When building a structure, like a house or a garage, the soil stabilization is important to ensure the area can hold the weight of the project.
Soil stabilization is a good solution to ensure problems don't arise later. This process improves the strength of soil parameters and increases its capacity to bear weight. This process is also used in road construction.
Best Soil To Build A Foundation
When choosing a location to build, an area with loam is ideal. Loam soil consists of sand, silt, and clay. This combination works together to create the ideal balance for foundation support. This type of soil doesn't shrink, expand, or shift and also handles water well.
Other soils may require stabilization to ensure the strength needed to provide adequate support. Building a home on soft soil may lead to damage later.
What Soils To Avoid For Construction
While loam is ideal, other soils are not. There are some soils that you should avoid building a house on.
A home's foundation needs a stable and strong soil. If the soil is not supportive of the home's weight, you can expect the foundation to sink, crack, or even fall. It is important that soil remains stable through rainy periods.
Types of Soil Stabilization
Depending on the reason for the needed strength and the type of soil, there are different types of soil stabilization.
Chemical stabilization: This is the process of adding secondary materials to existing soil to alter its density, strength, and performance. This can include the use of lime, fly ash, or cement, depending on the weakness.
Mechanical stabilization: This is the process of using external force or reinforcement for soil stabilization. This could include rolling or pounding the existing soil to increase the solidity and rigidity.
Whichever method is used; it must be taken early in the construction process.
Soil stabilization is essential to ensure a good solid area to build. If this step is not taken, drainage problems, issues with alternating wet and dry seasons, and shifting can cause damage to your new structure.
With a contractor's help, you can ensure your chosen site has a strong area to hold up to your foundation. It will save you time and trouble in the future if you begin with stable soil.
If you have any questions about building your home and choosing the best location, your local construction contractor can assist you.
For more information on soil stabilization, reach out to a local construction company.
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