Whether you're installing a swimming pool, adding another room to your house, or building a brand-new home, excavating is likely to be a part of the job. Digging out and removing the earth requires the assistance of a skilled contractor to ensure the safety of all those involved, including property owners, contractors, and other workers. However, being familiar with this part of the project, as well as factors to avoid, will keep the excavation process running smoothly and efficiently. 

Do:

Have numbers for emergency services and utility companies. 

Swift action is vital if an accident occurs or a utility line is damaged. Keep the phone numbers for the gas, water, electric, and other underground utility companies on hand throughout the duration of the project. Contacting the appropriate authorities or parties if there's a problem will prevent more harmful and costly consequences.

Watch kids and pets, and keep them inside during ongoing work. 

Children and pets are naturally curious, and they could easily get into trouble if they're left unsupervised when construction work is going on around them. Keep little ones inside the house until the project is complete. If your dog needs to go outside, take them on a leash to ensure they stay out of the way. This will also keep them from running off if they get scared by the noises of heavy machinery. This will help contractors operate more efficiently since they won't need to deal with distractions. 

Don't:

Remove color-coded markings.

Excavation contractors have underground utilities marked in different colors to help them avoid potentially dangerous situations. Don't remove these until the work is finished. If you notice that they have been disturbed, inform the excavating company right away, so they can be redone. 

Place excavated earth too close to the edge of the trench.

Contractors are extremely careful when digging out trenches to ensure the areas remain stable and safe to work in. They set the displaced earth at least 2 feet away from the excavation spots since the soil can cause the surrounding ground to slip down or collapse if it's too close to the edge. 

Leave dirt piles where they are, even if they're cluttering up your yard. Once the job is complete, you can double-check with workers to verify that they're OK to move.

Turn to the skilled and knowledgeable team at Above Grade Excavating when you need earth moved for a renovation project. These professionals are located in Medway, OH, and they have over 30 years of experience in the construction industry. They help with all facets of a job, from the design to the finished product. These contractors also offer demolition, custom framing, and carpentry services, and they can help build decks, retaining walls, and patios. They're equipped to handle anything from light residential work to heavy-duty commercial jobs. Learn more about their excavation services online, or call (937) 546-0228 to get started on a quote.