Get matched with top excavation pros in Blytheville, AR

The average cost of excavation is around $3,200. Most jobs fall somewhere between $500 and $15,000, depending on the amount of soil to remove, whether or not there are landscaping features or structures in the vicinity that could complicate the excavation, and the quality and contents of the soil. Larger jobs will naturally cost more, as will those in tight spaces that demand manual excavation as opposed to using heavy machinery. Hard soil and tree roots can also extend the job and drive up your labor costs.

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.

Depth is not a qualifying component of evacuation. Any human-made cut, cavity, or depression in the earth’s surface is considered excavation. The hole from excavation can be any size, shape, or depth. Excavation is used to create foundations, reservoirs, drainage ditches, and roads. Long, narrow excavations are called trenches and are often used for underground utilities.

It takes one hour to dig a 10-foot trench by hand. Use a trenching shovel with a sharp tip and a long head. Plan for more time if your soil is heavy or rocky. Consider renting a trencher if you’re digging a long or deep trench or if you have challenging soil or terrain.