Why Should I Obtain a Soil Report?

Sites and soil conditions are becoming more and more marginal and you should know the type of soil you are building on.  As the population continues to move into the outer reaches of the communities, many times the project sites become questionable.  These sites can still be built upon, however you should be aware of the soil conditions. A soils report presents a picture of what the intended project will consist of such as information about the type of structure, number of floors, basements, anticipated cut and fill conditions, structural loads, retaining walls, pavement structures, retention features and more.  A soils report will present recommendations to be used by a structural engineer for footing depth, width, bearing pressure, estimated settlements, heave potential and lateral earth pressures.  Civil engineers will be made aware of site grading requirements, ground slopes and minimum permanent cut and fill for slopes.  A soils report will detail a description of the site and soil conditions so a contractor / builder and owner will know what they have to contend with.  Recommendations will be made as to the type of on-site soils that can be used and where they can be used on the lot.  The report will give a procedure for preparation of the site and the report will give a very good direction about drainage around and away from the home.  The more you know and understand the soils and their characteristics, the easier it will be for your builder to accomplish the project in a successful manner.  An A+ for your builder for recommending a soils report.  Yes, it will cost more, however knowing the soil conditions of the site will identify, quantify and remove most, if not all of the unknown factors of your site.  There are many variable soils types within the Quad-City area and they range from characteristics that are very good to very very bad when supporting residential structures.  Soil moisture contents of many of the expansive clay soils will vary significantly depending upon the time of year.