Foundation Engineering:

Selection of foundation type

The selection of the type of foundation for a

given structure-subsoil system is largely a
matter of judgment based on both
 An analysis of scientific data
 experience
 The type of foundation most appropriate for a given structure
depends on several factors but commonly the principal factors are
three which are as follows:
1. The function of the structure and the loads it must carry:
• Purpose of the structure i.e.residential,office,industrial,bridge etc.
• Service life
• Loading, number of stories, basement
• Type i.e. framed RCC ,masonary,column spacing etc.
• Construction method and scadule.

2. Subsurface conditions
• thickness and sequence of soil strata with subsoil parameters
• GWT position and fluctuation limits
• Presence of any underground anomalies.
3. The cost of the foundation in comparison with the cost of
super structure.
• i.e. funds availability for the construction of foundation.
4. Other considerations:
• For members carrying only axial loads or axial loads combined
with bending moments that can change the ditrection,a
square footing is desirable.
• For members carrying only axial loads combined with bending
moments that do not change the direction ,rectangular
footing is most suitable than a square footing.
• If the edge of isolated pads are too close along a line or
columns, it is cheaper to excavate the complete strip and form
strip/combined foundation.
• If all the pads are too close in both directions, it is
more economical to excavate the whole area and
construct a flexible raft.
• Another important consideration is the question of
differential settlement. with isolated pads and strip
foundation, the differential settlement could be
excessive. In this case ,a rigid raft foundation should
b constructed.
 Depth and location of footing

Foundation must be located

properly(both vertical and horizontal
orientation), so as not to be adversely
affected by the outside influence.
 Thus the depth and location of foundation are
dependent on the following factors:
• Frost action
• Significant soil volume changes
• Adjacent structures and property lines
• Groundwater
• Underground defects
• scour and undermining by water.