Top-rated excavation pros.

Get matched with top excavation pros in Ketchikan, AK

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your excavation project in Ketchikan, AK?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Find Excavation pros in Ketchikan

Arctic Excavators, LLC
New to Angi
Excavation - Major Grading or ReslopingExcavation - Major Grading or Resloping - For Business

Serving Ketchikan, AK and surrounding areas

In business since 1970

Arctic Excavators LLC is an Alaskan and Service Disabled Veteran Owned civil site work and excavating contractor. This family founded company has worked throughout the state of Alaska on both residential and commercial civil construction and excavation projects since 1970. Give us a call today for help with your next project!

Excavating questions, answered by experts

There are several methods to hollow out a tree stump, and the best one depends on your tools, experience, and priorities. Common methods include using a chisel and hammer, a chainsaw, or burning.

  • Chisel and Hammer: This is often considered the easiest approach for those with limited tools or experience, though it is the most time-consuming.

  • Chainsaw: Using a chainsaw is the fastest method, but it comes with significant safety risks, especially for inexperienced users.

  • Burning: This can be an effective method, but it is not recommended unless you can first drill holes into the stump. Without holes, the stump will be difficult to light and may not burn completely through.

A power drill with at least a ⅜-inch diameter bit can make the job quicker and easier, regardless of the primary method. While you can use a chisel or chainsaw without a drill, it will require more time and effort. Always wear protective goggles and thick gloves, as splinters are an inevitable risk.

The time it takes to build a pool—and dig out the area—varies based on the pool size and type. A professional excavator will take between four and eight hours to dig a pool. The process will take longer if they encounter large boulders or tree roots. Keep in mind that this is a small part of the process in the long run. You will need between eight and 12 weeks to build a pool from start to finish, including the time to apply for permits.

Digging a well can cost between $20 and $25,000, depending on your needs. If you’re looking to dig a well yourself, all you need is a shovel. If you’re looking to have a well drilled by a professional, you can expect to pay around $15 to $30 per foot. The total cost of drilling a well will average to $5,500.

Completion time ranges from days to weeks, contingent on project size, environmental conditions, and regulatory approvals.

The best way to protect tree roots is to avoid the roots entirely by excavating outside the root radius of the tree. For nearby projects, it’s a good idea to construct a temporary retaining wall. But that’s not always possible, depending on the project and the root system. In these cases, consider using alternative equipment like an auger to tunnel under the ground.

Remember, tree roots can damage nearby cement foundations as they grow. If a tree is close enough to interfere with large excavations, it may be better to remove the tree than risk future problems.

The Ketchikan, AK homeowners’ guide to excavation services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.