Is it better to fill and compact two feet of fill all at once compared to filling and compacting in 6-inch lifts?

Filling and compacting two feet of fill all at once can lead to various issues that compromise the integrity of the fill. When filling in lifts, especially when compacting in increments like 6-inch lifts, the process allows for more thorough compaction and reduces the likelihood of voids and air pockets within the fill material. Each lift can be compacted uniformly, ensuring that settlement due to weight is minimized and that the underlying soil can adequately support the additional fill.

By using a controlled approach with lifts, operators can also monitor moisture content and adjust as necessary for optimal compaction conditions. This method significantly enhances the stability and performance of the fill, reducing potential long-term issues like settlement or erosion, which may occur if a massive fill is compacted all at once. Overall, lifting and compacting in smaller increments is a best practice in construction and soil management that promotes better structural outcomes.