Excavation and grading are not the same thing, but both are used for construction projects such as foundation repair, digging trenches, and installing water pipes. In the building and landscaping industries, excavation involves digging up and removing large amounts of soil, rocks, and plants. This must often be done in the beginning stages of construction projects, followed by — you guessed it –grading.
Once an excavation is complete, you can well imagine how uneven a surface can be. Erecting a structure on top would be a recipe for disaster, and this is why leveling out the ground is so important. And while excavation is generally followed by grading, it is not a necessary precursor. That’s because grading is also done before driveways, decks, and patios are installed; it is also completed before laying sod, improving drainage, and preventing erosion. The grading can be totally flat or sloped, depending on the end purpose.
Examples of heavy equipment used for excavation and grading include:
- Excavator: Also called track hoes, these behemoths can weigh from 30,000 to 200,000 pounds and are designed to dig deep. An operator sits inside and controls the machine’s bucket and other attachments. Mini-excavators work better in small spaces and have open seating areas.
- Skid steers: These are also good for small spaces and can make tight turns. They come in various sizes and have buckets and other kinds of attachments. They are used for excavation, demolition, grading, and other heavy-duty tasks.
- Bulldozers: These come in different sizes and use blades. You will see larger models on big construction sites and roadwork locations.
Contact us at Snead’s Outdoor Services to learn more about our excavation and grading services and ask about our free estimates.