Estudio geotécnico in Guadalajara

In Guadalajara, soils formed by slate and schist predominate; these represent the largest part of the existing subsoil and generally provide a bearing capacity that is adequate for most buildings, although their low permeability limits the discharge of groundwater. In addition, compact gravel and sand occur occasionally, as well as overconsolidated clays and marls in marginal proportions. The choice of foundation type must be adapted to the fractured nature of the slaty materials, prioritising verification of homogeneity and avoiding building in areas where superficial aquifers might be present.

Seismic activity in Guadalajara is high, with more than 150 events over 30 years and a recorded maximum magnitude of 4.6, which makes it necessary to take seismic action into account in structural calculations. Furthermore, in this municipality there is a likelihood of the development of karst phenomena, so it is essential to check for the presence or absence of cavities and dissolution before executing any foundation. As the dominant subsoil is not clayey, the risk of expansivity is ruled out, with seismicity and the possible influence of karst being the main geotechnical factors to analyse in studies prior to construction.