New Jersey Soil Types, Regions and Testing Guide
In New Jersey there are dozens of different soil classification. According to Rutgers they have 85 name soil types in New Jersey. From sandy loam, to shale-derived earth to rock. Rutgers has a soil survey and you can get a good idea of what type of soil your property has. This co-op with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service allows you to determine soil types on your property. The USDA also has an interactive website to learn more about the soils in your area.
Get your sites geotechnical report prior to construction a structure.
In this article, we will go over the basics of soil in NJ as well as the testing and pre-construction geotechnical reports. Plus, where you can get a soil report in New Jersey. Let’s check it out.
Soil Types In New Jersey
What are the 5 main soil types?
We can categorize soil into sand, clay, silt, peat, chalk, and loam types of soil based on the dominating size of the particles within the soil. Environmental scientists dig holes to investigate soils in various regions. Looking at the flat face of the test hole or boring core is called a “soil profile.”
What is a Soil Profile?
A soil profile is a series of natural layers in the soil. It extends from the surface downward to unconsolidated material. Most soils have three major layers or horizons, called the surface horizon, the subsoil, and the substratum.
Topsoil
Subsoil
Parent rock
Layers of Soil
The soil profile is composed of a series of horizons of soil stacked one on top of the other. These layers are represented by the letters O, A, E, C, B, and R.
Understanding Soil Horizons
O horizon - The O horizon is the uppermost layer of soil that is composed of organic materials. These materials include dried leaves, grasses, dead leaves, small rocks, twigs, surface organisms, fallen trees, and other decomposed organic matter. This horizon is often black, brown or dark brown in color due to the presence of organic content. The O horizon is important because it helps to protect the underlying soil from erosion and provides nutrients for plants. In New Jersey, the O horizon typically ranges from surface to 12 inches in depth.
A horizon - New Jersey soils are some of the most diverse in the country. The state is home to dozens of soil types, each with its own unique properties. One of the most important layers of soil is the A-horizon or topsoil. This layer is rich in organic material and is essential for plant growth. The topsoil is soft and porous, allowing roots to easily take hold. Additionally, the topsoil is home to a variety of microorganisms that help to break down organic matter and release nutrients into the soil. Without the A-horizon, plants would be unable to grow and thrive.
E horizon - This layer is composed of nutrients leached from the O and A horizons. This layer is more common in forested areas and has lower clay content. The E-horizon is important because it helps to make New Jersey soils some of the most fertile in the country. The nutrients in this layer help to support plant growth and make New Jersey a great place for agriculture. In addition, the E-horizon helps to regulate moisture levels and prevent erosion.
C horizon - This layer is devoid of any organic matter and is made up of broken bedrock. This layer is also known as saprolite. The geological material present in this zone is cemented. The C-Horizon can be found throughout New Jersey but is especially common in the northern and central parts of the state.
B horizon - The B-horizon, or subsoil, is the subsurface horizon present just below the topsoil and above the bedrock. In New Jersey, this layer is typically harder and more compact than topsoil, containing less humus, soluble minerals, and organic matter. However, the B-horizon is still a site of deposition for certain minerals and metal salts, such as iron oxide. This horizon also holds more water than topsoil due to its clay content, resulting in a lighter brown color.
R horizon - This layer is where you will find rock.
FUN FACT: Did you know New Jersey has a state soil? The “Downer” is the official state soil of New Jersey.
About Downer Soil
When a soil cannot be used for one or more of the described functions, it is referred to as a limitation. Soil scientists studied Downer soil and identified that it has moderate limitations. Since Downer soil can have a loose sandy surface.. In some locations, Downer is not good for building a house with a basement or onsite sewage treatment and dispersal field because of the high water table. You can learn more about Downer soils.
Soil Regions in New Jersey
New Jersey has four main soil regions. With coastal making up the largest portion of the state mainly in the southern parts of the state. As we move north to central New Jersey, you will come into the Piedmont area, working farther north we enter the Highland section and in the northwest portion of the state we have the Valley and Ridge.
Coastal
Highlands
Piedmont
Valley and Ridge
In general, soils can be used for agriculture (growing foods, raising animals, stables); engineering (roads, buildings, tunnels); ecology (wildlife habitat, wetlands), recreation (ball fields, playground, camp areas), and more.
FUN FACT: Soil is considered a nonrenewable resource since only 10 mm of soil production takes between 100 and 1,000 years to form.
Soils of Southeastern New Jersey
New Jersey Coastal Region
The surface geology of the southern coastal sections of New Jersey (roughly from Cape May County to Monmouth County and west to the Delaware River) have soils derived from sand, silt, and clay deposits. This soil was created during the Tertiary Period. Tertiary is a geological time period from about 65 to 1.8 million years ago.
Seven soil types are associated with this region:
Lakehurst-Lakewood-Evesboro,
Downer-Evesboro,
Sulfaquents Sulfihemists,
Urban Land-Fripp,
Manahawkin-Alsion Beryland.
Each of the above soils has similar structures.
Northern New Jersey
Rockaway series soil s a brown, gravelly loam found in the counties in northern New Jersey This includes Hunterdon, Mercer, Union, Essex and Bergen counties. It formed this soil from the exposed sediments deposited during the Devonian Period about 400 million years ago. It is composed of weathered particles of conglomerate, sandstone, shale and limestone.
Typical Soils Found in Passaic and Bergen County
Three dominant soils include Booton Series soil, which formed from glacial till. It is acidic and originated from shale, basalt and diabase rocks. Also present are the Carlisle series soil, which formed from the decomposition of woody plants in a boggy environment, and the Dunellen series soil, which formed on the outwash plains of the Saddle River.
Soil Series
Booton Series
Typically found in Passaic County, New Jersey, Boonton soils are found on gently sloping to very steep uplands. Slope is usually smooth and regular and gradient ranges. The soils formed in glacial till composed mostly of red to brown shale, sandstone, basalt, and some granitic gneiss.
Carlisle Series
The Carlisle series consists of very deep, very poorly drained soils formed in woody and organic materials. This soil series is not suitable to build on.
Dunellen Series
The Dunellen series consists of very deep,well drained coarse-loamy, mixed soils formed in stratified materials. Dunellen soils are on outwash plains and stream terraces. Typically found in Somerset County, New Jersey. Depth to bedrock is typically greater than 10 feet.
As you can see New Jersey has a diverse amount of soil types. Each with their own characteristics.
Soil Testing
Though there are many types of testing that can be conducted on soils, from agriculture and geological to mineral testing, for this article we will stay with soils as it pertains to construction.
What is soil load testing?
Soil testing in New Jersey is necessary to determine the bearing capacity of soil at the desired depth for designing shallow foundations. The plate load test is performed on-site to determine the ultimate bearing capacity of soil at the desired depth. Data from the plate load test is helpful to confirm the design assumptions made from soil tests or can be used as a design parameter.
Plate load testing is performed by loading a circular steel plate on the ground surface and measuring the settlement of the plate at various applied loads. The load is applied through a hydraulic jack that pushes against a deadman weight. As the weight is increased, so too does the settlement of the plate.
The ultimate bearing capacity is determined by extrapolating the data to find the point at which there is no further settlement. This information is then used to design foundations that are appropriate for the site conditions.
Plate load testing
Soil testing is an important step in any construction project. It helps to determine the bearing capacity of the soil, and to identify any potential problems that could cause structural damage. The plate load test is a popular method for testing soil, and it is often used in the design and construction of shallow foundations.
The test is performed by placing a plate at the desired depth and applying a gradually increasing load. The settlements are then recorded for each increment of load. At one point, a rapid settlement occurs, which indicates the ultimate bearing capacity of the soil. This value is then divided by a safety factor to determine the safe bearing capacity. Soil testing is an important part of any construction project, and should be performed by a reputable soil testing company. There are different plate load calculations for each soil type, from clay to sand to loam and other soil types.
Soil Bearing Capacities
Soil-bearing capacity is an important consideration when building a foundation. The type of soil can have a significant impact on the strength of the foundation. Soil testing is recommended to determine the bearing capacity of the soil. A soil testing company in New Jersey can provide information on the bearing capacity of various types of soils.
The following table lists presumed bearing strengths for different types of soils:
Very fine soils (clays and silts) typically have lower capacities than coarse granular soils (sands and gravel). However, some clays or silts have higher bearing capacity than the values in the code tables. If you have a soil test done, you could discover that you have denser clay with a much higher bearing strength. Mechanically compacting the soil can also raise its bearing capacity. Soil-bearing capacity is an important consideration when building a foundation. A soil testing company in New Jersey can provide information on the bearing capacity of various types of soils.
A handy tool for concrete, excavation, or foundation contractors to have on-site when performing structural projects is a pocket penetrometer. A soil compaction tester, more commonly known as a penetrometer, is a diagnostic tool used to measure the depth and extent of subsurface compaction.
This information is important for contractors and construction teams in order to determine if subsoiling (a process of breaking up compacted soil) would be beneficial, and at what depth the subsoiler should be set. The penetrometer works by measuring the resistance of the soil to being penetrated - the harder the soil, the higher the reading on the device. By using a penetrometer, potential problem areas can be identified and remedied before they cause long-term damage.
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GeoTechnical Report
The analysis data from the soils testing is then made into a geotechnical report. Geotechnical reports are vital for any construction project, big or small. If you're thinking of building a new home or structure, the first step is to find out about the quality of soil on your property. A Geotechnical report will determine the various characteristics of the soil and if it is suitable for your building plans.
These reports are required for any commercial construction project, but they can also be helpful for smaller residential projects. A professional Geotechnical engineer in New Jersey can help with your project. The findings in a Geotechnical report will be used by the contractor during the designing, construction, and completion of a project. Even when not required, this report can help reduce design and construction costs. Don't start any construction project without a Geotechnical report!
Hiring a Geotechnical Engineer
When it comes to building on any piece of land, it is essential to first hire a professional soils engineer in order to conduct a testing process of the soil. Soils engineers are also known as geotechnical engineers.
Their objective is to provide information on the physical properties of the soil and foundation, as well as make recommendations for the site and building design. In order to conduct the report, a drilling rig or hand operated augers will be used to extract soil samples that are sent to a geotechnical service testing lab to be analyzed.
All testing should be handled by a licensed engineer and follow the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. Soils engineers in New Jersey are highly trained and experienced professionals who can help you determine if your building project is feasible and what kind of foundation you will need. They will also provide recommendations for any necessary mitigation measures to protect your investment.
What does the Geotech Report entail?
A soils engineer in New Jersey will use a Geotech report to analyze the chemical and geotechnical qualities of your soil. The findings of a geotechnical report should include general information on: the type of soils present; the grain size distribution of the soils; the soil's moisture content; the soil's Atterberg limits; and the soil's compaction characteristics.
The Geotech report will also offer an opinion on the suitability of the soils for various engineering uses, such as foundation support, road base, or fill material. In addition, the Geotech report may recommend remedial measures to improve the soils for a particular engineering use.
Report Section Include:
Soil ID
Soil Density and Structure
Organic and Soil Contaminants
Compaction and Ground Water Information
Structure Design Suggestions
Seismic Factors
Ways to Deal with Site Soil Problems
Geo reports are important for any New Jersey construction project. The report provides information on the type of soil present at a construction site and whether or not it is capable of supporting a proposed structure.
Geo reports also include data on site conditions, drainage control, and any conditions that might affect the project. This information is essential for civil and structural engineers to properly design the foundation and structure for a new construction project.
Without a Geo report, it would be difficult to properly assess the risks associated with new development. As such, Geo reports are an essential tool for anyone involved in the planning and construction of new developments in New Jersey.
Related Article: Can Helical Piling Save Your Sinking House
Bad Soil Conditions
Site conditions testing is used to assess the safety of the planned structure. Site conditions testing is conducted by a professional engineer and tests things like the density of the soil, the bearing capacity of the soil, and the rate of settle of the soil. Site conditions testing is important because it helps to ensure that the foundation of the structure will be able to support the weight of the structure.
Site conditions testing is typically done through a process of drilling, surveying, and testing the soil. If the results of site conditions testing are not acceptable, then the engineer may suggest some solutions, such as draining groundwater, installing wider or deeper footings, alternate forms of cement to counter corrosive effects, or fixing the slope. Site conditions testing is an important part of ensuring that structures are safe and stable. In poor soil conditions and for larger projects pile is a way to offset the proposed design constructions' bad soils document.
Costs of a GeoTech Report
Geo Engineers in New Jersey are able to provide soil testing services for a wide range of projects. The size and scope of the project will greatly affect the final cost implications. Usually, soil testing is completed prior to the engineering design process in order to provide the necessary information for this phase. The cost of this procedure can range from $3000 to $5000. While this may seem like a large expense, it is often a valuable investment.
Engineers are able to assess the soil conditions and determine the best course of action for your project. This can help to reduce building construction costs and ensure that the structure is properly supported. Seeking quotes from a local geo firms is the best way to determine the expected cost for your project. Several New Jersey Geo Engineers have the experience and knowledge to ensure that your project is completed successfully.
Soil Testing Labs in New Jersey
Site civil engineers are responsible for the design and construction of many of the infrastructure systems that we rely on every day. In New Jersey, there are hundreds of site civil engineers who work on everything from bridges and roads to sewer and water systems.
At Shore Systems Group, LLC, we work with many engineering firms on different projects. Below is a list of a few locations in North Jersey, central NJ and Southern New Jersey. Site civil engineering is a complex field that requires knowledge of many disciplines, including geotechnical engineering, hydraulics, and structural engineering.
However, the rewards can be great. Site civil engineers have the satisfaction of knowing that their work helps to improve the quality of life for everyone who lives in New Jersey.
NOTE: Shore Systems Group, LLC has no affiliation with any of the below companies.
Earth Engineering Inc.
Earth Engineering Inc.’s laboratory in East Norriton is AAP (AASHTO Accreditation Program) accredited. They offer State-of the-Art Soil Laboratory Testing Services in NJ & PA for the following tests:
ASTM D 421, Dry Preparation of Soil
ASTM D 422, Particle Size Analysis
ASTM D 698, Standard Proctor
ASTM D 1140, Material Finer than No.200 Sieve
ASTM D 1557, Modified Proctor
ASTM D 1883, California Bearing Ratio (CBR)
ASTM D 2216, Moisture Content
ASTM D 2487, Classification
ASTM D 3080, Direct Shear of Soils
ASTM D 4318, Liquid & Plastic Limits, Index of Plasticity
Contact Info
Headquarters: 610.277.0880
New Jersey: 856.768.1001
Certified Testing Labs Inc.
CTL Inc, offers construction site, soils and material testing. They are located in Bordentown, New Jersey and have offices in PA and NY. They offer ND (non-destructive) testing, special inspections and construction materials testing. Including Soils and Aggregate testing.
Below are a few of their services.
Organic content
Hydrometer
Sieve analysis
Atterberg limits
Soil classification
Moisture density relations of soils-standard proctor
Specific Gravity
pH value
Moisture content
Absorption
Permeability
Permeability class rating-dep
Hydraulic Conductivity
Abrasion and impact test
California bearing ratio(CBR)-lab
Soundness of aggregates
Resistivity
Contact Info
Website: https://certifiedtestinglabs.com/construction-materials-testing/
155 US Route 130, Bordentown, NJ 08505
Tel: (609) 298-3255
Email: infobordentown@certifiedtestinglabs.com
JZN Engineering PC
They offer engineering and consulting services. Services include geotechnical and forensic engineering, contractor support, construction quality assurance and checking, and storm water management. Markets served include retail, residential developments, commercial buildings, industrial structures, urban/community development and public projects.
Contact Information
Website: http://jznengineering.com/
Locations:
Corporate Office: 99 Morris Avenue, Suite 302, Springfield, NJ 07081
Jersey City Office: One Evertrust Plaza, Jersey City, NJ 07302
Call: (973) 218-6561
Craig Testing Laboratories, Inc.
Description of services at Craig Testing are material testing and inspection services. Capabilities include soil testing, structural steel inspection, fireproofing inspection, floor flatness inspection, concrete testing, asbestos testing, and consulting.
There Qualifications
The following memberships and certifications have been acquired to maintain a high standard of performance by our staff:
Member National Ground Water Association
NYDEC – NJGWA - DNREC
Well Drillers Licensed by the NGWA as well as New Jersey, New York, Delaware, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Pennsylvania
Member National Drilling Association
OSHA HAZWOPER Training
Equipped to work at Health & Safety Levels B, C and D
HAZCOM with Global Harmonization System Compliant
Contact Information
Website: https://www.craigtestboring.com/
Craig Test
Boring Co., Inc.
5230 Atlantic Avenue
Mays Landing, NJ 08330
Craig Geotechnical
Drilling Co., Inc.
3143 Bordentown Rd, Bldg 4B
Parlin, NJ 08859
Call 609-625-4862 and 1-800-584-2277
Rutgers Soils Resource
Rutgers Soil Testing Laboratory
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
57 US Highway 1
New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8554
Phone: 848-932-9295
Email: soiltest@njaes.rutgers.edu
NJ Soils Guide Conclusion
If you are in need of the services of a soil engineer or geotechnical firm, please do not hesitate to contact Shore Systems Group LLC. We have extensive experience working with both types of professionals and would be more than happy to put you in touch with the right people for your construction project. Thank you for reading and we hope this article was helpful.
