Geotechnical & Soils
Soil Compaction and Construction Materials Testing
Field density testing of fill, backfill and subgrade so foundations, slabs and pavement are built on properly compacted soil. Typical US fees run $190 to $350 per test visit, and most projects take Same day field results; reports in days. Our drawings, calculations and reports are sealed by a Professional Engineer (PE) licensed in the state where your project is located, ready for permit submission.
What the work involves
During construction, a testing lab under a geotechnical engineer checks compaction of fill and subgrade with nuclear density gauges or similar methods against a lab Proctor test. Results confirm the contractor met specifications. Many building departments and lenders require compaction reports for structural fill, pool fills and utility trenches.
When you need it
- Placing structural fill under a building or slab
- Filled-in pool with a structure planned
- Utility trench backfill under pavement
- Inspector requires compaction reports
What you receive
- Proctor lab test
- Field density test reports
- Engineer summary letter
What drives the cost
HomeAdvisor lists soil compaction tests at $190 to $350. Larger projects are billed per technician hour and per test.
Frequently asked questions
How much does soil Compaction and Construction Materials Testing cost?
Across the US, soil Compaction and Construction Materials Testing usually costs $190 to $350 per test visit. HomeAdvisor lists soil compaction tests at $190 to $350. Larger projects are billed per technician hour and per test.
How long does soil Compaction and Construction Materials Testing take?
Plan on Same day field results; reports in days from signed proposal to stamped deliverables, longer if a site visit, soil testing or a permit review cycle is involved.
Do I need a licensed PE for soil Compaction and Construction Materials Testing?
In most US jurisdictions, yes. When the work needs a permit, the plans, calculations or report usually must be sealed by a Professional Engineer licensed in the state where the project is located. Every deliverable we issue for permit is sealed that way.
Will I also need a geotechnical engineer?
Sometimes. Depending on the site, soil Compaction and Construction Materials Testing can also involve a geotechnical engineer or testing laboratory. We tell you up front which other professionals your project needs and coordinate with them so the drawings agree.
Who do you provide soil Compaction and Construction Materials Testing for?
Most of our clients for this service are contractors, developers and homeowners. Describe your project and one of our engineers will reply with scope, fee and schedule.
What is a Proctor test?
A lab test that finds the maximum density a soil can reach, the benchmark for field compaction. Field density results are compared with it to report percent compaction.
What compaction percentage is typical?
Specifications often call for 95% of standard or modified Proctor under structures, but the engineer sets the value. Moisture content is also controlled to reach that density.
Can I compact fill myself?
Yes, but structural fill typically needs testing and documentation. Without test records, inspectors may not accept the fill under a structure.
Why did my slab crack over fill?
Poorly compacted fill settles over time. Organic material or debris in the fill makes settlement worse.
Where we provide this service
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
District of Columbia
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming