Which type of soil helps reduce the direct infiltration of rainwater near the foundation?

Clay content soil is known for its fine particles and compact nature, which significantly reduces the permeability of water. When rainwater falls on clay soil, it tends to remain on the surface longer because the soil does not allow water to percolate through it easily. This can be particularly beneficial near the foundation of a structure, as it helps reduce direct infiltration of rainwater, which can lead to problems such as basement flooding, soil erosion, and damage to the foundation.

In contrast, other soil types such as sand and gravel have larger particles and higher porosity, allowing water to drain quickly through them, which does not offer the same level of protection against water infiltration. Loamy soil, while it has good water retention properties and is often considered ideal for gardening, also allows for better drainage than clay, making it less effective at preventing water from reaching the foundation compared to clay content soil. Therefore, clay’s ability to restrict water flow is what makes it an effective choice in this context.