Excavation is the first step when undertaking a variety of construction projects. From installing utility lines to building retaining walls or constructing a new home or building, the success of the excavation work is critical to your project. Why? Because every sequential step in the process depends on the excavation work being done correctly!
1. Outline The Excavation Site
Outlining the boundaries of the excavation site is important for two reasons. First, by outlining the boundaries of the construction project, you will stay within the correct area. You will also be able to dig in a straight line. Making straight cuts would be more difficult without the markers. Second, clear markings will show utility companies where you plan to dig.
The best way to outline your site is by using white stakes, paint, or flags.
2. Obtain Excavation Approval
You must obtain approval from local utility companies before you begin digging. The utility company will make sure that there are no lines buried beneath the ground.
3. Manage Erosion
It’s important to control stormwater runoff within the boundaries of your project. If you can’t control erosion on your site, your project will likely be canceled during an inspection.
You can control erosion by removing the first layer of soil and then creating a silt barrier. If you don’t use this type of mitigation technique, the soil will likely slide away during the first storm, causing serious problems on site.
4. Perform Good Site Management
When starting a construction project, there are important tasks that need to be done in advance to properly prepare the site. While these preparations take time, they can’t be skipped. If they are overlooked, there will be delays once the project begins.
For example, you’ll need to create driveways, provide access to roads for trucks, and add fill piles.
5. Take Advantage Of Good Weather
For the most part, excavation depends on good weather. So, when the weather is good, maximize your excavation time. If you don’t take advantage of the good weather, there may be a streak of bad weather that causes delays to the project.
6. Make Sure You Have Good Communication With All Contractors
As mentioned above, excavation is only the first step in the overall construction process. Because there are other contractors working on the project, it’s important that everyone is informed about issues and progress. Effective communication can ensure that a project runs smoothly. However, ineffective communication can cause misunderstandings and ultimately project delays.
