Geotechnical Engineering

Houston-based Coastal Testing Laboratories provides comprehensive Geotechnical Engineering services for developers, builders, and municipalities across Southeast Texas. From soil classification and strength analysis to full design recommendations, our in-house engineers and field technicians deliver the reliable subsurface data needed to support safe, cost-effective foundation and pavement systems that are ready for construction.

Subsurface Investigation

CTL conducts geotechnical subsurface investigations using in-house drilling crews and a fleet of truck-mounted and track-mounted drilling rigs. Prior to drilling, CTL reviews available geologic and groundwater information and applies local experience to plan the exploration and select appropriate drilling methods. Field investigations are then performed to collect representative soil and groundwater data in support of geotechnical evaluations.

  • Site Assessment & Feasibility – Pre-construction reviews for development planning.
  • Groundwater Monitoring – Piezometer installation and water table analysis.
  • Soil Sampling – Shelby tube and split-spoon sampling for accurate strata logging.
  • Permeability Testing – Field testing for drainage and retention design.

Laboratory Soil Analysis

CTL provides geotechnical laboratory testing services for soils, concrete, asphalt, and aggregates. Testing is performed in our laboratory to characterize material properties and provide laboratory data in support of engineering evaluation, design, and construction activities.

  • Soil Classification – Detailed analysis per ASTM and TxDOT standards.
  • Moisture density testing to determine soil compaction and stability.  
  • Atterberg Limits & Grain Size – Determining plasticity and particle distribution.
  • Strength & Consolidation – Triaxial shear and unconfined compression testing.
  • Expansive Soil Analysis – Identification of potential swell/shrink risks.

Engineering Design & Reporting

Geotechnical services are supported by CTL’s in-house laboratory and in-house drilling operations, enabling coordination between field, laboratory, and engineering personnel.
Engineering reports are prepared by experienced engineers and provide project-specific evaluations and recommendations based on field observations, laboratory testing, and engineering analysis to support design and construction. Considerations.

  • Foundation Design – Our experienced engineers are knowledgeable in all types of structures with shallow or deep foundations tailored to the project needs
  • Pavement Subgrade – Design for flexible (asphalt) and rigid (concrete) systems.
  • Ground Improvement – Solutions for lime/cement stabilization and moisture control.
  • Sealed Engineer Reports – Comprehensive reporting for permitting and construction.

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