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Avatar for GroundWorks MI, LLC
GroundWorks MI, LLC
4.4(
8
)

Serving Pentwater, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"I was so impressed with the immediate response I received from Todd. He was in constant communication with me throughout the project. The work was completed in a timely manner. We are very pleased with the pressure washing and staining of our deck. I highly recommend GroundWorks LLC!"
Response time1 day
Response rate86%
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Martin Land Improvement, Inc.
5.0(
1
)

Serving Pentwater, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1980

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They were fantastic he called me right back after I call. Very prompt, always available, the question I had he got all the information we needed for putting the septic and over all electrical wires, he explained everything. Over all great business people and I was very satisfied with the work that he did. I will definitely use them again, he always explained the cost about financial."
Recommended by100%of homeowners
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Excavating questions, answered by experts

You can dig 60 to 80 linear feet by hand per day depending on the depth. Digging a 100-foot trench by hand will take you two work days, but it can take longer if you have heavy or rocky soil. If you’re digging a deep trench or one that’s over 100 feet, consider renting a mechanical trencher, such as a walk-behind or ride-on, or calling a pro for help. 

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 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.

The digging depth will depend on the size of the trencher you use. Even smaller units can dig up to 4 feet deep, which is plenty for a DIY job. However, much larger trenchers can reach a depth of 18 feet and are better used by a team of pro contractors, not a single DIYer. As with all home improvement projects, use the right tool for the job and proceed with caution.

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.

The Pentwater, MI homeowners’ guide to excavation services

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