Site work is the foundational preparation of an area for construction. Whether the tasks involve leveling out the land, excavating trees or rocks, or building drainage systems, your construction project needs a trustworthy plot of land.
Before the building even begins, construction site work is the initial step to ensure the project runs smoothly and safely. What do you know about construction site work? Let’s dive deeper into the topic to find out what you need before you start on your development project.
What Is Site Work in Construction?
Construction site work includes the necessary steps before construction begins. For example, suppose you identify the possibility of erosion, shifting, or caving. In that case, you have the responsibility to ensure the stabilization of the soil and that it is ready to withhold a residential or commercial building.
Do you have access to clean water on the site? Construction site work will set up clean water access to aid in the construction process. Water is needed for dust suppression and mixing concrete. In addition, once the building is complete, a water source is essential. These are just some examples of construction site work.
Why Is Site Work Important?
What makes the site work important? If you were to skip construction site work on your next construction project, you could be in for a failed project. At the very least, without proper site work, you may face significant challenges and delays. Whether your project is being worked on a new or existing property, having a thorough understanding of the site and performing all the necessary preparatory steps will set you up for success.
If the soil is not cleared, leveled, and ready with drains and erosion control, then the soil could sink and lead to a building toppling over amid heavy rain or flooding. Is the land stable enough for the construction of a building? Construction site work will ensure your building is built on solid ground.
Clearing and Grubbing
One essential step of construction site work is clearing and grubbing. This is the process of removing all trees, bushes, and stumps from the construction area. Grubbing is a term used to describe removing roots and vegetation that would cause uneven ground.
Once the clearing and grubbing step is complete, the construction site should be a clean slate, free of any branches, roots, or obstacles.
Erosion Control and Shoring
The water systems used during construction could alter the construction site. In addition, construction site work takes into account rain and other elements that could cause erosion once the building is constructed.
Erosion control is necessary to reinforce the land. This can be implemented by building retaining walls or laying erosion control blankets. If the building is on a slope, slope stabilization methods are implemented to make sure the construction project is level and secure.
Shoring systems can be installed temporarily to protect construction workers during the project. It involves the installation of temporary support structures to prevent soil collapse and ensure worker safety during excavation or other activities. In addition, shoring systems provide structural reinforcement and stability, ensuring workers are not at risk of cave-ins or other related hazards.
Subgrade Stabilization
Subgrade stabilization refers to the state of the ground that will be underneath the building. Several measures are taken to ensure the subgrade is stable. This can include soil compaction, chemical treatments, or blending the cement with a reclaiming agent to ensure there will be no cracks or shifting possible once the building is complete.
Soil testing is part of the subgrade stabilization process. The moisture level of the soil will give the team an idea of what to do next in the construction site work process.
Excavation
Excavation removes large rocks from the construction site. If you have to dig for a foundation, excavation helps dig out limestone and other rocks that are in the way. Large machinery is used to safely and skillfully clear the land of significant obstructions.
Excavation is also the process of digging trenches to install pipes or gas lines for easy access to the building. All of this is part of the construction site work process.
Water Systems and Drainage
Drainage systems are essential to prevent water accumulation. During and after the construction process, water should not pool on the site. If water surrounds the construction site, it could mean flooding of the building once it is built, as well as erosion risks.
Construction site work will always include installing drainage systems to keep water moving through the site rather than stopping to break down the soil and cause further problems.
Additionally, water and drainage systems help to prevent seepage, which is the slow movement of water through small openings and spaces in the surface of unsaturated soil into or out of a body of surface or subsurface water. Without proper structures in place, seepage can lead to serious structural issues, such as foundation sinking or settlement, and ultimately, its collapse altogether.
Contact Mikula Contracting for Your Construction Site Work Needs
Construction site work is pivotal in starting a successful construction project, whether your project is on a new or existing property. Each step is crucial in creating a safe and efficient construction environment, from stabilizing the soil to implementing erosion control measures.
When it comes to construction site work, it is essential to rely on experienced and professional contractors. Mikula Contracting is a trusted name in the industry for excavation, drainage systems, and other construction site work. Contact us to learn more about what we can do for you.
