Top-rated excavation pros.

Get matched with top excavation pros in Staunton, VA

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your excavation project in Staunton, VA?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in Staunton, VA

*The Angi rating for Excavation companies in Staunton, 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 Staunton, 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 June 23, 2026

Find Excavation pros in Staunton

Wilkins Excavating LLC. - Inicio Facebook
5.0(
1
)

Serving Staunton, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Wilkins 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.\n\n

Recommended by100%of homeowners
Request Quote
Avatar for J&J Earthworks, LLC
J&J Earthworks, LLC
5.0(
2
)

Serving Staunton, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Very reliable, great with communication got back to me fast I had an idea and told them what I wanted and they even added their own twist to really knock it out of the park. I can tell they take pride in the work that they do. Would highly recommend to anyone I come across. If you want the job done right and in a timely manner J&J Earthworks is the contractor for you."
Response time1 day
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Request Quote
Showing 1-10 of 22
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.

While you can save some money by digging your own pool, you may end up paying more in construction equipment rental fees in the long run. You could, however, focus your DIY energies on lowering the cost of leveling your lawn for your pool or filling in surrounding landscaping after construction.

Maintain open communication and address issues as they arise, ensuring contract terms cover potential delays.

A walk-behind trencher can cut through roots as long as they’re not too thick, making a project much easier than digging with a shovel and other hand tools. Assess your terrain and the number of trees in the surrounding area to determine if a walk-behind trencher will ease the job. Digging a trench by hand is much more time-consuming and labor-intensive. 

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.

The Staunton, VA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

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

See all articles