The utmost important task that takes place before initiating a construction project is the site preparation. It is the introduction to the foundation of any structure such as a new house, business, barn, or garage. A proper site preparation aims to achieve a safe and stable base for a strong foundation that will have a long-lasting stability. The site prep quality lies in optimizing the steps required in the process.
Several activities take place during the site preparation process. One of those activities is done by experts in soil testing.
1. Soil Testing
To determine the type of foundation that the site will require, engineers check the soil to see if it is strong enough to support the foundation of the building that will be erected on that site. If after testing the soil they consider that the land will need extra foundation support to prevent any damaged foundation in the future, the correct measures will be taken to stabilize the soil with appropriate material amendments.
2. Investigating the presence of underground utility lines.
If there are utility lines underground, the homeowner or the contractor needs to call 811 to get the approximate location of the lines marked. This procedure is to prevent any damage to underground installations and accidents that could occur during the excavation process. The excavation near the markings must be done with great care and attention to avoid trouble or danger.
If there are no utility lines installation, during the excavation process, trenches will be made for the new installation of water, sewer, gas, electricity, drainage, etc.
3. Site Clearing
Any obstruction on the site will be removed such as unwanted buildings, trees, stumps, roots, logs, brush, debris, rocks, and any organic material. Ease site of access will be created to allow construction machinery and large dump trucks to haul amendments and other materials to the site.
4. Excavation/Leveling/Grading
Once the site is cleared, the excavation process begins. Large machinery starts moving dirt to the required level for the foundation. Sometimes, dirt will be hauled in to provide the accurate height, level, and grade necessary for drainage prevention and erosion.
5. Compacting
After grading the site, it must be compacted to a certain density. This process is necessary to ensure that the soil underneath will support the foundation and the structure.
A site preparation project requires large heavy machinery and expertise to perform a quality job. Midwest Landworx offers quality site preparation services. Contact us for a free quote at 325-283-2550 or send us a message.