Topographical Surveying
Do you need a topographic survey completed?
If you’re unsure please give the information below a quick read. If you have any further questions or would like an estimate please contact the professionals at RW Engineering & Surveying.
What is a Topographic Survey?
A topographic survey is a scalable map depicting features on the surface of the earth in three dimensions. The horizontal surface of the earth serves as the basis for the first two dimensions and the elevation above mean sea level serves as the third dimension. A topographic map is created in two steps. The first step is the collection of field data by surveyors using modern surveying equipment. The surveyor will use tools, such as GPS, to collect “points” on the ground. Points consist of trees, building corners, driveways, streets, sidewalk, exposed utilities, utility markings, etc. The second step is the creation of a CADD (computer-aided drafting and design) file in the computer. CADD software will import the ground points and draw a 3 dimensional map consisting of surface features and elevation contours. A completed CADD drawing serves as a 3 dimensional “base map” and is the foundational piece of information used to design improvements.
