A contractor stands overlooking an excavation site

5 Reasons to Hire a Professional Excavation Contractor

You may see all the DIY projects on TV and Instagram and decide that you can take on a number of projects by yourself. But when it comes to excavation work, that is in a category of its own. For example, taking on the excavation of a concrete slab or an in-ground swimming pool can cause irreversible property damage. Instead of risking a disastrous construction project that will likely result in calling on a professional excavation contractor for help anyway, you can start the project right by calling them from the start.

Read on to learn about the reasons to hire a professional excavation contractor.

Top-Notch Equipment

When you hire a professional excavation contractor, you won’t have to worry about how you’re going to level out a piece of rocky soil or dig out a foundation on a construction site for your home. In addition, you won’t need to purchase fancy machinery or tools when professional excavation companies have their own top-of-the-line equipment.

One of the reasons to hire a professional excavation contractor is that they won’t just rely on a pickaxe and a shovel to break up your old fiberglass swimming pool. An excavator, backhoe, front-end loader, and cranes are just a few pieces of machinery that a professional excavator would have on hand. The team is trained to operate this machinery safely.

With the proper equipment, your project will go from a weeks-long endeavor to something that can be done in an afternoon. Hire a professional excavator to get the job done efficiently and correctly.

Insurance

When you invite a skilled excavator onto a building site, there is a possibility that things could go wrong. An excavating company with years of experience will only allow people on the excavating job that are covered by insurance. One of the many reasons to hire a professional excavation contractor is their insurance. Ask professional excavation services about their safety and insurance policies before hiring them. How they answer the question will reveal the quality of the company and how prepared they are. Hiring an excavation crew with proper insurance will reduce the risk of accidents during your excavation project.

Also, insurance will cover any equipment or property damaged during the project. For example, if you dig and hit a water line, insurance will cover those costs to fix the city water source.

Expertise and Training

As you may wonder what reasons to hire a professional excavation contractor, you must first know that excavation services require much more than digging a hole. Excavation services are vital to preparing land for a big construction project or cleaning out an oil spill. If you skip your due diligence in getting the excavation piece of your construction project done right, the whole project may have severe consequences.

Here are some examples of projects that would serve as reasons to hire a professional excavation contractor:

In-Ground Pool Removal: Use an excavation team to remove the large, heavy pieces of an old decrepitated pool. The team will finish the project from the pool removal to the backfill of the proper dirt, compacting the soil, and leveling the ground once the project is over.

Removal of an Underground Oil Tank: Let an excavation team handle the sensitive project of removing an underground oil tank. An oil spill is the last thing you want on your property. They can take care of this project safely and professionally.

Removal of a Concrete Slab: You may have an old concrete slab to remove that was under an old garage or shed on your property. This is a reason to hire a professional excavation contractor to break up the slab and remove the chunks of concrete without hitting underground gas lines or causing damage to your property.

Digging a New Foundation: If you are building a home that you would like to last for hundreds of years, it’s a good idea to make sure you get the foundation right. Let this be a reason to hire a professional excavation contractor.

Leveling Rocky Soil for Construction: An excavation team can prepare the land for a construction project by removing trees and leveling out the rocky soil.

Clearing the Soil after an Oil Spill: Another of many reasons to hire a professional excavation contractor is soil cleanup. For example, an excavation team can remediate the contaminated soil and backfill with fresh, clean material.Let the professionals take on these complex projects for you. You will end up saving money in the long run when you don’t risk the dangers that can come with a DIY construction project.

Safety

Along with having insurance, the reasons to hire a professional excavation contractor include the safety procedures that an excavation team will be prepared to implement. They will have a map of nearby gas and water lines. They would have safety measures in place if they were to accidentally hit a gas source. When you hire a team that wears proper safety protection and knows what to do when something goes wrong, you reduce the risk surrounding your excavation project.

Excavation Mistakes Can Be Costly

If an excavation mistake were to occur during a DIY project, the error could lead to thousands of dollars in repair, not to mention reparation for a person’s injury or life. Imagine some risks that come with excavation work, like a pit collapsing in on machinery and workers, hitting an overhead power line, or hitting an underground gas line. Be sure to consider these risks and how to mitigate them all as a reason to hire a professional excavation contractor

Call Mikula Contracting for Professional Excavators

Our team at Mikula Contracting wants to help you with your excavation project. With years of experience working on various excavation projects, we have the equipment and safety measures that will bring you peace of mind. So don’t delay – contact Mikula Contracting today to schedule your project.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

excavator breaking ground at a construction site

A Guide to Excavation Cost For A New Home

A Guide to Excavation Cost For New A Home

You have recently bought a new piece of property and are ready to get building your dream home. The excavation cost for a new home is one of the first things to consider when planning the project, because, it is important to remember that every step of the project needs to be done properly, and that starts with the ground.

Excavation is vital for laying the brand new house’s foundation, and it is an important step in installing all of the underground piping. It also ensures that the land is safe to work upon.

Excavation involves removing all existing vegetation, rocks, and debris from the land to create a level building site. The excavation may also include preparing for gardening or landscaping, improving the view, or increasing fire safety. The land is cleared and leveled or regraded. The cost of the land clearing depends on the size of the lot, the necessary machinery, the amount and density of vegetation, and the labor required.

One of the first steps when building a new home is surveying the land. Look at the full property, identify which trees and greenery will stay. You may not want to clear the land entirely. Mature trees provide much-needed shade for the yard and keep utility costs down inside the home.

Another thing you want to consider as you are planning your excavation is the layout of your driveway in relation to your new home. You may also want to take into consideration additional structures such as driveways, sheds, or playsets.

If you want to build a pool, that will also require additional excavation. Whether below ground or above ground, pool planning has a lot of excavation considerations. You may even want to think about grading to allow for changing depth in the pool.

Once you have made those decisions, measure out the piece of land that will need new construction excavation.

Excavation costs for a new home can vary based on the type of land you are excavating. The primary factor is just how much dirt needs to be moved. Typically, heavy machinery for removing large quantities of soil is required. Oftentimes the dirt can be used in other areas on the property.

Unexpected water under the soil level, excessive clay, or rocky formations that hinder digging and removal could all increase project costs.

Another factor to consider for new home excavation is whether or not you want a basement. Basement excavation involves digging out a foundation for a house with enough room for a basement versus just a standard foundation. This is useful if you want to use the extra space for another level or at least another room in your home.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

Many people think they can handle excavation projects themselves. Equipment for digging is usually available for rental. Excavation can seem exciting. Getting to operate heavy machinery can be appealing, but the excavation process is actually quite intricate and detailed.

When you are making big changes to your land, you must apply for the proper permits to ensure that the excavation process will be done safely. Often the permit process can be difficult to navigate.

There are different types of equipment that are needed for different aspects of the job, such as:

A backhoe
A skid steer
A laser level
An excavator

Most large pieces of equipment take time to figure out how to use. It takes even longer to learn how to use them correctly and efficiently. Some really large pieces of equipment may require special credentials or training to use. In this case, it may be best to bring in a professional.

Another factor to keep in mind when debating whether or not to do a project yourself is not just the cost of the project, but the cost of your own time. How much is your time worth? Are there more valuable ways you can use your time in comparison to hiring a professional?

It may seem more expensive to hire someone initially. However, they will probably get the job done much faster than you would by doing it yourself. Additionally, it is often cheaper to have someone do the job right the first time. You could end up making mistakes that are very costly to repair.

Is it Wise to Do it Yourself?

You might feel like you can handle your property’s excavation project yourself, but with so much room for error, it is strongly advised to hire professionals who can ensure quality service, safety, and certified experience.

People who choose to forego the excavation process or do not do it properly often suffer the consequences later. These consequences can include the foundation sinking and your home shifting with different ground conditions. To avoid these disastrous possibilities, ensure you have the land properly and professionally excavated.

Professionals who are certified to operate heavy machinery and are trained in excavation work often have safety certifications that are not available to members of the public. They also have training and experience in identifying potential issues before they become problematic and expensive.

One example is that someone who has a lot of experience working with different types of soil can identify inconsistencies and issues that could indicate contamination. Soil that is contaminated with toxins can have major implications for your health, especially if you are building your forever home.

Soil contamination occurs when toxins get mixed with the natural compounds of the soil. These toxins can come from chemicals or other organic compounds. They could also be a naturally occurring toxin due to certain types of heavy metals in the ground. Contamination can come from many places including:

Improper waste disposal
Failure of a septic system
Livestock manure runoff
Farming chemicals
Nearby industrial waste or emissions
Failing underground oil tanks

If you have soil contamination, you will want to have a professional on-site who knows about the different strategies for soil remediation.

Work with Excavation Professionals

There are plenty of projects that are great to do yourself, however, excavation is one that is best left to the professionals. Contact us at Mikula to learn about our residential excavation services.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

Excavator Digging Into A Construction Site

What is the Average Cost of an Excavation Project?

Excavation projects come in different shapes and sizes, and there are many factors that go into the average excavation cost of a project.

The average excavation cost for a commercial excavation will depend on the type of project, the extent of the project, and if it is a residential or commercial property. Whether your company is going through a major development or expansion or if an environmental cleanup is necessary, there are various factors that go into determining cost.

Certain projects are similar for commercial and residential projects, like pipe repair or drainage issues.

If the water line to your building or home stopped working, it could require excavation services to repair it. This ensures that workers can access the affected line without causing further damage.

Perhaps the water line burst and has caused excess water. This can damage your foundation and create health and safety issues.

With so many plumbing, electrical, and septic systems located underground, excavation services are usually necessary to fix problems in these areas.

You may also need excavation services like:

trench shoring
underground utility installation
oil tank removal

The average excavation cost for residential projects is typically less than a commercial project. However, the cost breakdown is similar.

The Average Cost of an Excavation Project

As mentioned above, there are several factors that can affect excavation costs. With that, it is hard to determine the exact cost without getting a quote directly from an experienced residential and commercial excavation company. However, typically, the average cost ranges from $50 to $200 per cubic yard. However, again, the average cost can vary depending on other factors.

Breakdown of Costs

The type of excavation is going to determine the cost factors, but some costs are a given no matter the type of project.

Permits are a standard cost. Permits are generally required before undertaking an excavation project that could disturb the surrounding environment. Most excavation projects require permits from the city or county to ensure the project is being completed safely and up to standard. Part of the permit cost may also include a site survey to ensure there are not any electrical or plumbing lines that will be impacted by the project.

The excavation of the soil is a standard cost usually per cubic foot or cubic yard. If the project is removing topsoil, the cost may be calculated in square feet or square yards instead of cubic.

Depending on your project, you may have the same company doing grading and other prep work that may add money to the cost of the project, but save money by having the same company do the work. Additionally, the work might get done faster by not having multiple companies doing different parts of the project.

Soil remediation may be a cost or it may be the basis of your project. Soil remediation is the process of removing or replacing the soil to get rid of contamination. Soil contamination occurs when toxins get mixed with the natural compounds of the soil.

If you have had a spill or discovered improper waste flow on your property, you may need soil remediation to restore the safety of your land.

Some common soil remediation strategies include bioremediation, soil washing, and thermal desorption. Some of these soil remediation technologies are used to separate out the chemicals.

Sometimes it may be necessary to remove the contaminated soil and replace it with clean fill, especially if you do not have the time to deal with bioremediation.

Another standard cost for excavation is dirt removal. Both commercial and residential excavations have the option of reusing the dirt on-site. However, if there is not enough space for the amount of dirt being removed, or you cannot use all of it on your property, there is a cost for hauling and disposal.

There are a number of factors that can drive up costs that may be unexpected. Besides soil remediation for unexpected contamination, you may end up finding unexpected challenges during excavation.

Having to move large boulders, rocky soil, or running into potentially long-buried things can complicate your excavation project and increase the cost.

Prices Depending on Size of Project

Regardless of whether your project is commercial or residential, it is the size of the project that is going to determine the price. Clearing a large piece of land or digging deep into the ground is much more expensive than topsoil clearing and leveling for the installation of a pool.

Pool removal is a prime example of variables based on the size of the project.

Before the removal of any inground pool, whether residential or commercial, it must be drained.
The bottom of the pool, as well as the sides, will be broken up into small pieces and transported off your property. Properly disposing of the waste from the pool involves recycling concrete, treating the water for reuse or disposal, and disposing of or recycling other equipment connected to the pool.
Of course, a commercial pool is going to have more water, more chemicals, and more waste than a residential pool. Either way, junk removal is a lengthy process and should be included in the cost of your pool removal.
After that element is completed, you will have a hole in your property. A variable cost factor is how much backfill material is required to fill the hole. Compacting and leveling is a standard service that should not fluctuate too much based on size.

One cost factor that may be impacted by the size of the project is labor. Larger projects take longer and require more manpower on-site. This is another increase in the cost of the project.

Equipment is a variable factor. The larger the project, the more heavy equipment is needed. However, larger equipment is needed to complete the project quickly and safely. Larger equipment can also increase costs due to additional safety measures and the need to have specially trained operators.

When considering an excavation project, you may want to consider a company that has a wide range of expertise in different types of excavation and offers a variety of services so that you do not have to outsource multiple parts of your project.

Get multiple estimates from different companies. Ask for recommendations from local hardware and home improvement stores. Talk to your neighbors, check your local social media pages or groups, and access websites that provide ratings for companies.

Once you’ve selected a company, ask detailed questions about their experience and equipment. Verify their certifications, insurance, and licensure. Request a contract or agreement that specifies the work to be done and the rates to be charged. Make sure you have agreed upon estimates for unexpected hiccups in the project.

Get a Quote From an Experienced Excavation Company

At Mikula, we specialize in providing exceptional professional and residential excavation services. Call us today to get a quote for your project today.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

An Excavator Digging Into A Construction Site

How Much Does It Cost To Excavate Land?

There are many different reasons that you may need land excavation done. Anything from simply digging a hole to see if you can find a leak in one of your underground pipes to larger projects that entail heavy machinery and a full team can be considered land excavation. Depending on the size of the project, you could end up paying a large amount of money for a project to get done.

If you have never had land excavated before, you may still be researching what a land excavation project entails and how much does it cost to excavate land?

We’ve got the answers you need so that you can make sure you’re getting the right work done for the right price.

Types of Excavation Projects

The cost of your land excavation is going to depend primarily on what type of excavation you need to be done. This guide is a great indicator for the scope of the project which will affect what types of machinery, price per square foot, and, ultimately, the total cost of your land excavation project.

One way that experts classify the different types of land excavation is by the types of materials that are being excavated. The main land materials that are commonly excavated are:

Topsoil- Topsoil is the outermost layer of soil or dirt. This layer supports and includes vegetation, meaning that the material being excavated here is moister than other types of material. This is important to remove as quickly as possible, making it the first step in any land excavation project.
Earth- Earth is classified as the layer underneath the topsoil. This is generally removed using a scarper but may include rock and boulder materials that require the use of a drill for removal.
Muck- Muck is any earth material (topsoil or earth) that has a high concentration of water. As the name suggests, this includes things like mud and undesirable soil. Since it is so unstable, it’s often spread out over a larger area, allowing it to dry before it can be used for anything.

Here are a few of the most common types of excavation that both residential homes and commercial properties alike may need to be done at some point or another.

Securing Foundation- This type of land excavation is necessary for any building, whether it be a home, a small business, or even a huge office building. If you’re building a new home, the most important part of it is the foundation. In order to build a solid foundation, a large amount of soil must be removed to make space for pouring concrete, ensuring a level surface for the rest of the construction.
Drainage Solution- To avoid things like flooding that could cause damage, it’s recommended to have some sort of drainage solution that leads rainwater away from the property. In order to do this, however, land excavation is necessary to make way for a pipe or seepage pit installation.
Pipe Damage- One of homeowners’ and businesses’ biggest fears when it comes to their home is a pipe leak or break. When this happens, it can lead to flooding and severe water damage to your property. If your pipes are damaged, you will need professional land excavation to get to those underground pipes so that they can be repaired.
Environmental Cleansing- For a variety of reasons, the soil surrounding your business may become contaminated with things like sewage or improperly disposed waste. When this occurs, the soil must be removed to prevent the contaminated land from causing environmental or even health problems and also needs a team of general contractors to ensure the land is removed and disposed of properly.

As you can see, on top of the square footage and equipment used, issues like toxic materials and types of soil affect the overall cost of any particular land excavation project.

What also factors into total cost here is how the contractors or company you hire choose to charge for each project. It’s generally up to them, based on the scale of the project, cost of labor, and equipment used, to decide by what metric they will charge.

In general, the hourly price of land excavation will run from $100-$180.
If you’re being charged per cubic yard, your costs could be anywhere between $50 and $200.
Yard grading typically starts at about $1,000 per project but could cost up to $6,000 and beyond.
Equipment charges can cost from $100 to $150 per hour depending on how much heavy equipment is needed.

Of course, these charges also vary depending on the type of project that needs to be done. The price for something like a residential swimming pool excavation, for example, can vary greatly depending on whether your land is mostly soil or rock, making it a much larger investment for some than for others.

How to Know if You’re Being Overcharged

Keep in mind when asking yourself, "how much does it cost to excavate land" that the price of land excavation is not only dependent on the quality of the team - it is also dependent on the quality of land they are working with and the scope of the project.

Ultimately, the best way to know if you’re being overcharged is to compare the cost with other local top-rated contractors and read through each company’s reviews. You can always get multiple bids on your project and hire the contractor that seems like the best fit based on your research, their portfolio of work and quality of customer service.

Contact a Trusted Contractor for Your Land Excavation Project

At Mikula Contracting, we’ve successfully completed countless commercial and residential land excavations across New Jersey. When you work with our team, we’ll not only take care of all permits and inspections, but we’ll also make sure your excavation project is completed on time and within budget. Contact us for a quote today.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

mikula contracting machinery backhoe excavation contractors

What is Test Pit Excavation?

When you are ready to start new construction, you may already be aware that the site must first be inspected and evaluated. But where do you start? One of the best ways to gain a sampling of the soil is through test pits and trenches. What is a test pit? The short answer to what is a test pit is when an excavation team digs multiple holes or trenches on the property to collect samples of the soil.

Let’s explore this further.

What is Test Pit Excavation?

A big part of site investigation before building on the land is test pit excavation. When you ask, what is test pit excavation, you will find out why you need it.

An excavation team will carefully take samples of the soil, digging a few feet below the projected construction dig. And then, the soil will be evaluated for rock ratio, the softness of the soil, and contamination.

Here are some things that a test pit excavation can discover:

Layer of Shallow Rock: Some areas of the country have layers of rock right under the shallow surface of the soil. When a contracting team knows about the rock that will need to be dug out, it can prepare by using different equipment and altering the timeline for the project.

Water Table Location: The water table is a layer of water underneath ground soil. It is when soil is considered compact without oxygen flowing through it. The water table can change with the seasons, but it is always an asset to know where it starts on your construction site.

Soil Contamination: If there were an oil spill or hazardous chemicals in the soil from a previous time, you would want to know about it before building a residential or commercial building. Contaminated soil can be detrimental to the public and is not a suitable growing area for plants and vegetation to grow. Imagine finding out about contaminated soil at the end of your construction project. It would be damaging financially.

Potential for Growth: Contaminated soil is not the only earth that plants will not thrive on. There are types of soil that are very dry and rocky that will not grow greenery easily. You can find that out through test pit excavation. And then you can bring in your own clean fill to fix the problem.

When you find out, what is a test pit, you can discover so many things. It is vital to conduct test pitting services before a big construction project to avoid a setback when so much money has been invested.

Why Choose Test Pitting Services?

Say you were to find out what is a test pit after you started on construction? If you start without knowing what is a test pit, then you may have invested a lot of money in a land that is filled with contaminated soil and required soil remediation. Or you may find that the earth is susceptible to landslides or sinking and will not offer a solid ground for a building.

When you hire a geotechnical engineer to show you what is a test pit, you will learn about the soil before starting the project. Then you don’t have to put the timeline on hold when you discover setbacks with the ground late in the construction process.

Is a Test Pit Always Needed?

Is it widely known what is a test pit in the construction business? Many contractors have learned their lessons when finding out late in a project about a problem with the soil. Test pit excavations are needed on any project that you would like to avoid surprises.

The more you know about the land before starting construction, the less money your project will cost. Also, because you are prepared on what is a test pit and how it will teach you more about the soil, you won’t have any surprises come your way during construction.

Who Benefits From Test Pit Excavation?

What is a test pit, and who benefits from it? If you are a contractor, homeowner, or commercial landowner, you will benefit from test pit excavation.

Mikula Contracting has been in business for over 70 years serving the Northern New Jersey communities. We have built a reputation of trust, expertise, and care over the years. You can enlist our team for help in your test pit excavation.

We also offer other excavation services:

Removal of Large Equipment or Structures: Whether you have a garage or swimming pool to be removed, our team can take care of it. Large structures like underground oil tanks or playgrounds are part of our excavation services.

Addition of Clean Fill to a New Construction: Leveling land includes filling in parts of land that are lower than the rest of the area. Our certified clean fill is exactly what you need to get your land up to grade for your new construction.

Removal of Dirt for Leveling Land: When you think of excavation services, you may picture a large excavator moving dirt around. Your childhood fantasies can come to life when you discover that’s what we offer at Mikula Contracting. We move dirt. Let us take large amounts of dirt off your hands so that you can start on your contracting project.

Our team is happy to meet your excavation needs in New Jersey. You can count on us to prepare your land for new construction by knowing what is a test pit, building test pits and trenches, testing the soil, and soil remediation and removal. If you need new earth brought in for a project, you can rely on us for certified clean fill.

NJ Test Pit Excavation Contractors

At Mikula Contracting, you can find trusted test pit excavation contractors. Our team is experienced in test pits and trenches and can work to get you the results you need before starting new construction. Contact us today to ask all of your questions. We want to help you understand what is a test pit and use it to your benefit.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

Home Buying: Tear it Down vs. Repair

It is sensible to buy a home in this real estate market that you might consider a fixer-upper. If you can procure a home in an established neighborhood with good schools and proximity to entertainment and jobs, then go for it!

But when you start to break down the costs for repair, you might be in over your head. Why would a house need to be torn down? Consider what goes into a complete home renovation project. Would an update to the existing house cost even more than tearing down and starting over?

If you can’t decide the determining factor on why would a house need to be torn down, walk through the pros and cons with us. Do not forget to consider preparing the land for a new home build amidst established homes in the area. Here are some other steps to examine in the process.

How to Determine Your Solution

As you are looking for a home, consider why would a house need to be torn down? Does the home you found in the perfect location have everything you need? Sometimes, it doesn’t. Some reasons why people tear down and start from scratch include:

The Need for More Square Footage: Older homes have smaller square footage than you need. If you would like more room inside the home, then make it happen. Demolition costs to demolish and rebuild could cost less than adding onto an existing home, depending on the extent of the project.
A Place to Live During Construction: In many cases, there is a vacant lot next to the house that is perfect for building a new home. You can live in the existing home during construction and then demolish it after you move into the new build.
Foundation Issues: It may not be a sound structure if the existing home has major foundation issues. If the bones of the home aren’t solid, then it’s best to start from scratch. The condition of the house is a major factor as to why would a house need to be torn down.
The Desire for a 2-Story Home: Building on a whole 2^nd story to a home can cost as much as the house itself. You may want to start from the ground up and create an updated, energy-efficient home with all new appliances, windows, doors, vents, pipes, foundation, and roof.
Energy Efficiency: A new home is built with updated technology to keep your power costs down. An old house is leaky and creaky. You are sure to lose air through the cracks of an older home.
Wired for Modern Electronics: Build a new home that has charging stations built-in with smart home capabilities. You can get those things rewired into older homes, but add them to your estimated renovation costs.
Modern Layout: Small bedrooms with a small gathering room and low ceilings were in style at one time. A home like that won’t fly off the real estate market right now. People are on the hunt for grand gathering rooms with high ceilings. An open-floor layout is preferred, where the kitchen is the central focal piece of the home as well as the family room.

If you have added up all of your renovation wishlist costs and found that it makes sense to demolish a house, then what would that entail? If you’ve determined why would a house need to be torn down and are confident you are ready to tear down a house, where do you start?

Do You Have to Demolish the Entire House?

First of all, you don’t have to demolish the entire house. If the home you buy has a lot of structural issues and you are ready for a brand new home, then a full demolition project is correct.

But in some cases, you can keep part of the home. For example, the foundation may be sound while other parts of the house require a lot of work. So keep the foundation and go from there.

Why would a house need to be torn down? Trusted demolition contractors will help you determine which pieces of the house are worth saving.

Demolition Restrictions in NJ

When your builder seeks a permit for your home demolition in NJ, there may be some setbacks. You will find that building codes need to be up to a standard that may be outside of your budget. When you have a team that does it right, they will be able to include those factors in the initial estimate.

You may also find other restrictions in your demolition project like:

Historical preservation
Asbestos removal
Zoning
Neighbor pushback

When you embark on building a new home in an established neighborhood, the neighbors may not be excited about all the noise. They also may be wary about the long-term real estate effects that a new build can have in their neighborhood if it doesn’t fit in. When you communicate respectfully, you can come to an understanding with the neighbors before construction begins.

Average Costs to Demolish a House

When you’ve decided you know why would a house need to be torn down and are ready to make a move, it’s time to look into the cost. Consider these factors:

Geographic location: It costs more to demolish a house in New York than it does in North Dakota. Keep that in mind as you are looking up average costs. Be sure to search for estimates in your New Jersey area.
Square footage of the home: Demolition costs are calculated in price per square foot. You can estimate the price when you know the square footage of your home.
Demolition disposal: It takes a lot of work to remove, recycle, and dispose of all of the rubble from a demolition. This should be included in your price when you receive an estimate.
New home excavation: Be sure to ask about setting up the land for the new build if you are using a different company for demolition. The ground should be left in excellent condition, ready to start on your new home project.

An average residential demolition costs $8,000 to $15,000. You can gain back a lot of the cost through donating appliances, flooring, and other recyclable materials in the home as tax-deductible donations.

Residential Demolition Contractor in NJ

Now that you know why would a house need to be torn down, you can contact Mikula Contracting for help. Turn your remodeling project into a demolition project. Our trusted experts will help you with your demolition and get your land excavated for the new build. In addition, they can come on-site to determine if any part of the house is worth saving. Contact Mikula Contracting today.

by djm

How Much Does a Basement Excavation Cost?

If you are looking to add a basement to your existing house, your first question may be, what is the cost for a basement excavation? This home improvement project is a big undertaking but can have major benefits if you are looking to add square footage to your home.

When Is Basement Excavation a Good Option?

Many people are looking for bigger homes to live in as their family spends a lot more time at home during the pandemic. Unfortunately, the current housing market doesn’t make it easy to sell your home and size up without entering a bidding war and paying way above the asking price. There are no guarantees that you will even find a house with the low inventory and high demand that we are experiencing now.

If selling your home is not an option, then expanding the area of your current home is your next best step to take. Some reasons why you would find out what is the cost for a basement excavation are:

Building Out Is Not an Option: If you are on a lot with limited space for adding to the back of your house, then building out isn’t a viable option. Or, if your backyard is already being adequately used and you don’t want to impinge on that area, you may choose basement excavation.

Adding a Second Story is Not Possible: Maybe you already have a 2nd floor that gets great use, and you still have a need for a home office, game room, extra bathroom, and more. The basement can fit all of these rooms with a basement excavation project.

You Have an Existing Crawl Space or Cellar: The crawl space under your home can be expanded into a full basement with the help of an expert contracting team. Consult the team to find out the logistics of excavating a basement underneath your home.

Basements Are Common in Your Area: It’s important to note that basement excavation is possible in areas that commonly have basements. Some areas of the country have layers of rock under the topsoil that can shift. These areas are not suitable for building underground.

If you have determined that a basement excavation is a suitable option for your home, then it’s time to determine what is the cost for a basement excavation? Continue reading to find out the factors that affect the excavation costs.

Basic Residential Basement Excavation Costs

The average cost of a basement excavation is $47 per square foot. Of course, many factors go into calculating the basement cost.

Cubic Yards of Dirt: What is the cost for a basement excavation? It depends on the size of the area. The number of cubic yards of dirt that has to be removed will calculate the cost to dig. Most basements are 8 feet deep. Each cubic yard of land has to be removed and transported away.

Geographic Location: The price per square foot for a basement excavation depends on the location. Materials, labor, and hourly wages vary throughout the country. Your estimate will be consistent with New Jersey construction costs.

Dig Accessibility: If there is rock underneath your home or a tight squeeze between buildings, that will determine the cost for basement excavation. If the equipment and loading trucks can get close to the house, the project will not have accessibility setbacks.

Take these factors into account as you are planning your basement excavation. Then, when you meet with an expert team like Mikula Contracting, they will be able to give you an accurate estimation of your project.

Additional Costs

When you hire a team to dig a basement, there are other costs to take into account. If you are digging out a basement, you’ll want to finish the basement as a living space. Finishing a basement requires several aspects:

Dry Wall
Electrical Wiring
Plumbing
Flooring
Painting
Appliances
Furnishings
Interior Design

Once you add your finishing touches, then you’ll have the expansion of your home that you imagined. How wonderful it will be to escape to the basement for a movie night, have a place to keep your guests with their own private bathroom, or set up a home office tucked away in the quiet.

Other Factors to Consider

The final step to calculating what is the cost for a basement excavation is the return on investment. A basement excavation project can be costly, but it can be cost-effective when you consider the resell value.

Imagine filling out the listing for your home with extra bedrooms, a gathering room, and an additional bathroom added to your home stats. The extra square footage will also be added to the desirability of your home. A basement excavation can be an excellent investment.

Prep Work

As with all excavation projects, you will need to obtain the proper permits. Historically, permits are the reason for many construction delays. Hire a team that is on top of obtaining permits so that your project can get on without a hitch.

Other prep work can include safety protocols, COVID guidelines, and drawing up the plans for your final vision. These preparatory steps can reveal how experienced your contractors are. It is never too late to back out of a contract if you don’t feel confident in their expertise.

Other Residential Excavation Areas

Mikula Contracting has many years of experience in residential excavation. While you are asking, what is the cost for basement excavation, consider what other projects are needed in your home:

Pool Excavation: Is your pool old and filled with cracks? If your pool costs more money to maintain than is worth your money, you can get the pool removed. Make your backyard the oasis of your dreams.

Garage Excavation: Let Mikula Contracting take care of your old, rusty garage in the backyard. Mikula can dig out the concrete slab or set it up for reuse into a basketball court or firepit.

Driveway Excavation: If your fixer-upper has a crumbled driveway filled with weeds and uneven chunks of concrete, you can rely on our team to uproot the concrete. You can have the new driveway poured and increase your home’s curb appeal instantly.

Work with our experienced team to complete your residential excavation projects. Stop putting off your home improvement projects and make your home a place that you long to be. Many people update their homes right before selling them. Make the changes to your home now so you can enjoy living in luxury rather than providing amenities for potential buyers.

Basement Excavation Contractor in NJ

Our team at Mikula Contracting wants to help you find out what is the cost for a basement excavation? When you choose Mikula, you can be confident in knowing that we use safe and responsible practices for basement excavation. A project like a basement excavation requires expertise in keeping the foundation and quality of the existing house up to par. Our family-owned company has over 70 years of experience in residential and commercial excavation.

So before you ask, what is the cost for basement excavation? Remember that quality of work is just as important, if not more important, than the cost associated with the project. You will find top-quality work with Mikula Contracting.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

Excavating Your Basement: What You Need to Know

If you are looking into a home improvement project that will add square footage to your existing house, you may consider digging out a basement. How long to excavate a basement and other questions may come up in your mind before deciding on this option. Let’s explore it together.

Benefits of Excavating Your Basement

A basement excavation is a significant undertaking but can be worth the additional costs to dig a basement when you consider all of the extra living space you’ll provide to your home. It doesn’t matter how long to excavate a basement when you can sometimes double your square footage by adding a basement.

Here are some benefits to adding a basement to your existing home:

Don’t Have to Move: When no options are available for building out or building up, you can still stay in your home with your schools, neighborhood friends, and a convenient location when you find out how long to excavate a basement.

Add on Bedrooms, a Bathroom, and Gathering Room: The amount of space that can be added to your home is invaluable in a basement remodel project. Imagine having an extra bathroom, a couple of bedrooms, and an additional family room added to the house. The possibilities are endless on what you can do with those rooms!

More Storage: When you build out a basement, you can add a storage room for all the miscellaneous things in your home: camping supplies, food storage, luggage, and Christmas decorations.

Cooler Space in the Summer: Basements are great for the summer months as they stay cooler than the rest of the house. On those hot summer days, when all you want to do is escape the beating sun and 100-degree temperatures, escape to your cool and dark basement to take the break you need.

In-Law Suite: When you research how long to excavate a basement, do not forget to consider adding an exterior entrance to your basement. You can create an in-law suite in the basement with a bathroom and small kitchen if you’d like. Then, when you have a place for guests to stay long-term, it can offer all of you the conveniences and space you need.

Home Office: While many people are working from home, an office tucked away from the chaos and noise is essential. A home office in the basement can be just what you need to take calls and concentrate from a quiet spot in the home.

Game Room or Theater Room: Bring the entertainment to you by creating a theater or game room in your basement. The teenagers will gather in your home where you can get to know your kids’ friends and make sure they are safe.

Increased Home Value: Consider the basement cost and keep in mind your increased resale value when looking into how long to excavate a basement. This cost-effective investment will give you a return as you expand the area in your home. Also, think about all of the new bedrooms, bathroom, and family room you can add to your home’s listing when it’s time to sell.

Make no mistake – a basement excavation is a massive home improvement project that can take several weeks to complete. But when you get it done right with all of the finishes and details completed by an expert team, you will find the undertaking to be well worth it.

How Much Does Basement Excavation Cost?

While you are looking into how long to excavate a basement and the excavation costs, consider all of the factors. The average cost will depend on several elements of the project, including:

How many cubic yards of dirt needs to be removed? The cost to dig a basement depends on how much dirt needs to be dug out and hauled away. The process is meticulous, ensuring that no damage is done to your existing home.

Is there an existing crawl space? If you already have a crawl space, then building out a basement is a great possibility.

What material needs to be dug out? In some geographic locations, you don’t only have dirt below your house. Large sheets of rock can be below your home, making excavation projects more lengthy and complex.

How many square feet will be basement be? The cost of basement excavation depends on the square footage of the area to be cleared. The average cost of excavating a basement is $47 per square foot.

How deep do you want the basement to be? Most people like their basement to be 8 feet deep, with about 30 inches of that being above ground to allow for windows. Of course, you can dig even deeper, but that will increase the cost.

Are basements standard in your geographic area? In some areas of the country, basements are not offered. If you live in an area that has rock underneath the soil surface, the stone can shift and damage the basements. Also, adding a basement will not add to your home’s value if a liability comes with it.

Calculating the cost of excavating a basement is a lengthy process. Meet with Mikula Contracting to find out the cost estimation for your basement excavation. If you can’t build out or up, then basement excavation is your next best option. Find out how much a project like this will set you back by contacting a trusted contractor.

How Long Does it Take To Excavate a Basement?

So how long to excavate a basement? If you are looking to add a full basement underneath your house, you can expect at least several weeks of construction.

The team digs out cubic yards of dirt. Calculate this by multiplying the square footage of the basement space by the depth. For example, if you choose to dig down 8 feet and want to build a 1,000 square foot basement, you will have to work on removing 8,000 cubic feet of dirt.
The home’s foundation is reinforced, and the basement is poured to create the blueprint for the project.
Finishing touches are put in place, including framework, insulation, drywall, flooring, electrical, plumbing, appliances, and furniture.

When the project is done, you can enjoy the vast amount of extended square footage you have right in your very home. You won’t know what to do with all of the extra space when you choose to add a basement to your home. Be creative, make a space that is yours for relaxing and entertaining, and enjoy your new home.

Basement Excavation Contractors in NJ

You will find working with expert contractors like our team at Mikula Contracting is essential when looking into how long to excavate a basement. Ensure that your home’s foundation is in safe hands when you choose our contractors for your basement excavation. We will present the timeline from the beginning, keeping you from entering a never-ending construction contract.

A basement excavation is an enormous project and is best for experienced excavation contractors. We at Mikula Contracting have been in business for over 70 years and take pride in building our reputation in our family-owned business. When you work with our team, you will know that the job gets done correctly and efficiently. So contact us today to get started.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

Two trees shaped like heads facing each other

Contaminated Soil Cleaning Methods

When you suspect an oil spill or other type of contaminant has seeped into your soil, it is imperative that you remedy the situation as quickly as possible. While you are considering several approaches to cleaning contaminated soil, work with an expert team to find out the best soil remediation process for your situation.

Can you leave contaminated soil untreated? Unfortunately, toxic soil has adverse effects on the environment and human health. Therefore, it is irresponsible and illegal to let known contamination go untreated. This article will help you explore approaches to cleaning contaminated soil so you can get started on the remediation process.

Harmful Effects of Soil Contamination

The hazardous materials that have seeped into the soil can be harmful to any person or animal that comes in contact with the earth. You do not want to be responsible for the ailments of people in your community due to neglecting your contaminated soil problem. So, take a look at some of the detrimental effects of soil contamination:

Leaks into groundwater: The hazardous waste in the soil can spread through the ground and into the groundwater layer under the soil. This soil is used for irrigation throughout the community.

Gets into household water: When there is an oil spill in the surrounding areas, the contaminant can leak into the pipes and into drinking water. Detecting an oil sheen in household water is a sign of contaminated soil in the area and a cue to research approaches to cleaning contaminated soil.

Creates gas that people breathe in their homes: Toxic substances release a gas that can leak into homes and businesses. If you smell oil, gasoline, or other hazardous smells, do not ignore them. The gases are poisonous when not well-ventilated.

Spread to neighboring soil: If you have knowledge of soil contamination that then spreads to other properties, you have a liability on your hands. Get the problem solved as soon as possible so that you’re not looking at lawsuits on top of the remediation costs.

Hurts animals: When animals interact with the toxic soil, they can become sick and die. Compare and contrast approaches to cleaning contaminated soil so that you can get started on soil remediation.

Kills plant life: Another sign that your soil is contaminated is dying plants or the inability to grow vegetation on your property. Plants will not thrive when the ground has a toxic substance running through it. When you see how powerful the contaminant is that it will not grow any viable vegetation, you will realize how quickly you need to take care of the problem.

You have a responsibility to the environment and humanity to take care of contaminated soil the moment you learn about the problem. If you are unsure where to start, meet with Mikula Contracting to get the soil tested and learn about approaches to cleaning contaminated soil.

Different Cleaning Methods for Contaminated Soil

As you are researching approaches to cleaning contaminated soil, weigh the options of disposal vs. site treatment. You do not have to dispose of the soil and backfill it with all new soil. Some options for cleaning contaminated soil include:

Soil Remediation

With soil remediation, the soil is cleansed with a liquid wash solution. These basic approaches to cleaning include washing away the fine sediments within the soil that are more likely to have toxic substances attached to them.

This fine soil is separated from sands and gravel, and then the larger pieces are clean and can be safely reused. This treatment is usually done at a facility where the soil is transported and placed back when the remediation is complete.

Chemical Oxidation

The soil can stay in place with this process as chemical oxidants are infused into the dirt, destroying the contaminants. This is done by activated carbon, air stripping/aeration, and chemical precipitation. The chemicals engulf the toxin, destroying it and making the soil clean again.

You can also use chemical oxidation to change the chemical makeup of the toxin so that it’s ready for other approaches to cleaning contaminated soil. For example, some remediation processes require multiple steps to clean the soil properly.

Bioremediation

One of the many approaches to cleaning contaminated soil includes bioremediation. This method can treat the soil in place. With this method, bacteria are released into the soil, and they consume hazardous substances. Once the bacteria have done their job, they die off.

One thing to keep in mind with bioremediation is you need optimal conditions for the method to work. For example, minimal rain and a continuous temperature of 70 degrees are required for the bacteria to work most efficiently. You can cover the ground and try to create these conditions, but the process will take longer if these criteria are not met.

With this list of approaches to cleaning contaminated soil, you have a starting point for your soil remediation project. You may not know where to start, and that’s okay. You can seek advice from soil remediation experts before choosing which process is best for your contaminated soil.

Soil remediation is constantly changing with several approaches to cleaning contaminated soil that are convenient and affordable. But, most importantly, the job has to get done. It is vital to clear your soil of contaminants and prevent the spread of environmental toxins.

Soil Remediation in NJ

When you choose Mikula Contracting for soil remediation, you are going with professionals in the business for over 70 years. Our family-owned business has built a solid reputation throughout the years. We work to develop life-long relationships with the people we serve so that you can always have a trusted contractor in mind for whatever life throws at you.

Our team at Mikula Contracting is ready to present our approaches to cleaning contaminated soil so we can find the best solution for you. There is no time to waste when it comes to toxic soil on your property. Contact us today to get started on remediation efforts.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

Recruiting and Retaining Talented Women in Construction

While it may be a common belief that men are typically interested in the construction business, there has been a rise of women in construction positions. At Mikula Contracting, women contribute significantly to our team and we take proactive measures to find talented women to hire in our business.

It’s easy enough to make a goal to increase the number of women in construction. But what can we do to ensure that number increases? Action is more important than words. Let’s take a look at some measures that all construction businesses can take to make women feel more welcome in the construction industry.

Current Situation of Women in Construction

Women make up 47% of the total workforce in America, but only 10% of the construction industry. The National Association of Women In Construction is organized to be a networking group for all women in construction and help them break into the male-dominated industry.

Women do face obstacles when trying to work in construction. There are tangible reasons that deter women from applying for a construction job and certainly keep them from staying in a construction position. Some of these setbacks include:

No Women Role Models: If you expect a slew of women applicants but don’t have any existing women in your company, you may have a tough start. Every company has to start somewhere, so it’s crucial to take responsibility for your past negligence in hiring women and spell out your future goals.

Being Passed Up for Promotions: From a recent survey, 73% of women in construction feel that they have been passed up for promotions based on gender rather than their skill set. This shows that it is an industry problem that needs to show a change in order to expect more women to enter into construction careers.

Gender Pay Gaps: If a company isn’t monitoring gender pay gaps, then there is a problem. Every construction business should measure each person’s pay regardless of gender and make sure that the numbers are fair.

Feeling Left Out of Social Situations: 8 out of 10 women in construction feel left out of social conversations and events. A company needs to proactively work to plan events that are inclusive to all genders.

Higher Risk of Injury Due to Poorly-Fitted Equipment: Women are at a higher risk of injury because the safety equipment isn’t fit for their bodies. The construction company has a huge responsibility to protect all of their employees by offering proper safety equipment catered to all body types.

While the leadership of women in construction has been rising, the representation is still not substantial. 43% of companies do not even monitor gender pay gaps in their organizations. If they are not aware of what is happening, how will change come about? Our team at Mikula acknowledges how vital women are to the construction industry and are taking action to increase women in construction.

How Mikula Recruits & Retains Top Women Talent

We have a goal to increase women working in construction. We can start by eliminating the obstacles that women face. When we work toward including women in project management and building up women in leadership positions, we produce role models for new women in construction.

We believe that we can increase the percentage of women in the construction industry one company at a time - starting with our company. Our family-owned company knows how valuable it is to have women involved in leadership decisions. Women have proven time after time to be valuable construction employees. “Kim Meano, our Office Manager/Project Coordinator, plays an essential role within our company’s leadership team. Kim’ s extensive knowledge of the construction industry and our services not only provides value to our organization but to our clients as well in her role as Project Coordinator. For many years, Kim continues to impress our clients with her vast knowledge, organization and outstanding client service.” - Dennis Mikula, Jr., Executive Vice President

Kim Meano took some time to share her thoughts on what makes Mikula a great place to work in this brief interview:

How many years (total) have you worked for Mikula Contracting?

Kim: I’ve worked for Mikula Contracting almost 18 years, taking 4 off in between to raise my daughter and returning to the office.

Why did you join Mikula Contracting?

Kim: I was previously a restaurant manager. Mikula Contracting was an opportunity that was recommended to me since I was looking for more consistent working hours. Having grown up in Clifton, I was aware of how long they were in business. Coming from my previous career, this presented more stability.

What is your primary role at Mikula Contracting?

Kim: Customer service is number one. As the Office Manager and Project Coordinator, I gather project information, provide estimates, prepare permit applications, obtain utility mark outs, schedule projects and bill our clients.

What keeps you interested in working at Mikula Contracting?

Kim: I’ve felt right at “home” from day one. They’re a very close family, and we’re like an extension of that family. In the office, we’re constantly evolving. Trying to keep up with the pace of increasing work. Being here as long as I have, seeing the increasing work is something all of us should be proud of. I think this speaks volumes for the company and all our employees.

Our Recruiting Process

As we look to hire women in the industry, we have to adjust our process to make it clear that women employees are sought after in our company. A prospective female hire will see our company goals and culture and know that they will be safe and valued when choosing Mikula Contracting. Some of our recruiting strategies include:

Women in the Hiring Process: If you have a networking event and have a woman there to represent your construction company, you can show that your company values women in construction. This is proof that there is action behind your promises when you have a woman involved in hiring other women in your construction business.

Inclusive Job Postings: The wording in job postings can make a big difference on who responds. Be sure to seek out quality men or women and do not default to a male pronoun in your job description.

Reaching Out to Women: Women are unlikely to apply for a construction position, feeling under-qualified or unsure of breaking into the male-dominated industry. When you reach out to women and ask them to apply, it will arm them with the confidence that your company will have their back.

Networking Opportunities: Offer a variety of networking opportunities for women to come into your office and take an interest in your company. You can start young with a bring-your-daughter-to-work day. Or you can offer open invitations for “coffee with managers” where anyone can come and ask questions and get to know the leadership of your company.

Create Diverse Teams: The most valuable teams are made up of people from diverse backgrounds and personalities. When you have a team of multiple genders, races, and socio-economic backgrounds, you can glean all perspectives in order to understand your demographics better.

Resist Stereotypes: Create a workplace culture where negative stereotypes are not tolerated. Build team relationships where you know they will stick up for each other if a client or co-worker says something offensive.

When women feel valued in the hiring process, they will feel safer as they move forward with your company. Clearly communicating your goals for hiring more women in construction will gravitate more quality applicants toward your business.

How to Encourage Women to Pursue Careers in Construction

As time goes on and the construction industry moves toward male and female contracting teams, more women will be willing to have career paths in construction. All of the obstacles that we mentioned above have remedies if they are closely monitored in a company.

Change the Perspective

You can welcome more female workers when you show them that they aren’t taking a risk to be constantly passed over in your company. Monitor your gender pay gaps, alternate between genders when promoting project managers, and provide the appropriate safety equipment for both genders. Be transparent about your goals and monitoring in these categories.

If your company has grown to be male-dominated and, in turn, disrespectful to outsiders over the years, then do something to make a change. You can change company culture by setting expectations and cracking down on disrespectful behavior. It is never too late to create a safe company atmosphere.

Learn to Embrace Diversity and Equality

One of the reasons that Mikula Contracting was named New Jersey Family Business of the Year is because of our inclusivity and innovation. When we spot a hole in our business, we do what it takes by encouraging more women in construction to contribute to our company’s evolution.

Equality and diversity only improve your company as multiple perspectives go into the decision-making processes. If you have a company with a one-track mind, you will never learn how to reach various customer bases and grow your business.

Inclusive Job Descriptions

Those looking at a career in construction can tell what types of companies embrace diversity and equality through their job description. Ensure your company makes your values clear in posting an inclusive job description that steers away from gender-specific pronouns and masculine adjectives.

You can explicitly state in a job description that women applicants are welcome! This will set you apart from other construction job postings and help you find valuable female applicants looking to work in the construction industry.

Mentorship Programs

Offering mentorship opportunities with other women in construction will increase the number of women interested. Whether they find a networking group in The National Association of Women in Construction or join a mentorship program through college, women's representation is vital.

Learning directly from a woman in the industry is important because women can build relationships with someone to ask genuine questions. It’s rare to ask about discrimination or pay gap experiences in a quick interview without getting short answers. When a connection is developed, women can ask the heavy questions that are weighing on their minds.

Mikula Welcomes you to Apply Today!

Our construction company has built an excellent reputation in the community throughout the years. We offer excavation and demolition services for both residential and commercial properties. It is vital to partner with a company that is trustworthy and hard-working.

Mikula Contracting is a great family business that is ready to expand and grow in all ways. We are committed to supporting women in construction and evolving our team to reflect that. If you are interested in joining an inclusive and welcoming team, apply with us today! You can always contact us and let us know of your interest before applying.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.