What kind of soil does "common borrow" refer to?

Common borrow refers to soil that is found offsite and brought in for use in construction projects. This term is often used in the context of earthwork, where there may be a need for additional fill material to achieve desired elevations or to stabilize a site. Common borrow is specifically sourced from other locations rather than the immediate site, making it an important distinction compared to soil excavated from the same project site.

In construction practices, common borrow is utilized when the onsite soil is deemed unsuitable for fill, whether due to its physical properties or contamination. By sourcing soil from a different location that meets project specifications, contractors ensure the integrity and stability of the structure being built. This makes the choice of using common borrow a practical solution in many engineering applications, particularly in civil engineering where site conditions can vary significantly.