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Avatar for Reliant Home Services, LLC dba NorCal Grading and Land Clearing
Reliant Home Services, LLC dba NorCal Grading and Land Clearing
4.9(
9
)

Serving Somerset, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2021

Offers commercial services

"Sloped yard needed to be flattened and also terraced for new vineyard. This included excavation/removal of existing soil, new soil that was then used to create terraced beds, and install of rock and decomposed granite along with french drains and retaining walls"
8 neighbors recently requested a quote
Avatar for Verne Pershing, The Art of Gardening
Verne Pershing, The Art of Gardening
5.0(
2
)

Serving Somerset, CA and surrounding areas

In business since 2001

Free estimates

"Verne was hired to shore up our back hillside that supports our deck and previously completed landscaping. I was extremely impressed with all the extra steps he took to insure that the job was done properly. He consulted with our engineer and even brought in his own specialists to come up with the best way to handle our degrading slope. He and his crew completed the work as scheduled and to our complete satisfation. Verne continues to check on the status of his work even now - weeks after it was completed to make sure that everything is growing, watering cycles are correct, etc. I am so pleased to recommend Verne to anyone with simple or comp"
Accent Lighting
Overview
Starting a hillside
The Beginning
The Finished Hillside

+5

Recommended by100%of homeowners
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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 rules for trenching and excavation include setting up and following safety protocols, learning how to use tools and machines properly, and ensuring there is a safe exit for all workers. Keep heavy equipment and materials away from the edge of the hole or trench. Call the 811 dig line before starting any excavation or trenching project to ensure you don’t hit any electrical or gas lines.

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.

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.

In most areas, you will need a permit for excavation work, even for projects that only involve grading or yard leveling. Permit requirements depend on your local government and the scope of the project, but they are especially common for significant digging or work that could affect utilities or public property. These permits help protect the local topography and prevent drainage issues. An experienced excavation company will typically know whether permits are needed and can often handle the process of pulling and closing them for you. You can also verify permit requirements by contacting your local building department and describing your project.

The Somerset, CA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

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