08/04/2026
In construction, digging is not just about removing dirt—it’s about reaching "firm ground." If you stop too shallow, your house may shift; if you go unnecessarily deep, you waste money.
At Pacy Vista Ltd, we don't guess the depth. We let the structure and the soil tell us where to stop.
How Deep Should You Go?
1. The Soil Factor
Not all ground is created equal. In some areas, firm soil is just 600mm to 900mm (2-3 feet) down. However, if we encounter "loose" soil or swampy terrain, we must dig until we hit a stable strata. Building on "made-up" ground (loose topsoil) is the fastest way to see cracks in your walls within a year.
2. The Load Factor
- Bungalows: Generally require a standard strip foundation depth of about 900mm, provided the soil is firm.
- Storey Buildings (Duplexes): The weight increases significantly. We often go deeper or utilize Raft Foundations, where the excavation covers the entire footprint of the building to distribute weight evenly.
3. The Water Table
If we hit water early during excavation, the depth strategy changes immediately. We adjust to ensure the foundation is protected from moisture "wicking" up into your blocks.
We excavate until we reach the "virgin" soil—the earth that hasn't been disturbed for decades. It’s the only way to ensure that when we lay the first layer of concrete (the blinding), it stays exactly where we put it.
Don’t let a shallow foundation cut the lifespan of your dream home short.
Are you about to start your excavation? Let our engineers help you determine the perfect depth for your site.
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