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Undertaking a residential excavation and leveling project, such as removing all the sod in your backyard and leveling the area, can significantly transform your outdoor space. This guide will walk you through the critical stages and considerations necessary for a successful project, from planning and design to execution and completion.

 

Planning and Design

1. Define Your Goals

 

Begin with a clear vision of what you want to achieve. Are you planning to install a new lawn, garden, patio, or pool? Your end goal will determine the scope of work and the specific requirements for your project.

Consider the following questions to refine your goals:

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• What is the primary function of the space (recreation, gardening, aesthetics)?

• What features do you want to include (pathways, water features, outdoor kitchen)?

• How much maintenance are you willing to perform regularly?

• What are you willing to spend on this project?

• Will you be hiring professionals, or is this a DIY project from start to finish?

 

2. Site Assessment

Conduct a thorough site assessment to understand the existing conditions. This includes:

 

Soil Analysis

You'll want to consider the soil and earth where you excavation job will be taking place. Well drained soft soil will make things much easier vs. working with hard, rocky earth when maneuvering and using heavy machinery. You'll also want to consider the weather - working in the rain or in wet conditions drastically slows things down. You'll also be surprised how long the earth takes to thaw after the winter - if it's early spring, you'll want to test the ground conditions with a spade to ensure complete ground thaw. While excavation can be done year-round, frozen or even partially thawed ground will drastically slow down work and increase costs.

 

Topography

Assess the current slope and elevation. Use tools like a laser level or hire a surveyor to get accurate measurements. Proper grading ensures water flows away from structures and prevents pooling.

 

Vegetation

Identify existing plants, trees, and sod that need removal. Decide which vegetation to keep, relocate, or discard. This step helps in planning the removal process and minimizing damage to desirable plants.

 

Utilities

Locate any underground utilities (water, gas, electricity) to avoid damage during excavation. Contact local utility companies to mark these lines. It's crucial for safety and prevents costly repairs. In Alberta you can call One Call, or go to www.clickbeforeyoudig.com

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Remember, locating utility lines can take up to 5 business days. In fact, we've found it generally always takes 4-5 business days. So plan ahead as you'll likely be waiting a full week once you put a ticket in with One Call Alberta before you can start y our porject.

 

3. Design and Layout

Create a detailed design and layout plan. Consider hiring a landscape architect or designer if the project is complex. Your plan should include:

 

Dimensions and Boundaries

Take precise measurements of the area. Use stakes and string lines to mark boundaries physically. Accurate dimensions are essential for ordering materials and planning machinery movement.

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When planning your excavation project, the cost will be greatly driven by the cubic yards of materials you are removing or replacing. You will want to calculate cubic yards as soon as you can.

 

Grading Plan

A grading plan indicates the desired elevations and slopes. It helps in achieving proper drainage and creating a level surface. Use contour lines to illustrate changes in elevation.

 

Drainage Plan

Ensure proper water runoff to avoid future issues. Incorporate elements like French drains, swales, or retention ponds if necessary. Proper drainage prevents waterlogging and erosion.

 

Heavy Machinery and Site Access

1. Machinery Requirements

Identify the types of machinery needed for excavation and leveling. Common equipment includes:

 

Excavators

Excavators are essential for digging and removing large amounts of soil. They come in various sizes, from compact models for small spaces to larger ones for extensive projects. Ensure the chosen excavator fits your site constraints. A general rule of thumb is that a mini excavator needs about 4 feet of clearance, and a bobcat or skid steer closer to 6 feet.

 

Skid Steer Loaders

Skid steer loaders are versatile machines used for grading, leveling, and moving materials. They are highly maneuverable, making them suitable for residential projects with tight spaces.

 

Dump Trucks & Trailers

Dump trucks transport debris and excess soil offsite. Choose a size that matches your project's scale. Ensure there is a suitable location for the truck to load and unload materials. Oftentimes dump trailers are preferable for smaller jobs and can be maneuvered more favorably in and out of a backyard. Keep in mind, the drive time from the workspace to the dump trailer is a significant factor in the cost of your project as it will increase your labor cost or number of hours required to complete the job. A standard hydraulic dump trailer is 14' long and 7' wide.

 

Sod Cutters

Sod cutters efficiently remove existing sod without disturbing the underlying soil too much. They are particularly useful for projects focused on replanting or installing new landscaping features.

 

2. Site Access

Ensure that your site is accessible to heavy machinery. Consider:

 

Access Points

Identify or create access points wide enough for machinery to enter and exit. This might involve removing sections of fencing or creating temporary pathways.

 

Surface Conditions

Ensure the ground is stable and can support heavy equipment. Reinforce weak areas with gravel or plywood sheets to prevent machinery from getting stuck or causing damage.

 

Obstacles

Remove or relocate any obstacles, such as fences, trees, or large rocks, that might hinder access. Plan the removal process carefully to avoid unnecessary damage or delays.

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Consider again that a mini excavator may need up to 4' of width and 8' of height clearance and a skid steer may require up to 6' of width and 7' of height clearance.

 

Budgeting

1. Cost Estimation

Develop a detailed budget that accounts for all aspects of the project:

 

Labor Costs

Include wages for operators and laborers. Rates vary based on location, expertise, and project complexity. Obtain quotes from multiple contractors to get a fair estimate. Consider that an experienced operator generally is paid around $40 CAD per hour.

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Equipment Rental

Account for daily or weekly rental fees for machinery. Include costs for delivery, fuel, and potential overtime charges. Compare rental companies to find the best rates. Consider that the daily rental cost of a dump trailer and skid steer or mini excavator could be around $500 CAD per day when factoring in fuel and delivery charges. You will also need to consider that large damage deposits are generally required to rent and operate a machine, as well as proof of experience in using heavy machinery.

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Materials

Calculate costs for new soil, sod, gravel, or other materials. Factor in delivery charges and potential wastage. Ensure you have enough materials to complete the project without delays.

 

Permits and Inspections

Include fees for necessary permits and inspections. Contact local authorities to determine specific requirements and costs. Factor in time for processing permits in your project timeline.

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Disposal Costs

The costs to dispose of materials may shock you. Generally, clean fill is free at the city dump (pure soil, nothing else). If you mix in Sod or other biological debris, you'll be in for a huge bill at your local City run dump. Search out places you can dispose of materials for less cost. We've found you can find places in Calgary running at about $25-$50 dumping per yard of yard debris like rocks, sod, tree roots, and more. However, many of these cheaper dumping sites require that you're a licensed contractor or business.

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Use our simple pricing calculator by clicking here. Note that this is a basic pricing calculator, and many factors can add to the cost of your unique job.

2. Contingency Fund

Set aside a contingency fund (typically 10-20% of the total budget) to cover unexpected expenses, such as encountering rocks or roots that require additional work. This buffer ensures your project can continue smoothly despite unforeseen challenges. If you're working with a contractor, they will often ask if you want a variable hourly rate for the work being done, or a fixed price. Choosing a variable rate can often be favorable if things go smoothly, but increase substantially if there are other obstacles or delays. Keep in mind, generally a contractor will add a 20% or more increase to a fixed price to account for any unforeseen delays in the number of hours they estimate it may take. Contingency funds are necessary no matter how you tackle your project, as unexpected obstacles, or even a freak storm can change the outlook or your project.

 

Unique Obstacles

1. Weather Conditions

Weather can significantly impact excavation and leveling. Plan for potential delays due to rain or extreme temperatures, which can affect soil stability and machinery performance.

Rain

Heavy rainfall can saturate the soil, making it difficult to work with and increasing the risk of machinery getting stuck. Plan for alternative workdays in case of rain delays.

Extreme Temperatures

Extreme heat or cold can affect both workers and machinery. Ensure workers have adequate hydration and breaks in hot weather and plan for equipment maintenance in freezing conditions.

 

2. Soil Stability

Unstable soil or the presence of large rocks can complicate excavation. Conduct a soil test to identify potential issues and consult with a geotechnical engineer if necessary.

Large Rocks and Roots

Encountering large rocks or tree roots can delay progress. Plan for additional labor or specialized equipment to handle these obstacles.

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Additional Considerations

1. Safety Measures

Prioritize safety throughout the project:

 

Protective Gear

Ensure all workers wear appropriate protective gear, such as helmets, gloves, and high-visibility clothing. Regularly inspect gear for wear and tear.

 

Training

Only qualified and trained operators should handle machinery. Conduct regular safety briefings and ensure all workers understand the risks and safety procedures.

 

Hazard Mitigation

Clearly mark hazardous areas and keep the site clean and organized. Regularly inspect the site for potential hazards and address them promptly.

 

2. Post-Excavation Work

Plan for post-excavation tasks, such as:

Soil Amendment

Add compost or fertilizers to improve soil quality. This step is crucial for supporting new vegetation and ensuring long-term soil health.

New Planting

Install new sod, plants, or hardscape features according to your design plan. Follow best practices for planting and ensure proper watering and maintenance.

Irrigation

Set up an efficient irrigation system to maintain your new landscape. Consider drip irrigation or automated sprinkler systems to conserve water and ensure even coverage.

3. Professional Assistance

Consider hiring professionals for various stages of the project. Landscapers, engineers, and construction experts can provide valuable expertise and ensure high-quality results.

 

Landscape Architects

A landscape architect can help with design and planning, ensuring your project is aesthetically pleasing and functional.

 

Professional Excavator & Landscaper

A professional operator can take on your project and run the heavy machinery while a Landscaper can help with planning, design, and installation of any trees/stones/sod etc. that you may need.

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Consider hiring independent contractors to take on each aspect of your project, or work with a general contractor or experienced company that can see your project from start to finish.

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QuoteMyYard.com is here to help. Send us a message today by starting a quote now. We will review all of your information and source the most qualified contractor(s) or trusted companies in Calgary to contact you. We understand this industry and are seasoned veterans in landscaping, excavation, concrete, and more. We have decades of experience and industry insights and connections to ensure that you're being looked after by trusted professionals.

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Conclusion

A successful residential excavation and leveling project requires meticulous planning, appropriate machinery, a realistic budget, and careful consideration of unique obstacles. By following these guidelines and preparing for potential challenges, you can transform your outdoor space efficiently and effectively, achieving the desired results with minimal stress and disruption. Proper planning and execution ensure that your new landscape not only meets your immediate needs but also remains sustainable and beautiful for years to come.