Fill Dirt in Refugio, TX

Fill dirt is subsoil with few organic materials used to raise or level ground. In Refugio's West Texas climate and clay soils, use fill dirt for general grading, raising low spots, behind retaining walls, and non-structural under-slab fill. It is not usually recommended as final surface material for driveways or structural building pads without compaction and proper engineering.

Delivered price for fill dirt in Refugio typically ranges from about $10 to $30 per ton depending on distance, truck size, and moisture. Per cubic yard price depends on density; using a common conversion of about 1.2 to 1.4 tons per cubic yard gives roughly $12 to $42 per cubic yard. Prices vary seasonally and with haul distance, so check our checkout quote for live pricing.

Hello Gravel's minimum order is 3 tons, which we display during checkout. Local suppliers and haulers serving Refugio and Refugio County often run tri-axle dump trucks and may prefer full-truck loads for rural runs, so minimums can be higher for long-haul or remote deliveries. If you need less than a truckload, contact our team and we will try to match you with local options or suggest nearby yards.

For simple yard leveling, generic clean fill dirt with low organic content is fine. For driveways and slab backfill in clay-prone Refugio soils, use well-graded granular fill or engineered fill with proper compaction; plain fill dirt tends to hold moisture and shrink/swell. For driveways, a base layer of crusher run or compacted gravel on top of compacted fill gives better drainage and longevity.

Use these factors per square foot: 1 inch = 0.00309 cubic yards, 6 inches = 0.01852 cubic yards, 1 foot = 0.03704 cubic yards. To convert to tons, multiply cubic yards by the local density (typical fill dirt density 1.2 to 1.4 tons per cubic yard). Always add 10 to 20 percent extra to account for compaction and settlement when ordering.

Residential projects normally target about 85 to 95 percent of the standard Proctor compaction for usable subgrades; structural pads may require 95 percent or higher as specified by an engineer. Common equipment includes plate compactors or rammers for small areas, and vibratory smooth drum or sheepsfoot rollers for larger or clay-rich areas. In clay soils around Refugio, multiple passes and moisture control are often needed to reach compaction targets.

Small yard grading and bringing in fill dirt often do not require a permit, but building pads, driveways that affect drainage, or work in flood zones may need city or county approval. Check with the City of Refugio or Refugio County building and planning departments before major grading, and verify setbacks around septic systems. If in doubt, call local authorities or ask our team for guidance before ordering.

Good maintenance starts with proper installation: compacted base, crown for drainage, and a top layer of gravel for driveways. In hot summers and heavy seasonal rains near Refugio, regrade low spots and add material after big storms, keep drainage ditches clear, and consider periodic light compaction to reduce rutting. Expect to add or regrade driveway surfacing every few years, depending on traffic and storm events.

Fill dirt is inexpensive and fine for non-structural grading, but it lacks the compaction and drainage properties of crusher run or engineered fill. Crusher run is crushed stone plus fines and makes a more stable, well-draining base for driveways. Engineered fill is specified and tested for structural pads and footings; in Refugio's clay soils, engineered or properly compacted granular fill is often required for load-bearing structures.

Most deliveries come by tri-axle dump trucks, which carry about 10 to 14 cubic yards depending on material and local weight limits; larger end-dump or pup trailers may be used for bigger jobs. Trucks typically dump on the driveway or a designated area; drivers may offer tailgate spreading at their discretion but it is not guaranteed. Expect extra fees for long-haul runs, limited access, gate delays, off-road delivery, or requests for spreading or small-lot deliveries.

Yes. Wet periods and storm seasons can restrict quarry and truck operations and increase lead times and haul costs, while very dry periods may make hauling easier but can raise dust concerns. In Refugio, standard delivery lead time is 2 or more business days, and next-day delivery is available for orders placed before noon CST for an additional fee. Plan ahead for large projects in hurricane season or after heavy rains to avoid delays.