The Hidden Threat of Glenpool loamy fine sand, 3 to 15 percent slopes for Homeowners in Tulsa

What is Glenpool loamy fine sand, 3 to 15 percent slopes?

Glenpool loamy fine sand, 3 to 15 percent slopes is a moderate clay soil formation common in Tulsa. It is characterized by a high silica content that causes it to absorb water and swell volume by up to 1.5%. Engineers value it for agriculture but fear it for construction due to its "shrink-swell" volatility.

Why Tulsa Foundations Fail

If you live in The Greens at Cedar Ridge, South Towne Square, Cedar Ridge Village, or Saddle Ridge, your home is interacting with this critical geology. Unlike stable sandy loams, Glenpool clay moves.

The defining metric is the Plasticity Index (PI) of 0.0. This PI indicates relatively stable ground, though localized drainage issues can still undermine grade beams.

The "Active Zone" Depth

In Tulsa, the "Active Zone"—where moisture levels fluctuate—extends 12-15 feet deep. Standard builder piers often stop at 8 feet. This mismatch is why we see repetitive failures in 74137.

3 Signs of Glenpool Soil Failure

• Diagonal Shear Cracks: Extending from door/window corners (45-degree angles).
• Friable Soil Gap: Soil pulling 1-2 inches away from the foundation perimeter in summer.
• Sticking Doors: Specifically on the exterior walls relative to the center of the home.

Engineering Protocol: Correct vs. Incorrect

Neighborhood Watch

We are monitoring elevated PI readings in these areas: