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Top-Rated Excavation pros in Ashland - Updated Nov 2026

Avatar for Rock-A-Fellas Co Inc
Rock-A-Fellas Co Inc
4.5(
23
)
Building Site - Preparation and ClearingBuilding Site - Preparation and Clearing - For BusinessExcavation - Major Grading or Resloping+2 more

Serving Ashland, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 2003

Credit card accepted

"We had a shed pad installed for our new shed. Bob really worked to make sure we understood the different types of pads we could get as well as the ground leveling process. He was the only contractor we talked to that put the pad in the ground (excavating some dirt) so that it didn't just sit on top. As an added bonus, he swiped away a patch of really thick ivy that we've been struggling with. When scheduling the pad, he did delay the installation due to weather issues, showing real concern that if we didn't delay at least a day, the installation would be less than the professional level he likes to leave with. I left for the morning to go to work and when I came home, the pad was ready for a shed.
Bob shows a concern for his homeowner's well being in all matters and is very knowledgable. I fully recomend him to anyone seeking a similar install, and will consider Rock-a-fella's when ever I have a gravelly/patio/deck need in the future.
"
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Excavating FAQs, 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.

A trench that is less than 5 feet deep often doesn't require a protective system. Most residential trenches will not go this deep (the typical residential drainage trench is just 18 inches deep). In the event that an excavator needs to dig more than 5 feet beneath the surface, a protective system is required unless the excavation is in entirely stable rock.

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.

No, a ditch isn’t a trench. A ditch is an open, relatively shallow channel that’s carved out of the ground and used for drainage purposes. In contrast, a trench is a deeper excavation that’s entirely underground. Trenches have many uses, including gas lines, sewage systems, and electrical wiring. Unlike trenches, ditches don’t get filled back in with dirt after they’re dug.

Professional installers often include a deep layer of crushed gravel under permeable pavers to allow more runoff to soak through into the soil below. Many installations will include multiple layers of gravel, with coarser aggregate at the base and finer aggregate that sits on top of that bottom layer. Above the gravel, you’ll often find coarse sand that helps reduce paver shifting over time. Some permeable paver designs include a water collection system set into the gravel layer to route runoff to a safe area for disposal.

The Ashland, PA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

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