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Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in Portola, CA

*The Angi rating for Excavation companies in Portola, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Excavation needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Excavation companies in Portola, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Excavation needs.

Last update on February 09, 2026

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Avatar for Freedom Forest Management
Freedom Forest Management
5.0(
5
)
Building Site - Preparation and ClearingBuilding Site - Preparation and Clearing - For BusinessExcavation - Major Grading or Resloping+2 more

Serving Portola, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I had about 5 acres to get cleared out from over growth, I called Freedom Forest Management and a gentleman named Levi was out at my property two day later to give me a quote, the quote they gave me was a little pricey compared to others but they were able to get to it in a couple of days compared to others that were 3-4 weeks out. They did a bang up job cleaned the area up really good even trimmed up a tree I had since he said needed it to help with growth. I definitely got the quality of work I paid for and then some."
Hazard tree removal
Hazard tree removal
Hazard tree removal
Hazard tree removal
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Recommended by100%of homeowners
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Diablo excavation & construction inc
New to Angi
Building Site - Preparation and ClearingExcavation - Major Grading or ReslopingLandscape - Minor Grading or Resloping

Serving Portola, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

We are a locally owned and operated company. We value honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. We offer a variety of home improvement services that are customized to each individual project. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work, as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!

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Olivares Excavation
New to Angi
Building Site - Preparation and ClearingBuilding Site - Preparation and Clearing - For BusinessExcavation - Major Grading or Resloping+2 more

Serving Portola, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Olivares Excavation is a reliable, California-based excavation company specializing in residential and commercial site preparation. Serving communities across the Golden State, we offer expert services including land clearing, trenching, grading, foundation digging, and utility installation. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and quality workmanship, our team uses modern equipment to ensure every project is completed to the highest standard. Whether it's preparing a lot for new construction or handling complex excavation needs, Olivares Excavation is committed to delivering dependable results across California.

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Bobcat Services
New to Angi
Building Site - Preparation and ClearingBuilding Site - Preparation and Clearing - For BusinessExcavation - Major Grading or Resloping+2 more

Serving Portola, CA and surrounding areas

We are dedicated to providing our clients with the very best in installation and repair for your concrete and masonry needs. With over seven years of industry experience, we specialize in a variety of residential and commercial brick, stone and concrete work. We take pride in the attention to detail put into each of the projects we're involved with. We're known for our quality work and the integrity of our business. We look forward to building long-term relationships with our clients, and guarantee your satisfaction. \n

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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 average cost of excavation is approximately $3,200, with typical projects ranging from $500 to $15,000. Depending on the contractor, you may be charged between $50 and $200 per cubic yard or an hourly rate of $40 to $180 for an excavation specialist. The total cost is influenced by several factors, including the project size, the amount of soil to be removed, and the soil's condition. Hard soil, tree roots, or excessive rocks and clay can increase the price, potentially adding $200 to $1,200 to the final bill. Other factors that can drive up costs include the presence of nearby structures that complicate the work or tight spaces that require manual excavation instead of heavy machinery.

The best type of soil to build on is a mixture of sand and clay, known as loam soil. Loam soil has the best combination of these soil types to build a foundation on. The clay particles help with water retention, so it won’t erode like sandy soil might, and the sandy particles help with drainage, so you won’t see unsafe soil expansion or have an increased risk of leaks from water sitting against your foundation.

Hard soil could be a sign of overly dry dirt, either from poor drainage or drought. It's important to test the nutrient levels, density, and drainage capacity of your soil to see if it's absorbing water properly. Begin by adding a light layer of water and observing how long the soil retains moisture. If you experience a good deal of runoff, you may need to aerate your lawn, apply a wetting agent, or hire a professional for a closer look.

In the United States, a depth of 36 inches (three feet) for underground water lines is the accepted industry standard. This depth varies from location to location based on local conditions. In areas with colder winters, they may be buried deeper to prevent frozen well water pipes : This is usually at least six inches below the frost level. The International Plumbing Code calls for a minimum of 12 inches below grade.

The Portola, CA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

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