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Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in Gretna, VA

*The Angi rating for Excavation companies in Gretna, VA 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 Gretna, VA 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 March 13, 2026

Find Excavation pros in Gretna

Apex Earthworks LLC
5.0(
1
)

Serving Gretna, VA and surrounding areas

"Ive had my driveway "fixed" by a couple of different companies over the years and it never lasted — washouts, ruts, standing water, the same problems creeping back within a season. Apex Earthworks actually diagnosed why it kept failing instead of just patching the surface again. They regraded it properly and addressed the drainage, not just the driveway itself. It's been solid through everything since, no ruts, no washouts, no puddles. What stood out most was that Gaige and his Crew clearly know what they're doing — this isn't guesswork, it's actual expertise in grading and drainage. They showed up when they said they would, and cleaned up the site when they were done. After years of paying other people to "fix" my driveway, it's a relief to have it actually done right the first time. I will recommend Apex Earthworks to everyone!! Thank you Gaige!! Your professionalism speaks volumes!!"
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Mitchell's Excavating
New to Angi

Serving Gretna, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2013

Free estimates

With years of experience serving the area, we are your solution for all your excavation needs. We take great pride in our extreme professionalism, timeliness and superior customer service on every job. We make sure to develop a lasting relationship so that the next time service is needed there will be no question on who to call. Check out our 5 star reviews from happy customers! Call us today so we can discuss your needs and make a plan that fits your budget. Satisfaction guaranteed!

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Hackney’s Excavating
New to Angi

Serving Gretna, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 1993

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Hackney’s Excavating is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

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Excavating questions, answered by experts

Excavation is priced in cubic yards, so you’ll need to find the volume of the area in order to calculate costs. Multiply the length, width, and proposed depth of your excavation site, then convert it into yards to get the volume. Multiply this figure by the price per cubic yard.

Most homeowners can measure by hand to get a rough estimate, even if it’s tedious. You may want to pull out a tape measure or use a string to help mark the area.

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.

You can dig 60 to 80 linear feet by hand per day depending on the depth. Digging a 100-foot trench by hand will take you two work days, but it can take longer if you have heavy or rocky soil. If you’re digging a deep trench or one that’s over 100 feet, consider renting a mechanical trencher, such as a walk-behind or ride-on, or calling a pro for help. 

Yes, an excavation company is the best option for land grading and yard leveling. General landscapers might be able to tackle these projects, but an excavation company will do a better job because they’re used to operating the necessary heavy machinery. Landscapers might opt to do the work manually, which takes much longer and could cost you more in labor fees. Finally, excavation companies will understand local regulations and know when you need permits to legalize the work, while a landscaper might not.

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 Gretna, VA 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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