The Importance Of Professional Backfilling Compaction
At the start of every building project, the excavated area around the structure’s foundation is filled with material called backfill. The process of filling that space is known in the construction world as “backfilling.” The material used can be many things: gravel, soil, or material that is easily compacted for strong support.
However, it’s used, backfilling is an essential material in construction projects, keeping them strong and stable for years to come. To ensure the longevity of the resulting building or structure, the right backfill material must be chosen, and then applied correctly.
Important Factors To Consider With Backfilling
It’s important that the following factors are considered at the start of every new project:
The Right Backfill Material
The type of structure and location are important to consider when choosing backfill material. The most common types are crushed stone, sand, soil, and gravel. It will have to be compacted well so the foundation is level and can facilitate drainage.
Layering Correctly
Backfill material is usually applied in layers at the excavation site, each one compacted before applying the next one. It’s possible that each layer can have different thicknesses, depending on the material used. For example, soil can be placed in 6 to 12-inch layers with plate or hand compactors. Sand and gravel layers must be 3 to 6 inches thick with roller or hand compactors. A plate compactor can also be used with crushed stone, in 2 to 4-inch layers.
Common Types Of Backfilling
Backfilling material is separated by the following categories:
Fine-Graded Soils
There are several types of fine-grain soil. Some are organic clay materials, which can be sandy, gravelly, or contain silt. Other types include fine sand material or clayey silts: a type of silt with enough clay to be considered plastic soil. The plasticity of soil refers to whether or not it will crack during the deformation process.
Coarse-Grained Soil
This material is very sandy and gravelly, making it fairly easy to compact in construction projects.
Controlled Low-Strength Material (CLSM)
This material consists of cement and is used for void filling, utility bedding, and foundation backfill. It may also contain fly ash: a residue from the combustion of coal that is obtained from thermal power plants.
Commercial By-Products
Rather than have them go to waste, some backfilling material is made from commercial by-products, such as furnace slag: a fine powder made by quenching molten iron from a blast furnace in either water or steam. This powder makes for a lighter-weight backfill material. Its usability depends on whether it meets the foundation’s engineering requirements.
Additional Uses For Backfilling
In addition to providing a strong foundation for a building, backfill is also used when installing or repairing underground utilities. It helps protect the utilities from cracks and other damages.
Backfilling In South Florida
When starting a new construction project, it’s essential to choose the right materials. That’s why you can trust the experts at Art Rooter, Sewer & Drain Cleaning. We use the latest equipment and technology to ensure quality and efficiency.
As professionals, we are fully licensed, insured, and comply with up-to-date Florida Building Code. For questions about our drain services, call today at 1-833-470-2880.
