One of Texas' most important natural resources is its soil. Texas soils are complex because of the wide diversity of climate, vegetation, geology, and landscape. More than 1,300 different kinds of soil are recognized in Texas. Each has a specific set of properties that affect its use.
Major Soil Areas
Texas can be divided into 21 Major Land Resource Areas that have similar or related soils, vegetation, topography, climate, and land uses.

Your pool builder will determine whether or not your pool requires Soil Stabilization based upon their experience with the soils in your area.

Pools and Expansive Soils

As a pool builder, dealing with expansive clay soil is a challenge you can't ignore. This soil's tendency to swell with moisture and shrink during dry spells can lead to serious structural issues for pools if not addressed properly.

In this section, we'll explore how expansive soil impacts pool installations and what you can do to ensure long-lasting, stable results for your clients.

The Impact of Expansive Clay Soil on Pools:

When building a pool in an area with expansive clay soil, the constant swelling and shrinking of the soil can cause:

Cracks in the pool shell: As the ground moves, it exerts pressure on the pool's structure, leading to cracking.

Unlevel pool decks: Shifting soil can cause the surrounding pool deck to become uneven and crack.

Plumbing issues: Movement in the ground can also impact underground plumbing, leading to leaks and costly repairs.

These issues can arise long after the pool is installed if the soil beneath is not properly stabilized.

Solutions for Pool Builders Working with Expansive Soils:

To ensure the success of your pool projects in areas with expansive clay soil, here are some key strategies:

Clay Soil Stabilization

Before installing a pool, it's crucial to stabilize the soil. Chemical soil stabilization is a highly effective way to reduce the soil's ability to swell. By stabilizing the soil, you create a more secure foundation for the pool, reducing the risk of future movement.

Epic Earthworks can arrange for soil stabilization if your builder is aware your soil is expansive clay.