Whether you're digging in a backyard to install a pool or on a larger scale to pour a foundation, the right preparation is essential to successful and safe excavation. When you reach out to an excavation contractor, it's important that you understand not only what to expect of the process, but why some of these steps need to happen. Here's a look at what you should know before you start any kind of excavation project on your property.
Assess The Soil
One of the first things that most excavation contractors will do before even bringing equipment to your property is to assess the soil structure and condition. They will look at survey maps and other records, and then they will take soil samples to determine the structural integrity of the property. After all, you don't want to get a large excavator on the property, break ground, and discover that there's soft sand under there that's suddenly shifting and sinking the excavator. To protect everyone's safety, they will assess your property first for structural concerns and to decide on the right approach.
Make Sure Things Are Marked
Another important step before the excavation can happen is clearly marking all of the underground lines. This is mandatory in most areas because of the risk of hitting a natural gas line or something similar without it. In fact, there are companies out there that specialize in marking underground lines and utilities before digging starts so that the project can be done safely.
Not only do the underground lines and utilities need to be marked, but safe exit paths should be marked as well. Make sure everyone knows which directions lead to safe exits so that everyone can get away from the area quickly and safely if something should happen.
Establish A Comprehensive Plan
Once you're certain that the soil can stand up to the excavation process and your underground lines and exit routes are clearly defined, it's time to establish the rest of the plan for the excavation. Mark off the boundary lines for the dig so that you can get an idea of the dimensions and what the space looks like. Talk with your excavation contractor about how the process will go and what will be done with the excavated soil. If you need to have a disposal solution in place, it's best to know that before you break ground so that you have time to address it.
These are the most important steps to take before you start excavating your property. Talk with a contracting service such as Trindel Bros. for more guidance.
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