In construction projects, materials impact the overall quality of the project. Higher quality materials, such as topsoil, offer functionality and safety in the long run. Colonial Excavating takes on large- and small-scale projects with expert care and superior materials. We can help you prepare your residential or commercial construction site for success.
Types of Topsoil for Construction
There are several types of soil for construction, including topsoil. The topsoil layer is nutrient-rich to support landscaping and vegetation, and it can help reduce erosion and water runoff. The tougher dirt beneath topsoil is more suitable for construction foundations, so this top layer is removed from the ground before building infrastructure. At the end of construction projects, the topsoil is replaced.
Topsoil can be categorized based on its composition and size. Below are common types and their functions:
- Clay: This topsoil has fine particles and retains moisture, so it works as a strong binder.
- Silt: The smooth texture and fine particles of silt work well with other topsoils and can support plant life.
- Sand: With large particles and good drainage, sand can reduce structural issues related to water retention, often used as backfill.
- Loam: Loam is a combination of sand, silt and clay. Loam is a well-balanced type of soil, utilizing the benefits of each soil type in its mixture, often used as a fill for green areas.
- Gravel: This type has very large particles and is often found in drainage systems and foundations.
- Peat: Easily compressed and nutrient-rich peat topsoil is often used for mulching. Plants can absorb moisture from this type of soil.
What Are the Types of Soil Tests for Construction?
Proper testing can help you understand a soil’s properties and what functions it can effectively serve. These physical, chemical or biological evaluations can help you determine the type of soil that best suits your construction needs.
Before building, you will need to do a:
- Moisture content test: By dividing the weight of wet soil by the weight of dry soil and multiplying the quotient by 100, this test gives you the percentage of water content in your soil sample.
- Atterberg limits test: This test involves determining the liquid limit, plastic limit and shrinkage limit of a soil sample.
- Proctor’s compaction test: Creating a compaction curve by compacting soil samples at different moisture content levels helps you understand the relationship between the soil’s density and moisture.
- Specific gravity test: Determine the ratio of the weight of air in a soil sample and the weight of air in an equal volume of water. Both samples must be at the same temperature.
- Shear strength test: Measuring soil strength involves applying vertical and horizontal stress to the sample.
Importance of Quality Material
From topsoil to equipment, using high-quality materials is better for your construction project in the long run. When you partner with Colonial Excavating, we provide you with material that is:
- Durable: Use strong materials to withstand external forces, such as weathering and temperature fluctuations.
- Long-lasting: Get the most out of your materials and increase longevity with proper care.
- Safe: When a material functions optimally, there is a reduced risk of errors and unexpected issues.
- Cost-effective: Going longer between repairs and replacements will save you money, time and labor.
Quality Material Sales
Source high-quality materials from Colonial Excavating. Along with all types of topsoil, we offer crushed stone to help ensure structural integrity and mulch to help your plants flourish. Our premium materials will arrive at your jobsite in the best possible condition and be carefully loaded and unloaded using our reliable material handling excavators.
Risks associated with low-quality materials include dangerous structure failures, increased maintenance and repair costs, and regulatory and legal issues. Be proactive in preventing problems when you choose safe and durable topsoil from Colonial Excavating.
Material Hauling Services
Colonial Excavating can haul types of soil for construction to your jobsite, supplying your team with high-quality materials. During an initial consultation, our team will evaluate the amount and type of materials to provide detailed pricing. We return to your location with our fleet of trucks carrying your materials and do the heavy lifting so your team can focus on other tasks.
Get the Topsoil You Need From Colonial Excavating
Colonial Excavating is locally owned and operated in New York, and we understand the importance of quality topsoil in construction projects. Our labor force and material handling excavators will arrive at your site to supply you with the materials you need.
Contact us for a free quote today.