Fill Dirt in Somerville, TX

Local fill dirt prices in the Somerville/West Texas area usually fall in a broad range because of supplier, haul distance, and moisture content; expect roughly $6 to $16 per ton as a general ballpark. Delivery fees depend on distance and truck size and are often included for short hauls, but can be $40 to $150 or more for longer runs; Hello Gravel shows live quotes for your zip code so you can see exact pricing before ordering.

Hello Gravel partners with local quarries and haulers that serve the Somerville area; availability changes by zip code so check our checkout for current suppliers. Typical minimum order is 3 tons (our platform minimum), and most local deliveries use tri-axle dump trucks carrying roughly 10 to 15 tons per load; smaller jobs may be sent on 6-wheel or single-axle trucks where available.

Small yard grading or filling typically does not require a permit, but any structural work (foundation backfill), changes to drainage, work in easements, or projects near floodplains often need a permit and inspection. Contact Somerville City Hall or the county permitting office before major earthwork, and for foundation backfill check building department requirements and consider an engineer-approved compaction plan.

West Texas heat and occasional heavy rains can cause fill dirt to shrink when dry and erode during intense storms, so unprotected fill may settle or wash away over time. To improve longevity, grade for positive drainage, compact in thin lifts, and consider surface protection like vegetation, mulch, or a gravel cap where erosion or heavy traffic is expected.

Compact fill dirt in lifts of about 4 to 6 inches for plate compactors and up to 6 to 8 inches for small vibratory rollers; larger rollers can handle thicker lifts on bigger jobs. For structural work aim for engineering targets (often around 90 to 95 percent Standard Proctor), and use a plate compactor for small areas or a vibratory roller for larger sections; hire a contractor if you need certified compaction testing.

Fill dirt is a cost-effective choice for raising grade and general backfill but has poor drainage and is not a good wearing surface for driveways. Crushed stone or recycled concrete are better for driveway bases because they compact tightly and shed water, while topsoil is intended for planting and not for structural fill. Choose fill dirt when you need mass fill or to build grade, but use engineered base materials for driveways and areas with traffic.

Fill dirt usually weighs about 1.2 to 1.4 tons per cubic yard depending on moisture and compaction; a common estimate used by homeowners is 1.3 tons per cubic yard. For example, 1 cubic yard is 27 cubic feet, so a 10 ft by 10 ft area filled to 1 ft deep is 100 cubic feet or about 3.7 cubic yards, roughly 4.8 to 4.9 tons of fill dirt using the 1.3 factor.

Yes, many local contractors offer bundled services that include delivery, spreading, and compaction; availability varies so request this option when you get a Hello Gravel quote. Labor costs depend on scope: small spread-and-compact jobs can run a few hundred dollars, while larger grading and compaction projects commonly range from $800 to several thousand dollars; get multiple quotes and confirm whether compaction testing is included.

Provide a clear drop location, gate and driveway access details, any overhead obstructions, and whether you want material placed in one spot or spread; note that drivers may offer tailgate spreading at their discretion but it is not guaranteed. Also add project notes about tight turnarounds, time windows, and contact phone number so the hauler can plan the safest route and placement on arrival.