Get matched with top excavation pros in Clarendon, TX

Digging out a basement takes anywhere from a few days to a few months. Most projects take at least two to five weeks, but it could take several months if you encounter obstacles. This project takes longer if you need to brace or raise your home before the excavation. Digging out a basement in new construction can take as little as three days.

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.

You do not have to dig footers for a deck as long as it meets local code and holds up to weather in your area. If you live somewhere that experiences high winds and earthquakes, you may need to dig for your deck posts. Deck blocks, post anchors with base plates, and helical pile systems are the three no-dig deck post options you can choose from if local code permits.

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.