At Garbin GeoStructural Group (GGG), we love a challenge. Developers often come to us excited about a “great deal” they’ve scored on a piece of land—only to discover that the site has more slop than soil. In today’s market, most prime properties have already been built on. What’s left are sites that remain undeveloped either because they’re protected for preservation… or because they’re sitting on very poor ground.

That’s where we come in. Our job is to transform marginal sites into safe, buildable ground and help our clients understand the most cost-effective ways to move forward.

Shallow vs. Deep Foundations: Why It Matters

A common misconception in the industry is that poor soils automatically mean deep foundations—augercast piles, driven piles, or other expensive systems. Many assume it’s the only answer.

But here’s the truth: whenever possible, structures should remain on shallow spread foundations.

Why? Economics.

• Shallow foundations are easier to construct.
  
  
• They save significant time and labor costs.
  
  
• They avoid the unnecessary expense of deep foundations when smarter alternatives exist.
  
  

At GGG, we focus on delivering low-risk, low-cost solutions that protect our clients’ budgets while ensuring long-term performance.

The GGG Toolbox

We use a wide range of ground improvement techniques—from Rigid Inclusions to Stone Columns to Mass Soil Mixing—that allow buildings to stay on shallow foundations, even when soil conditions look unbuildable at first glance.

Every project is different. The right solution depends on soil conditions, loading requirements, and performance expectations. Our job is to evaluate, design, and deliver the best fit for each site.

Know Your Options™

That’s why we believe in our motto: Know Your Options™.

When developers, contractors, and engineers understand the tools available, they can make smarter decisions for their projects. And that’s exactly what we do at GGG—educate, design, and deliver solutions that turn problem sites into opportunities.

So, if you’ve got a site that seems unbuildable, don’t give up on it just yet. Chances are, there’s a ground improvement solution in our toolbox that can get your project out of the mud and onto solid foundations. Contact us today at Garbin GeoStructural Group to explore your options and see how we can help bring your site to life.