Buried foundations can create a costly obstacle when developing a brownfield site. Whether the footings of a demolished modern structure, or the buried walls of a Medieval house, unknown buried foundations can delay a project or even halt the works altogether.
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Historic plans exist for many sites, but there is often no record of how much of the foundations remain, or indeed how much has been removed by a previous contractor! Knowing about this risk at design stage should improve both the profitability and delivery timescale of your project.
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From small private sites, to operational car parks and active construction sites, SUMO has an approach that can help. Using combined methodologies, a survey programme can be designed to give you the best information about your site in the most cost-effective way.
Ground Conductivity
On large sites, a Ground Conductivity Survey may be suitable. Penetrating up to 4m depth and collecting up to 1ha per day, this methodology can inform design works and/or enable anomalies to be targeted with higher resolution techniques such as GPR.
Above : Ground Conductivity data in plan view, together with a basic Interpretation.
The Ground Conductivity data above, which was conducted at former gas works, revealed two extensive blocks of foundations, measuring approximately 35m x 10m. The in-phase (metal detecting) data shows a marked level of activity. This suggests the foundations may contain structural steelwork or heavy reinforcing.
Around the easterly foundation is a marked "halo" of lower conductivity readings. This is a possible pollution plume that may be associated with the former use of the site as a gas works.
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
The most suitable technique on smaller and/or urban sites is Ground penetrating Radar (GPR). This is a higher resolution technique which offers depth information, measuring to the top of the foundation, and allows the data to be analysed in plan or section view.
Above : Section view of GPR, showing a large anomaly which is likely to be the remains of a substantial foundation at 1m depth.
GPR data can be collected using High Density Radar. These systems provide high resolution data, collecting traverses every 8cm, which allows detailed plan views of the site to be displayed at various depths. Tracked by a robotic total station, the data can be positioned accurately to OS or the client’s grid. Additionally, instant 3D pictures can be produced on site.
Above : Timeslice (plan view) of a Roman Villa collected with High Density GPR.
Detailed magnetic Survey
Magnetic survey can also be a useful tool to locate buried foundation. In the example below, Magnetic survey proved to be the most successful of three techniques employed on site. The survey detected three rectilinear shaped anomalies (M3, M5 and M6) that are clearly suggestive of buried foundations. M1 is likely to be a pipe.
Above : Example Magnetic survey data, showing three sets of foundations.
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How accurate is SUMO's underground utility survey and what types of utilities can it locate?Using cutting-edge technologies like electro-magnetics, signal induced threading, and Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR), our underground utility surveys accurately detect a wide array of buried utilities including metal and plastic pipes, drainage systems, electricity cables, telecoms, and fiber optic cables. The methodology ensures high accuracy without the need for invasive trial holes.
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What is the turnaround time for obtaining results with SUMO's Underground Utility Detection service?SUMO’s service is built for rapid response. Contractors can receive immediate results onsite. Our equipment provides real-time information, and once we leave the site, the detected utilities are visibly marked on the ground surface for quick reference.
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Does SUMO provide detailed mapping of the detected utilities for permanent records or construction purposes?Absolutely, SUMO not only marks the detected utilities on-site but also offers high-quality, color-coded survey drawings. These drawings can include topographic features and a comprehensive record of the utility detection survey, ensuring it meets the client’s needs for future reference or pre-construction design works.
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Topographical and Geophysical surveyIn addition to mapping out utilities, our experience team can accurately survey the land, creating topographical drawings for use. With our state-of-the-art aerial technology, nothing is missed.
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What additional information can be included in the underground utility mapping service provided by SUMO?In addition to topographic features, SUMO’s mapping service can include fixed surface utility features such as inspection chambers, valve boxes, and telegraph poles. It can also incorporate key topographic details like building lines, fence lines, kerb lines, street furniture, street names, building names, and house numbers, facilitating easy site location.
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Does the utility mapping service by SUMO include standard referencing and compatibility with existing survey data?Yes, SUMO ensures the utility mapping references the ordnance survey grid and level datum as standard. Additionally, the drawings can be supplied to a specified grid and level datum and can overlay an existing topographical survey, making it a versatile and adaptable service for various project needs.
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What sets SUMO Services apart from other survey providers?SUMO stands out due to our impeccable level of service with nationwide coverage, state-of-the-art equipment, and our commitment to delivering top-quality, detailed colour-coded survey drawings in both hard and electronic formats.
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How do I request a survey quotation from SUMO Services?Requesting a quotation is easy. Just click on the "Request a Survey Quotation" button on this page, and our team will get in touch with you promptly.
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Can I book a SUMO Survey online?Yes, you can! Simply click on the "Book a SUMO Survey" button on this page, and you can schedule your survey with us at your convenience.
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What type of survey is suitable for my project or site?Our experienced team will work with you to determine the most appropriate survey for your specific needs. Contact us, and we'll assist you in making the right choice.
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Can I obtain both digital and hard copies of survey drawings?Absolutely. We offer the convenience of electronic copies for digital use and hard copies for your records. Just let us know your preference.
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Do you provide custom survey solutions for unique projects?Yes, we understand that every project is unique. Our team is highly adaptable and can tailor our surveying services to meet your specific requirements.
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How do I get in touch with SUMO Services for further questions?For any additional questions or inquiries, feel free to contact us through the contact form, and our dedicated team will assist you promptly.
Geophysical Engineering Surveys
Air Raid Shelters
Cellars & Basements
Post Tension Cables
Underground Storage Tanks
Air Voids
Chimney Flues
Rebar
Water Engineering
Badger Setts
Earthing Installations
Sinkholes
Burials
Geological Application
Soil Thermal Resistivity Testing
Buried Foundations
Landfills
Structural Investigations
Buried Manholes
Mineshafts
