Ground improvement
Stone Columns
More balanced foundation behaviour on weak ground.
Method overview
More balanced foundation behaviour on weak ground.
Stone columns improve the ground by forming compacted granular columns within the soil. The soil and columns work together to increase bearing capacity, limit settlement and reduce liquefaction risk under suitable conditions.
Bearing capacity
Foundation performance is improved by assessing the columns and soil together.
Settlement control
The aim is to keep total and differential settlement within design limits.
Ground-specific solution
Column spacing and installation method are selected for the soil properties.
STONE COLUMNS
Installation stages
Ground assessment
The soil profile, groundwater and improvement objectives are established.
Design layout
Column depths, spacing and installation points follow the project design.
Granular column installation
Crushed stone is introduced into the soil with suitable equipment and compacted in stages.
Inspection and completion
Construction records and the verification tests specified in the design are assessed.
Applications
- Industrial facilities and warehouse sites
- Fill areas and transport infrastructure
- Building and energy facility foundations in suitable ground conditions
Quality and site control
Column depth, material consumption and compaction are monitored. Soil and column behaviour are assessed through the field tests specified in the design. Suitability requires particular review in very soft or organic soils.
Frequently asked questions
Is a stone column a reinforced concrete pile?
No. A stone column consists of compacted granular material and works with the surrounding soil as a ground improvement system.
Does it eliminate liquefaction risk completely?
The outcome depends on soil properties, seismic effects and design. Performance cannot be guaranteed generally without a project-specific analysis.
Every sound project starts with the right foundation.
Contact Geofond to assess the ground investigation, structural loads and site requirements together.