Are you curious about how companies come up with excavation prices? If so, here’s a great article for you.
The median cost for land excavation is around $3500 for homes, but for businesses and industrial sites, it may be more. Even so, the factors that go into calculating the total cost of excavation remain the same.
Here’s a summary of what goes into site excavation costs, so you know what to expect.
Site Factors
One of the biggest drivers of excavation cost is what goes on at a site. No two sites are alike, which means that cost calculations can be tricky. In some cases, it’s impossible to tell exactly how much you’ll pay until you break ground.
Soil Type
The condition of the ground makes a big difference in the amount of work that’s needed. If the soil is rocky or heavy it could require additional time to move. Buried boulders can be an especially tough problem to deal with, requiring demolition.
Weather and Climate
Heavy, wet soil can also present issues for excavators. If the area experienced a lot of rain recently, it may be more difficult to control mud and find a stable surface for machinery.
Amount of Material to Be Excavated
Greater depth in the excavation process means the removal of more cubic meters. Most companies charge by volume in addition to other factors like time and work materials.
Shaping the Land
In any excavation project, the ground has to be shaped to accommodate whatever it will be used for. For example, if there’s a parking lot going in, workers will pack and roll it so potholes don’t eventually develop.
Debris Removal
Excavation costs may also increase if the excavator needs to move rocks and trees off of the property. Anything in the way of the new construction will have to go, whether it’s old concrete, organic material, or something else. Moving dirt isn’t necessarily difficult, but it does take time and can make a mess.
Costs of Labor
Excavation contractors may work for construction companies or civil engineering firms. They may also work independently for an hourly rate. Professional excavators usually have experience, so you can expect them to work efficiently.
Equipment Costs
Commercial excavation can’t happen without the right equipment, which in some cases may add to the bill. If special tools are needed to extricate large rocks, some of that cost may pass to the customer.
Permitting and Safety Issues
Land excavation can be risky sometimes. Always remember, it’s important to call 811 before you dig anywhere! The deeper down you go, the more you should worry about buried cable lines and pipes.
A good excavation company will know how to check for underground problems and avoid them. They’ll also be able to handle any local permits required by utility companies and local governments.
Now You Know How Companies Calculate Excavation Prices
Now that you’ve read this article, you should understand the factors that contribute to excavation prices. Use this information to help you make informed decisions about your upcoming land construction projects.
If you’d like to talk with a professional excavator, get in touch with us. You can give us a call or schedule a free estimate on our website.
