Excavating
Foundations, trenches, grading, and site work across Erie County. We own our equipment.
Excavation Specialists. Not Plumbers Who Dig.
How much?
$1,500 - $10,000
How long?
Most residential excavation projects are completed in 1-3 days
Licensed?
Fully Licensed & Insured
Why Choose Millie Excavating?
Western New York's Excavation Specialists - Trusted by homeowners across Erie County, NY.
Do I Need Excavating?
Check 2+ items to see if you need our services. Not sure? Call for a free consultation.
What Does Excavating Cost?
Every project is different. These estimates reflect typical ranges based on projects in Erie County. We provide free on-site estimates with detailed, written quotes. No surprises.
Small utility trench (20-50 linear feet)
Depth, soil conditions, and restoration affect final price
Foundation excavation (room addition)
Size, depth to frost line, and access are key factors
In-ground pool excavation
Pool size, backyard access, and soil disposal included
Yard grading and drainage
Square footage and amount of material moved determine cost
Pond or water feature
Size, depth, and whether liner prep is needed
Want an accurate quote for your specific project?
Get Your Free EstimateDo You Need Excavating?
Common signs to look for:
Planning a room addition or garage that requires foundation excavation
Need to install an in-ground pool or decorative pond
Existing yard has poor drainage and needs major grading work
Foundation settling or cracking that requires excavation to repair
Installing new utilities that need trenches (sewer, water, electrical)
Property needs extensive landscaping changes or retaining walls
Why Hire an Excavation Specialist?
Many plumbers, landscapers, and general contractors offer excavating as a side service, but they often subcontract the actual digging. Here's why that matters to you:
We Own Our Equipment
When you hire a plumber for sewer work, they typically subcontract excavation to someone else. Adding markup and coordination delays. We own excavators, backhoes, skid steers, and dump trucks. No middleman means better pricing and faster scheduling.
Excavation Is What We Do
A plumber digs maybe a few times a month. We dig every day. That experience translates to faster work, fewer surprises, and better results. We've seen every soil condition Erie County has to offer.
Superior Site Restoration
Companies that subcontract excavation often leave restoration as an afterthought. Because excavation IS our business, we take pride in leaving your property better than we found it: proper grading, compaction, and preparation for seeding or sod.
One Crew, Complete Control
No waiting for the excavation crew to show up while the plumber waits. No finger-pointing if something goes wrong. One crew, one point of contact, complete accountability for your project.
What Excavating Problems Do We Solve?
What This Work Looks Like
Real projects and real excavation — the kind of work we'll perform on your property.
Deep trench with PVC wye connecting pipes in Buffalo with exposed roots
Room Addition Foundation
Homeowners planning additions need precise excavation for new foundation footings. We excavate to the exact dimensions required by your contractor, dig below Erie County's frost line (42 inches), and ensure proper drainage around the new foundation. Our careful work provides a solid base for your addition and prevents future settling issues.
In-Ground Pool Installation
Pool excavation requires removing significant material while maintaining accurate depth and dimensions. We work with pool installers to excavate the pool hole, create level zones for the deck area, and ensure proper drainage around the pool. Our equipment can handle tight backyard access while minimizing damage to your existing landscaping.
Utility Trench Excavation
New sewer lines, water services, or electrical conduits require trenches dug to specific depths with proper slope. We carefully excavate utility trenches while protecting existing underground infrastructure. Our precision ensures your new utilities function properly and meet code requirements for depth and bedding material.
Yard Grading and Drainage
Properties with standing water, erosion, or improper slope need excavation to correct drainage issues. We remove and redistribute soil to create proper grade away from your foundation, eliminate low spots that collect water, and shape your yard for optimal drainage. This protects your foundation and creates a usable, dry yard.
Why Choose Us for Excavating?
We Own Our Equipment
No subcontractor markup. Excavators, backhoes, and skid steers ready for your project
Local Soil Expertise
We know Erie County's clay, rock, and high water table challenges
Complete Restoration
Your yard restored to original or better condition, guaranteed
Fast Turnaround
Most residential projects completed in 1-3 days
Excavating in Western New York
Erie County's clay, rock, and high water tables trip up contractors who aren't from here.
Lackawanna & South Buffalo
Heavy clay soils that hold water and become difficult to work when wet. Many properties have industrial fill from the steel mill era.
We schedule clay excavation for drier conditions when possible and use proper drainage techniques. We know how to identify and handle unexpected fill material safely.
Orchard Park & East Aurora
Rocky terrain with glacial deposits. Hidden boulders can stop inexperienced crews cold.
We bring rock-breaking attachments and have the horsepower to handle boulders. We factor potential rock into estimates so you're not surprised.
Lakefront Communities
High water tables near Lake Erie. Sand and saturated soils require dewatering and special techniques.
We use pumps and proper shoring for wet excavations. Our experience with lakefront properties means we plan for water before it becomes a problem.
Older Neighborhoods (Pre-1950)
Aging infrastructure, unmarked utilities, and tight lot access. Many homes have abandoned oil tanks, old wells, or obsolete utility lines.
We're thorough with utility locates and cautious with older properties. Our compact equipment fits tight spaces without sacrificing capability.
Permits & Local Requirements
Many excavation projects in Erie County require permits. We handle the paperwork so your project stays on track and passes inspection.
- Foundation excavation typically requires a building permit from your municipality
- Work near property lines may require surveys or setback verification
- Utility connections require coordination with the city or town DPW
- All excavation requires Dig Safely NY (811) utility marking. We handle this
- Some projects need erosion control plans, especially on slopes or near waterways
- Commercial projects often have additional site plan requirements
How Does Excavating Work?
Here's how it works.
Elevated view of multiple backfilled drainage trenches in Buffalo backyard
Site Assessment
We evaluate your property and mark utilities
Excavation
Precise digging to required depth and dimensions
Material Removal
Hauling away excess soil and debris
Final Grading
Level and grade for proper drainage
Site Restoration
Restore landscaping and clean up
Ready to get started?
Schedule Your ProjectWhat to Expect
Here's how the project typically goes.
Timeline
Most residential excavation projects are completed in 1-3 days. Simple trenches or small ponds can be done in a single day, while larger projects like foundation excavation for additions typically require 2-3 days. We work efficiently to minimize disruption to your property.
Disruption
Excavation involves heavy equipment like excavators and backhoes on your property. Expect noise during working hours (typically 7am-5pm), temporary disturbance to your lawn, and restricted access to work areas. We use track mats when possible to minimize lawn damage and keep a tidy job site. There will be piles of excavated soil until hauling is complete.
Your Prep
Clear the work area of any decorations, furniture, or valuable items. Mark any underground utilities you know about (irrigation, septic, propane tanks). Remove vehicles from driveways if we need access. If you have pets, plan to keep them indoors during excavation. Consider notifying neighbors about the temporary construction activity.
Communication
We walk the site with you before starting to review the plan and answer questions. During the project, our crew leader keeps you informed of progress and any unexpected findings (like rocky soil or unmarked utilities). We provide updates if weather or site conditions affect the timeline. Upon completion, we review the finished work with you to ensure satisfaction.
Our Equipment
What we bring to your job site.
Mini Excavator
Compact powerhouse that fits through 36" gates and works in tight spaces without destroying your lawn.
Backyard projects, tight access, utility trenches, small foundations
Standard Excavator
Full-size digging power for larger projects. Reaches deeper and moves more material per hour.
Pool excavation, large foundations, major grading, commercial projects
Backhoe
Versatile machine with front loader and rear excavator. Great for loading trucks and precision trenching.
Utility trenches, loading/hauling, medium excavation with material handling
Skid Steer
Nimble and powerful for grading, material spreading, and site cleanup. Multiple attachments available.
Final grading, material spreading, site prep, driveway work
Dump Truck
Haul away excavated material or deliver fill, topsoil, and gravel. Keeps your project moving.
Material removal, deliveries, keeping the job site clean
Excavating FAQs
What Our Customers Say
Real reviews from homeowners and businesses we've worked with across Erie County.
Why Does Excavating Matter?
Proper excavation is the foundation of any successful construction or landscaping project. Precise dimensions ensure your new structure sits level and stable. Correct depth prevents frost heave and foundation movement. Good excavation also addresses drainage, preventing future water problems that could undermine your investment. Hiring experienced excavators saves time, prevents costly mistakes, and gives contractors the perfect starting point for quality work.
Excavating Throughout Erie County
Serving all of Erie County.
Need Excavating?
Get a free estimate for your excavating project. We'll provide honest, upfront pricing and expert advice.
(716) 253-1527