Settlement vs. Subsidence: Difference and Comparison
By Muazma Batool & Muneeza Rehman — Published on April 7, 2024
Settlement refers to the natural process where ground or structures sink due to the soil compacting over time, while subsidence is the sudden sinking or gradual downward settling of the earth's surface due to underground material movement.
Difference Between Settlement and Subsidence
Settlement occurs as a result of the weight of the built structure on the soil, causing the soil particles to compact and the structure to sink evenly. It is a predictable process that engineers account for during the design and construction phases, ensuring buildings can accommodate or withstand this gradual movement without significant damage. Subsidence, however, can be caused by various factors such as the extraction of underground resources (like water, oil, or minerals), natural occurrences like earthquakes, or the erosion of underground limestone by water flow.
Muazma Batool
Apr 07, 2024
Settlement is considered a normal phenomenon, particularly in new constructions, as the weight of the building causes the soil beneath to adjust and compact. Unlike settlement, subsidence can be unpredictable and may occur suddenly, posing significant risks to structures and requiring immediate attention to mitigate damage.
Muazma Batool
Apr 07, 2024
Both processes involve the downward movement of the ground surface, but the causes, implications, and methods of mitigation differ significantly. Settlement is an expected and manageable aspect of construction and soil mechanics, while subsidence is a more complex and potentially hazardous issue that can impact the stability and safety of structures and land.
Muazma Batool
Apr 07, 2024
Settlement vs. Subsidence Comparison Chart
Cause
Weight of structures causing soil compaction
Extraction of underground resources, natural occurrences, erosion
Muazma Batool
Apr 07, 2024
Impact
Generally minor and accounted for in design
Can cause significant structural damage
Muazma Batool
Apr 07, 2024
Mitigation
Design and construction techniques to accommodate movement
Addressing the underlying cause, structural repairs
Nolan
Apr 07, 2024
Examples
New buildings settling after construction
Sinkholes, damage from mining activities
Muazma Batool
Apr 07, 2024
Settlement vs. Subsidence Definitions
◉Settlement
Natural sinking of structures as soil compacts under weight.
The new skyscraper experienced settlement, as expected, within the first year without structural harm.
Muazma Batool
Feb 22, 2024
◉Subsidence
Sinking of the earth's surface due to underground activity.
Subsidence caused by coal mining left visible cracks in the roadway.
Muazma Batool
Feb 22, 2024
◉Settlement
Common in new constructions.
Slight settlement cracks in the basement walls were filled as part of routine maintenance.
Henry
Feb 22, 2024
◉Subsidence
Requires intervention to mitigate damage.
Engineers injected concrete under the foundation to stabilize the building after subsidence.
Muazma Batool
Feb 22, 2024
◉Settlement
Managed through construction techniques.
The use of pilings prevented significant settlement issues in the marshy land.
Elijah
Feb 22, 2024
◉Subsidence
Can result from natural or human-induced causes.
Over-extraction of groundwater led to subsidence, affecting local infrastructure.
Muazma Batool
Feb 22, 2024
◉Settlement
Considered in architectural design.
The building's flexible joints counteract potential damage from settlement.
Muazma Batool
Feb 22, 2024
◉Subsidence
Often leads to uneven ground movement.
A sinkhole opened in the neighborhood park due to limestone erosion, a clear sign of subsidence.
Olivia
Feb 22, 2024
◉Settlement
Even and predictable downward movement.
Engineers designed the foundation to accommodate settlement over time.
Muazma Batool
Feb 22, 2024
◉Subsidence
Not typically planned for in initial construction.
Unexpected subsidence required extensive retrofitting of the bridge to ensure safety.
Elijah
Feb 22, 2024
Settlement vs. Subsidence Frequently Asked Questions
Are there insurance policies that cover damage from subsidence?
Yes, some insurance policies cover subsidence damage, but the specifics depend on the policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. It's important to check with your insurer.
Muazma Batool
Apr 07, 2024
How can I tell if my house is affected by settlement or subsidence?
Look for signs like uneven floors, doors or windows that stick, and diagonal cracks near windows or doors for subsidence. Uniform, small cracks might indicate settlement.
Muazma Batool
Apr 07, 2024
Is settlement a sign of poor construction?
Not necessarily. Settlement is a natural process, especially in new buildings. However, excessive settlement could indicate inadequate soil testing or foundation design.
Muazma Batool
Apr 07, 2024
Can subsidence be prevented?
While not all subsidence can be prevented, risks can be minimized by avoiding the over-extraction of underground resources and ensuring proper water drainage away from buildings.
Muazma Batool
Apr 07, 2024
How are buildings designed to handle settlement?
Buildings are designed with foundations deep enough to reach stable soil and with materials that can accommodate minor movements without damage.
Leo
Apr 07, 2024
Can landscaping cause subsidence?
Yes, improper landscaping that affects drainage can lead to soil erosion or changes in soil moisture levels, potentially causing subsidence.
Nolan
Apr 07, 2024
What should I do if I notice signs of subsidence?
Consult a structural engineer or geotechnical expert to assess the situation and recommend solutions, as ignoring subsidence can lead to serious structural damage.
William
Apr 07, 2024
Is it more expensive to repair subsidence compared to settlement?
Generally, yes, because subsidence can involve more complex and extensive repairs, including underpinning or structural reinforcement, to address the uneven ground movement.
Muazma Batool
Apr 07, 2024
How long does it take for settlement to occur?
Settlement typically occurs within the first few years after construction, but the exact timeline can vary based on soil type, structure weight, and construction quality.
Leo
Apr 07, 2024
What role does soil testing play in preventing settlement and subsidence issues?
Soil testing before construction helps determine the soil's bearing capacity and water content, allowing engineers to design foundations that minimize risks of settlement and subsidence.
Olivia
Apr 07, 2024
Content Creators
Written by
Muazma BatoolAs a content editor, Muazma Batool is not just a grammar guru but a creative mastermind who breathes life into every word. With an eagle eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she transforms bland text into engaging content that captivates audiences and drives results.
Co-written by
Muneeza RehmanAt Comparisons.wiki, Muneeza skillfully navigates the vast sea of information, ensuring clarity and accuracy as the lead content editor. With a keen eye for detail, she curates every comparison to enlighten and engage readers.
