Lime soil stabilization strengthens soil by incorporating lime into its composition. It's often used in site preparation, improving the foundation so that it can support the weight of structures, roads, parking lots, and other components. Review this brief guide to learn more about how soil stabilization works and the benefits it provides.

How Does Lime Soil Stabilization Work?

When lime is added to a fine-grained, reactive soil with high silt and clay content, it triggers a chemical process called a pozzolanic reaction. During this process, calcium silicate hydrates and calcium aluminate hydrates are produced. These elements enhance soil resilience right away, but the pozzolanic reaction will continue for years, often decades, thereby strengthening the ground well into the future. 

Benefits

Lime soil stabilization improves the quality and stability of the treated area and makes it better able to accommodate heavy loads. Even when load damage occurs or environmental conditions change, the soil will maintain its strength for decades to come.

This method can end up saving a property owner or developer a considerable amount of money. Ground conditions are figured into the viability of any construction project. Lime stabilization treats the existing soil without having to remove the subgrade and replace it with another granular material, which saves money on site preparation and building costs.

In the long term, this approach helps keep maintenance costs low. Stronger soil is better equipped to withstand the pressure of heavy structures, minimizing settling, unevenness, and similar issues that can compromise the integrity of the construction.

There are ecological benefits as well. Lime stabilization can be used to reclaim and reuse existing road bases rather than replace the bases with new materials. This minimizes fossil fuel consumption, pollution emissions, and other environmental stressors. 

If you're ready to enjoy the benefits of lime soil stabilization for your next project, Kuesel Excavating Company Inc. will help. This company has served the Greater St. Louis, MO, area since 1952. They provide soil stabilization, site preparation, grading, and demolition services. They'll utilize the latest technology to deliver high-quality results that meet the needs of your project and budget. Call (636) 978-3478 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to browse their services.