Building a home is a significant investment and choosing the right soil type to build on is critical to ensuring the stability and longevity of the structure. Clay soil is one type of soil that is commonly found in many parts of the world, but it can pose a challenge for home builders. In this blog, we will explore the characteristics of clay soil and the benefits of poured concrete piers for building a house on this type of soil.
Clay soil is a dense, fine-grained soil that is known for its high shrink-swell capacity. This means that the soil will shrink when it is dry and expand when it is wet, causing the soil to be unstable and creating problems for the foundation of a building. The instability of clay soil can result in cracks in the walls, floor, or foundation of a building and can even lead to structural failure.
To counteract the instability of clay soil, one solution is to use poured concrete piers. Poured concrete piers are an effective way to stabilize a building's foundation, even on clay soil. Poured concrete piers are made by drilling holes in the soil, pouring concrete into the holes, and then allowing it to set. The piers are placed under the foundation and bearing elements of the building, providing a stable base for the structure.
Another way to reduce the swelling of clay soil is by using sump pits and pumps. Sump pits are dug into the ground near the foundation of a building and are used to collect water that has accumulated in the soil. The water is then pumped out of the sump pit, reducing the amount of water in the soil and reducing the swelling of the soil.
In conclusion, building a house on clay soil can be challenging, but by using poured concrete piers and sump pits and pumps, you can help ensure the stability and longevity of your structure. Working with a geotechnical engineering and testing firm can provide valuable insights and advice on the best solutions for your specific project. .
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