FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What types of services do you offer?
ProtechGeo offers a range of geotechnical engineering and consulting services that cater to companies and projects of all sizes. These include Materials Testing, Construction Lab Testing, Construction Field Testing, and Residential Engineering. More information about each of these services can be found here.
What types of industries do you work with?
Our team has specialized experience working with a wide range of industries including oil & gas, energy & power companies, commercial, industrial, and residential development, municipal planning projects, transportation, and more. For a full list of the industries we serve, click here.
What are the benefits of geotechnical consulting services?
Working with a reputable geotechnical engineer ensures that your residential, commercial, or industrial construction project adheres to all applicable safety and building standards. Other significant benefits include access to a range of services to suit your project needs, a wealth of knowledge on testing and reporting methodologies, accurate land quality assessments to help your team make well-informed business decisions, and expert recommendations for land remediation requirements to minimize risks and project costs.
Why is geotechnical engineering support important for my project?
The geology of a build site is often the most important aspect of a project to be considered…from the soil composition to the terrain and incline of the area itself. These factors will impact which materials are used and the procedures are followed, how well they will weather in the current environment, and steps that must be taken to ensure the safety of those involved with the construction initially as well as future users of the space or project.
Which regions do you offer your services in?
Our head office is located in Edmonton, Alberta, and we currently serve clients in B.C., Alberta, and Saskatchewan.
What payment methods do you accept?
Cheque, credit card, e-transfer, or direct deposit payments.
What email can be used for an e-transfer payment?
Please send e-transfer payments to accounting@protechgeo.com and reference the invoice(s) # in the message box.
Where are you located?
6036 Gateway Blvd NW, Edmonton, AB
Who can I talk to, to schedule a test?
To schedule testing, please call 780-340-0658.
Do you charge service fees to process a credit card?
No, we do not charge any additional fees to pay with a credit card.
Do you accept all credit cards?
We accept Visa, Mastercard & Amex.
Residential Structures
Do I need a structural engineer for the construction of new houses, duplexes, detached garages, or garden suites?
Yes. A structural engineer designs your foundation, framing, beams, and tall walls according to the National Building Code of Canada 2023 (AE). An engineering package is required to apply for a construction permit.
Can you help with building permit applications?
Yes. We provide stamped structural drawings and letters required for permit approval from the city or municipality.
What type of foundations do you design for residential projects?
We review the geotechnical report and soil bearing inspections to design the suitable foundation type—strip footings, piles, or slab—based on soil strength, frost depth, and site conditions.
Can you provide structural letters for exterior cladding like stucco or manufactured stone?
Yes. We issue stamped letters and details confirming cladding meets code and manufacturer specs.
Can you help with renovations, like removing load-bearing walls or widening window openings?
Absolutely. We assess whether the wall is load-bearing and design appropriate beams/headers (wood or steel) and supports.
Do you assist with adding a side entrance, new windows, or a basement walkout?
Yes. We design the necessary structural modifications, such as lintels, foundation alterations, and waterproofing details.
What is the process for getting a structural design?
We typically start with architectural drawings (blueprints) or site visits, then conduct analysis, stamped drawings, and letters for permit submission.
How long will it take to get engineering design reports/packages for houses, duplexes, or multiplexes?
For a typical standard house/duplex/3–4 plex, the design will be ready in two (2) business days. Contact us if you require faster service.
How much do structural engineering services cost?
Fees depend on project size and complexity. Payment may be requested upfront before delivering reports, as per company policy.
Does ProtechGeo deal with Stop Work Orders issued by the City for unsafe excavations?
Yes, ProtechGeo can recommend solutions.
Does ProtechGeo conduct site inspections to assist builders?
Yes, we conduct structural inspections for new and existing residential projects.
Geotechnical Site Investigations
Piling – what is a shop drawing?
It is a set of plans and pile designs from the installer, typically with piles already numbered.
Can I use my own machine to do a drilling job?
No. We use certified drillers with calibrated equipment for the Standard Penetration Test (SPT). They are well trained and efficient.
Can I determine the number of boreholes required on a project?
Yes, but our engineers will confirm and ensure adequate site coverage with proper depth and location, depending on the proposed structures.
How much will a geotechnical site investigation cost?
Costs depend on project specifics, including number/depth of boreholes and requirements.
Do you provide Slope Stability Assessments?
Yes, we also provide setback analysis.
Do we have to drill that deep?
Sometimes deeper drilling is necessary to obtain reliable results, depending on structure type and site location.
Do we really need utility locates?
Yes. Alberta One Call is free and required before breaking ground. Private locates may also be required depending on site conditions.
What is the difference between Alberta One Call locates and Private Locates?
- Alberta One Call (public utilities): Utilities installed by providers (e.g., gas line up to the meter).
- Private Locates (private utilities): Utilities installed beyond the property line by a private contractor (e.g., connections from the meter to the house/building)