Deep and Shallow Foundations

Many buildings use deep foundations even though it is expensive and also time consuming. On the other hand, shallow foundations are the complete opposite; they are relatively inexpensive and take up less time in building. So why do engineers recommend deep foundations over shallow foundations despite the vast differences that each have? Deep foundations are embedded deep into the ground so that the ground has a better grip on the structure. There are many types of deep foundations, one example being the Suction pile. Suction piles are used underwater to secure floating platforms. Tubular piles are drilled into the seabed and then water is pumped out so that it suctions itself in, pulling the pile in deeper. Suction piles were used to construct the underwater sections of the Lincoln tunnel. Advantages of the deep foundations include better protection against weather hazards, because since the structure is partially embedded deep into the ground, a storm couldn’t rip the building or damage it too severely Disadvantages include much more expenses because in order to construct a reliable deep foundation you need to employ several professionals to hold different responsibilities and extra machinery. One other disadvantage is that constructions of deep foundations can because pollution due to the deep penetration of the earth and all the smoke and fumes coming from the machinery. A shallow foundation transfers the load of the building to the walls of the substructure and it is used commonly for ordinary buildings. Column footing, strip footing, slab on grade, and mat foundations are part of the shallow foundation. Mostly concrete is used and sometimes steel to reinforce it which makes it affordable. The construction procedure of shallow foundations isn’t complex, therefore laborers don’t need any expertise. The disadvantage of using shallow foundations is that they are subject to being pulled out or torsion by storms and they cannot be built upon