Just because the demolition is complete, it doesn’t mean that a work site is ready for construction. Other site preparation steps must be completed in order to ensure that the ground is stable and ready to hold the new foundation.
The truth is that demolition is just step one. The best solution is to hire a contractor that offers both demolition & excavation so that you can start with a clean slate when they are finished with the project. Our team offers full-service solutions to complete the demolition, followed by post-demolition excavation to clear anything that might be left behind.
These steps are critical to keep your project on track and help you avoid safety issues or major delays in the future. It’s important to prioritize preparatory work to make sure that your property is construction-ready.
Excavation After Demolition: Why It Matters
Site clearing after demolition is a step that shouldn’t be skipped. There are actually many tasks and components that shouldn’t be overlooked during this time:
- Debris Removal: We need to haul away all of the materials that were taken down during the demolition. Our crew is experienced with all types of debris removal, including concrete, steel, and leftover rubble.
- Leveling & Grading: This step evens out the ground so that there is a safe and stable place where the foundation and construction can be laid. Leveling and grading for foundation preparation are critical to ensure that the building is stable in the future.
- Underground Utilities: Because potential risks can occur due to underground utilities, it’s important to expose and protect existing water, gas, or electrical lines. These areas need to be protected during demolition and construction to avoid complications and expensive delays.
- Old Foundations: Before a new foundation can be poured, it’s necessary to remove any old foundations that are on the property. We demolish the foundation and then haul away the concrete and other materials to clear the area.
- Contaminants: Sometimes, specialized care is needed for hazardous material removal during and after the demolition. If you have any hazardous materials on site, like asbestos or lead, then we are legally required to follow certain protocols to ensure safety.
What Happens During the Site Clearing After Demolition
Once the demolition is complete, what site clearing steps should you expect? Our team offers full excavation services, starting with an initial assessment and soil testing. We evaluate the remaining structures and debris to determine what needs to happen in order to clear the site completely.
We’ll bring heavy machinery on site for debris removal and excavation. Different tools are important for unique purposes. For example, some of the machines can be used to compact the soil, while others are helpful for loading and hauling the debris.
We work with the utility companies to mark out all of the lines and pipes. A thorough inspection and plan are necessary to avoid complications relating to damaged utility lines. Sometimes, these lines might need to be rerouted, depending on the construction plan and the current placement of the utilities.
Foundation preparation is the final step that needs to be addressed. We’ll dig the foundation according to the site plans, and also grade the area to make a smooth space for upcoming construction.
What Equipment Is Used in Excavation Services?
Our team has all of the necessary equipment that might be needed for both demolition and excavation. We’ll design your customized construction plan, then bring the necessary equipment for the fastest and safest demolition. Some of the most common types of equipment that might be used include:
- Excavators: for digging and lifting large materials and debris.
- Bulldozers: for moving rubble and leveling the ground.
- Backhoes: for flexible digging in tight spaces.
- Dump Trucks: for hauling debris off-site for disposal.
- Compactors: for stabilizing and preparing the soil before construction.
Safety Matters: Protecting People and the Environment
Regardless of the stage of demolition or excavation, we always prioritize safety every step of the way. Not only is it important to protect your property and surrounding structures, but we are also proactive about reducing the risk to crew members and other people on the job site.
We evaluate the plan and site-specific conditions and complete site surveys to protect utilities, then implement personalized strategies as needed to ensure that safety is maintained every step of the way. Our crew always follows excavation safety procedures and OSHA guidelines.
Other safety considerations including managing the proper removal and disposal of hazardous waste materials, as well as managing soil erosion and runoff to reduce complications in the future.
FAQs
Why can’t I start construction immediately after demolition?
Just because the old structures have been removed, it doesn’t mean that the site is ready for construction. Excavation is essential for site preparation, making sure that the ground is cleared and leveled.
How long does post-demolition excavation take?
The timeline depends on the size of the site and the scope of work that needs to be completed. Typically, post-demolition excavation can be done within a few days or weeks.
Do I need permits for excavation after demolition?
Yes, in most locations it’s necessary to have permits in hand before demolition and excavation can be completed. Our crew understands the local permit requirements, so we will ensure that all approvals are in place before the project begins.
Can excavation uncover hidden underground issues?
There are times when unknown issues are uncovered during the excavation process, which can cause delays and unnecessary costs. For example, additional work might be needed if we find unexpected utility lines, tanks, or pipes.
The Demolition & Excavation Experts are Here to Help
Not only does skipping excavation put your site at risk, but there are also legal requirements that must be met before construction can begin. The best thing that you can do is hire a contractor who offers both demolition and excavation services.
If you need help with demolition, excavation, or both, then reach out to our team to schedule a consultation. We offer both residential and commercial services, with support available for projects of all sizes. Contact our team at Venditti, LLC to request a consultation.
