Engineered Soil Mix

Engineered Soil begins with certain specifications or preferences by a client. A mix design consisting typically of sand, soil, gravel, compost and other amendments such as lightweight expanded clay (Hydrocks®, Stalite®), hydrogels, peat (sphagnum or reed-sedge), perlite, mulch, vermiculite, Profile® or Turface® is developed. The soil mix is typically classified by percentage (%) of weight or volume. For example, 60% Sand, 20% Topsoil, 10% Compost, 10% Expanded Clay may be a blend that works well for a specific purpose. The mix design probably has other specifications that determine what type of each sand, soil, compost, and clay that we select for blending. A sample is usually blended for laboratory analysis before bulk blending begins unless it is a mix that has been previously supplied to another landscaper or contractor. The Engineered Topsoil is then blended with a blending machine that often involves multiple stages to thoroughly blend the soil. Homogenous blending is critical to maintain the quality throughout the soil profile so that its purpose is achieved within the entire area it is installed. Finally, the bulk soil is loaded and delivered to the construction project site for installation.

Engineered Soil Mix is soil blended specifically for a purpose or to certain specs. Topsoil is actually a type of engineered soil mix if it is blended like we do at our facility. However, most topsoil and fill dirt are simply what is dug from the ground as it is excavated. Topsoil generally refers to the upper portion of the soil with a higher content of organic matter and sand. Fill Dirt can refer to any type of dirt and typically is not screened so it may contain rocks and other debris. As with all landscaping and construction products there is a wide range in quality in both Topsoil and Fill Dirt. Both however are more of an all-purpose or multi-purpose with topsoil being more useful for growing plants and fill dirt for filling holes. Engineered soil is actually manufactured by blending a combination of products for a specific purpose such as planting media to grow a specific grass or turf, bioretention soil for basins, or structural soil to allow for trees to grow in an urban streetscape. If topsoil or fill dirt is substituted for an engineered soil mix then it often leads to failure of that engineered design.

RSI has worked extensively as a supplier to many landscapers and contractors over the years, and we have gained valuable insight from both the engineers and architects who design the work and the people actually performing the work. Contractors installing a Bioretention basin or pond for the first time may have questions about keeping the soil uncontaminated or how to install without compacting the soil. We can offer the advise and the equipment options that allow you to install the material without compacting it by driving on top of it. We can also help schedule the delivery of the engineered soil and dumping in bulk to minimize both the labor and risk of contamination from the site and runoff events. Bioswale soil installation is very similar to bioretention pond and one of the most critical elements is timing the installation with the weather, which can be difficult. Installation of our engineered sand or engineered topsoil as a soil for installing turf on a rootzone can also vary dramatically. Often the interface between the native soil and engineered soil product must be tilled to minimize the change in soil properties. Green roof planting soil is a challenge within itself. We offer this in options such as super sacks or one-ton bags both on the pallet or with the handles to make it simpler for lifts, cranes, or elevator transport. RSI wants to help your installation of engineered soil products easier.

River Sand, Inc. is your bulk landscaping supply yard and source for construction materials including sand, soil, and gravel. Call today for the cost and to schedule delivery for your engineered soil mix.