Site preparation is an essential step before construction can begin on a job site. When you begin your project, one of the first members of the team to begin work is a land improvement contractor. These services prepare the land so that a foundation can be laid to ensure the structural integrity of the building.
While construction sitework can seem unnecessary at times, the reality is that this preparation is a critical factor in the success of the project. If you skip these steps, it will likely lead to costly and stressful problems down the line. Additionally, these issues can result in delays to the overall construction project if you aren’t careful.
An experienced New Jersey land improvement contractor will offer the best recommendations to ensure that all of your necessary preparatory work is done. In this article, we will take a look at some of the different types of sitework that might be recommended, depending on your unique needs.
What Different Types of Sitework Can Be Done?
Your sitework project will be customized based on the current conditions of your property, and what type of work will be done in the future. The most important decision you will make is hiring experienced excavation contractors to help, regardless of the size of your project, whether it’s residential or commercial. When the experts are on the job, then you can have confidence in knowing that your property is ready for the upcoming construction.
Some of the most common types of construction site preparation include:
- Clearing and Grubbing: This step involves removing trees, vegetation, or any other obstacles that are in the way and will cause obstructions while the construction crews are working.
- Excavation: This entails digging the foundation and removing unnecessary earth to make room for the building.
- Grading and Leveling: You need proper drainage, as well as strategies for stabilizing the soil to prevent shifting or caving. We’ll shape the surrounding grounds so that the water runs away from the building and into drainage systems that are installed.
- Trenching: If there aren’t utility lines already laid on the site, then it might be necessary to dig narrow trenches where the utilities can be placed (such as cables and pipes).
- Compaction: The soil needs to be compacted to achieve the ideal stability and density, helping to reduce the risk of the foundation shifting or settling in the future.
Differences in the Types of Sitework
The construction process for your sitework project will depend on the current condition of your property. The simplest solution to determine the ideal sitework plan is to talk to a New Jersey land improvement contractor for personalized recommendations.
There are three categories that sitework services typically fall into.
New Land
If this is the first time construction is happening on the property, then extensive preparation is needed, such as clearing and grubbing. Due to regulatory and environmental requirements, it might also be necessary to complete soil testing.
New land can be challenging, especially if the terrain is uneven or there are large rocks or trees in the way. Our team can bring in the heavy equipment that is needed to ensure that everything is completed safely and efficiently.
Demolishing an Existing Structure
If there is an existing structure in the way of your new construction, then demolition and clearing needs to happen before the project can get started. It takes a lot of work to demolish an existing structure, and all of the debris needs to be removed from the site as well.
Not only does demolition involve tearing down the walls and structure of the building, but it is likely that the foundation and underground structures also need to be removed. Sometimes, extra caution and specialized practices need to be implemented before the demolition can even take place to manage any hazardous materials such as lead paint or asbestos. In those instances be sure to hire professionals to keep your project in compliance.
Installing an Addition
When you are adding onto a current structure, the preparatory work is a little less intensive compared to other types of sitework. Your New Jersey land improvement contractor will use caution to prepare the land without causing structural damage to the existing structure. If mistakes are made, then it can take a toll on the structural integrity of your building, which is why it matters that you choose a team you can trust.
Not only will a good contractor bring in the equipment that is needed, follow sitework best practices, and be proactive about subgrade stabilization– but you can also rest assured knowing that they will obtain the necessary permits and always follow local regulations.
Work With a Trusted Land Improvement Contractor
When you need to hire a New Jersey land improvement contractor, then Mikula is the team to call. We have many years of experience in the industry and bring the best skills to your worksite. Not only do we offer sitework services, but we can help with excavations, demolition, and more. Reach out to schedule a consultation and learn more about the ways we can assist with your upcoming project.
