hero image

Geotechnical Engineering Services in Augusta, GA

Licensed Geotechnical Engineers Serving the Savannah River Region

NOVA delivers geotechnical engineering services to developers, contractors, and lenders throughout Augusta and the greater Central Savannah River Area.

Get Started Today

Two construction workers in helmets and safety vests inspecting and pointing at a building site under construction.

Understanding the Importance of Geotechnical Engineering

The importance of geotechnical engineering cannot be overstated. It's the science that investigates soil and rock conditions to determine their physical and mechanical properties.

In Augusta, located at the interface of the Piedmont and Coastal Plain geologic regions, understanding these properties is crucial. Subsurface conditions in these two regions are quite different, but NOVA's team of geotechnical engineers has decades of experience working in both. Neglecting proper geotechnical analysis can lead to costly and potentially dangerous issues, including foundation failures, landslides, and settlement problems. We believe in proactive solutions, preventing problems before they arise by providing thorough site investigations and analysis.

Contact Us

Why Industry Leaders Choose NOVA

Blue line icon of a screw inside a gear representing mechanical engineering or manufacturing concept

Expert Subsurface Investigation

Our geotechnical engineers conduct thorough subsurface explorations using drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing methods tailored to Augusta's unique Fall Line conditions. We identify the transition between geological provinces, characterize soil variability, and evaluate groundwater to give you a complete picture of your site.
Blue line icon of a screw inside a gear representing mechanical engineering or manufacturing concept

Proven Foundation Design

From shallow spread footings to deep foundation systems, our foundation recommendations are grounded in local experience and rigorous analysis. We evaluate bearing capacity, settlement potential, and constructability to deliver cost-effective solutions for both Piedmont and Coastal Plain conditions.
Blue line icon of a screw inside a gear representing mechanical engineering or manufacturing concept

Construction Phase Support

Our involvement doesn't end with the report. We provide construction observation, earthwork testing, and foundation inspection services to verify that field conditions match our recommendations and your project is built as designed.

The Principles of Geotechnical Engineering

Our approach at NOVA is rooted in the core principles of geotechnical engineering. We carefully analyze soil and rock mechanics, groundwater conditions, and seismic activity to inform our recommendations. This involves:

Aerial view of construction site with trucks, excavators, conveyor belt, and dirt piles during earthmoving work

1. Site Investigation

Comprehensive field and laboratory testing to gather accurate data. Our drilling crews and field engineers understand the transition from Piedmont to Coastal Plain conditions and adjust techniques as required.

Hands holding and examining small brown chunks of soil or rock with jars in the background in a lab

2. Soil Mechanics

Understanding the behavior of soils under various loads and environmental conditions. Augusta's Fall Line location means encountering both clay-rich Piedmont residual soils and sandy Coastal Plain deposits, each with distinct properties.
Aerial view of a building foundation construction site with wooden framework and concrete footings on cleared soil.

3. Foundation Design Recommendations

Developing stable and efficient foundation systems tailored to the specific site conditions. We evaluate foundation alternatives appropriate for whichever geological province, or combination, your site encounters.
Grassy hill with patches of exposed soil under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.

4. Slope Stability Analysis

Evaluating and mitigating the risk of landslides and slope failures. The Fall Line's elevation changes and variable soil conditions require careful slope assessment for safe development.
Green excavator loading dirt into a dump truck at a construction site with cranes in the background

5. Earthwork Design

Ensuring proper compaction and stability of earth structures. We provide recommendations for working with both clay-rich Piedmont soils and sandy Coastal Plain materials.

Our Complete Suite of Services

NOVA's Augusta, Georgia geotechnical engineering firm will leave no stone unturned when it comes to investigating the ground you wish to build upon, providing you with the following services to meet your project's unique needs:

  • Preliminary and final subsurface explorations
  • Foundation, earthwork, and settlement analysis
  • Geological hazard assessments
  • Site characterization studies
  • Groundwater evaluation and dewatering recommendations
  • Seismic assessments
  • Pavement design
  • Shallow, intermediate, and deep foundation system evaluation
  • Retaining wall, shoring/bracing analyses
  • Slope stability and embankment analysis
  • Floor slab recommendations

Accredited Laboratory Analysis

Diligent laboratory analysis is the cornerstone of any geotechnical engineering project. NOVA Engineering's labs meet ASTM D-3666, E-329, and C-1077 standards. In addition, we participate in AASHTO's Materials Reference Laboratory Sample Reference Proficiency Program. We ensure our laboratory tests meet strict requirements for soil, rock, and groundwater analysis.

Get in Touch

Built on Trust, Expertise & Proven Results

NOVA Engineering strives to exceed expectations. Let us become your trusted partner for all your geotechnical needs.

Construction worker wearing orange safety vest using tablet on site with heavy machinery in background at sunset

Geotechnical Engineering Challenges and Solutions

Augusta's unique environmental conditions present specific geotechnical challenges. The Fall Line location means projects may encounter dramatically different subsurface conditions, from Piedmont crystalline rocks and clay soils to Coastal Plain sandy deposits, sometimes within the same site. We've seen these challenges firsthand and have developed proven solutions.

  • Addressing Fall Line transitions with thorough subsurface exploration that identifies where geological provinces change on your site.
  • Mitigating variable soil conditions with foundation designs that account for both clay-rich Piedmont soils and sandy Coastal Plain materials.
  • Solving differential settlement concerns through detailed analysis of how different soil types behave where geological provinces meet.

Geotechnical Engineering Grounded in Knowledge of Augusta, GA

James Brown Arena exterior with signage, box office, and entrance canopies on a clear day.

James Brown Arena

NOVA performed a geotechnical study for this new arena in downtown Augusta by the project construction manager. This signature project include demolition of an existing stadium, and construction of an approximately 85,000 square foot, 10,000 seat facility.

Amazon warehouse building with parking lot, cars, tents, and green grassy foreground under cloudy sky.

Amazon Distribution Center

NOVA performed a geotechnical peer review of work performed by others on the site of a new 600,000 square foot distribution center. Our work was performed for the project developer.

Two students sit by a large water fountain on a brick path outside a modern university building on a cloudy day

J-311 Augusta University College of Science and Math

NOVA performed construction phase geotechnical services for this 125,000 square foot classroom, working for the project architect and State of Georgia.

Aerial view of a large highway interchange and surrounding urban and industrial areas on a clear day.

5th Runway 10-28, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

This 9,000-foot runway has been called “the most important runway in America.” It averages more than 100,000 landings and takeoffs per year.

View Project Details
Ponce City Market historic brick building with cyclists and motorcyclist on street in vibrant urban setting

Ponce City Market

Our geotechnical engineering services for the renovation of this 100-year-old, 12 level, 2 million square foot project include remediation of environmentally impacted soils and groundwater.

View Project Details

Ready to Build on Solid Ground?

Don't let geological uncertainties derail your projects. At NOVA, we deliver expert geotechnical engineering solutions tailored to Augusta's unique geological challenges. Whether you're planning a residential construction or a complex infrastructure project, our team is here to help you address the challenges of soil and rock conditions with confidence.

Contact Us Today

Frequently Asked Questions

What is geotechnical engineering?
Geotechnical engineering is a civil engineering discipline focused on the behavior of soil, rock, and groundwater and how these materials affect construction projects. Geotechnical engineers investigate subsurface conditions, analyze soil properties, and provide recommendations for foundations, earthwork, retaining structures, and slope stability. Their work helps ensure buildings, bridges, and infrastructure are supported safely and cost-effectively.
What does a geotechnical investigation include?
A typical geotechnical investigation includes drilling soil borings, collecting soil and rock samples, performing in-situ tests such as Standard Penetration Tests, evaluating groundwater conditions, and conducting laboratory analysis. The investigation concludes with an engineering report providing site characterization, foundation recommendations, earthwork guidance, and construction considerations tailored to your project.
How do you determine the appropriate foundation type for my project?

Our process begins with a thorough site investigation, including soil borings and comprehensive laboratory testing to analyze the subsurface conditions. By evaluating the soil's bearing capacity, settlement characteristics, and groundwater influences, we tailor our recommendations to your project's specific needs. This ensures the selection of a foundation type that guarantees long-term stability and performance, mitigating potential risks and optimizing structural integrity.

What measures do you take to prevent landslides and slope failures?
We conduct detailed slope stability analyses, considering factors like soil strength, slope geometry, and prevailing groundwater conditions, to accurately assess potential risks. Based on these analyses, we recommend and implement appropriate stabilization measures, which may include retaining walls, soil nailing, or precise slope regrading. These interventions enhance the inherent stability of the slope, protecting your project and surrounding areas from potential failures.
How do you ensure the accuracy of your geotechnical data?
We use state-of-the-art equipment and adhere to rigorous testing protocols to guarantee the precision and reliability of our geotechnical data. Our engineers thoroughly analyze the results, providing actionable insights that form the foundation of our recommendations. We know that accurate data is paramount for informed decision-making, and we strive for excellence and integrity in every aspect of our data collection and analysis processes.