If you’re developing a new office space, apartment complex, shopping center, or other building, there are many steps to take before construction. Soil stabilization is typically required during site preparation to prevent a range of issues. Here’s how this process will help your project in the long run.

What Is Soil Stabilization? 

This service involves altering and improving the physical and chemical composition of the soil by mixing, compacting, redistributing, and grading the land. It can increase the earth’s strength or make it less susceptible to shrinking and swelling due to environmental changes.

Professionals perform this treatment to make the sub-grade more stable in the face of heat and moisture, improving its load-bearing capacity. This is sometimes required before road and building construction.

What Are the Benefits? 

Without soil stabilization, groundwork may shift, slip, or slide over time. Sub-grade instability can jeopardize a building’s plumbing system, increasing the risk of flooding and water damage as pipes shift in the soil. In addition to strengthening the soil and decreasing its softness, stabilization can make the land more resistant and compacted to help you avoid plumbing and erosion issues.

Since buildings require strong foundations, unstable ground can decrease structural integrity, resulting in foundation cracks and potential collapse.  A durable sub-grade will prevent these structural issues, saving money on premature repairs or, in extreme cases, demolition and reconstruction.

When used for roadways, stabilization can prevent asphalt from degrading prematurely. It helps the soil disperse rainwater and runoff effectively, preventing cracks, potholes, and other types of moisture damage. By minimizing disintegration, the service also helps keep asphalt particles out of waterways, preventing environmental contamination.

If you need an excavating contractor in the Greater St. Louis area, turn to Kuesel Excavating Company Inc. Based in O’Fallon, MO, this commercial excavating company has performed site preparation for over 60 years. They offer stabilization, grading, and a range of other services to help business owners get their projects started. Call (636) 978-3478 to discuss a project, or visit their website to learn more about stabilization.