Civil Engineering Resources 

Yes! There are multiple ways to construct Geopier elements below the groundwater elevation. Temporary casing may be added with the drilled solutions.  Alternatively, one of the displacement Geopier systems may be used to allow for aggregate delivery at the bottom of patented system mandrels to ensure that rock is placed at the appropriate elevations.

Yes, Geopier can be installed adjacent to existing water features provided there is adequate soil adjacent to the pier and there are no global stability concerns.

Yes! If the organic content is low (such as buried topsoil), then a Rammed Aggregate Pier® system may be installed through this layer to tag the underlying native soils.  If the organic content is high, then a rigid inclusion technology will likely be required provide confinement and limit settlements.  We have several rigid inclusion systems including cement treated aggregate piers, Armorpact® piers, grouted Impact® piers, and GeoConcrete® Columns. 

The Geopier system is not intended to specifically mitigate shrink/swell potential, but the use of Geopier elements with high bearing pressure foundations will reduce the effect of expansive soil. The geotechnical engineer’s recommendation for expansive soils should still be followed including proper drainage and grading.

 

Yes, Geopier can be used to support structures in karst topography; however, cement-treated aggregate may be required to prevent pier raveling and/or the introduction of water.

No, Geopier has supported hundreds of small projects worldwide.

With very few exceptions, Geopier can be used to support just about any size load.  It depends on the soil profile, the size of the loads, and the settlement requirements for the project.

Very deep soft clay and organic soil profiles can be problematic, depending on the structural loads and the settlement criteria.

Yes, Geopier can be installed in areas with low overhead clearance.  It depends on the system being installed and the amount of clearance available.

Geopier® has both union and non-union installers.

The contact information for your local Region Engineer can be found here.  We are also able to assist you via the chat function.

Yes, Geopier has over 40 licensed installers located all over the world.

Yes, Geopier has specific quality control procedures/manuals for all our various systems.  These can be made available upon request.

All Geopier’s designs and submittals are prepared, reviewed, and signed/sealed by engineers within the Geopier network.

Piers can be installed before or after the placement of grade raise fill.  Both sequencings have their merits with respect to cost, schedule, etc.  We will work with you to figure out what is best for your project.