Get matched with top excavation pros in Napoleon, ND

Q: Should I grind or dig up my tree stump?

• <div><p>Whether you grind or dig up and remove your tree stump depends on your landscaping goals. Using a stump grinder leaves the root system in place for it to decompose over time, whereas digging up the tree stump removes the roots and the stump. Overall, stump grinding is a far simpler process since you won&rsquo;t need to deal with the roots. Stump removal will make your yard look like a demolition site, but you&rsquo;ll have an easier time replanting in the same place as your former tree.</p></div>

Q: How long does it generally take to prepare and clear a building site?

• <div><p>Completion time ranges from days to weeks, contingent on project size, environmental conditions, and regulatory approvals.</p></div>

Q: Do you need to excavate before squaring a foundation?

• <div><p>Excavation and grading are both generally necessary for designing your foundation, and leveling the ground where your foundation will go. These steps can also prepare the area by removing vegetation and anything else that could interfere with your home&rsquo;s foundation.</p></div>

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 it take to dig a trench by hand?

• <div><p>It takes one hour to dig a 10-foot trench by hand. Use a trenching shovel with a sharp tip and a long head. Plan for more time if your soil is heavy or rocky. Consider renting a trencher if you&rsquo;re digging a long or deep trench or if you have challenging soil or terrain. </p></div>

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W. Simpson Plumbing Services, LLC

New to Angi

Serving Napoleon, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Here at W. Simpson Plumbing Services, LLC, we are a full service plumbing company for both residential and commercial. We are local, family owned and operated, and have a strong focus on customer service. We are fully licensed and ready to take on as much work as possible. Call us today for your free estimate. We look forward to meeting your home's needs.

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Excavating questions, answered by experts

Whether you grind or dig up and remove your tree stump depends on your landscaping goals. Using a stump grinder leaves the root system in place for it to decompose over time, whereas digging up the tree stump removes the roots and the stump. Overall, stump grinding is a far simpler process since you won’t need to deal with the roots. Stump removal will make your yard look like a demolition site, but you’ll have an easier time replanting in the same place as your former tree.

Completion time ranges from days to weeks, contingent on project size, environmental conditions, and regulatory approvals.

Excavation and grading are both generally necessary for designing your foundation, and leveling the ground where your foundation will go. These steps can also prepare the area by removing vegetation and anything else that could interfere with your home’s foundation.

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.

It takes one hour to dig a 10-foot trench by hand. Use a trenching shovel with a sharp tip and a long head. Plan for more time if your soil is heavy or rocky. Consider renting a trencher if you’re digging a long or deep trench or if you have challenging soil or terrain.

The Napoleon, ND 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
•
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.
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.
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.
Taylor Freitas
•
Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
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.