Why is Florida’s Water Table a Problem for Builders? (Video)

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

WaterloggedWally asks: Why do contractors complain about Florida’s water table?

Because it complicates almost every excavation. Pools, basements, or foundations often hit groundwater after only a few feet of digging. Contractors must constantly pump water out to keep sites dry. The U.S. Geological Survey notes Florida has one of the highest average water tables in the continental U.S., especially in coastal counties. That means higher construction costs and fewer below-grade structures. It’s also why many Florida homes are built on slabs instead of basements — the environment simply won’t allow deep foundations without expensive solutions.

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Authoritative references: U.S. Geological Survey groundwater studies; Florida Building Code excavation requirements.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.