When you are hiring a contractor, it can be helpful to find a team that offers a wide range of services. This approach gives you access to multiple services, without the need to hire different providers. Certain services go hand-in-hand, such as demolition and excavation.
While there are distinct differences between demolition services and excavation services, you can find a contractor who offers support for both parts of the project. It’s important that you understand the differences between these specialties so you know the specific services you need for your project.
Here is an overview to help you compare demolition and excavation, helping you decide on the contractor that you should hire for help with these services:
Demolition: What is It?
Any time a building or structure needs to be torn down, you need to hire a contractor who offers demolition services. Sometimes, demolition involves removing the entire structure. Other times, it’s a partial removal using controlled methods to avoid damage to the rest of the structure.
There are different approaches to demolition, depending on the size of the project and the materials in the building. For example, big machinery is necessary when tearing down an entire building. But smaller projects, such as stripping the interior for a full remodel, require smaller tools.
If you are planning to construct a new building, a full demolition is necessary to clear the area. Then, excavation will be the next step to prepare the ground so it is ready for construction.
An experienced demolition contractor will follow specific steps to ensure a safe and satisfactory outcome for the demolition:
- Inspection: First, it’s important to inspect the structure so the contractor knows what they are working with. During this inspection, the team assesses the conditions of the building and identifies any potential safety issues that need to be addressed.
- Permits: Make sure to always have the necessary permits in hand before demolition begins. An experienced contractor will handle the permit process on behalf of their customers.
- Service Disconnection: There is serious risk when demolishing a building with active services. Any existing services should always be disconnected before starting on the project, including the electricity, gas, and water. Once these services are disconnected, then it is safe to move forward with the demolition.
Once the building comes down, it doesn’t mean that demolition services are complete. A good contractor finishes the job by hauling away the demolished materials and disposing of them in the proper places. The goal is to leave a “clean slate” so the area is ready for the next stage of the project, such as excavation and construction.
Excavation: What is It?
Once the demolition is complete, then it’s time to move forward with excavation. Additionally, excavation work is sometimes necessary as a standalone service (without demolition services).
Excavation involves the movement of dirt, mud, and rocks to prepare the site for construction. These services can include flattening and compacting the ground, as well as digging a foundation or tunneling through earthy materials.
It’s a lot more complicated that you might realize to excavate the land before construction. Many different factors must be addressed to ensure the site is prepared properly to accommodate the upcoming construction plans.
Additionally, it’s important that the excavation crew has full information about the site before the work begins. There are many dangerous conditions that not only pose a threat, but could also delay the project if they aren’t handled correctly. So, full land surveying needs to happen before excavation.
Here are some of the steps an excavation contractor will follow before they start working on a project:
- Staking the Site: If there are any utility lines or pipes, then it is important to mark these potential hazards. Staking is also done to mark where the work is being completed, including the perimeter of the property.
- Clearing Vegetation: All vegetation, such as grass and trees, need to be removed so the site can be excavated. Proper methods are used to remove this vegetation, including digging up the roots if necessary.
- Ground Tracing: Next, the excavation plan is implemented by marking the center lines. Additionally, the depth must be measured.
- Excavation Services: Now that the prep work is done, it’s time to move forward with the actual excavation. This process might include a variety of processes, including both mechanical or manual excavation.
Not only does the dirt need to be moved and cleared, but it’s common to also include rough grading as part of the project. For example, if soil is removed from the side, then it might be replaced with topsoil that is brought in to finish the project.
What are the Differences Between Demolition and Excavation?
As you can see, there are distinct differences between these two services. Often, both demolition and excavation are essential before starting a construction project. But these two terms shouldn’t be used as synonyms because there are big differences in the work that is completed for each of these stages of preparation.
Since demolition and excavation often go together, it makes sense to find a contractor who offers both services. Hiring the same company for both demolition and excavation is beneficial because you don’t have to worry about coordinating with multiple contractors.
Most of the time, excavation is required after demolition. You can also find contractors who solely offer excavation services if there is no need for demolition. The good news is that an experienced contractor can provide personalized care for each project, offering the specific services that are an ideal fit for your unique needs.
Call for a Demolition and Excavation Consultation
What do you need help with for your upcoming construction project? Whether you need excavation, demolition, or both, our team is here to assist. We offer reputable services in the local area, and a variety of solutions for projects both large and small.
When you are looking for a demolition and excavation contractor, rest assured knowing that our team always prioritizes safety and communication. Contact use to schedule a consultation: our team at Venditti Demolition, LLC is here to help.
