For commercial properties, outdoor spaces are equally important because this is where customers and visitors form their first opinion about your business. So, should you focus on functionality or aesthetics? How about both?
Custom retaining walls enhance the look of your commercial premises while also providing much-needed stability.
Dirt Werx, LLC discusses its pick of four custom retaining wall designs to augment your commercial building.
Why Use Retaining Walls?
Retaining walls are an indispensable part of any outdoor property, as they help to hold back soil and other materials. This is especially important for commercial properties, as a retaining wall can prevent erosion and protect the underlying infrastructure.
In addition to valuable functions, these walls also provide a unique aesthetic that can elevate the look of your property.
Type 1: Gravity Retaining Wall
As its name suggests, a gravity retaining wall relies on its weight to stay in place. It allows for a massive material variety, including block, stone, and concrete. It’s also one of the most affordable retaining wall options.
If the structure is small with short walls, it will not require additional reinforcement. However, most gravity retaining walls will need at least a small trench to fit into and a concrete footer at the base.
Type 2: Cantilevered Retaining Wall
Very popular on commercial premises, cantilevered retaining walls are built by excavating a small trench and pouring concrete footings. Walls can be made from poured concrete, pre-cast concrete blocks, or interlocking units like brick or stone.
The weight of the soil above keeps the cantilevered wall in place. The backfill soil is compacted as the wall is built up, so there is little to no chance of the retaining wall failing.
Type 3: Sheet Piling Retaining Wall
This particular type of retaining wall is perfect for sloping or uneven ground. A sheet piling wall comprises a series of steel, wood, or vinyl sheets driven into the ground, forming a “wall” of sorts.
The sheet piling works only in soft soils, and for every two-thirds of the sheet above the earth, one-third should be driven below. It is a popular choice for waterfront property owners, as it effectively prevents erosion. However, larger walls will require additional anchoring, which can increase the cost of this retaining wall.
Type 4: Anchored Retaining Wall
Serving as a more permanent and heavy-duty retaining wall option is the anchored retaining wall. This type allows for various “fronts” or facades, as the wall is not visible from the front.
Instead, the wall is built behind the retaining wall, with only the anchors visible. The most common type of anchored retaining wall uses steel cables or rods driven into the ground and attached to a large plate at the base of the retention area. The plate is then filled with concrete, which helps to anchor the wall further.
The Gist
Now that we’ve explored the different options for retaining walls, it’s time to find the right one for your commercial premises. If you’re looking for a reliable and experienced company in Allentown, PA, to help with your retaining wall needs, look no further than Dirt Werx, LLC. We specialize in various retaining walls, from simple designs to custom builds.
Demolition is a process that can be pretty dangerous, and it’s crucial to take the necessary precautions to avoid any potential hazards. You need to follow a few tips and guidelines to stay safe during a demolition project and avoid potentially dangerous situations!
Some of the most common demolition hazards include falling debris, electrocution, and exposure to asbestos dust particles.
Dirt Werx LLC has a few pointers you should keep in mind to avoid these common hazards!
Clear The Area Before Starting Work
It’s essential to clear the area before starting work. If any objects or items could fall from above on someone below, they should be moved away beforehand. This will eliminate any potential risks of falling debris.
Wear Protective Clothing and Gear While Working on Site
Protective clothing is a must while working on-site. This includes gloves, eye protection (goggles or glasses), earplugs/muffs, respirator masks with HEPA filters for dust particles in the air such as asbestos fibers. Wearing safety gear while working will help to minimize the chances of any injuries further.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings and What You’re Doing
This may seem like common sense, but being aware of your surroundings is critical when it comes to demolition work. Make sure you know what you’re doing before starting any tasks and always be cautious.
Here are a few things that you need to know about your surrounding:
- Pay attention to where power lines are located and note that loose power lines could fall at any time.
- Always be on the lookout for animals such as birds or squirrels that may have made nests in your attic or anywhere else around the site where you are working.
- Also, keep an eye out for gas leaks so you can avoid potential explosions from leaking pipes. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid working near live wires or gas lines.
- Never stand on unstable surfaces.
- Use caution when handling heavy equipment. Wear the appropriate safety gear when operating heavy machinery. Be sure to read and follow all safety instructions before using any tools or equipment.
- Take care when removing walls, ceilings, or floors. Ensure you know where the framing is hidden so you don’t accidentally cut wires or pipes while demolishing.
- Finally, if you are looking for a contractor for demolition, make sure they are licensed and insured. Ask to see their safety certification. This is the most crucial step since an unprofessional contractor can turn your demolition project into a disaster.
If you want your excavation work in Hellertown done quickly and efficiently, contact Dirt Werx LLC for professional excavation services. We are a reputable excavation contractor with a proven track record. Your safety is our priority!
So, you have decided to excavate your land in Bangor! This is a big job, and you will need the help of an excavation contractor to get the job done right. But how to find the best one for the job? It can be tricky but don’t worry.
This blog post by Dirt Werx LLC will explain how to hire an excavation contractor the right way. So read on and learn how to hire the best excavation contractor for your project.
Ensure they are Experienced in Your Specific Excavation Project
There are several types of excavation projects:
Underground Excavation: Underground or sub-surface excavation removes soil, rock, and other materials from beneath the ground. This type of excavation is often required for sewer lines, water pipes, and tunnels.
Muck Excavation: Muck excavations are used when there’s a need to remove material such as mud and sludge from a construction site.
Drainage Excavation: In drainage excavation, trenches are dug to create a system of underground drainage. This is often done in areas with too much water or unstable ground.
Foundation Excavation: In foundation excavation, trenches are dug around the perimeter of a building to create a foundation. This type of excavation is necessary when laying down a foundation.
The first step is to ensure the contractor you are considering has experience with your specific excavation project. For example, if you excavate a basement, make sure the contractor has done this before. If not, they may not be aware of all the nuances and potential challenges involved in your specific job. This can result in costly mistakes and delays.
Ask for References
It is also essential to check the contractor’s references. Ask for past clients and contact them about their experience working with the contractor. Were they happy with the quality of work? Did the project stay on schedule? Was there any damage or disruption to their property? You will better understand how the contractor may perform on your project by getting feedback from past clients.
When asking for references, also ask to see photos of past work. This is a proven way to determine if the quality of their work meets your standards and fits with your vision.
Ensure They Have a License and Insurance
For your protection, you must hire a licensed and insured excavation contractor. When researching prospective contractors, check to see if they have the proper licenses and insurance. If possible, ask for a copy of their license or proof of insurance to be sure.
Licensed contractors are required by law to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This insurance will cover any injuries that occur on the job site. If an uninsured contractor causes damage, you could be held liable.
Insurance also protects you from potential damages to your property caused by the excavation work. If something goes wrong and the contractor is not insured, you could be responsible for those damages.
If you want to get your excavation work done smoothly and without interruptions, you can always count on Dirt Werx LLC for unmatched excavation services in Bangor. Our excavation company is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. We are an experienced excavation contractor that you can trust with all your excavating needs. Get a free estimate.
Don’t Let Your Home Fall Apart: Learn About A Stable Foundation And Good Site Drainage.
There are a lot of factors to consider when you’re renovating or building a new home. An important but often overlooked is site drainage and a stable foundation. By ensuring your property has proper drainage and a sturdy foundation, you can avoid costly repairs down the road and keep your home in Mount Bethel, PA, looking its best for years to come.
The construction experts at Dirt Werx LLC share critical information about stable foundations and site drainage.
Characteristics of a Stable Foundation:
A stable foundation is critical for a long-lasting building. It’s essential to make sure your property has a solid foundation to handle the weight of the house and the elements. You should do the following to ensure your foundation is stable:
- Check for cracks in the walls or floor;
- Look for signs of bowing in the walls;
- Check for water damage or evidence of leaks;
Detecting Foundation Damage:
One of the best ways to check for foundation damage is checking your doors and windows. If they are difficult to open or close, it could signify that your foundation is sinking. You can also check for concrete cracks or mortar cracks between the bricks. Another sign of foundation damage is if you notice any differences in the height of your floors from one room to another.
Fixing Foundation Damage:
If you find signs of foundation damage, it’s essential to have it fixed as soon as possible. Leaving foundation damage untreated can lead to more significant and more expensive problems down the road. There are a few ways to repair foundation damage, but underpinning is the most common. Underpinning involves installing new concrete pillars or beams beneath the existing foundation to support it.
Features of a Good Site Drainage:
If you have an excellent site drainage system in place, it can help protect your home from severe problems like flooding and foundation damage. It’s essential to ensure that your site drainage system is installed correctly and maintained. Some of the features of a sound site drainage system include:
- A graded landscape that slopes away from your home;
- Drainage pipes that are appropriate in size and slope in the right direction;
- Grates or screens over drainage pipes to keep debris from clogging them up;
Detecting Issues:
It’s vital to detect any problems with your home’s foundation and site drainage early on so that you can take corrective action. Some signs that indicate problems include:
- Water standing in your yard after a rainstorm;
- Mud or water leaking into your basement;
- Cracks in the concrete of your foundation;
- Sinking or settling of your home’s foundation;
Solution:
- Pouring gravel over the soil;
- Installing French drains to prevent water collection;
- Repairing cracks in the foundation by filling with cement or epoxy;
- Use piers and jacks for sinking foundation;
If you notice any foundation drainage or site drainage problems at your home in Mount Bethel, PA, it’s essential to address them as soon as possible. Dirt Werx LLC offers various services to help homeowners maintain their home’s stability and prevent future problems. Get a free estimate today.
The Secret Ingredients That Make Site Preparation Crucial To Your Construction Project’s Success
Many people think that the construction project starts when the ground is broken and sees a crane or bulldozer. However, site preparation goes much farther than just digging up dirt to create a foundation for your building. If you want to ensure that your construction project is successful, it’s essential to prepare the site before breaking ground.
Why is site preparation crucial?
Preparing the site for your construction project is essential to ensure success. Site preparation takes time, but it should be a top priority if you want to see your project through all stages of completion. To save money on labor costs, or materials on your project in Nazareth, PA, get in touch with Dirt Werx LLC.
We have compiled 11 steps that will help improve your site preparations and give you better results in the long run.
11 Steps to Successful Site Preparation:
- Ensure that the site is graded correctly. This includes slopes, drainage, and soil compaction. If you don’t do this step correctly, your foundation will be weak, and the rest of your construction project will suffer.
- Ensure proper drainage by grading slopes away from building structures to avoid water accumulation and damage.
- Compact the soil to provide a stable surface on which to build. This will help reduce settlement over time.
- The climate of the area where your construction project is taking place is a significant factor, as it will affect what kind of foundation you need to build. For example, if you are doing a project in an earthquake-prone area, you will need to create a foundation that can withstand seismic activity.
- You will need to clear away all the vegetation and topsoil from the construction site. Doing so will make it easier to grade the land, set foundations, and install utilities.
- Make sure there are no obstacles on-site, like power lines or gas pipes. A surveyor will help with this process by creating a plan for how your project should proceed based on their findings, including information about where utilities are located so that they’re not accidentally disturbed during construction work.
- The surveyor can also provide other valuable services like surveying property boundaries and topographical maps.
- Obstacles like these can be costly to fix, so it’s best to avoid them altogether by taking the time to prepare your construction site properly. You’ll save yourself both time and money in the long run by doing so.
- Building a solid foundation is essential to support the weight of the structure and provide stability. Without this step, all other ones become irrelevant.
- Once the foundation is set, and the building is erected, it will be tough, if not impossible, to make changes to the layout or relocate utilities. So, take the time to do it right and avoid costly mistakes down the road.
The Gist
Construction sites are typically messy, chaotic places. But with the proper preparation, you’ll have a better chance of making your project successful. If you have any queries regarding your construction site in Nazareth, PA, Dirt Werx LLC is here to help. Get a Free Estimate.
It’s hard to be cheery when you’re riding in the rain, but it doesn’t have to be that way! With the help of Dirt Werx, you can build a riding arena that will cheer up your friends in Easton, PA. This blog post talks about how they can help you build a riding arena. If you want your friends to smile more often, too, then read on!
Many horse owners fantasize about having their own riding facility. You’ve got the barn, your horses are settled in, and now you’re looking at that blank stretch of land and daydreaming of your ideal riding arena. Many riders do with a sectioned-off patch of ground near the barn to build the arena.
It’s tough to keep the going consistent enough for your horse’s health and safety without a firm basis and correct footing. If you want a secure, adequately constructed arena that will serve you well for years, it will take forethought, effort, and a sizeable financial investment.
Doing Proper Planning Prevents a lot of Problems.
Before building any structure, it is essential to do your research and planning. This holds especially true when you are erecting a riding arena. Consider the climate in your area and the type of soil on your property. For example, if you have clay soil, drainage will be an essential factor to consider.
Obtain a Building Permit
Obtaining an arena permit may seem excessive, but most counties require at the very least a grading permit if a specific amount of land is disturbed. A permit for erosion and sediment control may also be required. You may not believe you’re disturbing much ground, but you’ll be disturbing twice as much as your arena.
Double-check your local government building inspection procedures, as requirements can change, even if you don’t think you’ll need a permit. Suppose you start building before getting all of the necessary clearances and inspections. In that case, your local government’s building inspection department has the authority to halt the project until all of the required permits and processes are in place. You may also have to pay fines and penalties.
Hire a Good Soil Consultant
You’ll need to enlist the help of yet another expert—a soil specialist. Soil consultants are engineers who are well-versed in all aspects of soil work. They’re the ones who are called in to consult on baseball fields, golf courses, and parking lots. Look for a soil consultant in the engineering consultant listings.
All this may seem like a lot of work, but the satisfaction and joy of having a perfect riding arena will be worth it! You can always call Dirt Werx LLC in Easton, PA, for tips and advice on doing an excellent job! Get a free estimate.
There is nothing like a perfectly planned demolition job and the scent of success in the beautiful Easton December air. Winters are an excellent time for demolition & excavation as the weather makes it easy to handle the spreading debris. However, that’s only true if you have a demolition contractor who knows their job.
Construction site tasks need careful preparation, high-level knowledge, and dedication to succeed. As a result, you must choose an expert demolition contractor like Dirt Werx LLC for the project.
You should hire a demolitions contractor if they exhibit the following qualities.
1. Thorough Project Planning
Established contractors have turn-key solutions to dismantle, tear down a section, or demolish built structures with the ease and least damage to the surroundings. Such contractors can take your requirements and translate them to project objectives. That also means you learn and can better relay your needs to future contractors. That’s a contract worth hiring.
2. Comprehensive Quotations
An experienced contractor will provide free quotations upon request and give you information on other services without trying to upsell. You need to be scouting for affordable prices & quality. A transparent contractor is one you can hire!
3. Field Experience
Many demolition contracting companies may seem very accomplished, but you need to look closer at their service history and portfolios. Should you come across an account of delayed projects, it’s an issue with their project planning and may spell going over budget. You need a demolition company that delivers on time.
4. Safety Record
Demolition contractors covered by general insurance protect you from accidental damages at the site. It’s essential to ask about insurance coverage, worker’s comp, and safety records before you agree to hire their services.
5. Legal Protection
You should be asking the demolition contractors about their permits, legal licensing, insurance coverage, & compliance. It is critical to ascertain how the demolition contractor observes safety standards at the worksite and whether there have been previous incidents so you are not pulled into uncomfortable conditions.
6. Equipment Check
Every contractor, be it dump truck, paving, or demolition, should run an equipment check before the start of each project to ensure their equipment is not faulty or needs repairs. Equipment maintenance reflects positively on the contractor’s business. Downtime can only throw the project off schedule & incur costs.
7. Debris Removal Service
If your demolition contractor is offering a thorough clean-up after the project, then it’s a deal winner. It could be complimentary for smaller loads, but a fee is incurred with the clean-up. Still, it is a hallmark of outstanding service that the demolition team also spearheads the clean-up procedure.
Dirt Werx LLC is not just any demolition contractor but a collective of expertise across numerous construction areas in Easton, PA. Let us know how we can assist you with your site preparation, clearing & lot grading after you are satisfied with our demolition services!
Get your free estimates on our earth working services today!
Winter brings us a lot of good times during the holidays and with fun in the snow. But, it can also be challenging for individuals and businesses. Winter weather is the leading cause of business disruptions and is responsible for more than $1 billion in losses each year.
While many business activities, mainly in the construction industry, are disturbed during inclement winter weather, there is some saving grace. Several activities can be performed during this season. Construction companies can plan excavation work while the bad weather halts other activities.
This is because excavation work can be more advantageous during winter. The frozen ground makes it easier for workers to break through and remove soil. In addition, the snow on the ground can act as natural insulation against freezing temperatures, protecting the pipes and other underground infrastructure from damage.
Dert Werx, LLC, serving Bethlehem, PA, discusses the benefits of keeping your construction and excavation projects going in winters.
Take Advantage of the Slow Time
When you hire construction companies for excavation during winter, they will not have any other significant commitments. They can give their undivided attention towards fulfilling your needs in an efficient manner that would otherwise take up a lot of your time and resources. Rather than balancing multiple projects at once, you can focus all of your energy on one specific task without any distractions or other obligations to worry about.
More Workers Available
The construction industry often has more workers available during the winter months. This means that your project will go faster and be less stressful since there won’t likely be any interference from other projects or contractors demanding their turn in line with deadlines that are easily neglected during excavation. This allows excavation workers to finish tasks faster, giving them more time to work on other jobs.
When excavation work does not have to compete for access to tools with other construction equipment, excavation companies/workers can complete their projects without someone else pushing back deadlines or wasting time trying to coordinate schedules.
Lower Costs
The winter months are also an excellent time to get excavation work done because the costs are often lower. This is because fewer people are looking for work during this time, so contractors are often more willing to negotiate on price. In addition, the weather is usually more cooperative for excavation work in winter, which can lead to lower costs overall.
Faster Work
Excavation projects can often be completed more quickly in winter than in other seasons. This is because the ground is usually firmer and frozen, making it easier to work with heavy machinery.
Dert Werx, LLC, serving Bethlehem, PA, offers excavation, demolition, and similar services. Get a free quote and avail of the benefits we’ve mentioned above.
Ah! Septic tanks! An underground treatment container built to house your plumbing waste. A drain is incorporated into the tank, and the whole unit is installed in an underground location with sufficient soil drainage capability.
These tanks help manage wastewater for homes that are too far away from the main sewage lines or situated atop a knoll. But they also fulfill a more sustainable eco-awareness if you install them in areas where you have sewage connections.
Dirt Werx gives you some solid reasons why investing in a septic tank is transcendence from conventional plumbing to a more environmentally friendly method of water preservation.
Efficient & Economical Consumption
A septic tank is dedicated to your household’s wastewater management rather than dependency on the sewer system. If a neighborhood sewer goes down, your house will still be functioning.
You can independently manage your wastewater without owning the municipality any maintenance fees for the local sewer system.
You become more responsible with your household’s water consumption, which helps cultivate good usage habits. Never again will you take gallons of water for the laundry, dishwashing, & running showers, for granted.
You will also learn to dispose of materials properly, instead of just flushing them down the toilet. Materials like napkins, diapers, tampons, cat litter, condoms, & cigarette butts are notorious clogging items that you can’t do with a septic tank.
Environmental Benefits
When a common sewage line from many homes & businesses starts to leak, you can never precisely pin the source on the contaminants seeping into the groundwater sources. Managing a septic tank leak is more manageable since only a particular area is affected.
Septic tanks are connected to drain fields that act as aquifers and filter the water safely into groundwater sources. This natural and millennia-old method preserves the surrounding flora & fauna and keeps your plumbing all-natural.
Your carbon footprint drastically reduces as you act more responsibly for water consumption & waste disposal. In effect, as the drain field recharges groundwater sources, you are essentially practicing sustainable living.
Septic Tanks Are Low Maintenance
If you dread diving into the muck of your own making, that is not the case. Tanks require servicing & inspection every 3-5 years to ensure optimal operation. If you are responsible for material disposal, you won’t even have a clogging issue on your hands.
Never hold out on septic tank maintenance if you want to contribute to sustainable water consumption efforts. Always hire professional services providers like Dirt Werx to help you with a thorough assessment of your site & soil testing before we install drainage and septic tanks.
And that’s not all; we offer a wide range of services, including site prep, horse arenas, and demolition in Bethlehem, PA. It’s cold, and the ground is ideal for excavation for your new property, so let us know, and we’ll help our quality best!
Get your free estimates on our quality services today!
What Is Land Clearing And Why Is It Important?
There are several reasons to consider land clearing. If your property has overgrown weeds, bushes, or trees, it could be time for some serious landscaping. Or maybe you’re looking to build a new home, and the contractor needs the space cleared before construction can begin. Whatever the case may be, land clearing is a crucial step in making way for something new.
Land Clearing Explained
Land clearing is all about ensuring that there’s enough space for the structure you’re planning on building. It includes tearing down trees, bushes, or other vegetation to make way for development or construction; land clearing ensures the project will go as smoothly as possible and according to plan. It is critical to hire an experienced, professional contractor like Dirt Werx LLC for the job.
Why Land Clearing is Important
Below are a few reasons why clearing the site is essential.
Enhances Land Usability
Whether building a commercial or residential structure, land clearing opens up your property’s layout. If you want to extend the usability of an uninhabited land area, clearing the site is the first step. Once you clear land, you can use it for both residential and commercial purposes.
Safety Reasons
Many people and authorities clear land for safety reasons. A land full of dead plants and rotten wood poses all kinds of health hazards for people nearby. If you have a business, clearing your land will ensure the safety of your employees.
Promotes Healthy Growth of Trees and Plants
Clearing land is vital because it allows for new growth to flourish. If you want trees, grasses, and flowers on your property, they must have sufficient access to sunlight. Removing old plants also helps the soil accumulate the necessary nutrients for healthy root development in newly planted flora.
Reduces Pests and Rodents
When old, decaying vegetation is removed from an area, pests and rodents that live off this plant material will no longer be able to survive on your property. Eliminating these creatures provides a natural way of pest control for landowners without requiring chemicals or traps.
Land Clearing is Not Easy!
Clearing land is a task better left to the professionals. The challenges of land clearing mean an untrained team stands the risk of destroying the entire property.
Land clearing can be expensive, depending on what needs clearing. If done incorrectly, it can cause erosion problems or damage the existing plant life, including underground roots, leading to landslides or mudslides. It’s very easy to damage other structures around a site being cleared if one is not careful about where one cuts down trees.
Dirt Werx LLC is a professional land clearing company in Bethlehem that offers complete excavation and construction services. Our superior land clearing services ensure that no weed growth and rooted tree stumps hinder the construction process for our clients.
Get a free estimate on our services today!
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