Porosity
of soil for septic tanks
The function of a septic tank is a complicated
process, which is directly related to the porosity of the soil.
The water collected in the septic tank is absorbed by the porous
soil to let the septic tank function well. If your soil is not
porous enough, the absorption process will not take place properly.
Therefore before buying land ensure that the soil is porous
enough for a septic tank to function properly or else you may
have to deviate from the conventional Septic Tank design. You
can ensure this through a soil percolation test.
Richness
of the Soil for Landscaping
After occupation of your home you always will try to landscape
your garden, at which time the richness of the soil becomes
an important factor. The soil should contain water, air, minerals,
and compost particles, necessary for the plants to grow. If
the soil is not rich enough you might have to add minerals,
carbon, and additional nutrients. The growth of vegetation will
be a good indicator for the richness of the soil.
Well Digging requirements
If the soil is too sandy or loose it would be difficult to dig
a well, as the shores may tend to collapse. Therefore look for
a soil that is relatively harder. If it is possible, check for
the water levels of the wells of adjoining lands. If the condition
of the adjoining wells are acceptable it is possible that your
well will also have satisfying level of water. Further, the
level of water also would be a criterion in deciding on the
type of foundation most suited to your building.
Soil
Erosion and Earth Slips
If your land is situated in a steep slope, and if the soil is
loose and also the vegetation is thin, the soil may tend to
slip. Avoid such areas. Even if it doesn't slip, soil erosion
may become a severe problem and pose a danger to life and property.
Surface Water Draining Pattern
When you check for the suitability of your land try to identify
the surface water-draining pattern. Always try to select a land
that has a surface water-draining pattern that does not allow
rainwater to collect in your land.
Think about the elevation of the future building site in relation
to surrounding areas. If it is relatively high, it is an indication
that rainwater will flow away from the lot, which is good. If
it is relatively low, it indicates that rainwater from the surrounding
area overflows into the lot, which could cause basement or ponding
problems in the future.
