Different Types of Soil and Your Foundation

Each type of soil has different properties and is affected by moisture in different ways.  The two most common types of soil are sand and clay. 

Clay is the most problematic soil.  When clay is wet, it holds onto the water and expands in size.  When it is dry, it shrinks and cracks.  The dramatic reduction in size during dry seasons can have a big impact on your home’s foundation.  Also, the softening of the clay soil during wet seasons can result in foundation settlement.

Moisture does not have a big effect on sandy soil.  When it rains, the water typically passes through the sand very quickly.  When the sand gets wet it doesn’t expand in size, and when it is dry it doesn’t shrink.  This is why sandy soil is a much better option than clay soil when it comes to the foundation of your home.

There are also many other factors that can have an effect on the soil below your home, such as poorly compacted fill soil, drought, tree roots, and poor drainage systems.  It is important to be aware of the type of soil around your home, so you can be prepared if foundation settlement occurs.