Essential Excavation Tips from Your Local Experts

Summer in the Pacific Northwest means longer days, dry soil, and the perfect time to tackle outdoor projects. Whether you're planning a patio, fixing drainage, or just dreaming up your next landscaping upgrade, here are a few pro tips from your local excavating crew to help you get started right.

Tip #1: Know Before You Dig

Before you plant that tree, install a fence, or dig a trench—call 811 to locate underground utilities. You’d be surprised how many phone lines or water pipes hide just a few inches below the surface. Even small projects deserve a safety check.

Tip #2: Don’t Wait on Drainage

Summer might feel dry, but this is the best time to get ahead of winter flooding. If your yard had standing water this past rainy season, now’s the time to:

• Install French drains

• Regrade low spots

• Add gravel trenches or dry wells

A little work now can save you a soggy mess later.

Tip #3: Plan Hardscapes in Dry Months

Thinking about a patio, walkway, or retaining wall? Summer is ideal for hardscape prep. Dry soil means cleaner excavation, easier compaction, and quicker turnaround times. Whether you're DIY-ing or hiring out, it’s the best season to start with solid ground.

Tip #4: Use the Right Equipment (Or Call Us!)

We see a lot of weekend warriors try to tackle big projects with small shovels. It might be worth renting a mini-excavator—or calling us to handle the heavy lifting. We specialize in:

• Tight access excavation

• Patio and foundation prep

• Trenching for utilities

• Gravel driveways

No job’s too small—we’ve got the right tools for it.

Tip #5: Protect the Landscape

Excavation can be hard on your yard if it’s not done with care. Here’s how we help:

• Use track mats to protect lawns

• Clean, tight dig lines

• Minimal soil disruption

• Thoughtful exit paths to avoid rutting

  
  

Always ask your contractor what steps they take to protect your property.