Which soil texture classes are included in the clayey texture soils group?

The classification of soil textures is fundamental in understanding how different types of soils will behave, particularly in applications such as septic system installations. Clayey texture soils are characterized by having a high proportion of clay particles, which is crucial for evaluating drainage, water retention, and nutrient availability.

The group that encompasses clayey texture soils primarily includes Sandy Clay, Silty Clay, and Clay. These soil types demonstrate significant clay content, contributing to properties such as plasticity, cohesiveness, and compaction. For instance, these types of soils tend to have reduced permeability, which can affect the design and functionality of septic systems.

In contrast, other textures, like Silt Loam and Clay Loam from different choices, incorporate varying amounts of silt and sand, thus exhibiting characteristics that differentiate them from pure clayey soils. Sandy Loam and Silt include predominantly sand and silt particles, respectively, and lack the high clay content needed for classification under clayey soils. Clay Loam and Sandy Clay Loam do have clay but are not classified purely as clayey due to the presence of other textures.

Understanding these classifications helps septic inspectors assess soil conditions accurately and ensures proper design and installation of septic systems that align with local regulations and environmental considerations.