The number one rule of land clearing and grubbing for developers is to ensure that you are starting with a machine that matches the site. While acreage is a factor that needs to be considered, the most important decision is related to the equipment’s function and how it aligns with the conditions that you will be navigating.
If you are working with a 25-acre tract, then it’s common for a mid-sized dozer to be sufficient when it’s backed by an excavator and haul trucks…so you don’t necessarily need the biggest dozer on the lot. Here are a few things to consider when you are sizing the job:
Bulldozer Size for Land Clearing: Why Acreage Is Only One Factor
Yes, acreage matters, but having a larger dozer doesn’t automatically mean that you will be able to clear the land faster. Other elements need to be considered as well, such as:
- Vegetation density
- Tree sizes
- Soil type
- Slope
- Rock presence
These details play a more important role in your equipment choice because they change the type of work that will be completed on a daily basis. In some cases, it might make sense to bring two machines on site, with a mid-size bulldozer for the open ground and a smaller dozer for tighter areas.
Clearing vs. Grubbing: Both Are Important in the Scope of Work
Even though clearing and grubbing are sometimes categorized together, there are distinct differences between these two tasks. When the crew is clearing, they are removing trees, brush, and vegetation that sit above ground. On the other hand, grubbing is needed for removing stumps and root systems that are below the surface.
Clearing the land isn’t enough. If grubbing is skipped, then there will be organic material that will start to rot and settle over time. Insufficient grubbing often leads to avoidable complications in the future, such as shifting foundations, pavement cracks, and utility problems.
Comparing Small, Mid, and Large Dozer Sizes for Land Clearing
Follow these general rules when choosing the right dozer size for land clearing:
- Small Dozers: The smallest size is ideal for handling light brush and tight sites.
- Mid-Size Dozers: The mid-sized equipment is usually sufficient for most subdivision work.
- Large Dozers: Go with the biggest equipment when you are handling more intense conditions, such as dense timber, big stumps, rock, or steep ground.
The general recommendation is to choose the smallest machine that still allows you to do the job well. Bigger isn’t necessarily better, especially when a mismatch of a too-large dozer on the site can cost time and money.
The Most Common Clearing and Grubbing Methods
As a developer, you know that every site is unique, which is why there is never a one-size-fits-all scope of work for each project. Instead, the site details need to be evaluated so that a customized plan can be put in place.
Depending on the scope of work, some of the most common clearing and grubbing methods might include:
- Push-and-Pile: This method involves using the dozer to push vegetation into piles, then burning, chipping, or hauling the debris away.
- Forestry Mulching: If the goal is to leave mulch behind, then the growth is ground in place and left as a light cover over the soil. This method leaves roots in the ground.
- Multiple Types of Equipment: Most sites need different equipment for each phase, with excavators that can pull stumps and roots, as well as trucks that carry the debris and grubbed material off-site.
While burning is one method that can be used for land clearing, it is restricted in many areas. So, instead of burning, chipping or hauling is more common for material disposal.
The Benefits of Hiring One Contractor for Land Clearing and Excavation
Even though there are multiple phases that need to be handled for land clearing, it doesn’t mean that you need to hire multiple contractors. Often, it makes sense to choose one contractor that offers full-service solutions.
For example, when you have one contractor handling clearing, grubbing, hauling, and even excavation, then there is one point of responsibility for the full scope of work. Plus, it’s easier to avoid delays since there are fewer handoffs.
While there are ways to make it work with separate crews, the risk of delays is much higher because of the gaps between the crews.
FAQs
What’s the difference between land clearing and grubbing?
Clearing focuses specifically on removing the above-ground vegetation. On the other hand, grubbing targets the underground things that need to be removed, such as stumps and roots below the surface.
How long does it take to clear a 25-acre site?
Depending on the vegetation, terrain, and hauling requirements, clearing a 25-acre site can usually be completed relatively quickly. Light brush conditions can often be finished in about a week or two. But more intensive conditions that involve heavy timber or a long hauling distance can require multiple weeks. Also, keep in mind that weather conditions can impact the timeline.
Should I hire one contractor for clearing, grubbing, and hauling, or separate crews?
It’s usually faster, simpler, and more affordable to hire one contractor. This approach will simplify your scheduling and keep responsibility in one place from start to finish.
What size of dozer for 25 acres?
For a 25-acre site, the most common choice is a mid-size dozer. Additionally, it’s helpful to have an excavator to pull up the roots and stumps, and trucks will be needed to haul away the debris.
Expert Recommendations for Your Large-Scale Land Clearing Project
If you are prepping for a big land clearing project, then rest assured knowing that our team at Venditti is here to help every step of the way. Reach out to us before finalizing your schedule or budget. We’ll help with the planning process to ensure you achieve optimal results for your project.
Our crew brings many years of experience, and we have the equipment needed to clear your site. For more information about available services, contact Venditti, LLC to request a consultation.
