What is the shrinkage factor commonly associated with loam?

The shrinkage factor for loam is commonly recognized as 0.83. This factor indicates the volumetric change that occurs when loam dries or is excavated. When working with soils, understanding the shrinkage factor is crucial for construction projects, as it helps in calculating the amount of material needed, the potential for settlement, and overall site stability.

Loam, which is a mixture of sand, silt, and clay, tends to retain moisture better than pure sand or pure clay. The shrinkage factor of 0.83 suggests that for every cubic meter of loam in its wet state, when it dries, it will reduce in volume to approximately 83% of that. This knowledge is vital for earthwork estimations, ensuring that the right quantities are accounted for during project planning.