Get matched with top excavation pros in Ruthven, IA

Q: What do you put under decomposed granite?

• <div><p>Because decomposed granite is a durable material, a crushed rock or gravel base is optional as long as the DG is properly installed and compacted. However, installing a base is a good idea because it will ensure proper drainage and stability and act as a weed suppressant (although you may still occasionally have to pull weeds). Installing an adequate base can also increase the durability of driveways and walkways. If you forego the paver base or gravel underneath, line the area with landscaping fabric to avoid weeds.</p></div>

Q: Can you install a trench drain in existing concrete?

• <div><p>Yes, you can install a trench drain if you already have concrete in your yard or garden. While it can complicate some aspects of the job and slightly run up the cost, it is doable. Residential trench drains can be easily retrofitted to outdoor areas with concrete without having to remove excessive amounts of your patio, pool area, or decorative walkways.</p></div>

Q: What is the average cost of excavation?

• <div><p>The average <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/excavation-costs.htm">cost of excavation</a> is around <b>$3,200</b>. Most jobs fall somewhere between <b>$500 and $15,000</b>, 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.</p></div>

Q: How do you locate an underground downspout?

• <div><p>To locate an underground downspout, you should start by identifying where the above ground gutter drains. Look for an entry point, such as a pipe or elbow leading into the ground. Follow the surface path for signs like depressions, landscaping disruptions, or wet areas after rain. You can use a metal detector or plumber&rsquo;s snake to trace the pipe underground. For deeper pipes, a professional locator tool or camera inspection may be necessary. Visual markers or utility maps can also guide the search.</p></div>

Q: Can you make a crawl space liveable?

• <div><p>Yes, you can technically make a crawl space liveable, but the only way to do so is by converting it into a basement. While some crawl spaces are big enough to walk through and store large items, they lack appropriate insulation and space to be liveable. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in Ruthven, IA

*The Angi rating for Excavation companies in Ruthven, IA 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 Ruthven, IA 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 January 13, 2026

Reviewed in February 2025
BHG Frameless Shower Doors Denver provided top-notch service from start to finish. They helped us choose the right shower door for our space, and the installation was flawless. We highly recommend them to anyone looking for a quality shower door replacement!!!
BHG Frameless Shower Doors Denver
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Reviewed in March 2024
The trai n ing of the dogs went great. So far so good!
Dog Guard
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Reviewed in November 2023
They were very prompt and professional.
Mr. Appliance of Sioux City
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Reviewed in June 2023
My wife Lori hired Tammy a few times over the years. She's helped us clear out a house in Denver (we're in Iowa), organize house space, and organizing office space. This relationship has gone on for years and we keep going back to her because she's reliable, innovative, and...
Tidy Tammy Organizing Services
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Reviewed in March 2023
All I can say is wow. Mike was very nice and professional. He was Ontime and his team worked together very well. I was given an up front price and there were no surprises. I recommend TOP 1 Expert Home improvement LLC for your roofing work
Top 1 Expert Home improvement LLC
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Reviewed in July 2022
Len was very professional, friendly, conscientious and easy to work with! He did a great job and our area rug looks amazing!
Advanced Interior Care, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2021
They have been excellent and I have no problems with them. I like that I can make an appointment and they can work me in. I would highly recommend them.
Exhaust Pros
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Find Excavation pros in Ruthven

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

We have done all our own work we do not sub work out to anyone We want you to be happy with us. We accept Checks and credit cards their is no job to small we can't handle

Gilbert's Septic Service

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Gilbert's Septic Service

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Gilbert's Septic Service has been family owned and operated for over 50 years! Gilbert's will take care of your septic tank cleaning & repair. Certified for time of transfer inspection. Our services include residential: * Cleaning * Repair * Installation * Pumping * Maintenance * Inspection * Consulting Call Gilbert's Septic Service Today.

Excavating questions, answered by experts

Because decomposed granite is a durable material, a crushed rock or gravel base is optional as long as the DG is properly installed and compacted. However, installing a base is a good idea because it will ensure proper drainage and stability and act as a weed suppressant (although you may still occasionally have to pull weeds). Installing an adequate base can also increase the durability of driveways and walkways. If you forego the paver base or gravel underneath, line the area with landscaping fabric to avoid weeds.

Yes, you can install a trench drain if you already have concrete in your yard or garden. While it can complicate some aspects of the job and slightly run up the cost, it is doable. Residential trench drains can be easily retrofitted to outdoor areas with concrete without having to remove excessive amounts of your patio, pool area, or decorative walkways.

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.

To locate an underground downspout, you should start by identifying where the above ground gutter drains. Look for an entry point, such as a pipe or elbow leading into the ground. Follow the surface path for signs like depressions, landscaping disruptions, or wet areas after rain. You can use a metal detector or plumber’s snake to trace the pipe underground. For deeper pipes, a professional locator tool or camera inspection may be necessary. Visual markers or utility maps can also guide the search.

Yes, you can technically make a crawl space liveable, but the only way to do so is by converting it into a basement. While some crawl spaces are big enough to walk through and store large items, they lack appropriate insulation and space to be liveable.

The Ruthven, IA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

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

See all articles

Paige Bennett
•
Jun 2, 2025Jun 2, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Demolish a House? [2025 Data]
How much does it cost to demolish a house? Average prices for demolition vary based on home size, materials, and location. A partial demolition can make a project more affordable than a full house demolition. Keep reading for more.
Paige Bennett
•
Oct 13, 2025Oct 13, 2025
How Much Are Excavator Rental Prices? [2025 Data]
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Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Dec 9, 2025Dec 9, 2025
How Much Does Pool Excavation Cost? [2025 Data]
You can't have an in-ground pool without digging into the ground. How much does pool excavation cost, and can you take it on yourself? Our guide explains.
Deane Biermeier
•
Dec 9, 2024Dec 9, 2024
When to Call 811 for Safe Digging
Planning a yard project? Know when to call 811 to keep you safe while avoiding expensive damage to underground utilities.
Taylor Freitas
•
Oct 28, 2024Oct 28, 2024
What’s the Difference Between a Trench vs. a Ditch?
Trenches and ditches both involve excavation, but they serve different purposes. Unsure which one you need? Let’s compare a trench versus a ditch.
Jenna Jonaitis
•
Nov 4, 2024Nov 4, 2024
How Deep Will a Trencher Dig? Which Trencher to Choose
A residential trencher will dig 1 foot to 6 feet deep, depending on the machine. Learn how deep a trencher will dig and which trencher to use.

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Tree Removal Service

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Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Savannah Construction

Savannah Construction

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Gilbert's Septic Service

Gilbert's Septic Service

VANS Excavating, LLC.

VANS Excavating, LLC.

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

K&M Exteriors LLC

K&M Exteriors LLC

myhometutions

myhometutions

The Ruthven, IA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

How Much Does It Cost to Demolish a House? [2025 Data]

How Much Are Excavator Rental Prices? [2025 Data]

How Much Does Pool Excavation Cost? [2025 Data]

When to Call 811 for Safe Digging

What’s the Difference Between a Trench vs. a Ditch?

How Deep Will a Trencher Dig? Which Trencher to Choose

Get our Angi-powered app

Get matched with top excavation pros in Ruthven, IA

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

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

Tree Removal Service

Building Site Preparation and Clearing

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in Ruthven, IA

Find Excavation pros in Ruthven

Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Savannah Construction

Savannah Construction

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Gilbert's Septic Service

Gilbert's Septic Service

VANS Excavating, LLC.

VANS Excavating, LLC.

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

K&M Exteriors LLC

K&M Exteriors LLC

myhometutions

myhometutions

The Ruthven, IA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

How Much Does It Cost to Demolish a House? [2025 Data]

How Much Are Excavator Rental Prices? [2025 Data]

How Much Does Pool Excavation Cost? [2025 Data]

When to Call 811 for Safe Digging

What’s the Difference Between a Trench vs. a Ditch?

How Deep Will a Trencher Dig? Which Trencher to Choose

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