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*The Angi rating for Excavation companies in San Rafael, NM 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 San Rafael, NM 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 November 21, 2025

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MD Excavating
5.0(
14
)

Serving San Rafael, NM and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Miguel performed the work and did a great job. He was extremely helpful in answering any questions and was a pleasure to have on site. I would defiantly use MD excavation in the future and would definitely use and refer Miguel to other clients. Thank you, Miguel!!"
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PAD PREP FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION
GRADING

+50

Response time2 days
7 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by85%of homeowners
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Milligan Bros Services
New to Angi

Serving San Rafael, NM and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship, and complete customer satisfaction, from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large, or small the job. Call us today!\n

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Excavating questions, answered by experts

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.

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.

It can take several weeks for the ground to settle after removing a tree, and the soil under larger, more mature trees can take months. The deeper the tree has been ground under the soil, the longer it will take to settle. However, this extra depth can help you plant new landscaping sooner because you’ll have more space for fresh soil.

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. 

Digging a bush up by the roots is the most natural DIY method for removing a bush stump. Start by identifying the shrub type and revealing its roots. Cut the shrub to its base and loosen the soil, ensuring no utility lines are nearby. Optionally, treat the base with herbicide, then dig around the roots and cut a circle around the shrub using various tools. Dig a trench, cut the base of the root ball, and finally fill the hole to prevent regrowth. This thorough process ensures complete removal without damaging surrounding areas.

The San Rafael, NM 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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