Topic: SITE PREPARATION AND SETTING  Site Investigation

OUT This is done to know the kind of foundation

Learning Objective: that will be laid on the site.
 Define site preparation and setting
out SETTING OUT
 Mention the tools used in site Setting out involves using the building plans
preparation and their uses. to make sure the building is built in the right
 Discuss the various operations in site place on the site, setting out and digging
preparation. the foundation trenches ready for the
foundation concrete to be thrown.
Keywords: excavation, timbering, trenches, Tools used include: wooden pegs, nails,
setting out. lines, measuring tape, sledgehammer,
builder’s square, Theodolite, level
Site preparation involves getting a site
ready for building or construction. This Setting out also involves excavating the soil
involves clearing the site of unwanted and timbering in readiness for the
vegetation, rocks, and debris, and even foundation.
demolishing and removing the rubble from
an existing building. (i) Timbering: This is the use of timber to
It may also involve levelling the site with support the vertical sides of a trench to
heavy machinery. avoid collapse.
STAGES IN SITE PREPARATION (ii) Excavation: This is the digging up of
 Site Clearing earth to a required depth, width and length.
This involves the removal of existing This can be done both manually and
structures on the site. It also consists of the mechanically
removal of trees and other biological
structures. The site should be cleared of
tree stumps, large stones, ant hills etc.
 Site Surveying
A surveyor carries this out. The surveyor will
help you to know where it can be used for
construction
 Soil Testing
Not all soils support building construction.
Soils should be tested to know the
properties of the soil on the site.
 Plan Design
This is the stage where the architect
provides a model of how the building will
look like