Residential Excavation

For the Greenest Excavations, Two Heads are Better Than One

Mikula offers eco-friendly services with environmental consultants that work alongside us to make it happen. Learn more about how these specialists help excavators operate safely and responsibly.

At Mikula, we’re always happy to see how seriously our state now takes environmental responsibility. New Jersey alone has an impressive 739 environmental consultancy firms offering their services to protect both the public and excavation companies from harm.

Why are those services so important? They matter because excavation isn’t just big machines digging and making a mess. It’s about care for the delicate balance between the excavation process and the world around us. Environmental consultants are essential personnel in maintaining a healthy worksite and a safe community.

The services of environmental consultants

The areas inspected by environmental consultants are diverse and cover every aspect of the materials involved in excavation, with a focus on how displacement may impact the ecosystem and the surrounding human community now and in the future. Here are some examples of their responsibilities:

• Acting in an advisory capacity for excavators and the public – Environmental legislation is subject to change, especially as the public warms up to being eco-friendly. Excavation firms may not always be diligent in staying up to date with the rules, and the public are often unaware of them. Environmental consultants are well-educated scientifically and technically, while also being well-versed in the latest rules and regulations governing sites. They can advise both construction professionals and customers on how best to handle the excavation at hand.
• Overseeing waste management – Sadly, New Jersey hasn’t always had as much eco-sense as we do today. Waste can take many forms, and there are too many Superfunded sites in our state showing how bad the situation is. Environmental consultants were involved from the beginning of that research, and will be there to ensure these defunct and dangerous sites are excavated and rehabilitated safely. Check out our earlier blog for a more positive take on what happens to construction waste.
• Assessing air quality – Excavation involves stirring up a lot of fine material called particulate matter. Particulates are a form of air pollution created at all stages of construction/excavation. They’re composed of very fine soil, metals, dust, or even acids and other chemicals. Consultants inspect a site to assess the danger of these being inhaled by people or animals in the area by studying potential upwind/downwind distribution factors.
• Environmental Auditing – An environmental audit is a comprehensive appraisal addressing the entire excavation procedure. Is the firm complying with statutory requirements and local/state regulations? Is each member of staff well trained and responsible? How well are all forms of pollution being managed? Consultants impartially answer these questions and more while keeping closely documented records.
• Consultants can offer legal protection – These records can be instrumental in defending or condemning a firm’s reputation if any legal issues arise from an excavation (imagine how important their services will be in scenarios like the one currently involving Duke Energy’s particulate problems).
• Conceptual modelling – This is a way that consultants can help firms investigate the future. A conceptual model takes all factors of an excavation into account and offers predictions on how well or poorly it might go. By considering cause and effect before a dig begins, firms can better spot potential problems and take the best action to avoid them.

A relationship that’s in everyone’s best interests

Environmental consultants are valuable intermediaries between all parties in an excavation. A consultant will often be the shared point of contact between the construction firm, the client and any local/state/national regulatory bodies. What’s more, consultants typically handle the bulk of legislative paperwork that many businesses can find overwhelming.

You should check licenses, reviews, and previous client satisfaction when hiring a consultant to be sure of getting the best. OSHA-certification is one excellent indicator of someone who is trained and educated to a high standard. There are cases when a consultant being presented just isn’t viable. What if a customer or small business requires an excavation but can’t afford the services of an environmental consultant? That’s when a firm like Mikula pays dividends.

Mikula’s commitment to environmental safety

The ideal excavation firm cares as much for the environment as they do about your project. Mikula is proud of our:

• New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection License
• New Jersey Home Improvement Contractors License
• Underground Storage Tank Certified Closure Qualifications
• OSHA-certification

Our previous blog on oil tanks in New Jersey highlighted just how important it is to take the utmost care when excavating. When we’re on the job we’re thinking like environmentalists as well as construction professionals. We’re a generational company built on family who share the core concern of every environmental consultant: how will what we do today impact future generations?

If you’re a commercial or a residential customer considering an excavation, we’d love to help you make it an eco-friendly one. Review our services and get in touch at the details below!

Mikula Contracting, Inc. provides commercial and residential customers with a wide range of excavation, demolition, environmental, trucking and soil materials services. For more information, call 973-772-1684 or email info@mikulainc.com

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

4 Safety Hazards in Excavation Jobs and How to Avoid Them

Don’t put yourself in danger by ignoring excavation and trenching safety procedures

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that the fatality rate for excavation work is 112% higher than the rate for general construction. What’s behind this sobering statistic? OSHA explains that all excavations can put you in danger because they are inherently unstable.

This governmental agency has the authority to fine companies for not following established safety procedure. It recently fined a Michigan-based contractor $454,750 for trench safety and other violations. According to OSHA, the company did not identify hazards and take corrective action when warranted. Here are the top four safety hazards associated with excavation.

1. No protective system

Excavation – especially trenching – creates restricted spaces that must use protective systems to keep workers from potentially fatal situations caused by suffocation, drowning, or being crushed by a cave-in. A competent person should evaluate the soil conditions and make sure that appropriate protective systems are put in place.

OSHA offers this appendix to identify types of soil and rock deposits. This additional appendix offers a graphic summary of the protective systems that should be used.

The National Safety Council writes that protective systems can include:

• Sloping, where the sides of the hole open out from the excavation.
• Benching, where steps are cut into the sides of the trench.
• Shoring, where wales, cross-braces, and uprights are used to support excavation walls.
• Shielding, where trench boxes or shields are placed in the excavation to prevent the sides from caving in.

You can avoid hazards by always confirming that protective systems are in place before entering an excavation site. Competent individuals should be enlisted to inspect the site daily and check for hazardous situations. Excavations should only be kept open for the minimum amount of time needed.

2. Failure to inspect protective systems

Protective systems for excavations are not check-box activities, meaning that there’s no further effort once put in place. The possibility for potential harm from cave-ins or hazardous atmospheres can happen quickly. It’s crucial that a competent person with training in soil analysis inspects the protective systems that have been selected for the excavation site. This individual should know the current OSHA requirements and have the authority to make decisions that will eliminate hazards.

These inspections are ongoing, starting even before construction begins and daily before each shift. It’s important to inspect all excavation protective systems after rain events. OSHA offers this online printable guide for daily inspection of trenches and excavations.

3. Unsafe access or egress

The most frequently cited standard following an OSHA inspection is fall protection on construction sites. Anyone in a trench or excavation site has placed themselves in danger if there’s not an apparent and safe way for access or egress. This can be accomplished with ramps, stairways, or ladders, and it’s a part of the protective system put in place.

OSHA requires a safe means of access and egress for all trenches and excavations that are deeper than four feet. These ladders, ramps, or stairways must be within 25 feet of workers. Ramps can be made of earth, but only if someone can use them by walking in an upright position.

4. Unsafe excavation placement

Excavated material – also known as spoils – that are situated too close to the edge of an excavation or trench pose a serious and potentially fatal hazard. The weight of this material could cause a cave-in. For this reason, OSHA requires that excavated material be placed at least two feet from the edge.

Depending on the type of soil, it may also be necessary to install retainers to keep this material from falling back into the excavation. Because it’s not always possible to maintain the two-foot distance requirement, OSHA requires (in that situation) that the material is moved to a different location.

If you’d like to learn more about commercial and residential excavation services, contact us at Mikla Contracting.

Learn more about our commercial excavation services.

by djm

The Permit Rules New Jersey Sets in Stone

A permit covers customers and contractors

The importance of a permit in excavation and contraction goes beyond due process. It’s a hallmark of respect for proper channels and of a contractor’s care for their reputation, the quality of their work, and the safety of their clients. Here’s how New Jersey does it by the book.

Excavation

Commercial or residential excavation is an intricate process with a lot riding on it. Pipes and electrical materials run underground so precision and expertise are essential. Digging, breaking, tunneling, and depositing of excavated material require an application for a permit from the City Engineer and includes:

• The name and address of the applicant
• The location and dimensions of the excavation
• The purpose of the excavation
• The estimated dates of commencement, completion, and restoration of the excavation, which in no case will exceed a period of six months from date of application
• Such other data as may reasonably be required by the City Engineer

From there, it takes a focused contractor to account for the many responsibilities of excavation like environmental concerns, trench shoring, and waste disposal.

Construction jobs require a full permit and an inspection

The Uniform Construction Code (UCC) sets the rules for which NJ construction projects require a permit. There are several examples of minor work which require a permit, but due to their lesser nature that permit can be obtained at any time during the work. This list of low-level work is typically still subject to inspection and certification of compliance from the UCC.

The UCC provides statewide uniformity in the process of obtaining construction permits. While issued at the municipal level, the procedure is the same no matter what municipality you work in. One way this intent is met is by using standardized forms that all municipalities are required and/or have an option to use.

Bigger jobs require more complex permissions, and an NJ contractor may be looking at a 12-step application process dependent on the nature of the construction work. Every application for a permit requires multiple versions be submitted. The Department of Community Affairs then requires contractors to submit a plan review fee schedule.

Some of those fees are flat, others are project dependent and some are set by the ordinance of the township. An NJ construction permit can be processed in two weeks, which is again partly dependent on the nature of the project. The same document highlights state law as to what documents must accompany a construction permit:

• Two copies of clearly detailed plans
• Construction plans detailing such factors as foundations, floor plans, and elevation
• Cross sections
• Electrical/plumbing/mechanical details

The ordinance in Wyckoff is one example of how the permit process may vary throughout the state. They require storm water management approval before beginning certain residential construction work along with a $500 review fee. Most importantly, they state that any work done without a permit will have fines imposed; up to $2000 in some cases.

Some NJ contracting jobs no longer require a permit

There were some changes as of May this year on the NJ contracting front (you can check the full list of updates here). The new ruling applies to lighter jobs than construction or excavation, but it’s certainly of interest to everyone in the sector.  If this kind of legislative change catches on in New Jersey, construction and excavation may find aspects of their work downgraded to “no permit required.”

On the upside, it does make things quicker for contractors to start their work by sidestepping the permit process. As this article highlights, however, it’s not all great if this becomes a precedent. No permits mean no inspections and without those, contractors aren’t held as accountable.

A permit is more than paperwork: it’s a sanction by the state and a sign that a contractor respects the proper channels. No permits places increased responsibility for work quality squarely onto the shoulders of private and public customers. It will be up to them to check up on the contractor they’ve hired to see if they’re worth the investment. Hiring a licensed, experienced contractor will eliminate that kind of worry.

Fully licensed and over 70 years in the trade

At Mikula Contracting, we’re fully certified and licensed throughout the state of New Jersey and bring decades of industry experience to every job. Best practice is at the heart of our operation and we prove it by OSHA-certifying our team for safety and respecting our community and environment through our EPA license.

As a customer, you deserve to know the contractor you’ve chosen takes their duty to you 100% seriously. We’re here to provide construction and excavation services you can trust!

Mikula Contracting, Inc. provides commercial and residential customers with a wide range of excavation, demolition, environmental, snow removal, trucking and soil materials services. For more information, call 973-772-1684 or email info@mikulainc.com

by djm

Residential vs. Commercial Excavation

The excavation objectives don’t change, they just scale

The same, only smaller. It’s how a professional in the excavation industry might describe the distinction between what their tasks and responsibilities would be when working on a residential construction site versus a commercial one.

That’s because the objectives for excavators in both types of construction remain the same. The need for precision, skill, and expertise isn’t altered by the size of the project. It remains the excavator’s responsibility to ensure that the soil on the site works to support what will be built.

Comparing excavation site size

Residential buildings have smaller floor plans and generally are situated on appropriately-sized lots. If there’s not an existing structure on the construction site, land clearing is an excavator’s initial contribution. Often, the builder requires a flat lot, so the excavator will remove trees, rocks, and a certain amount of topsoil. It also might be necessary to redistribute some of the soil to grade the area, so water doesn’t pool and cause drainage problems.

The important next step is to prepare the earth on the lot to support the residence that will be built on it. This might require compacting or moving earth to bear the weight of a foundation, or digging (excavating) earth for the portion of a residence’s construction that will be below ground – such as a basement or the portion of the home’s foundation.

Now, imagine those same needs magnified by the size of a commercial building. A piece of commercial property is usually being used to its fullest potential when the land to building ratio is high. This valuation often isn’t even a consideration with residential properties, which illustrates one of the biggest differences between commercial and residential excavation. Everything is bigger.

For example, while a residential construction project might require an excavator to create the space for a basement, a commercial construction project would task the excavator to prepare the space for an underground parking garage. And in the latter scenario, each additional foot of excavation depth costs more than the previous foot.

Material weight considerations during excavation

The Seattle Times reports that an average 2,200 square foot two-story house can weigh as much as 605,000 pounds. Most residential construction projects use timber for framing. Commercial construction is more complex and larger. Steel frame construction is used to accommodate for the size, and to extend the building’s lifetime. The steel – as well as other, more resilient building material – create a structure that will weigh many times that of a residential building.

Do different regulations apply?

Commercial buildings live out their lives filled with a much larger cast of characters than a residential dwelling. Regulations for commercial building materials, construction techniques, plumbing and electrical systems, and even size, are more stringent. Excavators must adhere to both local and federal regulations when working with builders on commercial construction.

Is this any different than the specific building codes for residential construction? The codes are different, but the goal is similar. The laws of physics and geology, and the rules of engineering, still apply. It remains the excavator’s responsibility to prepare the earth on the site to support the building constructed on it. We think of excavating as digging or removing – and while that’s a huge part of the job, the objective is really creating stability.

It’s why an excavator will tell you it’s the same, only smaller. Learn more about the specialties within commercial and residential excavation services.

by djm

How an Estimate for Excavation Services Is Calculated

Many factors can make an excavation estimate rise or fall. How remote a site is, how stable the soil, and how much tree or rock coverage needs to be removed, are all big considerations for construction companies.

Excavation is a necessary and sometimes time-consuming step in any construction project. This service is considered sitework or site preparation, meaning that it’s not directly related to the actual building of the structure.

Excavation is needed when earth has to be removed or modified to create a foundation, wall shaft, or trench during construction. This is when the ground has to be prepared to support the weight of the new structure.

These costs can vary based on many factors, mostly concerning the ground itself. Pricing may also depend on where you live in the country and what type of climate you’re dealing with.

Here are some key considerations of an excavation estimate

Grading

Grading is essentially shaping and preparing the land to be used in a building project. This could consist of flattening the land to provide an even foundation or sloping a portion for adequate water run-off to help avoid water pooling up.

ProMaster evaluated estimates from a variety of companies in New Jersey and came up with the following average cost of landscape grading for the state:

• $650 per cubic yard
• $500 per 8-hour day
• $131.46 per hour

The topsoil is first removed so that the soil underneath can be leveled and changed as needed. An excavation estimate will take into account what kind of shape the land is in to determine the grading that will be necessary.

Soil type

The soil in a construction area has to be tested to ensure it is stable and competent and can handle a building on top of it. This is a crucial part of the process, as unsteady soil may sink and cause extreme structural damage later on.

There are laws related to soil treatment that builders need to be aware of during excavation. New Jersey law under the NJ Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Act requires that construction sites have to be greater than 5,000 square feet and developed with a plan to control erosion during and after the construction project. Such laws ensure that excessive water runoff from developing sites does not cause erosion, which can lead to greater problems for an area.

The NJ Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Act outlines that soil erosion continues to be a problem for the state, and that construction and development sites have “accelerated the process of soil erosion and sediment deposition, resulting in pollution of the waters of the State and damage to domestic, agricultural, industrial, recreational, fish and wildlife, and other resource uses.” So, attention to these matters is important.

Amount of tree and rock coverage

One big factor that will determine excavation costs is whether there are a lot of trees in the area, or whether lots of rock will need to be removed. This part of the process is called land clearing, and the more that needs to be cleared away, the more time it will take – trees must be completely uprooted, not just cut down. These tasks can be laborious, increasing cost.

Site location

If the site is in the middle of a city or near a major roadway, it could be trickier to manage the excavation. There could be underground wiring or similar issues to deal with when digging up the ground. This is another way that costs could rise or fall, depending on how remote the construction site is.

Permit fees

The fees for excavation permits will vary by the type of project and location, since cities generally govern these permits individually. But a permit and fee will always be required, as builders aren’t just allowed to dig up a site at any time.

Climate

Of course, costs will vary depending on the location’s climate. The average weather in an area will govern many of the aspects covered above, such as grading, since a lot of moisture often means a lot of change in leveling or sloping.

Mikula Contracting provides both commercial and residential excavation services, ensuring that site preparation and earth moving are done the right away using the appropriate heavy equipment. Learn more about Mikula Contracting’s residential excavation services.

by djm

You Have to Dig Deep Before Choosing an Excavation Bid

Surprising bargains may look good now, but low costs and loose practices can bury your project

Excavating a site is a big job, and big jobs attract plenty of bidders. A healthy number of offers can benefit a project as contractors seek to present the best deal. This can spell savings but can also sometimes be a threat to the quality of work provided. The adage “You get what you pay for” is common currency for good reason. Here’s what to consider when sizing up a bidder.

Beware the lowest quote on an excavation project

Excavation can be a huge job in terms of scope and importance. Clients will naturally want to keep their expenses low so the bidder who costs the least is obviously attractive. A very low bid, however, is often a red flag of a risky firm.

Even when competition is fierce, a seasoned contractor won’t underestimate the time, materials, or manpower required to do a quality job. Paying for each of those should show in the bid figure. It will also be evident in a professional result after the job is done. How can a customer get a feel for a “too low” bid? It will typically have a margin that’s too good to be true. For example, if most quotes are around $10,000 and you’ve got an offer for $6,000, you should think twice and examine the bid closely.

Low bids also have a nasty habit of climbing once a job begins. A reliable firm will take its time to factor in every possible expense before offering a price; an unreliable company will quote what it takes to win the bid and start adding costs as they go. If they can’t competently manage their cash flow and projections, you can bet your project will be handled the same way.

The harshest cost of cutting corners

Risky bidders often seek cash payments which can signify tax avoidance or, worse, having no insurance. This puts more than the onsite team and your property at risk. If anybody is hurt on the job, an uninsured contractor makes you liable for the related costs. This is something to seriously consider with excavation, which is one of the most hazardous tasks in a dangerous industry where injury and death cost almost $13 billion annually, in addition to the human toll.

With all these risks in mind, when accepting a new bid, what coverage and credentials should contractors carry to protect everyone’s interests?

What a contractor needs to operate legitimately in New Jersey

Proper licensing, bonding, and insurance marks a contractor as being held to their own high standards and those of a governing body. A few key areas that a firm should be insured in are:

• Primary general liability insurance: This provides for services and compensation which arise from any negligence on the contractor’s part.
• Lead umbrella liability: This provides coverage to the other policies and protects the contractor under any and all circumstances.
• Worker’s compensation: This provides compensation for an employee who has been injured on the job or has become ill and cannot perform their assigned duties.

Never take a bidder at their word about insurance. A quick check of their website or media presence should show them clearly providing their credentials. This isn’t just a matter of pride, it’s often legally required that a contractor prominently display that they’re qualified for the job.

For legitimate contractors, there’s no way around the rules

The Department of Consumer Affairs views no insurance as a deal breaker if you want to be a licensed contractor in New Jersey. It’s impossible to complete the process without providing your insurance number and a copy of your policy.

It’s equally vital that your chosen firm has a Contractor License Bond. This is designed to protect the public from frauds and rip-offs and to ensure compliance to state standards on the part of the firm. If a bidder cares about their livelihood, their employees, and their customers, they’ll make it their business to be properly licensed and insured.

Excavating has been our business at Mikula for more than 70 years. Contractors in New Jersey are licensed at the city or county level, but we took it further to be fully insured and certified throughout the state. We’re proud of the fact that every one of our operators is OSHA qualified and that the combined experience of our team amounts to more than a century of skill.

We apply this expertise and care to every project we’re part of. Don’t immediately pick up the tab on low bids – check them out thoroughly. And if there is any question, stick with reliable work for a transparent price.

Mikula Contracting, Inc. provides commercial and residential customers with a wide range of excavation, demolition, environmental, snow removal, trucking and soil materials services. For more information, call 973-772-1684 or email info@mikulainc.com

by djm

Excavation Services Offer More Than Just Digging

When you contract for any business, you should know what you are getting. If you find a business that offers more than you expect, that’s a plus. For example, if you are in the market for excavation services, you might think it’s just digging, but there is so much more.

More than anything, business should offer honesty, productivity and smart decisions. They should also be a well-rounded business that can offer you anything you might require to bring a project to completion. That’s why it’s so important to know that excavation services offer more than just digging.

Why you might need excavation services

To fortify a foundation – for any new home or building, the first step is digging a hole large enough to secure a strong foundation.

To restore your property after a disaster – major storms can wreak havoc on an area. Fallen trees and structures that have been blown down can leave your property or access roads blocked or uninhabitable. You might also experience flood damage, which can create erosion or drainage issues. Having standing water on your property is never wise as it can damage your land and breed insects. You may need excavation services to clean up the area as well as minimize any future risks.

To clean up an environmental contamination – a leaking underground storage tank or a malfunctioning septic system can pollute the soil and eventually affect the groundwater for other nearby homes or businesses. If this occurs on your property, it must be handled right away, typically using excavation services.

To install or repair underground pipes – let’s face it, pipes often leak. Those located underground require excavation services to reach them so they can be repaired. You may also need to install them in the first place.

To remove trees or other unwanted materials – there are many reasons why you might need to have trees removed. They could be threatening existing structures or be in the way of new builds. You might simply want to gain more usable space for recreation or landscaping. There are perhaps just as many methods for getting rid of undesirable trees but nothing is as effective as excavation services.

To even out uneven land – grading or adding slope might be necessary for construction projects or drainage improvement. Professional excavation services can give you the right contouring for your property to be more attractive and efficient.

To dig sewer lines or ponds – if you are installing a pond, excavation experts are especially necessary. They will determine high and low areas, create the right slopes and account for winter temperatures. Sewer lines can also pose huge challenges. Backups, blockages and even tree roots make this work particularly demanding, which is why you should only trust experienced contractors.

To add a basement – building down is perhaps one of the most complex construction projects. If not done right, it can actually cause the kind of structural collapse you should only see in the movies. It takes an excavation services firm that is qualified, experienced and insured.

To get rid of a swimming pool – some people dream of owning a home with an in-ground pool. Others consider it to be an expensive, dangerous money pit. If you are in the latter category, pool removal might be in your future. There is more to this project than just filling in the hole. Sunken land, poor drainage and leaks are just a few of the issues that can occur if it is not handled properly. It should be removed without a trace that it was ever there and that takes the professional touch.

Why you should only use professionals for excavation services

Do it yourself projects have become almost a way of life for many people. There are numerous sources online that show you how to do everything from building your own computer to flushing out your water heater. Excavation services should not be one of them.

For one thing, excavation is dangerous work. Without the proper tools, training and equipment, you could end up causing irreparable damage to your property or seriously injuring yourself.

Some people believe they will save money by handling these types of jobs on their own or hiring a contractor who does not specialize in excavation. You will only waste your valuable time by working with amateurs. In addition, handling excavation services yourself will end up costing you more money in the long run. If it’s not done right or you make a mistake, you will have spent money doing it wrong and then additional money to fix it correctly.

What else is involved in excavation services other than digging?

1. Site preparation

To get your project off on the right foot, there is work to do before the real work begins. Inadequate site preparation can cause unnecessary delays and increased costs. This work may involve soil testing, zoning restrictions, and plan designs as well as site surveys and investigations.

2. Knowledge about soil erosion and ground integrity

When it comes to excavation services, experience is everything. For instance, professionals will know the right approach to take in order to preserve the safety and sturdiness of the land once the work is complete. Also, there are different types of soil and each reacts differently to excavation. That may be nothing compared to what’s underneath the top soil. A top quality contractor will have experience working with all kinds of conditions to give you the best possible outcomes.

3. Minimizing noise and vibrations

In excavation work, there is more to be concerned with than just the land you are on. The surrounding area, neighbors and other nearby structures must also be considered. Heavy vibrations can cause damage to buildings in close proximity of your project. Professionals will ensure that work can be done with as little nuisance and mess as possible.

4. Adherence to rules and regulations

In most cases, you can’t just go digging willy-nilly. There are usually laws and codes that must be obeyed. If you run afoul of these guidelines, you may face fines, lawsuits and even orders to put things back the way they were. Your contractor will be aware of aspects such as the various building codes to follow and how much advance notice to neighbors is required.

5. Safety and protection protocols

Experienced contractors already possess the proper safety equipment for any situation. When conducting an excavation, you never know what you will encounter. Trenches can collapse, material can fall, and adjacent structures could prove to be unstable. These things can injure or even kill you if you are not prepared with the right tools and safety procedures. Worse yet, if you use an unlicensed, uninsured friend or contractor, you will be liable for these disasters. It’s also worth noting that your own property insurance might not cover you in the event of such an accident.

6. Proper equipment

Having the right equipment for the job is vital for project success. You may need a bulldozer, excavator, loader, backhoe, dump truck or any combination of these. Still, you must know which ones and what size you need. How much time and money it will take to transport this machinery to your site is also a consideration.

7. Hauling away debris

Digging up all that dirt or other materials is only half the battle. You must also have somewhere for it to go. It can’t just be dumped anywhere you please. Once the work is completed, you will want the site cleared right away so you can move forward. Most areas have rules and regulations regarding different kinds of waste and how it must be disposed. And they are not sympathetic to those who dump illegally or improperly. You could be subject to expensive fines or penalties. There may also be environmental concerns, such as hazardous materials or trying to recycle as much as possible. Research shows that construction and demolition waste accounts for approximately 40 percent of total waste in America. That amounts to about 170 tons of debris every year. It has also been determined that more than 70 percent of this waste could be recyclable.

8. All that occurs after the excavation services

Just when you think your excavation project is complete, there is still work to be done. You should have the area inspected to be sure there are no hidden dangers left over. These could include spikes, glass or hazardous materials.

9. Finding the right company to handle your job

Getting a reliable, competent excavation services team for your project may be one of the most important choices you can make for your home or business. Choose wisely.

Look for contractors that have tons of experience in performing the type of work you need. They should also have a good reputation, fair pricing and the proper bonding, licenses and insurance.

Excavation projects take experience and training. Mikula Contracting handles foundation and construction excavation as well as rock removal and trench excavation. You can trust us for all your excavation needs. We service Essex, Passaic, Hudson, Bergen, Union and Morris counties. Call today for a fast quote.

by djm

Excavation and Preparation: Hire Mikula Contracting When Adding to Your Home

Excavation is the first and most important step in the construction process. Through excavation, the foundations of grand structures are laid out. It is that proverbial single step that launches a journey of 1,000 miles. It’s also an involved, complicated, and often dangerous process. Not just anyone can do it. That’s why you need an experienced and licensed excavation team like Mikula Construction laying the groundwork for your next project.

What is Excavation?

The process of moving rock, earth, and other materials through the use of equipment, tools, or explosives is excavation. The process includes trenching, earthwork, tunneling, wall shafts, and underground. It is typically used in applications of exploration, mining, environmental restoration, and construction.

Residential excavation refers to the process of excavating for the sake of home construction, whether that be an all new house, an add on, a garage, a pool, or any other structure that stands on residential property.

Excavation forges building foundations, roads, and reservoirs using the processes of digging, trenching, dredging, and site development. Unique tools, machinery, techniques, and expertise are required for all of these.

Surveying the Site

Excavation is more than just blind digging. Professional excavation contractors are more than just children playing in the dirt.

Before any shovel or heavy machinery touches the ground, a thorough site survey must take place. We make careful note of the natural habitats and artifacts that surround the site, taking care to preserve these for the future.

Then, sizing and depth plans are determined. We mark out the site’s boundaries before any excavation can occur.

The Process

Once surveys are complete, we can begin.

Typically, we start out by setting out the corner benchmarks and excavating to the approved depth. We dress the loose soil, install dewatering wells and trenches, mark the boundaries of the new structure, and build out the protection bunds and drains.

Drainage is incredibly important, as excess water sitting on your property can cause damage to your foundation and erode topsoil. To counter this, we may install a seepage pit underground.

When new homes are being developed, excavation occurs in large scale. Foundation, plumbing systems, electrical services, and utility cables have to be installed underground. Failure to use a skilled team could cause the foundation to sink, threatening the stability of your new home.

Before we start digging we have to clear the land of undesirable elements. Trees, debris, and large rocks, including boulders are included in this classification. This is done both to beautify the site and to avoid a potential fire hazard.

Removing undesirable elements from your property has a positive effect on your property value, significantly increasing it. Something so important is not a job that should be undertaken by anyone other than a skilled expert.

Excavations for Additions and Repairs

Adding onto your home requires precise excavation. We need to determine the ground’s ability to handle additional foundation before we begin the process. Shoring systems then have to be put in place once the soil has been removed.

Excavation is also needed to fix a number of issues that might be plaguing your home. With plumbing, septic, and electrical units all found underground, we have to dig in order to access them. Underground utility installation, trench shoring, and sewer digs also require excavation.

Who Should Excavate Your Property?

Excavation has to be delicate and precise. Because of this, you want a team that pays close attention to detail and comes fully equipped with the experience, skill, and licenses needed to do the job the right way the first time.

Advanced techniques, tools, and heavy machinery are needed in order to do the best possible job on your property. That’s why its best to hire a contractor instead of trying to take on a task like this yourself.

Mikula Contracting has been serving the people of New Jersey since 1946. That’s over 70 years of high quality experience. We handle everything from new home excavation to additions, repairs, installations, and the installation and removal of swimming pools.

We also specialize in demolition and disposal, drainage, tank scans, trucking and material delivery, as well as commercial excavation, oil tank removal, and snow removal.

We guarantee that your residential contracting project will be completed on time and on budget. We ensure this through a winning combination of integrity and excellence.  

For more information on how Mikula Construction can keep your home safe and secure through residential excavation services, call us today at 973-772-1684, or visit us online.

by djm

Residential & Commercial Projects that Require an Excavation Company

Working with a fully licensed excavation company can expedite the process of your residential or commercial property project. Excavation companies provide services ranging from removing soil to engineering draining systems to delivering or removing materials. There are a large variety of projects that require the assistance of excavation companies. Listed below are six kinds of projects that can an excavation company can complete and manage.

Residential Excavation Projects

New Home Excavation

If you plan to build a new home, then there are a few steps that must be completed by an excavation company before you can begin building. First, it is necessary to go through the process of a site excavation. Site excavation is the process during which the desired construction space is made level and safe to work. This is done by excavating the space to a desired depth, width, and length. The site excavation sometimes occurs weeks before intended construction. This is because soil shifts naturally over time. Site excavation includes preparing a site for soil movement. Once a site is level and settled, the next steps of construction can begin.

Regardless of architectural style, all homes require a strong foundation. A foundation serves many functions: a proper foundation will protect the walls of your home from collapsing under weight or age, they will prevent groundwater from seeping into your home, and, they will keep your home level, ensuring that your floors, doors, and windows all lie flat. An excavation company can remove soil and prepare a site for a foundation installation. In order to prepare a site for a foundation installation, the ground needs proper preparation. First, excess water in the soil of the site needs to be removed. Dry soil is ideal when working with foundation installation. Any other soil impurities will be removed in the early stages.

Installation of utilities – for example, a sewer lateral – will typically occur early on as well. The next few steps include the installation of basement-level walls and flooring, as well as waterproofing the walls and installing insulation. A drainage system – which excavation companies also specialize in – will need to be installed around the foundation. Then, they can backfill the foundation. Backfilling is the process of removing soil from a site temporarily and then returning it to its original place later on. Once the soil around the foundation is level, the next steps of your new home’s construction can commence. An excavation company can help you get started on setting the foundation.

Installing a New Pool

If your family wants to install an in-ground pool on your residential property, then an excavation company can help with the project. Excavation companies offer a service known as land clearing. Land clearing occurs when an excavation company clears desired construction of potential obstacles: they remove tree stumps, boulders, and prohibitive materials that may hinder construction. When deciding where to place your new pool, you may not think about which part of your property is easiest to dig into.

New Jersey is home to a variety of bedrock. Depending on your location, your property may be sitting on top of quartz beds, clay, or shale. The hardness of the materials under your property will determine how difficult it is to dig. Land clearing can assist you with examining what types of obstacles hide underneath your property’s soil. An excavation company can advise the best placement for your in-ground pool. Once you determine the location, many excavation companies can prepare the dig site for the pool. Knowing what hides beneath your property will make it much easier to install a pool later.

Rock Wall Installation

If your property is full of rocks, consider turning them into a rock wall. Rock walls are beautiful property fences. They require little maintenance compared to wood or metal fences. Additionally, they are very environmentally friendly, since you are recycling rock from your property as opposed to contributing to deforestation or the creation of compound metals. Rock walls are very sturdy and safe, which means that they will not topple over easily. On larger residential properties, rock walls can create a natural barrier for your property.

Excavation companies can assist not only with removing rocks from your property but also with installing them as a rock wall. If the installation of a rock wall is unappealing to you, then an excavation company can merely remove the rocks for you. An excavation company can also help you stabilize rocks on your property. For example, if you use rocks as a retaining wall, then some excavation companies can assist in improving the wall’s stability. Retaining walls typically consist of rock or stone. They hold back water or soil and are useful in both landscaping and construction. Excavation companies can do more than dig holes and move earth: they can contribute to the aesthetic improvement of your property.

Commercial Excavation Projects

Installing New Underground Utilities

Perhaps your business needs to install a new underground utility line. This could be a new Ethernet connection, which is a line that directly connects a device to the internet. Or, perhaps your business needs to improve its electrical system. Regardless of the utility you need to update, an excavation company can help you with the installation process. They can help by excavating underground trenches. These trenches are long, narrow ditches that allow employees – of both the excavation company and the utility company – to get around during the underground installation process.

Underground trenches are one of the most dangerous forms of excavation, so they require careful design and the installation of many safety features. It is imperative that you work with a licensed Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Certified excavation company if your project requires underground trenching. Proper trenching includes building walls to keep soil in place. Once the trenches are examined and approved for their safety, the installation of utility lines can occur. Upon completion of the project, the excavation company can backfill the trenches and return your commercial property to its previous state. You might need underground trenching for a variety of projects, but they are more common with utility installation.

Updating Your Landscaping

Normally, you may think to work with a landscaping company when you want to improve your commercial property’s landscaping. However, excavation companies are soil experts. They understand how the quality of soil affects everything on your property from the foundation of your building to the quality of water drainage.

If you are looking to improve your commercial property’s landscaping, then there are a few improvements you will need to consider making. First, you should consider the slope of your property’s lawn. If you have a flat lawn, then you need to make sure that rainwater properly drains from your property. When rainwater is not drained properly, then it pools in deeper parts of the lawn, eroding grass and plant life. If you can re-slope your lawn, you can improve water runoff. If you cannot re-slope your property, then an excavation company can guide you through alternatives.

An excavation company can also assist with examining the current quality of your soil and they can assist in determining better soil for promoting plant growth. If you want to install other landscaping amenities, such as a fountain or a gazebo, then an excavation company can assist with creating an installation space or setting a small foundation. Excavation companies are highly knowledgeable about soil engineering.

In-Ground Pool Removal

In-ground pools are common features at hotels, apartment complexes, and senior living facilities. While some consider an in-ground pool a nice amenity to offer guests, you should not keep an in-ground pool if it rarely gets used. Unused pools can be a risk to wild animals and to your guests. By removing an in-ground pool, you are removing a major liability from your property.

An excavation company can assist in this demolition and removal process. The company can walk you through the pool removal permit process, as well as inspecting the area surrounding the pool. Typically, the pool removal process has a few steps. First, the excavation company will help you disconnect any lines connected to your pool; next, they drain the pool of any existing water; then, they demolish the pool and remove all of its debris; and finally, they fill the leftover hole with soil and other desired nature elements. By removing an unused in-ground pool, you create space for a park or a picnic area.

If you are considering working on one of the above projects, then an excavation company can schedule your project and help you manage its complexities. If you are considering working on a project not discussed here, then be sure to read more about the other services that excavation companies provide here. From landscaping efforts to foundation preparation, there are a large variety of projects that require the assistance of excavation companies. Be sure to work with a fully licensed contractor in order to achieve the safest and highest quality outcome.

by djm