Expansive clay soil influences much more than driveways and sidewalks. Learn how it affects drainage, landscaping, fences, and other parts of a Colorado Springs property.
If you've lived in Colorado Springs for any length of time, you've probably heard people mention expansive clay soil.
Most homeowners first learn about it after noticing a settling driveway or uneven sidewalk. However, expansive clay affects much more than concrete.
Because this type of soil expands when wet and contracts as it dries, it influences many parts of a property's exterior over time.
Understanding how expansive clay behaves can help homeowners identify maintenance issues early and make better long-term decisions. For a broader look at what causes slabs to move, see why concrete sinks in Colorado Springs.
Unlike sandy or rocky soils, clay changes volume as moisture levels change.
After periods of rain or snowmelt, the soil expands.
During Colorado's dry summer months, it contracts.
These repeated cycles place stress on anything resting above the soil.
Driveways, sidewalks, patios, pool decks, and garage floors all rely on stable soil for support.
As clay soils move, sections of concrete may settle unevenly or lose support beneath the slab. Common corrections include driveway leveling, sidewalk leveling, and patio leveling.
Changing soil conditions can also affect landscaping.
Homeowners may notice:
Maintaining proper grading helps reduce many of these issues. Nearby tree roots can add to the movement — see can tree roots cause concrete to sink in Colorado Springs for more.
Posts installed in expansive clay soils may gradually shift over time.
This can lead to:
Routine inspections help identify gradual movement before larger repairs become necessary.
Because expansive clay absorbs water differently than many other soil types, drainage patterns may change throughout the year.
Poor drainage can increase soil movement beneath concrete and other outdoor surfaces. Learn more in how poor drainage causes concrete settlement in Colorado Springs.
Keeping water moving away from structures and hardscapes remains one of the most effective long-term maintenance practices.
Colorado Springs homeowners often experience:
Each of these conditions changes soil moisture and contributes to the expansion and contraction cycle. Read more about how high elevation and freeze-thaw cycles affect long-term slab performance.
While expansive clay cannot be eliminated, homeowners can reduce its impact by:
These simple maintenance habits may help reduce future settlement and protect outdoor surfaces.
Yes. Many neighborhoods throughout the Colorado Springs area contain expansive clay soils, although conditions vary from property to property.
No. It can also influence drainage, landscaping, fences, retaining walls, and other exterior features.
Proper drainage helps reduce excessive moisture changes beneath concrete and surrounding soil.
Yes. Seasonal inspections help identify changes before they become larger maintenance concerns.
Expansive clay soil is one of the defining characteristics of many Colorado Springs properties.
Understanding how it affects concrete, landscaping, drainage, and other outdoor features allows homeowners to take a proactive approach to maintaining their property for years to come.
If you're seeing signs of settlement on your property, call 719-521-2291 or request your free estimate online to discuss your options.
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Keep reading
Wondering if your concrete needs leveling? Learn the seven most common warning signs Colorado Springs homeowners should watch for before uneven concrete becomes a larger problem.
Does water collect on your driveway after it rains? Learn why standing water develops, what it may indicate about your concrete, and when concrete leveling may help restore proper drainage.
Can cracked concrete still be leveled? Learn when concrete leveling may be an option, when replacement may be recommended, and how Colorado Springs homeowners can evaluate damaged concrete.
Have questions about your concrete? Need advice? Want a free estimate? We're here to help. Concrete leveling saves the slab you already have, at a fraction of the cost of replacement.
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