Compaction is Starting Right
You won’t ever see drooping decks or settled concrete pads on a home we built. We drill 12” diameter holes that are 4’ deep so we are below the frost level and pour them full of concrete. Then the deck posts and pads are supported properly. They don't move.
A home is the largest purchase most people make but typically they spend less time researching a builder than choosing a car! Please check references or expect problems!
You don’t see compaction equipment around many residential jobs but they are a standard on every one of ours!
More often, however, contractors use uncompacted "fill" dirt to surround a new foundation or basement. It will sink or settle over time, and this also allows runoff to flow toward the house.
Concrete settlement is usually caused by placement on uncompacted or poorly compacted fill. This can be a big problem and can take months to years to show up. It can cause tripping issues or it may divert water towards your home. Settling concrete will be an expensive repair!
Why Compact?
There are five principle reasons to compact soil:
- Increases load-bearing capacity
- Prevents soil settlement and frost damage
- Provides stability
- Reduces water seepage, swelling and contraction
- Reduces settling of soil
The two different principle types of compaction force are static and vibratory.
Static force is simply the deadweight of the machine, applying downward force on the soil surface, compressing the soil particles. Static compaction is confined to upper few inches of soil and that is why "wheel compaction" doesn't work!
Vibratory force uses a mechanism, usually engine-driven, to create a downward force in addition to the machine's static weight. The vibrating mechanism is usually a rotating eccentric weight or piston/spring combination (in rammers). The compactors deliver a rapid sequence of blows (impacts) to the surface, thereby affecting the top layers as well as deeper layers. Vibration moves through the material, setting particles in motion and moving them closer together for the highest density possible.
Total Vibratory compaction of every scoop of all disturbed soils is mandatory with us. This is done to guarantee there won’t be settling of your yard, landscaping or destroyed concrete. Machine "wheel compaction" is ineffective!
Our clients get what they deserve and expect from Howie Construction®, attention, service, quality and timely completion!
2009 Rapid City Business of the Year !
R. Chris Howie & Darin R. Howie
