Delaware County, Pennsylvania
The dominant drainage class is Well drained and the dominant hydrologic group is C (slow infiltration, moderate runoff). This report summarizes the major soil map units across the survey area to help you understand what to expect when buying, building, or gardening in Delaware County, Pennsylvania.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gladstone gravelly loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 8K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Glenelg-Urban land-Wheaton complex, 0 to 8 percent slopes | 7K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Glenelg-Wheaton complex, 0 to 8 percent slopes | 6K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Glenville silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 6K | Moderately well drained | D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Talleyville-Urban land-Anthropic Udorthents complex, 0 to 8 percent slopes | 6K | Well drained | D | Not limited | Very limited |
| Gladstone gravelly loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes | 5K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Urban land, gravelly sand substratum, 0 to 8 percent slopes | 5K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Water | 5K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Glenelg channery loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 4K | Well drained | C | Not limited | Very limited |
| Urban land-Wheaton complex, schist and gneiss, 0 to 8 percent slopes | 3K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Manor loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes | 3K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Gaila silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes | 3K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Somewhat limited |
| Hatboro silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes, frequently flooded | 3K | Poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Talleyville-Delanco complex, 0 to 8 percent slopes | 3K | Well drained | D | Not limited | Very limited |
| Pineyneck-Urban land-Greenbelt complex, 0 to 8 percent slopes | 3K | Moderately well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Urban land-Greenbelt complex, 0 to 8 percent slopes | 3K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Urban land, schist and gneiss, 0 to 8 percent slopes | 3K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Glenelg channery loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes | 3K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Neshaminy silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 2K | Well drained | D | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Manor loam, 15 to 25 percent slopes | 2K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
Most soils are generally favorable for residential construction. Standard foundations are usually viable, though site-specific evaluation is always recommended.
Septic Systems
About 74% of soils are rated "very limited" for septic absorption fields. Despite good drainage overall, limitations may stem from shallow bedrock, steep slopes, or seasonal conditions. Engineered or alternative systems are frequently required. Always get a professional perc test before purchasing land that needs septic.
Gardening & Agriculture
Well-drained soils on sloped terrain — good for most plants but watch for erosion. Terracing, contour planting, and mulching help retain moisture and topsoil. Drip irrigation is more effective than sprinklers on slopes.