sand fill
sand fill
(OP)
Local contractors have been using sand ( creek sand ) for fill in slab foundations. They tell me sand is self compacting especially if you wet it down. On my home the sand will serve to hold the concrete floor only and no load bearing walls or point loads. Is the above true or is there somthing I need to know?





RE: sand fill
If you are unsure, let the contractor use it and then check it yourself prior to the slab being placed. If you are not happy at this point discuss it with the contractor.
regards
sc
RE: sand fill
Sand is not "self-compacting" just by wetting it down. I follows a moisture-density relationship just like other soils. Granted, it often requires less compactive effort to achieve adequate compaction, but it almost always requires some effort.
Make sure the contractor compacts the sand fill prior to building on it. A few "in-place density" tests would be in order as well. Your contractor will "buck" this one, since it costs a bit of money. Total, assuming a single soil type, for both the laboratory and field testing for a single residence would typically be about $300.
RE: sand fill
The "in-place density" tests Ron discusses is actually use to determine Building Code requiements (commonly 95% Procter). The test cost I pay are ~$200 each.