Landscape Materials Testing/Topsoil Analysis
Testing the quality of landscape materials (topsoils, subsoils and composts) is an essential part of modern soft landscaping.
Quality and characteristics of soft landscaping materials are variable, with no materials suiting all end uses, and some sources may not be suitable for soft landscaping at all.
The use of inappropriate materials could lead to a contractual dispute or restricted plant growth/establishment rates, possibly resulting in removal and replacement of poor materials.
The professional Soil Scientists at CL Voelcker will help you to ensure that substandard materials are screened out before they are used.
Our Service
This essential service will help you to:
- Make source decisions within 5 working days from sample submission;
- Improve sources to the required standard;
- Understand the limitations of a specific material and how they may be mitigated;
- Avoid significant degradation of materials.
Service Description
There are three elements of this service:
| Sample Description | Each sample is described in terms of its colour, soil structure, consistency, stone content and shape, and presence of foreign matter or evidence of pernicious weeds |
|---|---|
| Laboratory Analysis | Samples are analysed for relevant properties covering physical characteristics, fertility, basic chemistry and where appropriate, potential contaminants. All analysis is conducted by a properly accredited laboratory |
| Interpretative Report | Our findings are interpreted in relation to the proposed end use of the material. Appropriate, practical recommendations to improve and maintain the quality of materials to a suitable level are provided |
All of these services often provide a significant cost benefit when compared to the replacement of materials or plant stock. Full recommendations are given to maintain/improve soil quality as appropriate.
