Get matched with top excavation pros in Benton, IL

Q: What does building site preparation and clearing entail?

• <div><p>Preparation involves site assessment, clearing debris, grading surfaces, and compacting soil to support stable construction.</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: 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: How deep should a trench be?

• <div><p>Trenches are typically 12 to 24 inches deep and 8 inches wide. However, the required depth depends on the specific project and local ordinances. For example, a French drain may need to be 18 inches deep, while a water pipe might require a depth of 24 inches and a drainage pipe 36 inches. Your city or county may have specific regulations, so it's wise to consult with an excavation professional to determine the correct depth for your project.</p></div>

Q: How do you prepare an area for hardscaping?

• <div><p>Hardscaping often requires preparation of the ground in the area where the feature is being installed. This can include digging, compacting, and leveling the soil, ensuring adequate drainage, and removing any existing plants. The extent of preparation needed will depend on the type and size of the hardscaping feature being installed.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in Benton, IL

*The Angi rating for Excavation companies in Benton, IL 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 Benton, IL 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 08, 2026

Reviewed in January 2026
Had a front door installed where there had not been one. Contractor went above and beyond what was expected by installing insulation and OSB where we had already removed existing siding. Contractor cleaned up and removed all debris from job site. We will be using this contractor for other...
RW Construction
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Reviewed in May 2024
They did a amazing job on siding and gutters on our house. They have also repaired our floors and did a great job.
Bullock Construction, PLLC
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Reviewed in March 2024
They trimmed 8 trees and cut down 3. They had to take down a chain link fence to get to one of the trees they.removed. They ground the 3 stumps and replaced the fence. They cleaned up the yard in the process and left it in great shape. They even hauled away some limbs we had cut earlier and had...
Fitch Tree Trimming LLC
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Reviewed in September 2023
Went super well, Browns landscaping and Excavation are really clean, respectful and mindful when working. Would highly recommend to call these guys to do a job.
Browns Landscaping and Excavation
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Reviewed in July 2022
They did a very good job on the repairs to our driveway. Nice people to deal with. We are very satisfied. Would recommend them.
Collins & Son's Driveways
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Reviewed in November 2021
Ryan and crew did a great job removing number of old overgrown shrubs and several trees. They got the job done ahead of schedule and did a great job—cleaned up thoroughly as well. Really affordable and great service. I’ll definitely hire them again.
Precision Tree
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Reviewed in April 2021
JL Construction did a fantastic job replacing my roof, they were quick and thorough. Cleaned up the job site like they were never there, I wouldn’t use anyone else in the future!
JL Construction
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Reviewed in June 2014
Called Thad Ellet Plumbing out of desperation due to repeated sewage backups into house. Plumber arrived ahead of scheduled appointment time. He used a camera to reveal the problem, a disconnected pipe installed improperly by a different company. Gave an estimate for excavating and reconnecting...
Thad Ellet Plumbing
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Find Excavation pros in Benton

RW Construction

4.8(

)

Serving Benton, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Had a front door installed where there had not been one. Contractor went above and beyond what was expected by installing insulation and OSB where we had already removed existing siding. Contractor cleaned up and removed all debris from job site. We will be using this contractor for other projects in the near future."

6 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by86%of homeowners

Request Quote

Baker's Land Management

4.9(

)

Serving Benton, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"My back yard is clay. They put in a French drain and made this a painless process!"

Response time1 day

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Benton, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Great work, easy going, on time work"

+13

Response time8 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Benton, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Very satisfied with the timing and work he done. Cleaned up my yard and pond and it looks immaculate. Seth listened to what was wanting done and he threw in a couple ideas to help the projects completion even better. We have had him do several jobs for us and will continue to call him as things are needed. He is Very responsible and respectful. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND him for any of your excavating activities and advice."

+19

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Crawlspace / Basement Waterproofing Solution

4.4(

256

)

Serving Benton, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 1998

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Not used

"

+13

Recommended by90%of homeowners

Serving Benton, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"RW Construction turned my driveway from a sloppy mess to something I can drive on again. Excellent service - fast, courteous, and professional!"

Response time1 day

Response rate93%

Recommended by95%of homeowners

Serving Benton, IL and surrounding areas

Credit card accepted

"perfectly done by young experts. Done quickly and efficiantly"

+25

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Benton, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Francis Excavating proudly serves our customers with pride, integrity, and attention to the details that matter most to you. This is one of the many things that sets us apart from the rest. We leave customers happy and give them a part of us of what we are proud too do. Put smile on people faces and have a clean job site.

+16

Response time3 hrs

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McDonagh & Sons Plumbing & Sewer Inc

4.1(

)

Serving Benton, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Provider was prompt, professional and friendly. Arrived at the agreed upon time for a free estimate and performed work same-day after we agreed to the price. He stuck to the price despite taking longer than expected and more work than usual due to worn-rusted pipes in my home. Cleaned-up after himself and left no sign that work was done other than our new, working toilets. We are very pleased and reccomend McDonagh & Sons Plumbing & Sewer Inc.

"

Recommended by96%of homeowners

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Smith Excavating - Inicio Facebook

5.0(

)

Serving Benton, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"He is a great worker. Very honest and very fair."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 46

Excavating questions, answered by experts

Preparation involves site assessment, clearing debris, grading surfaces, and compacting soil to support stable construction.

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.

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.

Trenches are typically 12 to 24 inches deep and 8 inches wide. However, the required depth depends on the specific project and local ordinances. For example, a French drain may need to be 18 inches deep, while a water pipe might require a depth of 24 inches and a drainage pipe 36 inches. Your city or county may have specific regulations, so it's wise to consult with an excavation professional to determine the correct depth for your project.

Hardscaping often requires preparation of the ground in the area where the feature is being installed. This can include digging, compacting, and leveling the soil, ensuring adequate drainage, and removing any existing plants. The extent of preparation needed will depend on the type and size of the hardscaping feature being installed.

The Benton, IL 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

Taylor Freitas
•
Mar 6, 2026Mar 6, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Trencher? [2026 Data]
If you need to dig a trench, you might be tempted to do it yourself instead of hiring a pro. So, how much does it cost to rent a trencher? Let’s break it down.
Paige Bennett
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Are Excavator Rental Prices? [2026 Data]
Preparing for a big excavation project in your yard? Find out excavator rental prices by type, project size, and more to budget for your project.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Apr 8, 2026Apr 8, 2026
How Much Does Pool Excavation Cost? [2026 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.
Barbara Bellesi Zito
•
Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
What’s the Difference Between Trenching and Edging?
Trenching involves digging long, deep channels, but edging creates shallow, neat borders. Learn more about each method and when to use them.
Paige Bennett
•
Apr 8, 2026Apr 8, 2026
Can a Trencher Go Through Rock?
When planning to trench, you may be concerned about rocky ground. Can a trencher go through rock? Find out what your trencher can cut through in this guide.
Mary Beth Eastman
•
Mar 19, 2026Mar 19, 2026
Who Do I Call if I Need to Hire Someone to Dig a Trench?
If you want to hire someone to dig a trench, choose a local excavation company. Learn why you should hire a pro for your trench and what it will cost.