Frequently Asked Questions

Clear Answers regarding Excavation, Grading, and Site Work.

Your Trusted Excavation Partner

At Lehigh Valley Excavating, we understand that choosing the right excavation contractor is an important decision. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from homeowners, contractors, and commercial developers throughout Hellertown, Bucks County, Lehigh County, Northampton County, and surrounding areas.

General questions

  • What types of services do you offer?

    We offer a full range of excavation and site development services, including:

    • Excavation for residential and commercial construction
    • Concrete foundation preparation
    • Land and lot clearing
    • Grading and leveling
    • Utility trenching (water, sewer, drainage)
    • Storm drainage installation
    • Retaining wall support
    • Demolition
    • Sinkhole repair
    • Septic system excavation
    • Driveway and road base grading
    • Snow plowing (seasonal)

    If your project involves moving earth, preparing land, or developing a site, we can help.

  • Do you work with both homeowners and contractors?

    Yes. We work directly with homeowners, general contractors, builders, developers, municipalities, and property managers. Whether you're managing a large commercial job or need excavation for a residential addition, we provide the same professional service and attention to detail.

  • What areas do you serve?

    We proudly serve:

    • Hellertown, PA
    • Bucks County
    • Lehigh County
    • Northampton County
    • Surrounding Lehigh Valley communities

    We may also accept projects just outside these areas depending on the scope and location. Contact us to confirm availability for your project.


Excavation Services

  • What does excavation involve?

    Excavation typically includes digging, removing soil, shaping the land, and preparing the site for construction or utility installation. Common excavation tasks include:

    • Digging foundations and footings
    • Basement or crawlspace excavation
    • Utility trenching (water, sewer, electrical)
    • Dirt removal and site leveling
    • Backfilling and compaction

    We evaluate your site’s soil, elevation, and access to plan the safest and most efficient approach to your excavation needs.


  • How long does a typical excavation project take?

    Timeframes vary depending on the project size and site conditions. A simple residential foundation excavation may take 1–3 days, while larger commercial sites may require a week or more. Once we assess your site, we’ll provide a clear timeline before work begins.

  • Do you locate underground utilities before digging?

    Yes. We coordinate with Pennsylvania One Call to have all underground utilities marked before we begin any excavation or trenching work. Safety is our top priority, and we strictly follow all regulations related to utility avoidance.

Land Clearing and Grading

  • What does land clearing include?

    Land clearing services typically include:

    • Removal of trees, brush, and stumps
    • Clearing overgrown vegetation
    • Debris hauling and site cleanup
    • Rough grading to prepare for construction

    We also offer fine grading and erosion control services once the land is cleared.


  • Can you remove stumps and roots?

    Yes. We offer full stump removal services, including stump grinding and root excavation. This is especially important when preparing land for concrete foundations, landscaping, or future construction.

  • Do you offer grading for driveways and drainage?

    Absolutely. We provide both rough and finish grading services for driveways, yards, parking lots, and entire building sites. We also grade for proper water drainage, helping to prevent flooding and erosion.

Foundation and Concrete Preparation

  • Do you prepare sites for concrete slabs and footings?

    Yes. We specialize in foundation excavation and subgrade preparation. Our services include:

    • Excavation for footings, slabs, and basements
    • Compaction of subsoil
    • Gravel base installation
    • Grading to elevation
    • Drainage trenching and waterproofing prep

    We work closely with concrete contractors to make sure your foundation is built on solid, well-prepared ground.


  • Can you provide excavation for retaining walls?

    Yes. We can excavate, grade, and backfill for retaining walls on both residential and commercial properties. We ensure proper drainage and compaction to support long-term structural stability.

Drainage and Utilities

  • Do you install foundation drainage systems?

    Yes. We install exterior foundation drainage systems including French drains, footing drains, and sump pit excavation. These systems help prevent water intrusion and structural damage caused by poor drainage.

  • Can you trench for water and sewer lines?

    Yes. We provide utility trenching for water lines, sewer lines, and stormwater systems. We also assist with tie-ins, backfill, and coordination with local inspectors or utility companies.

  • What if my property has drainage problems?

    We can assess your grading, soil, and runoff issues to recommend and install effective drainage solutions. This may include regrading, installing swales, or adding underground drainage systems to divert water safely away from structures.

Demolition

  • Do you provide demolition services?

    Yes. We offer residential and light commercial demolition services, including:

    • House and garage demolition
    • Interior and selective demolition
    • Concrete removal
    • Shed and outbuilding removal
    • Debris hauling and site cleanup

    We handle all necessary prep, permitting support, and post-demo grading.


  • Is demolition safe?

    We follow strict safety protocols during all demolition work. This includes utility disconnection, hazard assessment, dust and debris control, and safe equipment operation. All debris is removed and properly disposed of.

Scheduling and Estimates

  • How do I get an estimate?

    Call us at (484) 666-7113 or email lehighvalleyexcavating@gmail.com. We’ll schedule a visit to your site, assess your needs, and provide a free, detailed estimate based on scope, access, materials, and equipment required.

  • How soon can you start my project?

    Start dates depend on our current schedule and your project’s readiness. In many cases, we can begin within one to two weeks. For urgent work—like sinkhole repair or drainage emergencies—we offer 24/7 response.

  • Do you offer emergency excavation?

    Yes. We are available 24/7 for emergency services including:

    • Sinkhole stabilization
    • Storm damage excavation
    • Broken utility line trenching
    • Flood-related drainage support

    If your property is at risk, call us immediately.


Licensing, Insurance, and Equipment

  • Are you licensed and insured?

    Yes. Lehigh Valley Excavating is fully insured, and we operate with the necessary credentials to perform excavation, demolition, and grading work safely and legally in Pennsylvania.

  • What kind of equipment do you use?

    We operate a full fleet of excavation and grading equipment, including:

    • Excavators
    • Skid steers
    • Dozers
    • Trenching machines
    • Compactors
    • Dump trucks

    This allows us to perform everything from small residential jobs to large commercial site work.


Still Have Questions?

If you didn’t find the answer you were looking for here, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to explain our process, provide site-specific recommendations, or schedule an on-site visit.


contact us

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Hellertown, Pennsylvania 18055

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(484) 666-7113

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lehighvalleyexcavating@gmail.com

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Available: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Let’s discuss your next excavation project and see how we can help you get started.

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