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Expansive Soil Knowledge Base

Understanding Types of Expansive Soil

Different types of expansive soil are found in every U.S. state, and their characteristic shrink–swell behavior causes widespread structural damage. From cracked slabs to heaved foundations, expansive soil results in an estimated $13 billion in damage annually.

Because each expansive soil type exhibits unique characteristics, understanding site-specific conditions is critical to selecting the right mitigation strategy to achieve long-term structural stability.

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Soil Education

Building on Yazoo Clay in Mississippi & Beyond

October 29, 2025
Yazoo Clay is a highly expansive soil formation known by several names. There's Mississippi's "Blue Yazoo," owing to its distinctive bluish-gray color, and "Gumbo," for its thick, sticky texture. But regardless of what it's called, this clay is notorious for…
Soil Education

Blackland Prairie Soil: Solutions for Texas’ Most Reactive Soil

June 9, 2025
From an agricultural standpoint, Blackland Prairie soil is among the most mineral-rich in the world. But that same richness comes with a caveat—its composition can exceed 60% clay, making it one of the most challenging soils to build on. Highly…
Pyritic Shale
Soil Education

Building on Pyritic Shale: Pre-Construction Solutions

June 3, 2025
Pyritic shale may have a shimmer of gold, but when disturbed, it can become one of the most damaging soil conditions faced in construction. Found across much of North America, this mineral-rich shale can expand, crack foundations, and corrode infrastructure…