Structural

Soil Report / Geotechnical

Structural · definition

An engineer's investigation of soil conditions guiding foundation design. Required for additions on questionable soils or significant structural changes.

Source: FHWA — Geotechnical Engineering Circular No. 5: Evaluation of Soil and Rock Properties

  • Foundation

    The structure (slab, crawl space, or basement) that transfers the building's load to the ground. Foundation condition underlies the feasi…

  • Spalling

    Concrete or masonry surface flaking off, often from freeze-thaw or corroding embedded rebar. Progressive and a structural concern if rein…

  • Slab-on-Grade

    A foundation where the concrete floor slab is poured directly on prepared ground with thickened edges. Common in warm climates; relocatin…

  • Span

    The clear distance a member bridges between supports. Span tables (or an engineer) set the size and spacing required for a given load.

  • Slab Jacking / Mudjacking

    Pumping grout or polyurethane beneath a sunken slab to lift and re-level it — common for driveways, walks, and garage floors.

  • Stamped / Sealed Drawings

    Structural drawings signed and sealed by a licensed engineer, certifying the design. Required by permit for beam sizing, wall removal, an…

  • Sistering

    Fastening a new joist/rafter alongside a damaged or undersized one to restore or add capacity. A common, code-acceptable structural repai…

  • Steel Stud

    Cold-formed metal framing used for non-combustible or tall walls. Light and straight but requires different fasteners and load detailing…

Where this term fits in a remodel

The pillar guides set terms like this one in context — what the work involves, what drives its cost, and where it sits in the sequence of a project. Pricing a specific house takes a defined scope and an on-site assessment.

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