Estudio geotécnico in Ordes

In Ordes, the predominant geological substrate is composed of sandstones, conglomerates and flysch, covering more than 70% of the municipality, followed by shales and schists. These materials, in general, provide a good bearing capacity due to their consolidated nature and low compressibility, although the presence of shales can locally introduce planes of weakness. The minimum proportions of fine sands and silts suggest that conditions for foundations are favourable, with a low probability of significant differential settlements if the less compact or alterable horizons are avoided. The non-clayey substrate rules out the risk of expansivity, which simplifies the design of shallow foundations.

Seismicity in the municipality of Ordes is considered moderate, with 15 recorded events over the last 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 3.5; levels that generally do not represent a critical constraint in the geotechnical design of buildings. Since there are no karst-related phenomena or risks associated with gypsum, anhydrites or salts, and the nature of the ground avoids expansivity problems, the main aspect to take into account is the local stratigraphic behaviour of the materials, especially in the presence of altered shales or schists. Thus, detailed characterisation of the near-surface layers and control of permeability are factors to prioritise in any geotechnical study in Ordes.