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Las Vegas NV Soil Stabilization

By Iva Cannon


All construction projects should be planned carefully in advance, but even then property owners may find they have unpleasant surprises down the road. A building is only as good as its foundation, and the foundation depends on the earth beneath it or must take into account inherent instability. Buildings in earthquake-prone areas are made to withstand tremors, but all ground everywhere shows the effect of less dramatic natural forces. Soil stabilization is important everywhere that people make their homes.

Frost heaves are one sign of the constant swelling and contracting of the ground beneath our feet. The same process during warmer months may go unnoticed. However, we may notice cracks in the foundation or the basement walls of our home, erroneously blaming the contractor or the quality of building materials. The bigger and more expensive a building is, the more extensive the damage that ground changes can cause.

All soils contain minerals as well as decomposed organic material. Some minerals absorb more water than others. When moisture in the ground decreases, these minerals shrink again. It is this continual swelling and shrinking that causes stress on building foundations and the structures they support. Cracks in basement walls are signs that the process is going on to a greater extent than construction materials can withstand.

Clay is especially prone to this natural phenomenon. Clay may have many different minerals in its composition, and scientists have identified which minerals are most affected by moisture. Geological experts have created maps that show which areas have the highest potential for problem soils. People should have an analysis done before beginning a new construction project. This is especially important for huge, expensive buildings, such as Las Vegas NV resorts or multi-million dollar estate homes.

The ground should be stabilized if the analysis shows a great concentration of minerals that hold and release moisture readily. Traditional ways to do this include excavation, when the earth is removed and more stable materials used to replace it. Pier foundations can also be sunk into underlying bedrock, to keep the structure from shifting as the ground does. Another method is to mix lime into the soil, which helps to control swelling.

New scientific technology addresses the problem of instability at the molecular level. Using environmentally-friendly chemicals, the actual composition of the ground is altered, leaving it stronger, more solid, and thus more stable. This is a fast and permanent solution to a very common problem. It also makes it possible to use a slab foundation, known to be the most affordable way to build.

This method is perfect for solving problems under existing structures, as well. When a structure is showing evidence of shifting or subsidence, steps must be taken or the whole building may be irreparably damaged. Chemical treatment will improve soil compaction and strength, making swelling a thing of the past.

Companies in Las Vegas have interactive websites that provide a lot of information and can get you in touch with expert help. Site inspections and estimates are free. Get the help you need to save money and prevent problems in the future.




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