Definitions for "Expansive soil"
Keywords:  shrinks, expand, wet, utah, clay
Soil containing clay minerals that increase in volume when wet and decrease when dry.
A soil, usually with clay or silt, which changes volume with changes in moisture content. As the moisture of the soil increases, the soil swells or expands, as the moisture content decreases, the soil shrinks.
A range of soils found in many areas of Utah are subject to significant contraction and expansion in times of rain or drought. Specific site preparation and construction measures are taken in areas of expansive soils. Avoid excessive watering and standing water in areas with expansive soils.