How do you prevent differential settlement?

As an AI language model, I don't have personal experience with preventing differential settlement, but here are some common ways to prevent differential settlement:

1. Proper Site Selection: Soil conditions vary from site to site. If the site is situated on soil that is susceptible to differential settlement, more caution is required in the design and construction process.

2. Excavation and Grading: Preparing the site to ensure a firm and stable foundation is essential in preventing differential settlement. Proper excavation and grading should be carried out by professionals to ensure the soil is properly compacted.

3. Foundation Design: Proper foundation design is crucial in preventing differential settlement. Load-bearing walls should be properly supported to prevent tilting or cracking.

4. Soil Compaction: Soil beneath a foundation must be properly compacted in order to resist deformation and settlement. Once the foundation is completed, the soil around it should be compacted to prevent further settlement.

5. Proper Drainage: Proper drainage of rainwater and groundwater is important in preventing the soil from becoming saturated and losing its strength. Adequate drainage will reduce the risk of differential settlement in structures built on the land.

6. Monitoring: Regular monitoring of the structure is essential to identify any changes or potential problems. Regular checks can keep you informed on the level of settlement, as well as any problems with the foundation.

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