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Avatar for Minimally Invasive Tree Removal
Minimally Invasive Tree Removal
4.8(
74
)
Building Site - Preparation and ClearingBuilding Site - Preparation and Clearing - For Business

Serving Amsterdam, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2006

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Will and his crew did a great job removing large trees and stump grinding and at a super price. These guys are quick, courteous, and professional. I wouldn’t hesitate to hire them again. Give them a call, you’ll be glad you did."
Record breaker
Record breaker
Record breaker
Record breaker
2022 Tree Removal Pics

+7

Response time2 days
14 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by91%of homeowners
Avatar for Lawrence Davis Contracting Inc
Lawrence Davis Contracting Inc
5.0(
3
)
Building Site - Preparation and ClearingLandscape - Minor Grading or ReslopingBuilding Site - Preparation and Clearing - For Business+2 more

Serving Amsterdam, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2003

Free estimates

Customers say: True professional

"Lawrence was an excellent contractor, he contacted and coordinated with the gas company and with Galloway co-op. He checked in regularly with me and even tried to get a temporary tank when it was discovered that my propane levels would not last until the delivery date. He wasted no time and came early to start excavation a day before delivery and that a great job burying and leveling the Earth after the tank was installed. Very professional, would recommend."
Response time2 days
Response rate100%
2 neighbors recently requested a quote
Avatar for Capri Precision Landscaping
Capri Precision Landscaping
5.0(
8
)
Landscape - Minor Grading or Resloping

Serving Amsterdam, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Overall extremely professional, the work itself was great, was above expectations, not only did above and beyond, he did a few things that were not on the list, without additional charge."
Response time1 day
1 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by28%of homeowners
Avatar for Spence's Tree Care
Spence's Tree Care
4.2(
26
)
Building Site - Preparation and Clearing

Serving Amsterdam, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"They removed two gigantic trees at my house in Saugerties and another tree at my farm at Greenville NY. It’s very easy to deal with them and they charge very reasonable price. I would strongly recommend them."
Response time1 day
11 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by65%of homeowners
Avatar for AJM LAND PROS LLC
AJM LAND PROS LLC
5.0(
5
)
Landscape - Minor Grading or ReslopingBuilding Site - Preparation and ClearingBuilding Site - Preparation and Clearing - For Business+2 more

Serving Amsterdam, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2025

Credit card accepted

Offers commercial services

"This business is built on customer service and getting the job done right, very pleased with the work that was done which included a few stumps removed and brush clearing and grading for a driveway. I would recommend this business to anyone who wants the job done right in a timely manner. 10/10 experience."
15 neighbors recently requested a quote
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Excavating questions, answered by experts

There are several methods to hollow out a tree stump, and the best one depends on your tools, experience, and priorities. Common methods include using a chisel and hammer, a chainsaw, or burning.

  • Chisel and Hammer: This is often considered the easiest approach for those with limited tools or experience, though it is the most time-consuming.

  • Chainsaw: Using a chainsaw is the fastest method, but it comes with significant safety risks, especially for inexperienced users.

  • Burning: This can be an effective method, but it is not recommended unless you can first drill holes into the stump. Without holes, the stump will be difficult to light and may not burn completely through.

A power drill with at least a ⅜-inch diameter bit can make the job quicker and easier, regardless of the primary method. While you can use a chisel or chainsaw without a drill, it will require more time and effort. Always wear protective goggles and thick gloves, as splinters are an inevitable risk.

The average cost of excavation is approximately $3,200, with typical projects ranging from $500 to $15,000. Depending on the contractor, you may be charged between $50 and $200 per cubic yard or an hourly rate of $40 to $180 for an excavation specialist. The total cost is influenced by several factors, including the project size, the amount of soil to be removed, and the soil's condition. Hard soil, tree roots, or excessive rocks and clay can increase the price, potentially adding $200 to $1,200 to the final bill. Other factors that can drive up costs include the presence of nearby structures that complicate the work or tight spaces that require manual excavation instead of heavy machinery.

There are many ways to cut through roots when digging, especially if your trencher doesn’t seem to be removing the roots. First, use a shovel to expose the roots. Then, use gardening shears to clear out smaller roots or a reciprocating saw to remove larger plant roots. If you plan on keeping the plant, avoid cutting any roots over 2 inches thick.

Slab foundations are more affordable than crawl spaces because they require minimal excavation, as the slab sits directly on the ground or on footers that only sink a few feet into the ground. Crawl spaces require excavation of the entire footprint of the home to several feet below the surface. Not only does that mean higher labor costs, but more materials are necessary for the concrete foundation walls.

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

The Amsterdam, NY homeowners’ guide to excavation services

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