Figure 2.

3 – Soil Test Boring Log

As the boring is conducted, the geotechnical engineer pays particular attention to the soil
classification. Soils having similar characteristics are grouped together into a soil layer.
The engineer's interpretation of soil type and thickness is shown on the log as soil strata.
By reviewing all of the logs from a particular site, the geotechnical engineer can begin to
formulate a three dimensional picture of the subsurface conditions. This is sometimes
difficult because it involves interpreting subsurface conditions between the boreholes
without seeing the actual soil conditions and sometimes there are surprises. Geotechnical
engineering on a project is rarely complete until the Owner receives the key to the door.

The Standard Penetration Resistance (N) determined by blow counts, especially in

granular soil such as sand or gravel, is most important. In cohesive soil such as clay,
although the blow count is important, often the engineer will conduct a field test using a

Basic Geotechnical Engineering for Non-Geotechnical Engineers

©Copyright 2010 Richard P. Weber
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