Causes of Failure of Foundations

Various caused by the failure of the foundation are as under :

1)The bearing pressure at the base may exceed the allowing bearing capacity of the soil.

2)Unequal settlement of the sub-soil.

3)Unequal settlement of the masonry.

4)Shrinkage of soil below foundation due to the withdrawal of water from it.

5)Overturning of the structure due to lateral pressure.

6)Lateral escape of soil below foundation.

7)Atmospheric action.