Under the Surface: Understanding Wisconsin's Soils and Their Impact on Your Home's Foundation

When it comes to building a strong and stable foundation for your home, the type of soil your house sits on plays a crucial role. Wisconsin, known for its diverse landscape, has various types of soil that can have different effects on residential foundations. Understanding the different types of soil found in Wisconsin and their impact on your home's foundation can help you make informed decisions about foundation design, construction, and maintenance.

1.    Glacial Till:

Glacial till is a common type of soil found in Wisconsin, particularly in the northern and central regions of the state. It is a mixture of clay, silt, sand, and gravel that was deposited by glaciers during the last Ice Age. Glacial till can vary greatly in composition, with some areas having more clay or sand content than others. This type of soil can be expansive, meaning it has a tendency to shrink and swell with changes in moisture content. When glacial till becomes saturated with water, it can expand, exerting pressure on a home's foundation walls and causing them to shift or crack. Conversely, during dry periods, glacial till can shrink, causing settlement and foundation settlement issues.

2.    Sand and Gravel:

Sand and gravel are common types of soil found in Wisconsin, particularly in areas near rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. These types of soil are well-draining and do not retain water like clay soils. However, they can pose challenges for foundations as they are less stable and can settle or shift over time. Sand and gravel soils are prone to erosion, which can create voids or gaps beneath a foundation, leading to settlement and structural damage. Additionally, sand and gravel soils can be prone to frost heaving during freezing and thawing cycles, which can also impact a foundation's stability.

3.    Organic Soils:

Organic soils, also known as peat or muck soils, are found in low-lying areas such as marshes, swamps, and wetlands. These types of soil are rich in organic matter and have a high moisture content. Organic soils are highly compressible and can settle significantly over time, causing foundation settlement and structural issues. They are also susceptible to erosion and can undergo changes in moisture content, which can impact their stability and affect a home's foundation.

4.    Clay Soils:

Clay soils are common in many parts of Wisconsin and can be found in various colors, ranging from light gray to dark brown. Clay soils have a high moisture retention capacity, meaning they can hold onto water for longer periods of time. When clay soils become saturated, they can expand, exerting pressure on a foundation and causing it to shift or crack. On the other hand, during dry periods, clay soils can shrink, leading to settlement and foundation settlement issues. Clay soils are also prone to erosion, which can create voids or gaps beneath a foundation and affect its stability.

5.    Loam Soils:

Loam soils are a mixture of sand, silt, and clay and are considered to be ideal for building foundations. Loam soils are well-draining, retain an adequate amount of moisture, and are stable, making them less prone to settlement or erosion compared to other types of soil. However, the composition of loam soils can still vary, and it's important to consider factors such as moisture content, compaction, and drainage when building a foundation on loam soils.  

As you see, the type of soil your home's foundation sits on in Wisconsin can have a significant impact on its stability and performance over time. If you do notice any cracking, sinking or setting issues in your home, please give us a call at 1-800-379-3788 to schedule a free estimate so we can fix the issue before it gets worse.