Land Improvement Contractor

What are the Different Types of Land Improvement Projects?

If you are investing in property modifications to improve the usability, function, or aesthetics of the land, then you are pursuing land improvements. These projects can include a variety of specific services depending on your unique needs: structural additions, drainage systems, landscaping, and other modifications.

Hiring a New Jersey land improvement contractor is the best solution to ensure a successful outcome for your project. While land improvement projects are often permanent, there are also options for temporary land improvement projects as needed.

Land improvements can be a great investment for residential, commercial, and industrial sites. Not only are you maximizing the potential of this property, but there are many long-term benefits that can impact the value and efficiency of your land.

If you need to prepare your property for an upcoming project, then it’s time to contact our team. We’ll evaluate your project and provide suggestions for how to prepare the land to suit your intended use.

Small Structures

What types of small structures would be helpful on your property? These spaces are commonly used for storage, utility sheds, and other functional outdoor buildings. For example, residential properties often benefit from garages, workshops, and tool sheds. If you have commercial land, then you might want a small storage unit for extra inventory or supplies. In recreational settings, small structures might include pavilions or gazebos that improve the function and aesthetics of the property.

When planning these structures, a variety of considerations need to be factored into the construction plan. Pick the ideal placement, have proper permits in hand before construction begins, make sure the design allows structural integrity and compliance with local zoning laws, and grade the property, install footings, and other site work for the land to be ready to build.

Landscaping

Not only will landscaping improve your aesthetics, but it also helps with drainage, erosion prevention, and boosting your property value. Call a New Jersey land improvement contractor if you need help with various landscaping improvements, such as:

• Grading and leveling before foundation placement
• Preparing for the addition of retaining walls
• Getting the land ready to plant or remove trees and shrubs on the property
• Installing irrigation systems

Our goal is to improve the function and aesthetics of your property while also promoting environmental conservation at the same time.

Roads, Walkways, and Parking Lots

Not only do these land improvement projects impact accessibility on your property, but they also offer convenient solutions to improve transportation and safety in the area.

In a residential setting, you need driveways, private roads, and sidewalks for transportation and foot traffic. If you have a commercial property, then you might need to pave or resurface the parking lot and put in safe sidewalk systems for pedestrian traffic.

Certain challenges need to be addressed, depending on the property. We’ll make sure that you have proper drainage systems in place. Additionally, our team can assist with selecting the right materials that offer the long-term results you desire (helping to reduce future maintenance and repair costs).

Minor Land or Water-Related Infrastructures

While many infrastructure projects involve large-scale developments, there are small land improvement projects that can also have an impact on the efficiency of your site. Some of the infrastructure upgrades that are offered by a New Jersey land improvement contractor include:

• Stormwater drainage systems
• Culvert installations
• Retention ponds for water management
• Water access points for property maintenance and irrigation

We consider the location-specific needs, as well as environmental factors that must be included in the plan.

Industry-Specific Land Improvements

Depending on your industry, there might be specialized land improvements that are required for your project. For example, agricultural projects often need irrigation systems and drainage management. Retail and commercial developments often include loading docks, signage foundations, and outdoor seating areas. Or, if you have an industrial site, then you might need warehouse foundations, heavy-duty access roads, and more security features for fencing installation.

Leasehold Improvements

When a property is leased, and the needs of the tenant must be addressed, these projects are known as leasehold improvements. They might include interior remodeling, utility upgrades, and/or exterior modifications. The lease agreements will outline whether the landlord or the tenant is responsible for the associated costs.

How Can a Land Improvement Contractor Help?

While your land improvement contractor isn’t a one-stop shop for your property development, they’re the most important step in safely and efficiently determining how to move forward. If you’re planning to build a landscaping installation, our team can prepare the land for these changes, like installing drainage or assisting with soil testing. Interested in installing a pickleball court or driveway? Our team will grade the land to ensure that it’s fully prepared for your construction. Choosing the right land improvement contractor will start your project on the right foot.

Work With a Trusted New Jersey Land Improvement Contractor

If you need assistance with a land improvement project, then Mikula is the team to call. We have a strong reputation as a trusted New Jersey land improvement contractor in the local community. Our crew will ensure that preparations for your land improvements are completed according to compliance requirements and regulations. Contact us today to learn more about available services.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers About Land Improvement

If you have questions about land improvement, then consulting with a New Jersey land improvement contractor is the fastest and most effective way to find the answers you need. Yes, there is plenty of information online– but each project is unique, which is why it’s best to work with someone who can offer personalized recommendations.

At Mikula, our professional team is here to help every step of the way. We bring years of experience and modern solutions for safe and efficient land development services. Reach out at your convenience to learn more about available services.

Here are answers to some of the most common questions that we hear from our clients.

What Are Some Examples of Land Improvement?

Land improvement is the process of optimizing both the usability and the overall value of a piece of land. Depending on the current condition of the lot, there are things that can be done to prepare for construction or enhance the overall appearance with landscaping.

Some of the most common types of land improvements include:

• Grading and leveling to even out the terrain
• Drainage solutions to minimize the risks of erosion or water pooling
• Clearing away brush, trees, and debris
• Building retaining walls to stabilize the slope
• Preparation before construction begins
• Improving soil quality
• Construction of roads, parking lots, access paths, etc.
• Terracing sloped land
• Developing recreational areas
• Improving landscaping with the placement of greenery
• Installing utilities

There are many benefits available from land improvements. If you own real estate and want to increase the functionality of your land, then a New Jersey land improvement contractor can help.

What is a Land Improvement Contractor?

These services are designed to take care of functional elements on the site, such as excavation, utilities, and more. When you hire a land improvement contractor, the team will start by evaluating your current land assets and offering personalized recommendations for your project. During these initial phases, you should share as much information as possible about your vision for the project. What are the outcomes you would like to achieve with land improvement and construction?

Once the land has been assessed, then your New Jersey land improvement contractor will design a plan to achieve the desired results. Every detail is included in your plan, including machinery, materials, and labor requirements for the project. Working with an experienced team is better than a DIY approach, because the contractor brings everything that is necessary to complete the project safely and efficiently.

Land improvements often require the use of heavy machinery. Not only is the machinery necessary to complete excavation goals, but there are often times when materials need to be brought to the site or taken off-site for disposal. Our team will ensure that you have access to the best skills and equipment for the successful completion of the project.
There are many problems that can occur with a DIY project. Even though it might seem like a good idea to rent heavy machinery and take care of the excavation yourself, there is a high risk of injury and damage to your property. Avoid these consequences by hiring experts to help instead.

What Kind of Projects Do Land Improvement Contractors Do?

Land improvement contractors can help with a variety of projects, depending on your unique needs. Most common projects include some form of excavation, such as leveling and grading. For example, you might hire a land improvement contractor to excavate a site for the placement of your foundation and utility lines.

Hiring a land improvement contractor also gives you access to specialized services, such as soil stabilization, installing drainage systems, and preparing the site for landscaping. These services are determined based on your unique needs and the plans for the site after the land improvement project is complete.

Sometimes, it’s necessary to hire a New Jersey land improvement contractor if you need to prepare the property for agricultural use. For example, our team can assist with terracing if the land is sloped. We can also help with setting up the irrigation system.

Land improvement contractors can be valuable resources on large-scale construction sites as well. We handle all of the preparatory work before construction begins, including installing the utility lines, building roads, and leveling the ground to prepare for the upcoming construction projects.

What Type of Licenses Do Reputable Land Improvement Contractors Have?

When you are hiring New Jersey land improvement contractors, make sure the team has all the necessary licenses and certifications. For example, your contractor might have a general contractor license that covers a broad range of construction and improvement services. Also, ask about any specialty trade licenses, such as excavation, drainage systems, erosion control, and more.

Make sure the team has the necessary certifications for heavy equipment operation. The use of this type of machinery is common, and you want to ensure the operators are qualified to be running bulldozers, excavators, or graders.

In addition to licensing and certifications, it’s a good idea to ask about the contractor’s insurance coverage. They should have active policies for both liability insurance and workers’ compensation. This insurance helps to offset your liability if anything goes wrong on the project.

One of the best things you can do to avoid issues during your land improvement is to ask the contractor upfront to provide information about their credentials and insurance policies. Verifying this information will give you the peace of mind to know that an experienced crew is on your property.

Need the Help of a New Jersey Land Improvement Contractor?

Are you preparing for an upcoming land improvement project? If you need support with excavation, drainage issues, and more, then our team at Mikula Contracting is just a phone call away. There are many benefits you will receive by working with a trusted and skilled New Jersey land improvement contractor.

It makes sense to hire a local team. Not only does our crew understand the best practices for local weather and soil conditions, but you will save money on transportation costs when you are working with a local contractor.

If you would like more information about available services, then reach out to us at Mikula at your convenience. We’ll schedule a consultation and share details about the services that best suit your project.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

Sitework and its Crucial Role in Preparing Your Site to Build

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.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

What to Look For When Choosing a Land Improvement Contractor

It’s a significant investment to hire a land improvement contractor, but worth the time and money because of the results that can be achieved. The most important decision you will make is hiring a contractor you can trust. It’s essential to be sure you are working with a team that brings years of experience to the table and has the best services to complete the project safely, efficiently, and to match your satisfaction.

When you are searching for a reputable contractor, there are several important factors that you must keep in mind. Here are a few tips to be sure that you are working with a reliable and skilled team.

How Long Have They Been in Business?

Regardless of the type of home improvement project you are working on, make sure to hire a contractor that has been in business for a while. Longevity typically means that the contractor is experienced in the industry and has built a stable business over the years. Not only do they have plenty of experience, but they likely have a network of local suppliers and providers, ensuring the highest quality results for your project.

If you are considering hiring a newer company, then ask about the experience of the staff members who will be overseeing your project. It’s important to check about the business timeline as well as the experience of each individual on the team.

Is Their License Up to Date?

It’s smart to ask about the contractor’s current licensing and insurance. A good contractor will not only go through the process to get the proper licensing, but they will also be proactive about making sure that everything is up to date at all times.

Having the right insurance coverage and licensing helps to reduce your liability. It also shows that the contractor is maintaining compliance with all industry standards and regulations. A good contractor will have all of these details in place before stepping foot on the job site. If you are wondering about the team’s credentials, then ask questions about their licensing when you are choosing a land improvement contractor to hire.

If you find that the team doesn’t have the proper licensing, then don’t take the risk! It’s critical to make sure that you are working with an experienced and professional contractor on this type of project. An unlicensed contractor can put your project at risk, which is why licensing is non-negotiable. 

Do They Help with the Permit Process?

Permits are always necessary before the project can begin. While you can often get the necessary permits, it can be a complicated process if you don’t have experience in the industry. Find a contractor who will help with the permitting. They will understand the local regulations and whether it’s necessary for you to have a permit, then offer recommendations to ensure smooth access to the right permits.

It's important that you have expert help to guide you through this process. If there are delays with the permits, then it can push back the entire project. So, an experienced land improvement contractor will help you save both time and money by ensuring that the necessary permits are in hand at the right time.

Will They Call in a Markout?

Before excavation begins, it’s necessary to make sure that a “markout” is complete. This process is a way of identifying and marking where all of the utility lines are running underground. The goal is to map everything out before the digging begins, which helps to minimize potential utility outages, complications, site damage, and injuries.

When you are working with a responsible contractor, they will be unwilling to start digging without first handling the process of utility markouts. They will take care of all of the planning and details to ensure that their team can move forward safely, without damage to the nearby utility lines.

Do They Focus on Safety?

It goes without saying that safety should always be a top priority for any contractor that you hire. It’s critical to maintain a safe working environment for the team members, and also ensure the safety of your property and any surrounding buildings.

While accidents happen at times, these risks are much lower when you are working with a land improvement contractor who is proactive about proper safety protocols. Ask about their safety record and how their team members are trained. It’s also a good idea to discuss unique hazards on your work site to find out about the customized safety plan that will be implemented during your project.

Do They Understand Your Goals?

Clear communication should be a part of your experience, every step of the way. Choose a general contractor who prioritizes communication so you can be kept up-to-date on the status of the project and anything else that you need to know about.

You deserve to be working with a contractor who listens to your needs, asks clarifying questions, and provides all of the information that is necessary for you to know about the scope of work. A professional contractor won’t hesitate to talk to you about the plans and provide clear explanations when necessary.

How Does Their Digital Footprint Look?

When doing your research, it’s inevitable that you’ll come across hundreds of contractor websites, and hundreds more profiles on Google Business. Across all of these digital platforms, pay attention to how these contractors present themselves– and how others speak of them. Read reviews, both good and bad, and see if you notice any concerning patterns. Keep an eye out for comments that mention pricing, reliability, communication, and organization of the site. Look for features on their website like before and after pictures and other testimonials to get a full picture of who your contractor is.

Speak With a Trusted New Jersey Land Improvement Contractor

When you are getting ready to hire a land improvement contractor, we invite you to contact our professional team at Mikula Contracting. We bring years of experience to your project, and offer the best services you can find in the local industry. Our responsiveness, constant communication, commitment to maintaining an organized job site, and history of excellence set us apart. Contact us to schedule a consultation and we will gladly discuss the services that are needed for your project.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.