The term “bearing capacity” refers to the soil’s ability to support loads applied to the ground. It is the maximum average contact pressure that should prevent soil shear collapse. The highest pressure that can be supported without failure is the ultimate bearing capacity.

The ultimate bearing capacity is reduced by a factor and safety results in the allowable bearing capacity. Regarding soft soil sites, substantial settlements may occasionally occur under laden foundations without shear failures. In these circumstances, Allowable bearing capacity is based on the maximum allowable settlements.

Three different failure types can contribute to bearing capacity. Three types of shear failure are: general, local, and punching. It depends on the soil’s shear strength and foundation’s shape, size, depth, type and any groundwater table.

This page is not intended to be a substitute for professional geotechnical advice and should not be relied on as geotechnical advice by individuals or other professionals to make site-specific decisions. Always seek advice from professional geotechnical engineers.