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Best Dirt To Use Around Foundation Of Home (2024 Update)

Selecting the right dirt to use around the foundation of your home is an important decision that requires careful consideration. The type of soil you choose can impact drainage, prevent erosion, and protect your foundation. When researching dirt options, here are some key factors to keep in mind.

First, you’ll want to select a dirt that drains well. Wet soil around the foundation can lead to a number of problems, including flooding, mold growth, and foundation shifting. A dirt with a sandy or gravelly composition is ideal, as it allows water to percolate through. You’ll also want to consider the slope of the land around your home. Proper grading is crucial to keep water flowing away from the foundation.

Next, consider durability. The soil around the foundation needs to stand up to the elements year-round. Harsh winters can cause soil to expand and contract, potentially damaging the structural integrity of your home’s base. Seek out frost-resistant soils that won’t erode. You may also want to fortify the dirt with polymers to improve its strength.

When you start comparing dirt options, here are a few key questions to ask: What is the exact composition of this soil? How well does it drain? Will it remain stable through seasons of rain, snow, and drought? Does it meet code requirements for foundation backfill in my area? Remember, the right high-quality dirt can provide a protective buffer around your home’s foundation for years to come. Choose wisely!

10 Best Dirt To Use Around Foundation Of Home

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for ground stabilization and erosion control in landscaping, patios, and walkways.
2
The product is ideal for improving soil conditions, promoting proper drainage, and enhancing the growth of any grass type.
3
Ideal for organic soil building and enriching houseplants, flowers, and vegetables indoors or outdoors without odor.
4
Ideal for adding nutrients and promoting healthy plant growth in gardens, lawns, and other outdoor planting areas.
5
The product is ideal for creating a weather-resistant pathway using hardwood that is straight and measures 8 feet.
6
This product is ideal for creating a decorative and weather-resistant pathway in outdoor spaces, such as gardens, patios, and beaches.
7
This product is ideal for outdoor activities such as picnics, camping, and beach outings, as well as for use in patios and backyards.
8
It is ideal for providing organic nutrients to plants with a blend of balanced superfoods, minerals, micro-fungi, and bio-organisms.
9
Ideal for waterproofing and fixing leaks on various indoor and outdoor surfaces, with easy application and durable black finish.
10
The product is ideal for creating durable and permeable surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and stables.
Ideal for ground stabilization and erosion control in landscaping, patios, and walkways.
The product is ideal for improving soil conditions, promoting proper drainage, and enhancing the growth of any grass type.
Ideal for organic soil building and enriching houseplants, flowers, and vegetables indoors or outdoors without odor.
Ideal for adding nutrients and promoting healthy plant growth in gardens, lawns, and other outdoor planting areas.
The product is ideal for creating a weather-resistant pathway using hardwood that is straight and measures 8 feet.
This product is ideal for creating a decorative and weather-resistant pathway in outdoor spaces, such as gardens, patios, and beaches.
This product is ideal for outdoor activities such as picnics, camping, and beach outings, as well as for use in patios and backyards.
It is ideal for providing organic nutrients to plants with a blend of balanced superfoods, minerals, micro-fungi, and bio-organisms.
Ideal for waterproofing and fixing leaks on various indoor and outdoor surfaces, with easy application and durable black finish.
The product is ideal for creating durable and permeable surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and stables.

1. Geostrength: High-Performing Ground Grid For Landscaping

Looking for a versatile solution for your landscaping and construction projects? Look no further than the Standartpark 2” Geo Grid!

This multifunctional grid is perfect for installing patios and walkways on slopes and flat areas, making it an ideal solution for a variety of projects. Whether you need to create light load pads, landscaping features, parking areas, or anything else that requires a strong, durable structure, the Standartpark Geo Grid has got you covered.

Made from high-quality polyethylene material, this grid is built to last. It can hold any type of aggregate or filling you desire, making it a great choice for a wide range of applications. Plus, it's made from recycled materials and welded using supersonic technology, so you can feel good about your eco-friendly choice.

One of the best things about the Standartpark Geo Grid is how easy it is to install. Simply spread out the material, anchor it to the ground, and fill the cells with soil, grass, sand, or gravel – it's that simple! And with a tensile strength of 1885 LBS/SQ FT, this grid can easily withstand loads for walking paths, patios, and much more. It's even suitable for use in areas with poor or unstable soil conditions.

With dimensions of 9 x 17 FT per unit, a thickness of 2 inches, and a coverage area of 160 SQ FT, the Standartpark Geo Grid is the perfect choice for your next project. And if you need to cut or attach multiple units together, it's a breeze to do so.

So why wait? Choose the Standartpark 2” Geo Grid for your next landscaping or construction project and experience the durability, versatility, and ease of use that only this high-quality product can provide.

2. Liquid Lawn Aerator – The Ultimate Soil Solution

Introducing the Liquid Soil Loosener, an advanced lawn solution that is designed to condition compact soil. This product can be used alone or in conjunction with mechanical or core aeration, as well as aerating and aerate tools. With its concentrated liquid formula, it is an easy-to-use treatment that can soften your soil and help the downward movement of water, allowing for vertical drainage and increased water infiltration.

The Liquid Soil Loosener is a concentrated soil conditioner that comes in a 32-ounce bottle, which can cover up to 32,000 square feet. It is an effective solution that helps standing water and promotes drainage. It improves water and liquid infiltration, and can be used alongside any turf grass fertilizer nutrient program.

This product is proudly produced in the United States by a family-owned business with over 25 years of former experience in the turf grass and agriculture industry. Made with high-quality ingredients, the Liquid Soil Loosener can be used on all grass types, including Bermuda, St. Augustine, Zoysia, Buffalo, Centipede, Florida Palmetto, Bahia, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Kentucky Bluegrass.

If you are looking for an efficient way to condition compact soil and improve water infiltration, the Liquid Soil Loosener is the perfect solution for you. Its easy-to-use formula, concentrated liquid solution, and ability to be used on all grass types make it a must-have for homeowners and landscapers alike. Give your lawn the care it deserves with the Liquid Soil Loosener.

3. Organic Soil Boost For Healthy Plants

The Organic Soil Enricher by Brut Worm Farms is a natural and effective solution for gardening enthusiasts. This product is specifically designed to provide long-term nourishment to your plants' soil, resulting in healthy and vibrant growth. The earthworm castings are dark, rich, and high in organic matter, making them an ideal addition to any garden.

One of the standout features of this product is the presence of healthy microbes. These castings are teeming with beneficial microbes that work to balance minerals and nutrients in the soil, ensuring your plants are getting the best possible care. With regular use, your garden will be the envy of the neighborhood.

Using the Organic Soil Enricher is incredibly easy. Simply blend it gently into the soil or use it as a top dressing. The castings will start working immediately, just as nature intended. With consistent use, you'll see real results in the health and vibrancy of your plants.

Brut Worm Farms takes great pride in their product, raising the worms themselves, indoors, on their farm in Minnesota. Unlike other competitors, production is not outsourced, so you can trust that you're getting a premium worm castings product that is free of sand, sticks, and other unwanted materials.

4. Coast Of Maine – Organic Top Soil – Monhegan Blend 1 Cf

The product images displayed on this website are for illustrative purposes only and the actual product may differ in appearance. Please note that color selection is not available as it is subject to availability. The size and color options may vary based on current stock availability. We strive to provide accurate product information, however, please keep in mind that some variations may occur. Rest assured that the quality of the product will meet our high standards and your expectations.

5. Plow & Hearth 52127 Weather-Resistant Straight Hardwood Pathway, 8'

Looking for a solution to keep your feet dry and clean while walking on damp or muddy ground? Look no further than this portable and easy-to-use roll-out walkway, perfect for use in your garden or near water spigots.

Crafted from semi-flexible materials, this walkway conforms to the ground and seamlessly blends with any landscape, making it the perfect choice for use with solar pathway lighting or as a replacement for rubber or cement stepping stones.

Connected with sturdy wire and rubber spacers, this walkway is both durable and reliable, ensuring it will provide years of dependable use. And when it comes time to clean, simply rinse with a hose to keep it looking great.

With its convenient roll-up design, this walkway is easy to move and store when not in use, making it the perfect choice for those who value convenience and versatility. So why wait? Invest in this high-quality walkway today and experience the ultimate in comfort and convenience for yourself!

6. Reliancer Cedar Garden Pathway – Weather-Resistant Roll-Up

Introducing the generously sized Garden Walkway, measuring 8 feet in length and 17 inches in width. This versatile accessory provides ample walking space, allowing you to cover more ground in an instant. It is the perfect tool for creating an elegant and exotic hardwood deck, adding instant and rustic charm to your outdoor surroundings.

Crafted from 100% natural cedar wood, this wooden walkway is pressure treated and boasts a denser texture with a larger bearing capacity than fir wood. This superior construction helps prevent deforming, chipping, peeling, cracking, and splitting. The weather-resistant cedar pathway can be used for all seasons, as it is not only resistant to extremely sunny days but can also withstand moist weather conditions. The 1" thick pressure-treated cedar slats feature anti-slip patterns on the surface, providing improved stability and safety while walking.

Each wood slat of this walking path is firmly joined by two rows of heavy-duty rubber cords and spacers, making it more aging-resistant and anti-loosening than nylon ones. This feature also endows better protection to the wood surface, making it maintenance-free. Unlike traditional decks, there are no nails, screws, or hardware that require maintenance. Additionally, the rope connection gives the footpath enough flexibility to unroll over any ground, such as beach, stone, mulch, grass, sand, ice, snow, gravel road, damp or muddy ground, boggy or bare areas.

The Garden Walkway features a space-saving roll-up design, which allows you to combine multiple boardwalks and curved walkways to create a custom, unique walkway. No assembly is required, and you can re-arrange, remove, or replace the pathway without any hassle. When not in use, you can easily roll it up into a small size for easy carrying and storage. The lightweight path can be used as permanent, decorative walkways to spice up your garden or as a temporary solution to cover muddy, boggy, or bare areas.

This rustic straight wooden pathway is not only practical but also non-slip, keeping your feet and shoes clean and dry from dirt, mud, grass, stones, and sands. It is ideal for almost any outdoor space, such as gardens, backyard, patios, porch, balcony, mountain cabins, summer fun beach houses, ocean-front properties, vegetable farms, and perfect for most outdoor activities, such as camping, wedding events, BBQ, beach parties, and more.

7. Reversible Outdoor Mat For Stylish Camping.

Looking for a high-quality outdoor rug that is both durable and functional? Look no further than this amazing product!

Constructed from a soft and durable virgin polypropylene material, this rug is both lightweight and compact. It is easy to clean and dries quickly, making it perfect for use in outdoor spaces where dirt and grime are a constant concern. You can simply sweep away dirt or spray clean with water, and it will be as good as new!

The rug is also UV coated to protect against fading and other sun damage, ensuring that it stays looking great for years to come. And, thanks to its breathable material, it won’t damage grass, making it a great choice for use in a wide range of outdoor settings.

When not in use, this rug is easy to store thanks to its included carrying bag. Simply fold it up and tuck it away until you need it again.

So if you’re looking for a high-quality outdoor rug that is both functional and stylish, be sure to check out this amazing product today!

8. Organic Nano Plant Food With 18 Superfoods

Looking for a simple and effective solution to watering your plants? Look no further than Liqui-Dirt. This concentrated formula is like a full ecosystem in a bottle, providing your plants with all the essential vitamins, minerals, and microorganisms they need to thrive.

With 18 balanced super nutrients, including poultry litter, rabbit manure, bat guano, worm castings, and more, Liqui-Dirt is suitable for all types of plants, from houseplants to gardens, lawns, trees, and shrubs. It's pH balanced and contains a complete micro-fungi mycorrhizae and rhizobacteria strains, ensuring optimal plant health.

What sets Liqui-Dirt apart is its zymology process, which breaks down the 18 ingredients into thousands of separate fully digested and readily absorbable elements. This full nutrition process can take over 5 years to complete before it's bottled and ready for use.

Each bottle of Liqui-Dirt makes 50 gallons of water, with each gallon making 128 applications. This means you can make 6400 applications for your house plants, making it a cost-effective solution for all your watering needs. And unlike other fertilizers on the market, Liqui-Dirt doesn't charge you for water – only the good stuff your plants deserve.

Liqui-Dirt is 100% pet, fish, and reptile safe, with no odors or chemicals. It's non-GMO and proudly made by hand in the USA. And because it doesn't expire in any dilution or concentrated form, you can use it with confidence for years to come.

Whether you're new to gardening or an experienced green thumb, Liqui-Dirt is a must-have for any hydroponics garden. It's easy to use – just mix with water and you're ready to go. And because it's a concentrated formula, you have complete control over how much to use for each plant without worrying about harming them.

So why wait? Give your plants the nutrition they deserve with Liqui-Dirt. It's all you need to keep your plants healthy and thriving, from roots to blooms and everything in between.

9. Waterproof Sealant: The Ultimate Leak Repair Solution

This versatile product provides a protective finish for a wide range of surfaces such as flat roofs, metal roofs, sloped roofs, planter boxes, foundations, sheds, basements, metal, wood, concrete, and more. Its highly flexible and durable final membrane has over 1000% elongation, which prevents adhesion failure. Additionally, it is UV stable, effectively stopping the sun from degrading the product.

When it comes to coverage, Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant/Coating provides an impressive result. For vertical surfaces, one gallon of the product can cover 30 square feet (2.8 square meters). To achieve a 30 mil (0.76 mm) membrane, it is recommended to apply three to four heavy coats. For flat/ponding surfaces, one gallon of the product can cover 15 square feet (1.4 square meters). To achieve a 60-80 mil (1.5-2 mm) membrane, it is recommended to apply four to five heavy coats.

One of the most striking features of Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant/Coating is its environmentally friendly composition. It is water-based, containing no solvents, VOC's, or harmful odors, making it safe for humans and pets alike. It is versatile enough to be used both indoors and outdoors with no special breathing apparatus required.

For a bulletproof system, Liquid Rubber Seam Tape or Liquid Rubber Geo-Textile can be used to bridge joints, seams, vents, gaps, protrusions, and other areas where possible movement may occur. This ensures that all areas are fully protected and free from damage.

10. Pro Plus Outdoor Pavers: Strong & Sustainable

The PRO PLUS pavers are a top-of-the-line solution for heavy-duty paving needs. These pavers are the industry's strongest grid with patented flex joints, never-fail locking tabs, and can handle vehicles weighing over 250,000 pounds with 1 million psf compression strength. Made in the USA from 100% post-consumer recycled HDPE, these pavers are environmentally friendly and sustainable.

One of the best features of the TRUEGRID PRO PLUS paver grids is their all-weather durability. These pavers can withstand all climates and soils, and are even snow plow-able. They are also 100% permeable and drain instantly, making them perfect for areas that experience heavy rainfall or flooding.

The PRO PLUS pavers are versatile and ideal for a variety of uses. They are perfect for parking lots, equipment and truck yards, storage lots, drive lanes, roadways, fire lanes, erosion control, RV pads, event centers, sports venues, stables and more! These pavers can be easily installed and require little to no maintenance, providing a hassle-free solution for all your heavy-duty paving needs.

In addition, the TRUEGRID PRO PLUS paver grids can be saw cut for a custom fit, ensuring that they will fit perfectly in any space. These pavers are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a durable, long-lasting, and eco-friendly paving solution. Trust in the quality and strength of the TRUEGRID PRO PLUS pavers for all of your paving needs.

Best Dirt To Use Around Foundation Of Home FAQs

Are there any alternatives to using dirt around my foundation?

Yes, there are alternatives to using dirt around your foundation. Using dirt around your foundation can lead to several issues such as moisture retention, settling, and erosion. Here are some alternatives you can consider:

1. Gravel: Using gravel around the foundation can improve drainage and prevent moisture retention. It also provides a stable base for the foundation.

2. Mulch: Mulch is a good alternative to dirt as it helps to retain moisture while also improving drainage. It also helps to prevent soil erosion.

3. Pavers: Pavers can be used to create a pathway around the foundation. They not only provide a stable base but also improve the appearance of your foundation.

4. Concrete: Pouring a concrete foundation around your home can provide a stable base and prevent moisture retention. It also helps to prevent soil erosion.

5. Raised garden beds: Raised garden beds can be built around the foundation to create a barrier between your home and the soil. It also provides an opportunity for gardening.

It is important to choose the right alternative based on your specific needs and budget. Consult with a professional to determine which option is best for you.

Can using the wrong type of dirt around my foundation cause damage?

Yes, using the wrong type of dirt around your foundation can cause damage. The soil around your foundation is critical to the stability and overall health of your home. Different types of soil have different properties, and some are more prone to expanding and contracting with changes in moisture levels. If the soil around your foundation is too moist, it can put pressure on your foundation walls, causing them to crack or bow. Similarly, if the soil is too dry, it can lead to settlement and shifting of the foundation.

It's essential to use the right type of dirt around your foundation to prevent damage. Ideally, the soil should be well-draining and have a stable moisture content. If your soil is too wet or too dry, you may need to amend it with organic matter or install drainage systems to help regulate moisture levels. It's also important to avoid using fill dirt, which can settle and shift over time, causing foundation problems.

In summary, using the wrong type of dirt around your foundation can cause significant damage, so it's best to consult with a professional to ensure you're using the right soil for your specific location and needs.

How do I know if the dirt around my foundation is the best type?

The type of soil around your foundation can have a significant impact on the stability and longevity of your home. The best type of soil for a foundation is one that is well-draining and stable. You can determine the type of soil around your foundation by conducting a soil test. A soil test will analyze the composition of the soil, including its texture, structure, and nutrient content. You can conduct a soil test by contacting a local soil testing laboratory or consulting with a professional landscaper or engineer. Once you have determined the type of soil around your foundation, you can take steps to improve its quality if necessary. For example, if the soil is too compacted or has poor drainage, you may need to add organic matter or install a drainage system to improve the soil's quality. By taking the time to evaluate and improve the soil around your foundation, you can help ensure the stability and longevity of your home.

How much dirt should I use around my foundation?

The amount of dirt you should use around your foundation depends on various factors such as the type of soil, the slope of the land, and the height of your foundation. It is important to ensure that the soil grade slopes away from the foundation to prevent water from pooling and causing damage to the foundation.

As a general rule of thumb, the dirt around your foundation should slope away from the foundation at a minimum of 6 inches for the first 10 feet. This will provide adequate drainage and prevent water from seeping into your basement or crawlspace.

It is also important to consider the type of soil you have. If you have clay soil, it is recommended to use a minimum of 12 inches of dirt around your foundation to provide adequate drainage. Sandy soil, on the other hand, may only require 4-6 inches of dirt.

It is always best to consult with a professional landscaper or contractor to determine the appropriate amount of dirt for your specific situation.

How often should I check the dirt around my foundation?

It is recommended that you check the dirt around your foundation at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. This is because these are the seasons when the soil is most likely to shift due to changes in temperature and precipitation. Checking the dirt around your foundation is important because it can help you identify any potential issues with your foundation, such as settling or cracks. By catching these issues early, you can prevent them from becoming more serious and costly to repair. During your inspection, look for any signs of damage or changes to the soil, such as cracks, gaps, or bulges. If you notice any issues, it is important to contact a professional foundation repair company to assess the situation and develop a plan for repair.

Should I mix different types of dirt when using it around my foundation?

Mixing different types of dirt around your foundation may not be a good idea. The soil around your foundation plays a crucial role in supporting the structure of your home. Mixing different types of soil can create inconsistencies in the soil composition, which can cause water drainage problems, soil compaction, and uneven settling.

It is important to know the type of soil you have and its properties before adding more soil to it. If your soil is too sandy, adding more clay soil can help retain moisture. On the other hand, if your soil is too clayey, adding sand can help improve drainage.

It is best to consult with a professional before adding any soil to your foundation. A soil test can be done to determine the type of soil you have and its properties. This will help you make an informed decision on what type of soil to add and whether or not it is necessary.

In summary, mixing different types of dirt around your foundation can cause problems. It is best to consult with a professional and conduct a soil test before making any changes to the soil composition around your foundation.

What are some signs that the dirt around my foundation needs to be replaced?

There are a few signs that may indicate that the dirt around your foundation needs to be replaced. One of the most common signs is the presence of water or moisture around your foundation. If you notice water pooling or seeping into your basement or crawlspace, this may be a sign that the dirt around your foundation is no longer able to adequately drain water away from your home.

Another sign that your dirt may need to be replaced is the presence of cracks or settling in your foundation. If you notice cracks forming in your walls or floors, or if you feel like your home is settling or shifting, this may be a sign that the dirt around your foundation is no longer able to support the weight of your home.

Finally, if you notice that your home's foundation is starting to sink or shift, this may be a sign that the dirt around your foundation needs to be replaced. In general, it is a good idea to have your foundation inspected by a professional if you notice any of these signs, as they can help identify the root cause of the problem and recommend the best course of action.

What are the benefits of using the best dirt around my foundation?

Using the best dirt around your foundation has numerous benefits. First and foremost, it helps to maintain the structural integrity of your home. The soil around your foundation acts as a support system for your home, and if the soil is unstable or of poor quality, it can cause your foundation to shift or even crack. With the best dirt around your foundation, you will have a stable base that will help to prevent any damage to your home.

Another benefit of using the best dirt around your foundation is that it can help to improve drainage. Poor drainage can cause water to pool around your foundation, which can lead to water damage and even mold growth. The right soil can help to improve drainage and prevent these issues.

Finally, using the best dirt around your foundation can also improve the overall appearance of your home. The right soil can help to create a beautiful and well-maintained landscape, which can increase your home's curb appeal and value. Overall, investing in the best dirt around your foundation is a smart decision that can have a significant impact on your home's safety, health, and aesthetics.

What is the best way to apply dirt around my foundation?

When it comes to applying dirt around your foundation, it's important to do it correctly to avoid any potential damage. The best way to apply dirt around your foundation is to start by removing any existing grass or vegetation near the foundation. This will ensure that the dirt is applied directly to the foundation without any obstructions.

Next, you should add a layer of topsoil on top of the existing soil around the foundation. This will help to level the ground and provide a solid base for the new dirt.

Once the topsoil is in place, you can begin adding the new dirt around the foundation. It's important to add the dirt in layers, compacting each layer as you go to ensure that it's firmly packed and won't shift over time. Be sure to keep the dirt level with the surrounding ground to prevent any water from pooling near the foundation.

Finally, you should water the new dirt thoroughly to help it settle and compact further. It's important to monitor the area for any signs of settling or erosion over time and add more dirt as necessary. By following these steps, you can ensure that the dirt around your foundation is applied correctly and will provide a stable base for your home.

What type of dirt should I use around the foundation of my home?

The type of dirt you should use around the foundation of your home depends on a few factors. First and foremost, it's important to ensure that the dirt is well-draining to prevent water from pooling around the foundation and causing damage. Sandy or loamy soil is generally preferred for this reason.

Additionally, you'll want to make sure the dirt is compacted and stable to provide adequate support for the foundation. This can be achieved through proper grading and compaction techniques.

It's also recommended to use a layer of gravel or crushed stone around the foundation before adding the topsoil. This helps with drainage and prevents the soil from settling unevenly over time.

Ultimately, it's best to consult with a professional landscaper or builder to determine the specific type and composition of dirt that will work best for your particular home and location.

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