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Excavation vs. Grading vs. Site Preparation

Where each scope begins and ends, and why many projects need all three.

Excavation decisions are easier when the scope is translated into the actual site conditions, quantities and finished result. This guide is written for Sarnia-Lambton property owners, builders and project buyers preparing to speak with contractors.

What to account for

  • Excavation removes or relocates material
  • Grading shapes elevations and drainage
  • Site preparation combines multiple groundwork stages
  • The same project may require all three

Questions to put in the written quote

  • What excavation and material handling is included?
  • What is excluded or priced as an allowance?
  • Who handles locates, permits or approvals that apply?
  • Is haul-off included? Where will material go?
  • What backfill, aggregate, compaction and grading are included?
  • What condition will the site be left in when the excavation crew is done?
Use the guide as a scoping tool, not a substitute for a site assessment. Excavation prices and methods can change materially with access, soil, water, depth, disposal and the end use of the site.

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