Bearing on Rock without frost depth
Bearing on Rock without frost depth
(OP)
Need help. I designed a retaining wall that will bear on rock. My plans require that the footings be placed at frost depth. The contractor does not want to excavate 3'-6" of rock to make this happen. Could we dowel into the rock to prevent frost heave? Or should I make them remove the rock?






RE: Bearing on Rock without frost depth
What kind of rock is it? Sound rock is by definition not frost susceptable soil, so traditional frost heave should not really be a problem. On the other hand, shale has habit of degrading into silt. If it's porous at all, maybe you should check with a geotech engineer.
RE: Bearing on Rock without frost depth
If this rock is a loner sitting above the frost line, it should be removed.
Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)
RE: Bearing on Rock without frost depth
RE: Bearing on Rock without frost depth
RE: Bearing on Rock without frost depth
Does the creek freeze completely in the winter? If it doesn't, then there may be enough latent heat in the water to prevent freezing as long as the water level is maintained. No guarantees though.
Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)
RE: Bearing on Rock without frost depth