Timber piles in organic soils
Timber piles in organic soils
(OP)
I'm in the initial stages of the design of a pre-engineered metal building foundation and have just received the soils report. The report indicates 2 to 4 feet of sand (SP) and then organics laden sand (SM/OL) to about 18 feet. The report suggests a c.i.p. structural slab and beams on timber piles driven to refusal. My question is: Is bearing reinforced concrete on timber piles something that is done these days? I know this was common in the past but I've never taken that route so far in my 20+ year career. Will the organics have an effect on the timber? What about connections for uplift of the concrete at the frame columns, if present? Any advise would be appreciated.
-Jack
-Jack





RE: Timber piles in organic soils
RE: Timber piles in organic soils
I'm assumimg that groundwater flucuations would not effect the pile durability due to the lack of oxygen. Are there concerns with the groundwater flucuation within the organic strata that the piles will be in?
-Jack
RE: Timber piles in organic soils
RE: Timber piles in organic soils
RE: Timber piles in organic soils
RE: Timber piles in organic soils
h
Concur with BigH - Treated timber pile have excellent longevity, even in the conditions that you describe. If really want them to last "forever", go with 2.5 Lb/Cu Ft, CCA treatment - this is four times typical "permanent" CCA protection for timber piles. (It is normally specified for use in sea water).
www.SlideRuleEra.net
RE: Timber piles in organic soils
RE: Timber piles in organic soils
- In my experience if the piles are designed to be longer than about 30 ft., they become relatively expensive due to shipping costs. I have used timber piles up to 40 ft. long, but I wouldn't recommend much longer than that.
- Timber piles are relatively difficult to splice. Therefore, you should be relatively comfortable with the length. It's good practice to specify them a bit longer than necessary in case they do not meet the driving criteria at the recommended length. They are easy to cut, but remember the average diameter will decrease if you cut off the pile.
RE: Timber piles in organic soils