Estudio geotécnico in Umbrete

In Umbrete, rocky substrates predominate, fundamentally limestones, dolomites and marbles, which account for more than 90% of the local soils. These lithologies, with high compactness and good bearing capacity, favour the viability of conventional shallow direct foundations. However, the occasional presence of fine sands and silts, although in the minority, makes it necessary to assess the local distribution in order to determine possible areas of lower bearing capacity or compressible soils, particularly if the intention is to found over these non-consolidated materials.

Seismicity in the municipality of Umbrete is very low, recording only one event in 30 years with a maximum magnitude of 1.7, so it does not represent a relevant constraint for structural design. The absence of karst risk favours ground stability; however, there is a risk of expansivity linked to the presence of non-expansive or dispersed clays within a non-clayey matrix. This situation requires paying special attention to the characterisation of these horizons, as their variable behaviour can affect the durability and safety of shallow foundations.