Back to Posts

Using Fill When Preparing Your Building Pad

26404 1 scaled 1

It is important to remember that when you are preparing your building site for your pole building, using fill may result in extra construction costs if not done well and here is why. Most permitting jurisdictions dictate that you must dig post holes for pole buildings into the native. Undisturbed soil to a depth specified by the engineer – typically around 4 feet or deeper. However, incorporating fill into the site preparation process introduces complexities, leading to additional construction costs.

The challenge arises because, with the presence of fill, the post holes now need to traverse through this layer before reaching the required depth in the native soil. This necessitates extra labor, the use of specialized machinery, and longer posts to accommodate the additional distance. Consequently, you elevate the overall expenses for your building project.

To mitigate these potential extra costs, it’s crucial to be vigilant when the fill depth exceeds 18 inches. At this point, conducting a compaction test during the initial site preparation emerges as a cost-effective measure. This test involves assessing the strength of the soil, and the results obtained are subsequently reviewed by our engineer. If the engineer deems the soil strength adequate, it may eliminate the need to dig into the native soil, as the fill itself becomes sufficient for the project’s structural requirements.

The key to optimizing this cost-effective strategy is timing. Conduct the compaction test concurrently with the site preparation for your PermaBilt® pole building. This strategic timing ensures that the test results seamlessly integrate into the overall construction plan. potentially saving you from the additional costs associated with digging into native soil.

Several specialized companies offer compaction testing services tailored to the specific needs of your project. By prioritizing this test during the site preparation phase. You not only ensure compliance with regulatory standards but also enhance the overall cost-efficiency of your pole building construction.

In conclusion, take a proactive approach to site preparation, especially when dealing with fill. As it can significantly impact the overall expenses of your pole building project. Incorporate a compaction test, coupled with early engineer involvement, to lay the groundwork for a smoother construction journey. By staying vigilant and adhering to these best practices, you not only meet regulatory requirements but also set the stage for a more cost-effective and successful pole building project.

.