.
in-place and grouted-in-place deep foundation
elements shall satisfy the requirements of this (2) The nominal depth in the direction of the
section. web shall not be less than 200 mm.
SBC 303-CR-18 77
CHAPTER 14—DEEP FOUNDATIONS
(3) Flanges and web shall have a minimum strength of the weaker section. Where deep
nominal thickness of 9.5 mm. foundation elements of different materials or
different types are being spliced, splices shall
14.3.6.3.3 Structural steel sheet piling. Individual
develop the full compressive strength and not less
sections of structural steel sheet piling shall
than 50 percent of the tension and bending strength
conform to the profile indicated by the
of the weaker section. Where structural steel cores
manufacturer, and shall conform to the general
are to be spliced, the ends shall be milled or ground
requirements specified by ASTM A 6.
to provide full contact and shall be full-depth welded.
14.3.6.3.4 Steel pipes and tubes. Steel pipes and
14.3.7.1 Splices occurring in the upper 3000 mm of
tubes used as deep foundation elements shall have
the embedded portion of an element shall be
a nominal outside diameter of not less than 200 mm.
designed to resist at allowable stresses the moment
Where steel pipes or tubes are driven open ended,
and shear that would result from an assumed
they shall have a minimum of 220 mm2 of steel in
eccentricity of the axial load of 75 mm, or the
cross section to resist each 1350 N-m of pile
element shall be braced in accordance with Section
hammer energy, or shall have the equivalent
14.2.3 to other deep foundation elements that do not
strength for steels having a yield strength greater
have splices in the upper 3000 mm of embedment.
than 240 MPa or the wave equation analysis shall
be permitted to be used to assess compression 14.3.7.2 Seismic Design Categories C and D.
stresses induced by driving to evaluate if the pile For structures assigned to Seismic Design Category
section is appropriate for the selected hammer. C and D splices of deep foundation elements shall
Where a pipe or tube with wall thickness less than develop the lesser of the following:
4.6 mm is driven open ended, a suitable cutting shoe
(1) The nominal strength of the deep
shall be provided. Concrete-filled steel pipes or
foundation element.
tubes in structures assigned to Seismic Design
Category C or D shall have a wall thickness of not (2) The axial and shear forces and moments
less than 4.75 mm. The pipe or tube casing for from the seismic load effects including
socketed drilled shafts shall have a nominal outside overstrength factor in accordance with
diameter of not less than 460 mm, a wall thickness Section 12.4.3 or 12.14.3.2 of SBC 301.
of not less than 9.5 mm and a suitable steel driving 14.3.8 Top of element detailing at cutoffs.
shoe welded to the bottom; the diameter of the rock Where a minimum length for reinforcement or the
socket shall be approximately equal to the inside extent of closely spaced confinement reinforcement
diameter of the casing. is specified at the top of a deep foundation element,
Exceptions: provisions shall be made so that those specified
lengths or extents are maintained after cutoff.
(1) There is no minimum diameter for steel
pipes or tubes used in micropiles. 14.3.9 Precast concrete piles. Precast concrete
piles shall be designed and detailed in accordance
(2) For mandrel-driven pipes or tubes, the
with Sections 14.3.9.1 through 14.3.9.3 .
minimum wall thickness shall be 2.5
mm. 14.3.9.1 Reinforcement. Longitudinal steel shall
be arranged in a symmetrical pattern and be
14.3.6.3.5 Helical piles. Dimensions of the central
laterally tied with steel ties or wire spiral spaced
shaft and the number, size and thickness of helical
center to center as follows:
bearing plates shall be sufficient to support the
design loads. (1) At not more than 25 mm for the first five
ties or spirals at each end; then
14.3.7 Splices. Splices shall be constructed so as
to provide and maintain true alignment and position (2) At not more than 100 mm, for the
of the component parts of the deep foundation remainder of the first 600 mm from each
element during installation and subsequent thereto end; and then
and shall be designed to resist the axial and shear (3) At not more than 150 mm elsewhere.
forces and moments occurring at the location of the
splice during driving and for design load 14.3.9.1.1 The size of ties and spirals shall be as
combinations. Where deep foundation elements follows:
of the same type are being spliced, splices shall
develop not less than 50 percent of the bending
SBC 303-CR-18 78
CHAPTER 14—DEEP FOUNDATIONS
(1) For piles having a least horizontal The tensile stress in the prestressing steel shall not
dimension of 400 mm or less, wire shall exceed the values specified in SBC 304.
not be smaller than 5.6 mm (No. 5 gage).
14.3.9.3.2 Seismic reinforcement in Seismic
(2) For piles having a least horizontal Design Category C. For structures assigned to
dimension of more than 400 mm and less Seismic Design Category C, precast prestressed
than 500 mm, wire shall not be smaller piles shall have transverse reinforcement in
than 6 mm (No. 4 gage). accordance with this section. The volumetric ratio
of spiral reinforcement shall not be less than 0.007
(3) For piles having a least horizontal
or the amount required by the following formula for
dimension of 500 mm and larger, wire
the upper 6000 mm of the pile.
shall not be smaller than 6.5 mm round
or 6.6 mm (No. 3 gage).
𝜌𝑠 = 0.12𝑓𝑐′ /𝑓𝑦ℎ (14-2)
14.3.9.2 Precast nonprestressed piles. Precast
non-prestressed concrete piles shall comply with
the requirements of Sections 14.3.9.2.1 through where:
14.3.9.2.3 .
𝑓𝑐′ = Specified compressive strength of concrete
14.3.9.2.1 Minimum reinforcement. Longitudinal (MPa);
reinforcement shall consist of at least four bars
𝑓𝑦ℎ = Yield strength of spiral reinforcement < 590
with a minimum longitudinal reinforcement ratio of
MPa; and
0.008.
𝜌𝑠 = Spiral reinforcement index (vol. of spiral/vol.
14.3.9.2.2 Seismic reinforcement in Seismic
Design Categories C through F. For structures core).
assigned to Seismic Design Category C or D, At least one-half the volumetric ratio required by
precast nonprestressed piles shall be reinforced as Equation (14-2) shall be provided below the upper
specified in this section. The minimum 6000 mm of the pile.
longitudinal reinforcement ratio shall be 0.01
14.3.9.3.3 Seismic reinforcement in Seismic
throughout the length. Transverse reinforcement
Design Category D through F. For structures
shall consist of closed ties or spirals with a minimum
assigned to Seismic Design Category D precast
9.5 mm diameter. Spacing of transverse
prestressed piles shall have transverse
reinforcement shall not exceed the smaller of eight
reinforcement in accordance with the following:
times the diameter of the smallest longitudinal bar or
150 mm within a distance of three times the least pile (1) Requirements in SBC 304, Chapter 18,
dimension from the bottom of the pile cap. Spacing need not apply, unless specifically
of transverse reinforcement shall not exceed 150 mm referenced.
throughout the remainder of the pile.
(2) Where the total pile length in the soil is
14.3.9.2.3 Additional seismic reinforcement in 11,000 mm or less, the lateral transverse
Seismic Design Category D through F. For reinforcement in the ductile region shall
structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D occur through the length of the pile.
transverse reinforcement shall be in accordance Where the pile length exceeds 11,000
with Section 14.3.10.4.2 . mm, the ductile pile region shall be taken
as the greater of 11,000 mm or the
14.3.9.3 Precast prestressed piles. Precast
distance from the underside of the pile
prestressed concrete piles shall comply with the
cap to the point of zero curvature plus
requirements of Sections 14.3.9.3.1 through
three times the least pile dimension.
14.3.9.3.3 .
(3) In the ductile region, the center-to-center
14.3.9.3.1 Effective prestress. The effective
spacing of the spirals or hoop
prestress in the pile shall not be less than 2.80 MPa
reinforcement shall not exceed one-fifth
for piles up to 9200 mm in length, 3.80 MPa, for
of the least pile dimension, six times the
piles up to 15,500 mm in length and 4.80 MPa
diameter of the longitudinal strand or 200
for piles greater than 15,500 mm in length.
mm, whichever is smallest.
14.3.9.3.1.1 Effective prestress shall be based on an
(4) Circular spiral reinforcement shall be
assumed loss of (210 MPa) in the prestressing steel.
spliced by lapping one full turn and
SBC 303-CR-18 79
CHAPTER 14—DEEP FOUNDATIONS
SBC 303-CR-18 80
CHAPTER 14—DEEP FOUNDATIONS
SBC 303-CR-18 81
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SBC 303-CR-18 82
CHAPTER 14—DEEP FOUNDATIONS
14.3.10.4.2.3 Site Classes A through D. For zone in soil, bedrock or a combination of soil and
Site Class A, B, C or D sites, transverse bedrock. Micropiles shall be grouted and have
confinement reinforcement shall be provided in the either a steel pipe or tube or steel reinforcement at
element in accordance with Sections 18.7.5.2, every section along the length. It shall be permitted
18.7.5.3 and 18.7.5.4 of SBC 304 within three to transition from deformed reinforcing bars to steel
times the least element dimension of the bottom of pipe or tube reinforcement by extending the bars
the pile cap. A transverse spiral reinforcement ratio into the pipe or tube section by at least their
of not less than one-half of that required in Section development length in tension in accordance with
18.7.5.4(a) of SBC 304 shall be permitted. SBC 304.
14.3.10.4.2.4 Site Classes E and F. For Site Class 14.3.11.2 Materials. Reinforcement shall consist
E or F sites, transverse confinement reinforcement of deformed reinforcing bars in accordance with
shall be provided in the element in accordance with ASTM A 615 Grade 60 or 75 or ASTM A 722
Sections 18.7.5.2, 18.7.5.3 and 18.7.5.4 of SBC 304 Grade 150.
within seven times the least element dimension of 14.3.11.2.1 The steel pipe or tube shall have a
the pile cap and within seven times the least element minimum wall thickness of 4.8 mm. Splices shall
dimension of the interfaces of strata that are hard or
comply with Section 14.3.7. The steel pipe or tube
stiff and strata that are liquefiable or are composed
shall have a minimum yield strength of 310 MPa
of soft- to medium-stiff clay.
and a minimum elongation of 15 percent as shown
14.3.10.5 Belled drilled shafts. Where drilled by mill certifications or two coupon test samples per
shafts are belled at the bottom, the edge thickness 18200 kg of pipe and tube.
of the bell shall not be less than that required for the
14.3.11.3 Reinforcement. For micropiles or
edge of footings. Where the sides of the bell slope
portions thereof grouted inside a temporary or
at an angle less than 60 degrees (1 rad) from the
permanent casing or inside a hole drilled into
horizontal, the effects of vertical shear shall be
bedrock or a hole drilled with grout, the steel pipe
considered. or tube or steel reinforcement shall be designed to
14.3.10.6 Socketed drilled shafts. Socketed carry at least 40 percent of the design compression
drilled shafts shall have a permanent pipe or tube load. Micropiles or portions thereof grouted in an
casing that extends down to bedrock and an uncased open hole in soil without temporary or permanent
socket drilled into the bedrock, both filled with casing and without suitable means of verifying the
concrete. Socketed drilled shafts shall have hole diameter during grouting shall be designed to
reinforcement or a structural steel core for the carry the entire compression load in the reinforcing
length as indicated by an approved method of steel. Where a steel pipe or tube is used for
analysis. reinforcement, the portion of the grout enclosed
within the pipe is permitted to be included in the
14.3.10.6.1 The depth of the rock socket shall be
determination of the allowable stress in the grout.
sufficient to develop the full load-bearing capacity
of the element with a minimum safety factor of 14.3.11.4 Seismic reinforcement. For structures
two, but the depth shall not be less than the outside assigned to Seismic Design Category C, a
diameter of the pipe or tube casing. The design of permanent steel casing shall be provided from the
the rock socket is permitted to be predicated on the top of the micropile down to the point of zero
sum of the allowable load-bearing pressure on the curvature. For structures assigned to Seismic
bottom of the socket plus bond along the sides of Design Category D, E or F, the micropile shall be
the socket. considered as an alternative system in accordance
with Section 104.11 of SBC 201. The alternative
14.3.10.6.2 Where a structural steel core is used,
system design, supporting documentation and test
the gross cross-sectional area of the core shall not
data shall be submitted to the building official for
exceed 25 percent of the gross area of the drilled
review and approval.
shaft.
14.3.12 Pile caps. Pile caps shall be of reinforced
14.3.11 Micropiles. Micropiles shall be designed
concrete, and shall include all elements to which
and detailed in accordance with Sections 14.3.11.1
vertical deep foundation elements are connected,
through 14.3.11.4 .
including grade beams and mats. The soil
14.3.11.1 Construction. Micropiles shall develop immediately below the pile cap shall not be
their load-carrying capacity by means of a bond considered as carrying any vertical load. The tops
SBC 303-CR-18 83
CHAPTER 14—DEEP FOUNDATIONS
of vertical deep foundation elements shall be (1) In the case of uplift, the anchorage shall
embedded not less than 75 mm into pile caps and be capable of developing the least of the
the caps shall extend at least 100 mm beyond the following:
edges of the elements. The tops of elements shall
(i) The nominal tensile strength of
be cut or chipped back to sound material before
the longitudinal reinforcement in
capping.
a concrete element.
14.3.12.1 Seismic Design Categories C and D. (ii) The nominal tensile strength of
For structures assigned to Seismic Design Category a steel element.
C or D concrete deep foundation elements shall be (iii) The frictional force developed
connected to the pile cap by embedding the between the element and the soil
element reinforcement or field-placed dowels multiplied by 1.3.
anchored in the element into the pile cap for a
Exception: The anchorage is permitted to be
distance equal to their development length in
designed to resist the axial tension force resulting
accordance with SBC 304. It shall be permitted to
from the seismic load effects including
connect precast prestressed piles to the pile cap by
overstrength factor in accordance with Section
developing the element prestressing strands into the
12.4.3 or 12.14.3.2 of SBC 301.
pile cap provided the connection is ductile. For
deformed bars, the development length is the full (1) In the case of rotational restraint, the
development length for compression, or tension in anchorage shall be designed to resist the
the case of uplift, without reduction for excess axial and shear forces, and moments
reinforcement in accordance with Section 25.4.10 resulting from the seismic load effects
of SBC 304. Alternative measures for laterally including overstrength factor in
confining concrete and maintaining toughness and accordance with Section 12.4.3 or
ductile-like behavior at the top of the element 12.14.3.2 of SBC 301 or the anchorage
shall be permitted provided the design is such that shall be capable of developing the full
any hinging occurs in the confined region. axial, bending and shear nominal
strength of the element.
14.3.12.1.1 The minimum transverse steel ratio for
confinement shall not be less than one-half of that 14.3.12.2.1 Where the vertical lateral force-
required for columns. resisting elements are columns, the pile cap flexural
strengths shall exceed the column flexural strength.
14.3.12.1.2 For resistance to uplift forces,
The connection between batter piles and pile caps
anchorage of steel pipes, tubes or H-piles to the pile
shall be designed to resist the nominal strength of
cap shall be made by means other than concrete
the pile acting as a short column. Batter piles and
bond to the bare steel section. Concrete-filled steel
their connection shall be designed to resist forces
pipes or tubes shall have reinforcement of not less
and moments that result from the application of
than 0.01 times the cross-sectional area of the
seismic load effects including overstrength factor in
concrete fill developed into the cap and extending
accordance with Section 12.4.3 or 12.14.3.2 of
into the fill a length equal to two times the required
SBC 301.
cap embedment, but not less than the development
length in tension of the reinforcement. 14.3.13 Grade beams. For structures assigned to
Seismic Design Category D, E or F, grade beams
14.3.12.2 Seismic Design Category D through F.
shall comply with the provisions in Section 18.3.3
For structures assigned to Seismic Design Category
of SBC 304 for grade beams, except where they are
D, E or F. deep foundation element resistance to
designed to resist the seismic load effects including
uplift forces or rotational restraint shall be provided
overstrength factor in accordance with Section
by anchorage into the pile cap, designed
12.4.3 or 12.14.3.2 of SBC 301.
considering the combined effect of axial forces due
to uplift and bending moments due to fixity to the 14.3.14 Seismic ties. For structures assigned to
pile cap. Anchorage shall develop a minimum of 25 Seismic Design Category C, D, E, or F, individual
percent of the strength of the element in tension. deep foundations shall be interconnected by ties.
Anchorage into the pile cap shall comply with the Unless it can be demonstrated that equivalent
following: restraint is provided by reinforced concrete beams
within slabs on grade or reinforced concrete slabs
on grade or confinement by competent rock, hard
cohesive soils or very dense granular soils, ties shall
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be capable of carrying, in tension or compression, or within one-half the element length in cohesive
a force equal to the lesser of the product of the soils of an uncased element filled with concrete less
larger pile cap or column design gravity load times than 48 hours old unless approved by the building
the seismic coefficient, SDS, divided by 10, and 25 official. If the concrete surface in any completed
percent of the smaller pile or column design element rises or drops, the element shall be
gravity load. replaced. Driven uncased deep foundation elements
shall not be installed in soils that could cause heave.
Exception: In Group R-3 and U occupancies of
light-frame construction, deep foundation elements 14.4.2.4 Driving near cased concrete. Deep
supporting foundation walls, isolated interior posts foundation elements shall not be driven within four
detailed so the element is not subject to lateral loads and one-half average diameters of a cased element
or exterior decks and patios are not subject to filled with concrete less than 24 hours old unless
interconnection where the soils are of adequate approved by the building official. Concrete shall
stiffness, subject to the approval of the building not be placed in casings within heave range of
official. driving.
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TABLES OF CHAPTER 14
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Table 14-2 —Allowable streses for materials used in deep foundations elements
a
MATERIAL TYPE AND CONDITION MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE STRESS
1. Concrete or grout in compression
3. Steel in compression
0.5 Fy < 220 MPa
• Cores within concrete-filled pipes or tubes
• Pipes, tubes or H-piles, where justified in 0.5 Fy < 220 MPa
accordance with Section 14.3.3.13 .
0.4 Fy < 220 MPa
• Pipes or tubes for micropiles
0.35 Fy < 110 MPa
• Other pipes, tubes or H-piles
• Helical piles 0.6 Fy < 0.5 Fu
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