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Geotechnical Engineering Firm in Orlando, FL

Geotechnical Engineers Serving Orlando and Central Florida

NOVA Engineering is a geotechnical engineering firm serving Orlando and Central Florida from our Altamonte Springs office. We provide site investigations, foundation engineering, sinkhole evaluation, and construction materials testing for commercial and institutional projects.

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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 Orlando, understanding these properties is crucial given the region's position straddling two distinct geological regions: the Atlantic Coastal Plain and the Brooksville Ridge. This means soil properties, water tables, and potential geohazards can vary significantly even within city limits. Neglecting proper geotechnical analysis can lead to costly and potentially dangerous issues, including foundation failures, sinkhole development, and settlement problems. We believe in proactive solutions, preventing problems before they arise by providing thorough site investigations and analysis.

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Why Industry Leaders Choose NOVA

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Expert Subsurface Investigation

Our geotechnical engineers conduct thorough subsurface explorations using drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing methods tailored to Orlando's karst conditions. We identify soil variability, locate the depth to limestone, characterize potential karst features, and evaluate groundwater to give you a complete picture of your site.

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, sinkhole risk, and constructability to deliver cost-effective solutions for Central Florida's variable subsurface conditions.
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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:

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1. Site Investigation

Comprehensive field and laboratory testing to gather accurate data. Our drilling crews and field engineers understand the nuances of Orlando's geology, including the transition from sandy surficial soils to underlying limestone and the identification of potential karst features.
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2. Soil Mechanics

Understanding the behavior of soils under various loads and environmental conditions. Orlando's sandy soils and their interaction with underlying limestone require specialized knowledge of their unique properties, including loose surface sands and variable density conditions.
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3. Foundation Design Recommendations

Developing stable and efficient foundation systems tailored to the specific site conditions. We evaluate shallow foundations, mat foundations, and deep foundation alternatives including auger-cast piles and driven piles to deliver cost-effective solutions for Orlando's variable limestone depths.
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4. Slope Stability Analysis

Evaluating and mitigating the risk of sinkhole development and karst-related ground subsidence. Central Florida's covered karst terrain requires careful assessment using ground penetrating radar, standard penetration testing, and other investigative methods to identify potential hazards.
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5. Earthwork Design

Ensuring proper compaction and stability of earth structures. We provide recommendations for site grading, fill placement, subgrade preparation, and dewatering strategies for Orlando's sandy soil and high groundwater conditions.

Our Complete Suite of Services

NOVA's Orlando, Florida 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

Foundation Engineering for Central Florida Soils

We evaluate shallow and deep foundation options and ground improvement for karst-influenced and soft soils, and we account for the high, seasonally variable groundwater found near the region's lakes and wetlands.

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.

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Built on Trust, Expertise & Proven Results

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

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Geotechnical Engineering Challenges and Solutions

Orlando's unique geological conditions present specific geotechnical challenges. The covered karst terrain features sandy soils over limestone with potential solution features, variable rock depths, and high groundwater conditions that can affect foundation performance. We've seen these challenges firsthand and have developed proven solutions.

  • Addressing karst and sinkhole concerns with thorough subsurface exploration including ground penetrating radar surveys and closely-spaced borings to identify solution features, raveling zones, and soft ground conditions before construction begins.
  • Managing variable limestone conditions with foundation designs that account for the irregular rock surface typical of Central Florida's karst terrain, including appropriate deep foundation systems where shallow foundations are not suitable.
  • Solving groundwater and dewatering challenges through detailed hydrogeological analysis and dewatering recommendations for excavations in Orlando's high water table environment, particularly in areas near lakes and wetlands.

Geotechnical Engineering Grounded in Knowledge of Orlando, FL

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J-327 Georgia State University, Convocation Center

Client: GSFIC c/o The S/L/A/M Collaborative The new 131,729 GSF Georgia State University Convocation Center is located in the east-central…

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Children's Healthcare of Atlanta North Druid Hills Campus

Project: Children's Healthcare of Atlanta - North Druid Hills Campus in Brookhaven Client: Winstead/DaVinci Development Collaborative, LLC The 70-acre Children’s…

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760 Ralph McGill Mixed-Use Development

Project: 760 Ralph McGill, Atlanta, GA - Mixed-Use Development Client: Ralph McGill Angier, LLC; RMA Office 1, LLC/RMA Residences One,…

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Truist Park and Mixed-Use Development

Client: Braves Construction Company, LLC NOVA is providing geotechnical and materials testing services for the new Atlanta Braves Ballpark, parking…

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Ready to Build on Solid Ground?

Don't let geological uncertainties derail your projects. At NOVA, we deliver expert geotechnical engineering solutions tailored to Orlando's unique geological challenges. Whether you're planning a hospitality development, commercial construction, or infrastructure project along the I-4 corridor, our team is here to help you address the challenges of Central Florida's karst terrain with confidence.

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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.