I used to think quick soil samples were enough, but not anymore

Last season, a project got held up because we missed a thick clay layer. Now I take extra core samples before starting. What's your way to find tricky soils?

2 comments

2 Comments

ray_flores2d ago

Is it really that big a deal? I've seen jobs where clay was found but it didn't slow anything down. Core samples take time and money. Maybe you just got unlucky that one time. Over-sampling can make projects cost more for no reason. Not every hidden layer is a disaster.

joelfoster1d ago

Yeah but that's the thing, it's not just about slowing the work down. A thick clay layer you don't know about can mess up drainage for good or cause settling later. That turns into a way bigger bill than a few extra core samples. I'd rather spend a little time and money up front than get a nasty surprise when a wall starts cracking.