Geotechnical & Soils

Soil Boring and Soil Testing

Soil borings and lab testing to learn what is underground before you design or build. Typical US fees run $750 to $1,500, and most projects take 1 to 3 weeks.

Typical US fee$750 to $1,500

Typical timeline1 to 3 weeks

Permit drawingsAs needed

What the work involves

Soil borings sample the ground at depth using a drill rig, with standard penetration tests and lab tests for moisture, plasticity, gradation and strength. They are the field portion of a geotechnical investigation and can be ordered alone for smaller projects. Results drive foundation type, excavation and drainage decisions.

When you need it

Before buying land for construction
Planning a foundation or pool
Suspected fill, debris or soft soil
Groundwater depth needed

What you receive

Boring logs
Lab results
Summary letter or report

What drives the cost

HomeAdvisor lists soil boring tests at $750 to $1,500, with additional borings commonly $400 to $800 each per cost-guide reporting.

Frequently asked questions

How much does soil Boring and Soil Testing cost?

Across the US, soil Boring and Soil Testing usually costs $750 to $1,500. HomeAdvisor lists soil boring tests at $750 to $1,500, with additional borings commonly $400 to $800 each per cost-guide reporting.

How long does soil Boring and Soil Testing take?

Plan on 1 to 3 weeks from signed proposal to stamped deliverables, longer if a site visit, soil testing or a permit review cycle is involved.

Is a permit required for soil Boring and Soil Testing?

Often not on its own, but the findings frequently lead to work that does need a permit. We tell you which parts of the follow-up work your local building department will review, and can prepare those drawings too.

Will I also need a geotechnical engineer?

Sometimes. Depending on the site, soil Boring and Soil Testing can also involve a geotechnical engineer or drilling contractor. We tell you up front which other professionals your project needs and coordinate with them so the drawings agree.

Who do you provide soil Boring and Soil Testing for?

Most of our clients for this service are homeowners, developers and contractors. Describe your project and one of our engineers will reply with scope, fee and schedule.

What is an SPT blow count?

A standardized measure of soil resistance used to estimate strength and density. Low counts suggest loose or soft soils that may need special foundations.

Can a soil test be done without a drill rig?

Test pits with an excavator or hand augers work for shallow investigations. They cannot reach the depths needed for larger buildings.

How deep do borings go?

Commonly 15 to 50 ft for buildings, deeper for heavy structures. The engineer sets depths based on expected loads and site geology.

Does the boring damage my yard?

Rigs leave tire marks and small holes that are backfilled. Ask the driller about access needs and restoration.