Geotechnical study in Las Valeras

In Las Valeras, the main geological substrate corresponds to slates and schists, materials that predominate widely in the area. These rock formations, although they may show some degree of fracturing, usually provide good overall bearing capacity for building foundations, enabling direct solutions on rock or with shallow anchors in most cases. However, it is essential to carefully analyse the presence of residual or altered soils over the bedrock, and their possible interaction with aquifers given the high permeability and productivity of these formations, which is a key aspect when planning any foundation and providing suitable drainage.

Seismicity in the municipality is moderate, with 40 events recorded over the last thirty years, although the maximum magnitude of 4.1 does not imply exceptional requirements beyond the usual seismic design regulations in the region. It is important to highlight the local existence of expansive clays, especially in certain areas under climatic influence, which represents a considerable risk for the structure due to the volumetric variability of these materials; therefore, this factor constitutes the main geotechnical constraint and must be given special attention in any geotechnical study in order to avoid damage caused by swelling.