Dirt Connections

Construction Services in VA, MD & DC

Call for a free quote: 703-940-9949 Order Fill Dirt Online
  • Residential
    • Additions
    • Asphalt Paving
    • Bathroom Remodeling
    • Concrete Paving
    • Dirt Grading / Site Work
    • Foundation Repairs
    • Roofing
    • Waterproofing
  • Commercial
    • Additions
    • Asphalt Paving
    • Bathroom Remodeling
    • Concrete Paving
    • Dirt Grading / Site Work
    • Foundation Repairs
    • Property Manager Services
    • Roofing
    • Waterproofing
  • Construction
    • Demolition & Excavation
    • Material Crushing & Screening
    • Retaining Walls
    • Storm Water Management
    • Structural Fill Dirt
  • Pipeline Contractors
  • Pool Removal
  • Asphalt Millings
  • Construction Plans
    • Additions Plans
    • Bathroom Plans
    • Basement Plans
    • Site Construction Plans
  • Dump Truck Hauling
  • Free Guides & Resources
  • Free Dirt
    • Virginia
      • Alexandria
      • Arlington
      • Ashburn
      • Centreville
      • Chantilly
      • Fairfax
      • Falls Church
      • Gainesville
      • Manassas
      • Oakton
      • Reston
      • Sterling
      • Vienna
    • Maryland
      • Annapolis
      • Baltimore
      • Bowie
      • Elkton
      • Fort Washington
      • Frederick
      • Gaithersburg
      • Hagerstown
      • Laurel
      • Oxon Hill
      • Potomac
      • Rockville
      • Silver Spring
  • Blog

Fill Dirt vs. Fill Sand & Gravel

January 22, 2019

a fill dirt carrier that is getting ready to transport a truckload of fill dirt to a construction site in MarylandIf you need fill for your project, you may be wondering which kind of fill is ideal to suit your needs. The three types of fill most consider are fill dirt, fill sand and gravel. Each is made up of a unique composition that makes each type of fill better for certain projects. For example, fill dirt can be easily compacted so that it can be used to create a strong foundation. Fill sand can also be compacted, but the particles are so small that this material cannot be relied on to stay sturdy and stable like fill dirt. However, because fill sand is composed of smaller particles, it makes this particular type of fill much better for situations that involve drainage.

When trying to figure out which type of fill to choose, consider what you need the fill to do. Do you need it to help drainage? Level terrain? Or maybe you’re looking for something that could be ideal to create a pathway. Understanding how each type of fill works and what it is most commonly used for will help you make your decision.

Fill Dirt & Organic Matter

Fill dirt gets its name became it is usually used to fill in a depression or hole in the ground and to create mounds. Basically, it is used to somehow artificially change the grade or elevation of land, this is known as land grading. Fill dirt is subsoil, meaning that is taken from beneath topsoil. It’s taken from below this layer so that it does not contain any organic matter or biological activity. It may contain things like sand, rocks, stones, and earth. The reason fill dirt is so handy for construction projects is because it lacks organic matter. Organic matter will decompose over time which will create pockets of empty space within the fill, resulting in shifting or settling. This is why it’s important to make sure you are getting clean fill dirt that has been properly screened for organic matter.

Common Uses of Fill Dirt

Fill dirt can be used for many purposes, but it is predominately used in construction projects. This is because the tightly compacted composition of fill dirt allows it to become a stable and sturdy base. Fill dirt can be used for foundational purposes such as driveways, houses, above ground pools, and highways. Fill dirt can be very useful in low-lying construction sites to help prevent flooding by raising the building’s foundation. It can also be used to change the appearance of terrain by creating hills or filling dips and holes to create your desired foundation.
Some people also use fill dirt as backfill, to secure septic tanks, to fill inground pools, and as foundational material for landscaping projects like building a waterfall or deck.

What is Fill Sand?

a pile of fill sand that is being used to fill an area near a septic tank for a Maryland fill dirt projectFill sand is another common material that is used in construction projects. It is comprised of the finest particles or rocks that have been broken down and eroded over time. Fill sand has a very high compaction rating, but it is prone to shifting and displacement. Many people choose fill sand because it is attractive and affordable. It’s very useful for in wet areas that need help dealing with drainage problems. Fill sand is recommended if your project requires a backfill material. Often times, fill sand is used as a base for concrete and as backfill around septic tanks.

When Not to Use Fill Sand

It’s very important that you don’t choose to use fill sand when your project really requires fill dirt. While these two materials can sometimes overlap in their uses (like backfill for a septic tank), ultimately they are very different and could cause serious damage to the end result of your project if you select the wrong one. For example, don’t use fill sand around the foundation of your home because it can draw moisture to the foundation and cause water problems with your home. Instead, you need to use fill dirt. It’s most likely that for your project is going to require fill dirt. This is because fill dirt has higher quality, more versatility, and is more dependable than other types of fill.

Gravel

Gravel is made up of a variety of rock fragments that come in many different sizes. Most people associate gravel with small, powdery rock particles, but gravel can range from granule size to boulder size. This material is formed over time due to erosion and weathering. It is most often used to make roads, paths, and can even be very useful in gardens. Gravel has many uses for a residential landscaping or construction project. It’s budget-friendly, comes in many shades, different sizes, and is a versatile paving material.

Using Gravel

Gravel can act as an effective mulch for plants. First, it helps prevents evaporation from the soil surface. Second, gravel has enough weight that it is not prone to moving as a result of the wind. It can be also a very useful material when it comes to drainage and erosion control as it can easily allow water to pass through without risk of the water displacing the gravel. If you’re worried about soil erosion, mixing in some gravel with the soil will help reduce your erosion problem. You could place some around your house drain pipes or at the bottom of hills on your property to improve water drainage. If you don’t have a gutter, you can use a crushed stone drip edge to keep stormwater run-off from your roof from splashing dirt onto your siding.

a road made of gravel that was placed down on top of dirt after the homeowners received a free Maryland fill dirt deliveryGravel can be functional and decorative. You can use it to create a patio base, walkway, or driveway. However, in terms of construction projects, gravel is usually more of a finishing material than the one you’re going to want to use as fill. Instead, you should elect to start your project with fill dirt so that you can create a strong and sturdy foundation, and then finish off the end of your project by creating beautiful pathways and managing rainwater run-off with gravel.

Maryland Fill Dirt Contractors

For help determining whether your project is best suited for either fill dirt, fill sand, gravel, or a combination of these materials, reach out to a Maryland fill dirt contractor for more information and to schedule a free topsoil or Maryland fill dirt delivery.

Fill Dirt

Request A Quote!

For a prompt, precise, professional free estimate, complete the form below or call 703-940-9949
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Downloadable Guides

Related Post

What You Need to Know About Building a Backyard Po...
Top 4 Liabilities With Inground Pools
How to Perform Yard Leveling for Your Shed
How to Prepare Your Lawn for Spring in 6 Steps
Order Fill Dirt Online

Our Location

Dirt Connections
11325 Random Hills Road
Suite 360-A211
Fairfax, VA 22030

We Are Licensed and Insured!

Connect with us!

  • Instagram
  • Twitter

Free Downloadable Guides

  • Bathroom Remodeling
  • Fill Dirt Delivery
  • Pool Removal

Call Our Experts

Tel: (703) 940-9949

Credit Cards Accepted

credit cards accepted at Dirt Connections are Visa Mastercard AmEx and Discover
Google Rating
4.8
Dirt Connections
Dirt Connections
4.8
C Hannon
C Hannon
16:27 02 Jan 19
Chuck is a master communicator. Great quality dirt, quick responses to all my inquiries. highly recommended. Will be using Dirt Connections again in the future for more fill/top soil needs.
Daniel Chaney
Daniel Chaney
20:57 22 Nov 17
Chuck Moore at Dirt Connections really goes above and beyond to help his customers with all their trucking needs! My company, Benchmark Utility Services, has used Dirt Connections for many jobs and they always deliver for us!
Chris Mihm
Chris Mihm
20:49 08 Sep 16
Dirt Connections is amazing. I had a few people string me along promising good quality fill dirt but never delivering. Dirt Connections showed up at 7am the next morning! We discussed my unique needs. He told me I needed twice as much as my contractor suggested. He was correct. Dirt showed up same day! Would strongly recommend.
John D
John D
22:45 16 Sep 16
Chuck did a great job getting fill dirt for my project. He was able to help me meet a deadline. Highly recommend.
DJ Sweater
DJ Sweater
15:54 23 Feb 16
Chuck does a great job at taking care of customers. He walked us through the whole process, and made us feel at home about our siding and brick repair. I am going to call Chuck and Dirt Connections about our future bathroom and concrete driveway remodeling as well. Great guy, great company, thanks Chuck!
Jonathan Gessert
Jonathan Gessert
18:01 17 Dec 15
I gave Dirt Connections a call about a week ago to see what they could do about remodeling the bathroom at my house. Chuck answered the phone, was extremely polite and knowledgeable, and pointed me in the right direction! I thought the quote was very affordable, and will be recommending him to my friends. 5 out of 5 stars.
Sandra Maxey
Sandra Maxey
21:50 03 Feb 16
If you are looking for quality home improvements, this is the company for you. They were on time, courteous and went beyond our expectations with the addition they did for us. Would recommend them highly and definitely use them again!
David C. Roseman
David C. Roseman
15:16 29 May 18
My experience with Dirt Connections has been excellent. Chuck Moore is quite professional, and his personal service and attention to detail in arranging the right fill material is impressive.
mpgary21090
mpgary21090
14:10 04 Jun 18
We used this company to haul dirt for a pool dig out of Bethesda Md. They did an outstanding job. Thank you Chuck for making this work on short notice.
Michael Loper
Michael Loper
23:03 16 Jun 18
On behalf of the Trustees of Bruen Chapel United Methodist Church, I see hallmarks of this project (filling a 6 foot sinkhole) by Dirt Connections as the contractor's extremely prompt response and the thorough accomplishment of the work. The project was wrapped up much faster than I had estimated, given the issues that heavy rain has caused all over Fairfax County.
Miri Birk
Miri Birk
21:35 16 Jul 18
Excellent service. Quick delivery. good clean fill dirt. And the price was right.
Laura Bryan
Laura Bryan
17:38 01 Aug 18
I worked with Chuck who was VERY accommodating. He worked hard to get me clean fill which is not guaranteed. He was easy to get a hold of and quick to respond. If I ever need dirt again this is where I will go.
Brett Gerard
Brett Gerard
15:02 15 Aug 18
This is the second time I've worked with Chuck. The service is stellar A+, very organized, on-time and they are flexible on delivery. The fill dirt is clean. Chuck goes above and beyond to service his clients and most of all I appreciate they level of communication. This level of service is difficult to find in NOVA.
Chuck Jones
Chuck Jones
13:48 24 Aug 18
LandArt Associates, LLC utilizes Dirt Connections services whenever performing projects in the Northern VA/DC area. We have used them on small and large projects and the service is always outstanding. It is always a welcome relief when you have a company that is consistently dependable.
Shannon Frazier
Shannon Frazier
23:18 04 Sep 18
Our delivery was placed in the wrong location. Chuck made sure the mistake was corrected quickly and went the extra mile. Very responsive and professional. Highly recommend.
VIRGINIA TICER BAECHLER
VIRGINIA TICER BAECHLER
16:19 29 Sep 18
Chuck Moore and his staff have helped our family with multiple projects, including moving, snow removal, and water remediation! They're always willing to help, and they do so quickly and professionally! We would strongly recommend them to anyone needing any of their services! Thank you for everything, Chuck!!
Chris Myers
Chris Myers
14:00 09 Dec 18
Great service, great dirt, all around great experience! They even helped me think through what I needed to do after the dirt arrived.
Christian Chopitea
Christian Chopitea
22:31 11 Dec 18
Working with them was a remarkable experience, starting with the communication, punctuality, the delivery and the quality of soil. Everything was coordinated precisely to my expectations. Highly recommend if you are in need of soil.
Taylor Pereira
Taylor Pereira
14:25 12 Dec 18
Chuck is the man! He’s been working with my husband and our trucking business for months and has never let us down! Awesome guy, great businessman, and a great connection to have.
mike row
mike row
14:47 09 Jan 19
Chuck took the time to walk me through the entire process. He met with me multiple times and was on site the first day the dirt was delivered to help coordinate dirt placement. I would not hesitate to use him in the future.
Thomas Mathew
Thomas Mathew
19:18 13 Feb 19
Chuck was great to work with! Responds quickly and very flexible to meet any request. Highly recommend!
Next Reviews Write a review
powered by Google
  • Residential
  • Commercial
  • Construction
  • Pipeline Contractors
  • Pool Removal
  • Asphalt Millings
  • Construction Plans
  • Dump Truck Hauling
  • Free Guides & Resources
  • Free Dirt
  • Blog

Copyright © 2019 · Dirt Connections ® · Website by 321 Web Marketing