Surcharge Loads

SURCHARGE LOADS:
Surcharge loads will also impact lateral loads.They act in reverse to lateral earth pressure.

Most of the surcharge is seen towards the top of the excavation while gradually tapering off as you get deeper.

Surcharge loads will increase the unit weight of the soil, driving up the lateral earth pressures.

It is a good practice to consult a registered professional engineer to correctly calculate surcharge loads.