Why Is Excavation Important in Construction?

Are you getting ready to begin construction for a new house or commercial site? 

Whether it’s a residential, commercial, or industrial construction project, excavation work must be done to ensure a solid foundation. 

In addition, having robust groundwork will also prevent potential damages caused by weather disturbances and other natural calamities.

But, what do excavators exactly do before construction?  

In this article, we’ll give you an in-depth look at the different excavation projects done pre-construction and why they are important.  

What Is Excavation in Construction? 

Excavation is the process of moving earth, rock, soil, and other materials with the use of tools, equipment, or explosives.

Excavation serves multiple purposes, such as earthwork, trenching, wall shafts, and tunneling. 

However, excavation is most commonly used in construction to lay solid foundations and to grade land. 

Why Is Excavation Important in Construction? 

Building a good foundation doesn’t just rely on quality concrete. To ensure that your structure is built on solid ground, excavation before construction is a must. 

A properly excavated land will be able to support and withstand the stress of your infrastructure. 

This process doesn’t just rely on the use of heavy equipment. It’s also important to consider the unique characteristics of your home or building. 

Soil stability, water tables, soil moisture, and even the backfill quality all need to be inspected and assessed before establishing each foundation. 

Only a skilled and experienced excavation contractor will know what excavation work needs to be done. 

They can ensure future problems with the soil and the foundation, such as cracking and separation, are prevented. 

Different Types of Excavation Jobs Pre-Construction 

Depending on your project, your home or building may require various types of excavation: 

1. Site Clearing. Often the first step in any construction work, site clearing involves moving earth, rock, and boulders away from the site. It also includes the removal of unwanted trees, plants, and other landscapes.  
2. Site Preparation. Excavation tools, equipment, and other materials are used to dig out and prepare the land. This process is done to ensure proper drainage and soil preparation before the project begins. 
3. Drainage and Trenching. Trenches must also be dug for the sewer drainage pipes. This is a vital step in the process as the sewer drainage pipes are very important to the excavation process.
4. Driveway Excavation. This process includes the removal of shrubs, trees, and boulders to establish a leveled driveway. Even in this type of excavation, proper drainage is highly considered. 

Consult An Excavation Expert Before Any Construction 

Proper excavation goes beyond laying a solid groundwork. There are different factors and types of excavation to consider before a building project can begin. 

From site clearing, site preparation, trenching, wall shafts, and driveway excavation, all of these are done to ensure that your home and commercial buildings are built on strong foundations. 

Before you begin any construction, it’s best to give your local excavation expert a call to know which excavation work you need to do for your property.  

Got some questions or insights on excavation and construction? Leave a comment below!