What is the measure called that indicates how well the soil can support the weight of a house?

The measure that indicates how well the soil can support the weight of a house is known as bearing capacity. This term specifically refers to the maximum load per unit area that the soil can support without experiencing failure or excessive settlement. It plays a critical role in foundation design, helping engineers and builders determine how deep a foundation should be, the type of foundation to be used, and the load that can safely be applied to the soil.

Understanding bearing capacity ensures that structures remain stable and safe over time. It takes into account various factors, including soil composition, moisture content, and environmental conditions, which collectively affect the soil's ability to bear loads. Proper assessment of bearing capacity is essential in the construction process to avoid structural issues that may arise from inadequate soil support.