Engineering Survey - Control Points and

Monuments

1. Meaning of Control Point

A control point is a fixed, well-defined point in a survey that serves as a reference for
establishing the position of other points in a survey. Control points are used to provide accuracy
and consistency in measurements and mapping. They are typically established using high-
precision survey instruments and techniques.

Control points can be classified into two main types:

 Horizontal control points – Used for positioning and mapping coordinates (e.g., latitude
and longitude or UTM coordinates).
 Vertical control points – Used for elevation reference, usually marked with benchmarks.

These points are referenced to a coordinate system, such as:

 National or regional geodetic networks

 Local grid systems for engineering or construction projects

Control points help in reducing errors and ensuring that surveys are aligned correctly with
previous works and legal boundaries.

2. Types of Control Points

There are two major types of control points:

A. Horizontal Control Points

These points determine the planimetric (x, y) position of features. They are established using:

 Triangulation – Uses a network of triangles to determine positions.

 Trilateration – Uses measured distances to determine positions.
 GPS/GNSS Surveying – Uses satellite-based positioning systems.

Horizontal control points are crucial for mapping, land subdivision, and cadastral surveys.

B. Vertical Control Points

These points define elevation (z-value) and are used for height determination. They are
established using:

 Spirit leveling – A highly accurate leveling method using a leveling instrument and staff.
 Trigonometric leveling – Uses angles and distances to determine height differences.
 GPS/GNSS – Uses satellite data to determine elevations.

Vertical control points are essential for topographic surveys, road design, drainage systems, and
construction.

3. Importance of Control Points

Control points are fundamental in engineering and construction for several reasons:

A. Accuracy and Consistency

 Control points provide a consistent reference system to ensure all measurements are
aligned correctly.
 They minimize errors by linking surveys to a common framework.

B. Legal and Administrative Purposes

  Used for land ownership, boundary demarcation, and title deed preparation.
 Assist in resolving land disputes.

C. Engineering and Construction Applications

 Essential for large-scale infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, dams, and buildings.
 Used in geotechnical monitoring to observe land movement and subsidence.

D. Mapping and GIS

 Used in topographical surveys, digital mapping, and Geographic Information

Systems (GIS).
 Ensure accurate positioning in satellite imagery and remote sensing applications.

E. Deformation Monitoring

 Control points are used to track land or structure movement due to earthquakes,
landslides, or construction impacts.

4. Types of Monuments

A monument is a permanent marker that defines the position of a control point in the field.
Monuments vary in material and construction method based on the intended purpose and
durability.

A. Wooden Pegs

 Made from hardwood such as mahogany or eucalyptus.

 Used for temporary marking of points, especially in construction sites.
 Typically 30 cm – 60 cm long with a sharp end driven into the ground.
 Painted or flagged for visibility.
 Prone to decay, termite attack, or movement due to external forces.
B. Iron Pins (IP)

 Steel or iron rods, usually 12 mm – 25 mm in diameter and 30 cm – 60 cm long.

 Driven into the ground to provide semi-permanent markers.
 Used in land surveys, boundary demarcation, and control point marking.
 Can be used in concrete or rocky areas where wooden pegs would be impractical.
 Advantages: Durable, less susceptible to weathering.
 Disadvantages: Can rust over time, may be displaced if not secured properly.

C. Iron Pin in Concrete (IPC)

 An iron pin embedded in a concrete base for added stability and durability.
 Typically 50 cm – 1 m deep, depending on soil conditions.
 Used for permanent control points, cadastral surveys, and high-accuracy geodetic
networks.
 Markings or inscriptions are often added on the concrete for easy identification.
 Advantages: Resistant to weathering, displacement, and vandalism.
 Disadvantages: Requires more effort and time to install.

D. Iron Pin in Concrete Underground (IPCU)

 A deeply embedded iron pin in a buried concrete block, leaving only a small portion
visible.
 Provides long-term stability, ensuring the control point remains undisturbed.
 Used in areas with high human activity where surface markers could be removed or
vandalized.
 Often used in high-accuracy control networks for surveying and geodetic studies.
 Advantages:
o Very stable and durable.
o Protected from surface activities and vandalism.
 Disadvantages:
o Difficult to locate if not properly documented.
 o Installation is time-consuming and costly.

Summary Table: Types of Monuments

Monument Type Material Durability Common Use Advantages Disadvantages

Temporary Easy to install, Prone to decay,

Wooden Pegs Hardwood Low
marking inexpensive displacement

Land Durable,
Can rust, may be
Iron Pins (IP) Steel/Iron Medium demarcation, resistant to
displaced
general survey weather

Iron Pin in Iron + Permanent Strong, long- Requires more

High
Concrete (IPC) Concrete control points lasting, visible effort to install

Iron Pin in
Iron + Extremely
Concrete High-accuracy Difficult to
Buried Very High stable, tamper-
Underground geodetic control locate, expensive
Concrete proof
(IPCU)