Test Pit Excavations and What They Can Find
Most test pit excavations occur at the beginning of a construction project before the work begins. These thorough site investigations provide answers to questions like:
- What kind of debris or rocks will we run into when digging the foundation for the building?
- Is the soil contaminated with oil, gasoline, or other toxic substances?
- How deep is the water table?
- What is the level of groundwater seepage?
Test pit excavation provides these answers and more at a fraction of the price of fixing the problem if something major were discovered well into the construction process. If you have already constructed a large part of the building to find out the soil is not solid enough for your structure, you are in for a lot more money to solve the problem.
What Is a Test Pit Excavation?
Test pits are a smaller version of a dig on a construction site to get a picture of what you’re working with on the property. Test pits may also be referred to as trenches and can be long and skinny, and somewhat shallow. Each project will have its own specific depth requirement for the test pit excavation.
It is also very common to dig a few test pits around the property to make sure the soil is consistent and uncontaminated.
What Are the Benefits of Digging a Test Pit?
The benefit of digging test pits is getting answers before the construction begins. When you are better prepared to run into the water table while digging the foundation, you will have a plan for a different type of foundation. Or you can have equipment ready that will help you face potential issues.
If the soil is contaminated, you can take care of the issue before a giant structure is in the way. Keep your contractors safe, as well as the people who will enjoy the commercial or residential property, by choosing soil remediation and certifying the soil to environmental standards.
What Are the Drawbacks of Digging a Test Pit?
The only drawback to digging a test pit is finding nothing worth noting. Even in that case, it is not a waste of your money to start your construction project with peace of mind.
One other potential problem that could occur with test pit excavation is hitting utility pipes under the ground. However, this only happens occasionally because a markout is required before digging which means that utility companies have to mark where their lines are in order to prevent something like hitting the pipes from happening.
The Purpose of Test Pitting
A test pit excavation helps your team prepare for a hefty construction project. If you find out that there is an abundance of roots in the area, you can provide your team with the equipment to cut through the roots as you dig for construction.
If you find the soil does not absorb groundwater and is sloshy after several days of dry weather, you will need to replace the soil with dirt that absorbs water. These discoveries can save you thousands of dollars when they are detected before the project begins.
Although not common, perhaps you order several test pit excavations on your property and discover an underground oil tank. Or maybe the owner before you had a swimming pool and filled it in instead of removing it completely. Both of these instances would be valuable to know before you further invest in the property.
Why Hire an Excavation Company to Perform a Site Investigation?
Let our team come by for test pit excavation to find the answers to your soil questions. We can dig trial pits to show what may be discovered on the property. Our team will perform tank scans and will work with survey companies to ensure that there is no underground structure.
Once the test pit excavation is complete, our partners in environmental engineering will provide a full report about the quality of the soil, if there are any underground structures, and if the soil is solid enough to hold a structure.
Knowing these answers will help you obtain insurance and a clear certification from environmental services on your building project. Safety comes first in all things, and that includes test pit excavation.
Complete Your Test Pit Excavations with Mikula Contracting
Mikula Contracting is a name you can trust in the excavation industry. Our team is proud to serve New Jersey residents and business owners as you venture into a new construction project. If you are ready to choose a property and want an inspection before the sale goes through, we are happy to dig a few test pits to see what you are working with.
You always want to be sure that you are getting a good deal with the land that you invest in. Our team can guarantee a full soil inspection to learn what to expect if you build on specific land. Arm yourself with knowledge by contacting Mikula Contracting today.
Excavating Your Basement Vs. Adding a Crawl Space - Which is Right For Your Home?
Whether you’re building a new home or need to add more space to your existing home, you may consider a basement or a crawl space and the pros and cons of each. However, consider what it could entail before digging out a basement or crawl space.
An excavation contractor in New Jersey will walk you through all the advantages and disadvantages of adding a basement vs. crawl space. Then you can make a decision specific to your needs.
The Difference Between a Basement and a Crawl Space
Both a crawl space and a basement can add extra space to your home for storage. When digging out a basement or a crawl space, you must follow the building code and obtain the proper permit with your excavation contractor and municipality.
Basement
When an excavation contractor digs out a basement for your home, the foundation is typically 7-9 feet below ground level. While 7-9 feet tall is a great ceiling height for a basement, it also allows the foundation to lay below the frost line, so you don’t have to worry about the soil expanding and causing damage to the foundation with each freeze.
The further down you lay the foundation, the more the soil will remain warm and constant. In addition, a basement has the potential to add more value to your home per square foot. Even an unfinished basement adds value to your home.
Crawl Space
Digging out a crawl space is an excellent idea if you want more storage options in your home. While the space is shallow, an excavation contractor can seal the area for use to store boxes and seasonal decorations.
Sealing off the crawl space creates a vapor barrier. You do not want any moisture, leakage, or bugs from the surrounding soil when you plan to use the crawl space for storing belongings.
Knowing Which Is Right for Your Home
What is your purpose in hiring a New Jersey excavation contractor to dig out a crawl space or basement under your home? Are you looking for extra square footage, and it doesn’t make sense to add on anywhere else in the house?
Or do you want a space for storage? First, let’s look at the pros and cons of crawl spaces versus basements.
Pros of a Crawl Space
You will find that a crawl space is very valuable when looking for storage space to store winter clothing, Christmas decorations, and keepsakes.
Crawl spaces are built under the foundation, so you do not have to change the foundation if you are looking for an excavation contractor to add a crawl space to your existing home.
Also, adding a crawl space is much less expensive than digging out a basement.
When choosing crawl space encapsulation, you do not have to worry about flooding, moisture, or weather damage to the items you keep in the crawl space. In addition, the sealing offers a sense of security. And you can even add lights to the room to make it more user-friendly.
Cons of a Crawl Space
If you hire an excavation contractor, you may as well go big. While a crawl space can offer more room for storage, it will not give you more living space in the home.
You’re foraying into an extensive construction project for the simple reason of adding more storage to your home.
Adding a whole basement where you can install a bathroom, gathering room, and extra bedroom can make the construction project worthwhile.
Pros of a Basement
Digging out a basement requires more work from an excavation contractor, even at the beginning of a home build. You have to dig 7-9 feet down, pour the foundation, and build foundation walls that will not buckle under shifting soils or rocks.
That said, the benefits of a finished basement and how it can add a whole extra level to your home are tremendous. Speak with an excavation contractor about all of the possibilities for a finished basement:
- Media room
- Bar and home entertainment
- Dance studio
- Extra bedroom
- Guest bathroom
- Bowling alley
- Game room
- Recording studio
- Home gym
When moving your family becomes too complicated with the prospect of losing money on the transaction or uprooting your kids from their school, you can opt for a full basement makeover to give your home new life.
You will never regret adding more liveable space to your home.
Cons of a Basement
The biggest con of a basement is the cost. It is expensive to add a basement to an existing home. The best decision you could make is to use an excavation contractor in NJ to build a basement foundation for your new home build.
Explore other add-on options if you are adding a basement to your home. For example, adding a second level or building out into the backyard could be great alternatives.
Digging out a basement requires moving the foundation of your home. Your excavation contractor will place your home on stilts, as the house will have to go without a foundation for a time while the basement is being dug out.
This risky process is expensive, risking the crumbling of your whole home as it is unstable during the construction process.
Speak with an expert excavation contractor in New Jersey to see if a basement addition would work for your home.
Other Considerations
Some other options may include including unfinished basements in your new build. This will add flexibility to you or a future buyer for expanding the home without starting from scratch.
Work with a New Jersey Excavation Contractor
It’s no wonder people are looking into basement additions during this time when square footage in the home is precious. Make your home the escape you want by discussing excavation options with Mikula Contracting.
Our skilled team can assess your home and determine if a basement addition makes the most sense for your situation. Contact us today to get started.
What's the Difference Between Demolition and Excavation?
Many local contractors offer a range of services, and it’s important to clarify the services you need when hiring an excavation or demolition contractor in New Jersey. When you understand the differences between excavation and demolition, you can be sure that you are hiring the right contractor for the job.
One of the most important factors to consider when hiring a New Jersey demolition contractor is whether the services are handled by an in-house crew or outsourced to another contractor. Some local providers rely on services from outside contractors, which often causes delays and concerns about the quality of the project.
At Mikula Contracting, our in-house team is well-versed in every detail of housing demolition. We have an experienced, highly trained crew offering local services that you can trust.
What Is Demolition?
Demolition services are the act of tearing down a structure or building that is no longer needed or wanted. Full demolition means that you are tearing down the whole building. There are also times when partial demolition makes sense, using controlled methods to prevent damage to other sections of the building.
This process can be more complicated than most people realize, especially because special services are necessary to manage electrical lines, plumbing, utilities, permits, and more.
Demolition projects aren’t complete until everything has been hauled away and excavation is done. The finished project should be a clean site ready for the next project you have in mind.
Residential vs. Commercial Demolition
Our team of demolition specialists can assist with both residential demolition and commercial demolition projects. The main differences between residential and commercial are the size of the project and special considerations for bigger buildings.
There are many factors that need to be considered by a demolition contractor in New Jersey: permits, excavation, electrical systems, water lines, safety measures, cost, disposal of building materials, and more. The good news is that Mikula Contracting is here to help, offering full-service solutions for residential and commercial demolition projects.
What Is Excavation?
Excavation often goes hand-in-hand with demolition, but this service can also be a standalone project. Excavating land involves moving dirt, mud, and rocks so the property is prepared for an upcoming construction project. Anything that requires the movement of earthy materials or tunneling falls within the category of excavation, and it’s best to hire an excavation contractor in New Jersey for assistance.
Examples of excavation projects include moving rocks and dirt to make way for pavement, a foundation, new construction, or any other projects that require preparation of the ground before construction can begin.
When calling an excavation contractor, New Jersey homeowners should ask about the team’s qualifications, credentials, and experience. The crew is working on your home, so it’s necessary to ensure that you are working with a skilled contractor who can properly dismantle the portion that needs to be demolished.
Residential vs. Commercial Excavation
The truth is that both residential and commercial excavation projects are pretty similar. The main difference is the scale of work required for a larger commercial lot. Additionally, it’s important to consider the size and weight of the building that will be placed on the excavated land.
For example, similar tractors and excavating equipment are brought on-site for residential excavation for homes and commercial excavation for bigger office buildings. But a lot more dirt and earthy materials must be moved for a commercial project because the construction footprint is a lot bigger compared to a residential home on a smaller lot.
Main Differences Between Demolition and Excavation
While both demolition and excavation are often necessary for construction projects, these services aren’t the same thing. These services often go hand-in-hand, which means you can hire the same company as both an excavation and demolition contractor in New Jersey.
Sometimes, excavation work is done without a need for demolition. But, it’s common for demolition to require excavation work. For example, when demolition contractors are finished tearing down a building, the next step is to move the dirt and rocks, so there is a blank slate ready for the next construction project.
Need a New Jersey Demolition or Excavation Contractor?
Services from a local demolition and excavation contractor are an excellent investment, especially when preparing a property for new construction or other projects. Tear down the features that are no longer working for your family so you can build something new and create the home of your dreams.
One of the benefits of calling our team is that we understand local permits and requirements, ensuring safety and compliance every step of the way. Additionally, our experienced crew brings all of the equipment, machinery, trucks, and other tools to finish the demolition job fast, take care of excavation services, and ensure your satisfaction.
You deserve quality services, which is why it makes sense to call the leading New Jersey demolition contractor: Mikula Contracting. We have years of experience in the industry and promise top-notch results for every project.
Can Excavating Your Yard Be a DIY Project?
You may think it is a waste of money to hire a yard excavation contractor when all you need to do is move around dirt. The truth is that an excavation project can be extensive, and simple mistakes can be costly. Hiring a trusted excavation team will ensure the project finishes without a hitch.
And the best part is if a mistake does occur, it's on the yard excavation contractor instead of coming out of your pocket to fix it. Hire professionals to get the job done right.
There are many advantages to hiring a certified team for your yard excavation. Primarily, the team will have an advantage over your DIY knowledge because of their years' worth of experience. Read on to learn how a yard excavation contractor can benefit you.
Having the Right Tools
As with any DIY home improvement project, you are limited to the tools you have in your garage. If you have a project that requires excavation, you can benefit from tools that a professional team would bring in. Here are some examples of excavation projects:
- Pool Removal: How hard can it be to remove a pool? Well, once you have the pool drained, the water source disconnected, and the surface broken into pieces, you've only just begun. Hauling out chunks of concrete or fiberglass takes manpower, a large vehicle, wheelbarrows, and fence removal. Using a yard excavation contractor will make the job move smoothly.
- Slab Removal: If you have a shed or garage that needs to be removed from the property to make room for a pool or playground, it will require slab removal. Once the concrete is removed, the soil gets prepped for the next project and often requires a yard excavation contractor.
- Flattening of Land for Grass: An excavation team can bring in the equipment to comb and level your land to lay the sod for grass installation. Sometimes the soil is not rich enough to nourish the grass. Rocky soil will not yield healthy grass, and a yard excavation contractor can evaluate the earth before wasting money on laying sod.
- Pipe Repair: Perhaps you have a water leak or a sprinkler system you would like to install. An excavation team will know where to dig and how to resolve the issue quickly.
Each project is unique, and most projects require a yard excavation contractor to bring in their equipment and tools to complete the task efficiently. Sure, you could break up a slab and move it piece by piece into your truck and to the dump, but you will benefit significantly from hiring a professional team with the right tools.
Safety Concerns
During excavation work, digging around water lines and gas lines is required. This can sometimes result in an accidental rupture of an existing pipe. These mistakes can be costly and dangerous, especially if you are unsure what to do next. However, a yard excavation team has the knowledge and tools to take care of the mistake. In fact, they have the expertise to prevent any costly mistakes.
If the unexpected happens during your excavation project, your professional excavation team will have insurance to take care of the mistake. Likewise, if someone gets hurt on the job, the hired team knows how to take care of its team members.
Getting the Job Done Fast
Do you have an excavation project that is delaying your backyard dreams? Whether you need to dig to lay a pool or would like to remove a patio to install a deck, you can escalate the project by hiring an excavation team. Rather than working Saturday after Saturday, removing large chunks of your patio, and transporting them to the dump, the yard excavation contractor can take care of it in a day or two.
An excavation team will bring in their excavator, trucks, and crew to work through the project quickly so that you can get onto the fun part.
Experience Is the Best Teacher
As with any excavation project, surprises can occur along the way. For example, maybe you wish to dig for a new pool installation and find a layer of rock that you do not have the equipment to break through. Or you do not have the tools to replace the pipe once you reach the damaged area.
A professional excavation team has seen it all and will be prepared for any surprises that come up during the excavation project. In addition, you can count on the experience of your hired team to take care of any problems as they occur.
Need to Find a Trusted Yard Excavation Contractor in New Jersey? We Can Help!
You don't have to worry about damage to your property when you choose Mikula Contracting over a yard excavation DIY project. We can use our expertise to get your excavation project done without any mishaps that may require more money out of your pocket. Call us today to hire a trusted yard excavation contractor.
Signs That It's Time to Replace Your Garage
A good quality garage is more than a place to park your car. Families often use the garage as a multi-purpose space for storage, a workshop, and more. Having a comfortable garage can be a great benefit to improve your lifestyle, which is why you might be considering a phone call for garage demolition in New Jersey so you can replace your garage to rebuild a better space.
Tearing down an old, outdated garage is the first step so you can replace it with the garage of your dreams. As you plan the construction, talk to a team that offers demolition first, followed by installation services from a trusted contractor. These plans will include full-service solutions with features that address aesthetics, safety and security, durability, and more.
Just because you have an old garage in place right now doesn't mean that it is the best solution for your unique needs. Here are a few reasons why homeowners choose garage demolition so they can rebuild a new garage.
There Are Foundation Problems or Other Structural Issues
Foundation issues can be pretty problematic. If there are cracks or weak points in the garage foundation, then it could pose a danger now or in the future. Problems with the foundation are a big red flag that you need much more than essential services from a garage door repair company.
Sometimes, these issues can be repaired so you can avoid the need for New Jersey garage demolition. For example, you can fix the foundation and complete a renovation on the rest of the garage to give it a facelift. Likewise, a contractor who offers garage door installation can repair basic problems with your garage door. Then, you can add a fresh coat of paint, and it will look as good as new!
But, if the problems are too bad, then it might be better to tear down the garage and start over. Each situation is unique, which is why there isn't a cookie-cutter construction plan for every project. The best solution is to call a contractor who offers garage demolition in New Jersey for a consultation and proposal. We will come to your home, inspect the structural integrity of your current garage, then let you know if it's time to repair or rebuild.
You Want to Improve Curb Appeal
There's no question that the appearance of the garage affects your curb appeal. The garage door and overall structure are visible from the street and set the tone when people look at your home. If the garage is broken and run down, it's time to replace it.
Repair services will be cheaper than a total demolition and rebuild. So, explore possibilities for repair before you decide to tear down an old garage. Also, consider different types of professional garage doors and styles when renovating or rebuilding to pick the perfect design that will look great on your home. For example, you can choose doors that stand out and add a pop of color or neutral colors if you prefer.
Make sure that the garage doors you choose match the other design elements of your home. These details go a long way to creating the ideal aesthetics that optimize your curb appeal.
You Want to Repurpose the Space
Another reason you might be ready to hire a garage demolition company in New Jersey is that you want to repurpose the space. This area could be used as a home addition, or you might build a new garage with a mother-in-law apartment above.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to the many different ways you can use the garage space. First, dream up the type of garage or workshop you would like to have. Then, contact your local garage door company to see how the design can align with your current and long-term goals.
Sometimes, there is an option to replace your garage door instead of tearing down the old garage. For example, if you see the current doors start to sag, it's a good indication that you need to replace them. Also, consider adding an insulated garage door or an updated garage door opener to make the space more comfortable and function throughout the year. Good equipment makes all the difference for simplicity when opening and closing the door.
Ready to Replace Your Garage? Our Experts Can Help!
If you are preparing for garage demolition, it's time to call for assistance. Reach out to our team for garage demolition in New Jersey. Additionally, we offer other services like excavation and more. Our goal is to provide competitive pricing and quality results you can trust.
Mikula Contracting has an excellent reputation in the local industry. We are always here to answer your questions and assist with home improvement and demolition projects. Contact us to schedule a consultation. We will inspect your garage, look at the construction site, and then submit a detailed proposal for the services you need.
Excavation During New Home Development
It’s time to start building your new home. Finally, all your dreams and plans are laid out in front of you. But before the contractors get started, there’s one step to take – calling an excavation service.
Why do you need a home development excavation contractor when you’ve already hired a building team? The process of moving into a new home starts with the land and the dirt. So what better contractors to call in than experts on finding the right soil and surface for your home’s foundation?
A home development excavation contractor will work with your land to ensure you have the proper drainage system, the soil is healthy and toxin-free, and the land is ready for digging. Residential excavation contractors will prepare for your construction project in a professional and thorough way.
Surveying the Site and Inspecting the Land
You may have bought a property without knowing exactly where your land starts and ends. An excavation team can use official survey documents to measure your property and mark property lines. Then, you will accurately know where to place your home without cutting too close to a neighbor’s land.
A home development excavation contractor will be an expert in inspecting the site. Some of the things they check for are large rocks and water lines. Here are some reasons why it’s important to inspect the land before building starts:
- Identify Large Rocks: Digging a foundation isn’t simple when digging into rocks. Breaking up the rocks and removing them requires a different set of equipment than if you were digging into straight soil.
- Check for Existing Underground Lines: When you do your due diligence before a project, you will save money in the long run. For example, a home development excavation contractor can inspect the land for existing power lines and water lines that may be available for your use. Then you do not have to start from scratch and spend extra money.
When you know exactly what you’re getting into, you will not have to delay construction when the digging starts. In addition, planning ahead for extenuating circumstances is way more efficient than urgently changing plans or, worse, paying to fix a burst water pipe.
Knowing Your Soil
Testing the soil will help you know how solid the foundation of your land is. If the area were to flood, would your home stand its ground? Testing soil can determine how much the soil will compact in the face of storms and drainage paths.
Understanding the soil is not only important for digging the foundation for your home but also vital for future growth on your land. At the minimum, any homeowner wants grass to be able to grow on the land. Excavation contractors can test your soil to ensure it is ready for plants and vegetation.
The reason why it’s essential to test the soil is if there was an oil spill in the area that wasn’t cleaned up, you might have to remediate the soil before the building begins. This process is familiar to a home development excavation contractor, which is why they are the best people to inspect and detect toxic soil.
Understanding Your Utilities
Every new home requires utilities such as water, gas, and power. A professional excavation team can set up your home with the hookups that you need for a modern, efficient home system. They can dig out water lines or extend gas lines to your property. You will learn that construction and excavation go hand in hand throughout the construction process.
If your excavation contractor finds existing water or gas lines on your property, they can pinpoint the right place to dig your foundation and work around the pipes. Use the expertise of an experienced home development excavation contractor to get the job done right.
Setting up the utilities before the construction begins will make it easier for the contractors. They will need to access water and power to operate smoothly.
Permits and Codes
Count on your home development excavation contractor to obtain all necessary permits before the building begins. They will be aware that all construction is up to code before choosing the spot for the foundation. You may feel anxious to break ground and dig the foundation, but the last thing you want is to have to restart if you find out that the code does not allow building too close to property lines. Rely on an expert excavation team to get the job done right the first time.
Need a Home Development Excavation Contractor?
Mikula Contracting has extensive experience as a home development excavation contractor. When you have land that you want to be surveyed for any potential problems before building your home, you can trust our team to help.
With years of experience working in the Northern New Jersey communities, our Mikula Contracting team fosters relationships of trust with each client we serve. We are a reputable name in the excavation industry. Call today to schedule our team for your home development excavation contractor needs.
Types of Excavation Services
When you think about excavation services, do you think of digging holes and moving dirt around? Maybe you're not sure what excavation contractors do at all. Let's break down why you would have a need for excavation companies and how their expertise contributes to various construction projects. You won’t regret hiring excavation contractors for your next project that requires clearing or digging land.
Why You Might Need Excavation Services
Excavation contractors are licensed to operate heavy machinery that will be beneficial for removing large trees and boulders in order to dig or clear land. Look for an excavation company that highlights their experience with commercial and residential excavation services.
Foundation Excavation
When it is time to build a home, the first step is to clear the land and dig out the foundation. If you are building a house with a basement, the hole will be deeper than other foundations. Your excavation contractors will ensure that the land is free of water lines or gas lines before digging.
Once the foundation area is cleared, you will be ready to pour the foundation. Excavation contractors are the right team to call so that they can get the foundation prepared efficiently and professionally.
Parking Lot Excavation
A commercial business may be ready to add a parking lot to their building project. Not only do you have to clear the land of any trees, plants, and rocks, but you also have to level out the earth. Talk to your excavation contractors about clearing and leveling the land to be ready for pouring asphalt or concrete for a parking lot.
Pool Removal
Have you ever hired excavation companies to give you a quote on pool removal? When you have an old, unusable pool in the backyard, it can require more money to keep it up than it would cost for a total pool removal. Excavation contractors can take care of your pool removal to save you money in the long run.
The contractor will assess the situation and start by draining the pool, breaking up the fiberglass or concrete, and removing the pool chunk by chunk. This process requires specific excavation equipment.
Yard Expansion
It may be time to clear an area of your property for everyday use. Maybe you imagine an expansive lawn area where you can play football or soccer. Or you may hope to create a garden to grow your own vegetables. No matter the reason for the excavation, the contractors will know all about leveling and smoothing out the soil.
They will also have knowledge on adding topsoil to a leveled-out yard space to promote the growth of grass and plants. Excavation companies have experience in ensuring that once the project is complete, the land will be safe and prepared for whatever greenery you’ll want to add next.
Foundation Slab Removal
It's possible that you are removing an old garage on your land or have plans to level a current home to build a new house on the property. Because the foundation is built in such a long-lasting manner, it requires excavation contractors to remove the foundation slab.
The team will come out and assess the situation and bring excavators and backhoes to get the job done efficiently.
Basement Addition
Some homeowners choose to add a basement to their homes. This addition can be an extensive project. If the home has an existing crawl space, that can be expanded out into basement space. Either way, adding on a basement requires careful digging skills so as not to disturb the house's structure that sits atop the basement.
Excavators will take care of all of the details, consulting with you about whether a basement addition is even possible for your current home. Sometimes you will do whatever it takes to expand the space in your home so that you don't have to move, and an excavation expert can help see if it’s possible to make your current home the home of your dreams.
Drainage Systems
Another reason why excavation is vital is to set up drainage systems. If your property is not graded correctly, the water can pour into your home, causing flooding or damage to the foundation. In addition, pooled water can attract bugs, drown plants and grass, and lead to destroyed landscaping efforts. An excavation team can resolve this problem by installing various types of drains.You may be familiar with french drains or land grading that will keep water from flooding your property. Excavators will be able to see what type of drainage system will work best for your property.
Soil Remediation
If you have an oil spill on your property, excavation companies can take care of cleaning or replacing the soil. A soil remediation specialist is educated on what kind of soil to bring in for your property. The topsoil is the most nutrient-rich soil and is the top layer. Next is the muck, a mixture of dirt and small rocks below the topsoil layer. Then you have more rock and earth to get through before you reach the water table. Sometimes the rock layer is right below the topsoil, which can complicate a simple project.
Your excavation contractors can take care of all soil remediation needs that you might have, ensuring that they backfill your property with the right soil to help your plants thrive in the future.
Necessary Excavation Equipment
Excavation projects are not for the faint of heart, and you will not get far with only a shovel and wheelbarrow. Typical equipment used by excavation companies includes:
- Excavator
- Backhoe
- Dump Truck
- Digger
Excavation Based on Project Size
When you meet with an excavation contractor, you can learn more about what excavation will look like specifically for your project. Here’s how excavation changes according to the size of the project.
Small Projects
Small excavation projects include clearing brush from a backyard, digging a foundation for fence posts, or building a retaining wall. These more straightforward projects require a mini excavator to get into the small spaces.
Mid-Size
Mid-sized projects include clearing and digging the land for a new pool installation, trenching or setting up for a sprinkler system, or site preparation for a new build. When these are done on the residential side, they are considered mid-size. However, a commercial pool or sprinkler system can be regarded as a large undertaking.
Extensive
Excavation contractors can be found on massive projects for the development of apartment buildings or offices. You can also count on excavation companies to build new roads, railways, and water management systems. Excavation is required in almost every construction project.
It’s possible that you looked into hiring excavation contractors before reading this article and did not understand what they really did. However, now that you know the work that excavation companies perform and how important their work is, you can better understand how important it is to hire professionals for your excavation project.
Hire Professional Contractors
For years, Mikula Contracting has been a prominent contractor in the New Jersey area. We are familiar with the area and the needs of the local homeowners and business owners. Our team will build a relationship of trust with each client we serve. You will always know you can trust Mikula Contracting with your excavation needs.
We have the experience you need for any excavation work that comes your way. Let Mikula Contracting be your trusted excavation contractor. Our full-service solutions will save you from hiring multiple contractors for your various construction projects. In addition, our customer service is top-notch, with every customer coming back for more. Contact us today to get started.
Expanding Your Yard the Right Way
The last few years have shown us the benefit of owning land and maximizing the space in which you live. What does it matter if you live on a half-acre if you don’t get proper use out of it? Have you been dreaming of an expansive garden to grow your own vegetables? Do you want to install a garden pathway to a fire pit and outdoor seating? Would you like to install a pool or covered patio? What about a sports court right there in your very own backyard?
Regardless of your outdoor property vision, you need to take the first steps to get your land ready for practical use. It is wise to hire an experienced home excavator to clear and level the ground for your big backyard project. Let’s look into things to know before starting a home excavation project.
What to Know Before Expanding Your Yard
Many people think that clearing and leveling land is a no-brainer. After all, how much effort does it take to remove a few trees and move some dirt around, right? But you may not be aware of the things that you need to watch out for when you choose to complete the project yourself, rather than hiring a home excavator.
Use knowledge to your advantage and make a wise decision when you start your home excavation project. The last thing you want to do is hit a pipe or encounter a drainage problem and have to hire a home excavator to fix and finish the project that you thought was a DIY.
What a Home Excavation Entails
When you hire a professional home excavator, you will find that they know precisely what to do for a successful home excavation project. There are regulations within municipalities are usually needed to dictate how property needs to be graded. In order to execute your yard expansion project properly, there are some details your excavation contractor will keep in mind.
Drainage
When you examine the home site, you may not be aware that potential drainage issues could cause damage to your home. Alternately, you may be seeking home excavation services to fix a drainage issue on your property.
As you are leveling out your land, think about where the water will pool on your property if it is all leveled out. An experienced home excavator will know how to redirect the water to the ideal place on your property, which will make the project well worth it.
Excavation of Rocks and Trees
One step of the excavation process is to clear the rocks, plants, and debris from the area. Removing a tree can be an extensive process, which includes grinding the stump to be able to grow grass or landscaping on top of the site again. Also, large rocks can require the use of equipment that is more specialized than a John Deere tractor.
What kinds of equipment do you have to excavate land on your property? If you are considering doing the work with a shovel and a wheelbarrow, it may be time to call on a home excavation team with their own heavy equipment.
Smooth and Level the Surface
If digging a hole is part of your excavation plans, whether to plant a tree or install a pool or ground-level trampoline, it takes expertise to know where to dig. Will you have to drill through solid rock to get the depth you desire? Are there water lines or obstructions that will keep you from digging safely?
What does it take to level the land? As with all excavation projects, level land is essential to move on to the next steps. For example, you may want to pour an outdoor patio, build a garden, or create a sports court. No matter what the next project is, a leveled out ground is necessary and should be done by a professional home excavator.
Add Topsoil
In order for any grass or plants to survive on your land, you must add topsoil to the first layer. This rich soil has the right balance of nutrients for growing grass. However, without the help of an excavation team, you may not know how deep of a layer to spread the topsoil. Call on an experienced home excavator to make the right decisions regarding topsoil.
What to Watch Out For
You are ready to start on your home excavation, but what do you need to be aware of first? You may not know that your home excavation project could permanently damage your home. Take a look at some hazards you could face when taking on home excavation without a professional.
Damage to Your Foundation
Imagine that you were to level out your land all by yourself. You cleared all the debris, trees, and rocks and made sure the ground was perfectly flat. If the water is now pooling and draining toward your house, it could cause flooding and even damage your foundation.
With continual water draining toward the foundation, this could also cause a breakdown of the foundation itself. Water is heavy, and if it presses against the foundation each time it rains, the foundation will start to show cracks and clear signs of water damage.
Hitting Utility Lines
You must be aware of what is under the ground before digging about your building site. For example, as you dig to remove large rocks or tree roots, it is possible that you could hit a utility line and cause serious damage. You should also be aware of water pipes and gas lines that run underground.
Water Table
Another thing to be aware of when digging is the water table. How deep can you dig before hitting the water table that runs under the layer of ground on your property? A professional home excavator will know these details about your property.
Tips for Home Excavation
When taking on a home excavation project, adhere to a few tips for a successful outcome.
Recycle Dirt
As you level out the land in your project, be sure to recycle the dirt. The last step will require adding topsoil, but the dirt that exists in your backyard is an excellent backfill for the areas that need to be raised to higher ground.
Required Equipment
Get a glimpse of what kind of equipment is needed and why hiring an excavation team is the best way to go. For example, a compact excavator or mini excavator will help remove the large rocks in tight spaces. A backhoe loader will haul out the materials and get them loaded into a truck for disposal. An expert excavation team will know which equipment to use for your home excavation project.
Hire Professional Contractors
Our team at Mikula Contracting is the home excavator you’ve been looking for. We have the skills and knowledge to make your yard ready for any project you have on the docket. You won’t have to worry about project disasters when you hire our professional team for your home excavation needs. Contact us today to set up your initial meeting.
Why Digging A Foundation is Not a DIY Project
You’ve saved and dreamed, planned, and waited but it’s finally time to build the home you’ve desired and longed for. You can already see yourself making your new home your own with the little touches you’ve dreamed of. As you ponder the DIY projects you’re ready to take on, you could be thinking “maybe we can save some money if…”. Let’s talk about one of those DIY projects that future homeowners think they can take on, but soon find what a big mistake it was to do all on their own. One of those projects might be digging a foundation. After all, using an excavator to dig some holes can’t be that hard right? Let’s “dig in” and find out why you should never make digging a foundation a DIY project.
Process of Digging a Foundation
Are you thinking about building a new home, adding on, or building another structure on your property altogether? The foundation is possibly the most important part of your entire build. If you don’t have your foundation right, the rest of your structure won’t withstand the tests of time.
A foundation provides strength, helps keep out moisture, and provides some protection from the elements. It keeps your home stable during earthquakes, floods, and more.
When the process of digging a foundation begins, it may not seem like not much digging is happening at all. The first step in the excavation process includes clearing your site properly so that you have the room to dig your foundation and build your structure. Any roots from trees or shrubs within a foot of the foundation need to be removed as well.
Next, the site is “set out” with the use of wooden stakes and strings to map out where the foundation excavation should be. The excavation contractor will then dig to the depth the general contractor and engineers have determined. This will clear the space necessary for the footings and foundation to be placed. This part of the foundation process is more precise than you might think. If dug too deep, it will need to be filled in since the loose dirt now lacks the stability and support that your foundation needs. It will now need to be compacted or filled with other material. There are all kinds of situations like this throughout the foundation excavation process that require detailed focus to get right.
A soils engineer will determine whether gravel needs to be added because of a high-water table, drainage systems placed, etc. If the dirt is loose, planking will need to be placed to reinforce the sides from falling in so that the foundation work can be completed. When excavation is complete, the footings and foundation can be poured into different sections or troughs to maintain the shape and structure.
Once the foundation has had time to cure, the area can be backfilled and leveled out. Building can now begin! The excavation and foundation digging process may feel like a waste of time, but you’ll be glad you took the time to get it right.
Dangers to Excavating Yourself
Maybe you have received the necessary permits and rented equipment for the job. You have big plans of saving on excavation costs but, this task may be more than you have bargained for. Foundation excavation and pouring can be quite dangerous. Educate yourself on the risks before moving forward and make the wise choice of hiring a professional to complete the job for you. Some of these risks include:
- Hitting power lines below the ground or above your head, results in electrocution.
- Improper excavation can lead to
- Falling into the trenches or holes because the ground is loose from excavating.
- Dirt and debris dust can cause breathing issues if the proper safety gear is not worn.
Common Reasons Why Foundations Fail
Digging a foundation fails for all kinds of reasons. Some take time and others fail immediately. Some of these reasons include:
- Failing to remove tree roots. Removing an above-ground stump does not ensure that roots will stop growing, and could eventually disturb the foundation.
- Backfill soil contains too much water, causing the foundation to fall inward or to absorb the water, creating cracks and leaks.
- A sinking base can cause the foundation to shift and possibly even crack.
- Not allowing the foundation to dry long enough before proceeding to backfill and build on top of it.
- Failing to pour the entire foundation at once. This can allow seams to develop between pours which permits moisture to seep in.
Commonly Made Mistakes
Some mistakes to be aware of during the foundation excavation process include:
- Failing to get the necessary permits before excavating.
- Forgetting to measure the size of the equipment you will be renting. Some lots are small and won’t fit just any excavator or cement truck.
- Failing to plan for excess soil removal before foundation excavation begins. If you fail to remove dirt and are on a small lot, the dirt can fall back into your trenches, and you will need to begin the digging process all over again.
Call Mikula Contracting for Excavation Needs
When it comes down to it, hiring a professional is the safest and often most cost-effective way to complete your foundation excavation. Mikula Contracting has been in the excavation business for more than 70 years. Throughout the years we have encountered all kinds of building sites and situations. This experience makes us the trusted foundation excavation company for residential and commercial builds throughout New Jersey. Let us be your excavation and foundation experts. Call us at 973-772-1684 with any questions you may have or to schedule a time for us to help in your upcoming build.
6 Questions to Ask Your Excavating Contractor
6 Questions to Ask When Finding an Excavating Contractor
A commercial construction project is a big undertaking, especially if it’s your first time going through it. Finding an excavating contractor and making all the big decisions can be a lot to navigate. There are a lot of choices, and sometimes there are multiple companies fighting for the chance to be hired to complete your project.
Finding an excavating contractor that makes you feel comfortable and confident is one of the first big decisions you’ll make in your commercial building project. You don’t want to just hire an excavator you found on the internet. You want someone that you know does exceptional excavation work and will do it in a timely manner at a fair cost. What else should you be looking for in an excavating company? Let’s examine six questions you should be sure to ask.
Are You Licensed?
Asking your potential excavation contractors if they are licensed, bonded, and insured is one of the very first questions you want to ask. While this isn’t a requirement in every state, you want to be sure the group you hire has the knowledge and experience to complete your job. You’ll also want to be sure they have insurance protection in case something goes wrong. Don’t just take their word for it either. Ask to see proof of these qualifications and insurance before you hire your excavator or any other contractor for your project.
Ask for an Estimate
If the excavating contractor you’re working with gives you a verbal cost estimate, ask for a written estimate at the very least. Have them write out the extra costs that could be added to the estimate and how much those “extras” will be. Get everything in writing, especially on a large commercial project. If your budget is out of whack, in the beginning, you’ll be trying to make up for it throughout the rest of your build.
When it comes to the excavation timeline, getting an estimate can help keep your excavating crew accountable. Make your expectations known and agree on a timeline that is realistic.
What Similar Projects Have You Completed?
Always ask for examples and even references from past projects. A company that regularly completes these kinds of jobs will have no problem giving you references of people they have worked within the past.
You should also look online and see if any reviews or other mentions are available to you. Choose an excavator who not only has a great reputation but is also someone with whom you feel at ease in sharing your project.
If the excavator you’re thinking of hiring hasn’t done a job like yours, you may want to think twice. Maybe you’re building a large 10 story office building, but they have only ever worked on residential excavations. Even though they do good work, they don’t have the experience you need for your project. Be sure to ask.
Which Training and Certifications Does Your Team Have?
It’s important to know what kind of training the company you’re hiring has put its team through. Do they have any special certifications that make them a stronger choice than others? How familiar are they with the piece of equipment they will be using?
Knowing the skillset of your excavation team will be vital in your decision-making process. Finding an excavation contractor with the training and specialized certifications that make them a step above others will serve you well on your current project and for future projects to come.
How Many Years of Experience Do You Have?
How long have you been in business? How many years have you been doing commercial excavating? These are both great questions for your potential excavator. A commercial excavation project is vastly different from a residential dig. When you’re speaking with each excavation company, be specific and don’t let them brush over your questions. A crew with great experience is anxious to brag about their skillset.
Make sure you hire someone with years of experience, and a team that’s just as skilled. Just because an excavation contractor overseeing the project has plenty of experience doesn’t mean the team is equally skilled.
Is Your Bid an Estimate or a Final Price?
Do you understand exactly how much your commercial excavation project is going to cost? When finding an excavating contractor, ask if the bid is an estimation of what the final cost will be or if it is what you can plan to pay in the end. This is an important one. Extra costs and charges can easily be thrown in after the fact if you don’t agree on a fixed price before your project starts. Don’t waver on this one. It could save more money than you know!
Call a Trusted Excavation Contractor
Mikula Contracting has over 76 years of excavating experience. Our commercial excavation work speaks for itself. We encourage our potential customers to check out our past work and talk with our past customers to see and hear for themselves how amazing our work truly is. The customer service and project management we provide will be unforgettable.
If you have started looking for an excavating contractor for your big project, we encourage you to give us a call and find out how we can help make your project great. We believe your commercial build deserves to have a strong support and foundation from the beginning. Get the job done right with Mikula Contracting.