What type of soil is best to build on?

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

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Q: How deep should you bury underground electrical wire?

• <div><p>You can bury underground electrical wire six inches deep&mdash;but only if you use a rigid metal electrical conduit. For rigid, non-metallic conduits, bury the wire at least 12 inches deep. If using an underground feeder cable rated for direct burial, you'll need to place it at least 18 inches deep, as it has no conduit for extra protection.</p></div>

Q: How long does a perc test take?

• <div><p>A perc test takes an average of around two hours, but it can range from one hour up to around six hours. Perc tests that require wider or deeper holes and those that require multiple holes dug throughout your property will take longer because there&rsquo;s more excavation involved. The actual filling of the hole and monitoring to gauge the rate of percolation should take under an hour per hole.</p></div>

Q: What do I do if my soil is too hard?

• <div><p>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. </p></div>

Q: How do you calculate excavation costs?

• <div><p>Excavation is priced in cubic yards, so you&rsquo;ll need to find the volume of the area in order to calculate costs. Multiply the length, width, and proposed depth of your excavation site, then convert it into yards to get the volume. Multiply this figure by the price per cubic yard.</p><p>Most homeowners can measure by hand to get a rough estimate, even if it&rsquo;s tedious. You may want to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-read-a-tape-measure.htm">pull out a tape measure</a> or use a string to help mark the area. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in Calmar, IA

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

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Last update on January 03, 2026

Reviewed in June 2025
Jose (owner) and his helper completed the project the same week I requested a contractor. They contacted me the day as my request. They completed the job and also pointed out that my chimney had no flashing. I asked if they could accomplish the task the same day which they did. Jose also gave me...
DLR Construction
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Reviewed in December 2024
Great customer service Fast installation Affordable service Skyline tore off and re did the asphalt roof on my house after wind and hail damage. I was so impressed I hired them to also do my garage and shed. These guys do great work.
SKYLINE RESTORATION INC
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Reviewed in November 2023
Angus was knowledgeable, did a thorough comprehensive breakdown of the project before anything was agreed to, which I appreciated. The work was impeccable and done quickly. The pricing was honest and fair. Couldn't ask for more.
Magic Electric
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Reviewed in November 2023
set up appointment and was there on time. Did the job and cleaned up afterwords.
US Energy Savers
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Reviewed in October 2023
My mom needed an 86 inch TV mounted to the wall. If you are looking for someone who is professional, prompt, communicative, knowledgeable and has great rates- Omer is your man. We will definitely be using him again!
Smart Homes Security and IT Services
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Reviewed in August 2023
Ben and Anna do wonderful work. They are flexible with their schedule and get the job right, the first time. Highly recommend this crew!
BA Gutter Services
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Reviewed in June 2023
David was personable, prompt, and precise in his installing of a deadbolt and door knob. I would hire him for other work, as well! 5/5
David J. Soukup Construction, Inc.
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Reviewed in March 2023
This fence has been a gamechanger. We will feel secure knowing our puppy is safe exploring in the yard and won't be running after cars or people going by.
Dog Guard
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Reviewed in January 2023
The two guys were very fast, efficient and cleaned up all of the mess. There was damage to one window screen, one panel of the patio door and missing part for the door which they are replacing and taking care of it for us. We were very pleased.
Renewal by Andersen
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Reviewed in March 2022
Very good attention to detail, good communication and made sure that we were happy.
Lawn Life LLC
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FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

2.75(

)

Free onsite estimate

Frase Construction Inc is a locally owned and operated business in the Ottumwa area since 1999. Business owner, Jeremy Frase invites you to come visit his showroom, complete with a large variety of retail products. Frase Construction specializes in new construction and remodeling. Serves include: - Roofing - Additions - Windows - Siding - Kitchens & Baths - Cabinets - Concrete - Electrical - Plumbing - Decks - Garages - General contractors - Designed build - Egress Windows - Casement Windows - Energy Efficient Windows - Skylights - Sliding Windows - Storm Windows - Installation - New Construction - Remdeling - Repair - Wood Shake roofs and Shingles - Maintenance - Green Building - Residential - Commercial - Metal - Wood - Fiberglass - Vinyl - Driveways - Concrete removal - Concrete Coloring - Walls - Foundations - Decorative Concrete - Concrete Cutting - Stairs - Patios - Sidewalks - Stamped Concrete - Industrial - Garages - Cabinets - Laminate - Cabinet hardware - Snow Removal - Ice Removal - Snow Blowing - Snow Plowing - Additions ? - Bathrooms - Decks - Electrical - Kitchens - Plumbing - Roofing - Siding - and more Our project types include: Commerical (Office Buildijngs, Shopping Centers, Car Dealerships and more), Resteraunts, Warehouses, Rental Spaces, Residential (Multi-Family and Tenant Finish) For the best service in the area, give us a call so we can prove to you that you made the right choice.

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

5.00(

)

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

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Excavating questions, answered by experts

You can bury underground electrical wire six inches deep—but only if you use a rigid metal electrical conduit. For rigid, non-metallic conduits, bury the wire at least 12 inches deep. If using an underground feeder cable rated for direct burial, you'll need to place it at least 18 inches deep, as it has no conduit for extra protection.

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.

A perc test takes an average of around two hours, but it can range from one hour up to around six hours. Perc tests that require wider or deeper holes and those that require multiple holes dug throughout your property will take longer because there’s more excavation involved. The actual filling of the hole and monitoring to gauge the rate of percolation should take under an hour per hole.

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.

Excavation is priced in cubic yards, so you’ll need to find the volume of the area in order to calculate costs. Multiply the length, width, and proposed depth of your excavation site, then convert it into yards to get the volume. Multiply this figure by the price per cubic yard.

Most homeowners can measure by hand to get a rough estimate, even if it’s tedious. You may want to pull out a tape measure or use a string to help mark the area.

The Calmar, IA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

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

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How to Calculate Demolition Waste for Your Big Project
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Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Northeast Iowa Mechanical

Northeast Iowa Mechanical

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

Gilbert's Septic Service

Gilbert's Septic Service

myhometutions

myhometutions

J.E. Britton Company

J.E. Britton Company

Gravel Grading & Excavating LLC

Gravel Grading & Excavating LLC

The Calmar, IA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

How Much Does Concrete Removal Cost? [2025 Data]

How Much Does It Cost to Dig a Trench? [2025 Data]

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Trencher? [2025 Data]

Is It Possible to Add a Basement to an Existing House?

Directional Boring vs. Trenching: Differences, Costs, and When to Use Each

How to Calculate Demolition Waste for Your Big Project

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Get matched with top excavation pros in Calmar, IA

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your excavation project in Calmar, IA?

Tree Removal Service

Building Site Preparation and Clearing

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in Calmar, IA

Find Excavation pros in Calmar

Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Northeast Iowa Mechanical

Northeast Iowa Mechanical

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

Gilbert's Septic Service

Gilbert's Septic Service

myhometutions

myhometutions

J.E. Britton Company

J.E. Britton Company

Gravel Grading & Excavating LLC

Gravel Grading & Excavating LLC

The Calmar, IA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

How Much Does Concrete Removal Cost? [2025 Data]

How Much Does It Cost to Dig a Trench? [2025 Data]

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Trencher? [2025 Data]

Is It Possible to Add a Basement to an Existing House?

Directional Boring vs. Trenching: Differences, Costs, and When to Use Each

How to Calculate Demolition Waste for Your Big Project

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