Geotechnical study in La Guardia

In La Guardia, a geological substrate formed by sandstones, conglomerates and flysch predominates, which provides a solid and stable foundation for the footings of new buildings. Fine sands and silts appear occasionally and may show a certain degree of local compressibility, but in general they do not represent the main level of bearing support. The good mechanical behaviour of these materials, together with the minor presence of compact gravels, favours adequate bearing capacity, recommending that homogeneity be checked and avoiding foundations on any possible levels of water or loose sediments.

Seismic activity in the area is very low, with barely 3 events in 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 2.9, so the associated risk is insignificant for structural design. However, attention should be paid to the possible presence of karst-related phenomena due to the existence of limestones and dolomites in the subsoil, making it essential to check for the absence of cavities or dissolution processes before setting the foundation depth. The absence of clayey materials rules out the risk of expansivity, so the main geotechnical consideration will be to ensure stability against any possible underground voids associated with karst.