Bridge Foundations

 

Whether the bridge will be for recreation or highway use it is important to pay attention to the foundation. Without the proper foundation the bridge may not perform properly or, more importantly, fail.

Bridge foundations must be matched to the site, the bridge superstructure and the installers capabilities. With site and soil information provided, Wheeler can offer complete foundation plans. Most bridges will be compatible with multiple foundations types. We will review the site conditions and bridge requirements to recommend an appropriate solution.

Soft soils often require deep foundations. Driven piling works well for these applications and often requires less material. All types of driven pile (timber, steel shell, steel H, etc.) can be backed and capped with treated timber or the bridge seat can be built with poured-in-place concrete.

If solid ground is found near the surface a spread footing can be built. For areas with good access, poured-in-place concrete works well. In remote locations spread footings can be built with treated timber.

It is important to review the installer’s access and equipment capabilities to ensure the chosen foundation can be built without excessive expense. Often the design can be tailored around tough site conditions.

** Wheeler bridges have been built on helical pile and with pile installed using other techniques. For these applications, all design responsibility for the piling must be provided by the installer.
 
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Concrete Foundations

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Timber Foundations

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