Category: News & Updates

Disasters don’t wait, and when buildings become unstable or hazardous, an emergency demolition service is often the only solution to ensure public safety and clear the way for recovery. At Colorado Excavating, we know how critical it is to act fast, follow strict safety protocols, and restore order when the unexpected happens.

Whether caused by fire, flood, collapse, or hazardous materials, demolition requires experience, precision, and a deep understanding of local regulations. In this post, we’ll walk through when it is needed, what to look for in a contractor, and how Colorado Excavating handles every step with safety and speed.

What Is Emergency Demolition Service?

An emergency demolition service refers to the urgent teardown of unsafe or structurally compromised buildings. Unlike scheduled demolitions, this process is reactive—often ordered by local authorities, insurance adjusters, or property owners facing serious hazards.

You might need one in cases such as:

• Fire-damaged structures that are at risk of collapse
  
• Buildings weakened by floods or high winds
  
• Properties containing exposed asbestos, lead, or mold
  
• Collapsing roofs, leaning walls, or unsafe foundations
  
• Public health hazards like biohazardous or contaminated sites
  

Why It Matters Who You Hire

Choosing a skilled and experienced contractor can make all the difference. These projects must be completed quickly but also require high-level coordination, safety procedures, and legal compliance.

When hiring a contractor, consider the following:

Rapid Response Capability
Time is of the essence. Look for a contractor that offers 24/7 dispatch and can assess the structure the same day. Immediate action reduces risk, limits damage, and allows for a safer environment.

Compliance and Safety Protocols
Emergency demolition isn’t just about tearing down buildings—it’s about doing so safely. A reliable contractor should follow OSHA standards, wear protective gear, manage utility shutoffs, and use appropriate bracing or shoring methods to prevent unplanned collapse.

Hazardous Material Handling
In Colorado, asbestos is still common in older buildings, even post-2024. Proper removal and disposal require specialized training and permits. Contractors should have certified partners for hazardous material abatement and comply with EPA regulations.

Permitting and Regulations
Emergency demolition often involves multiple permits—especially if the site includes historical buildings, hazardous waste, or is near a waterway. A qualified contractor will navigate the permitting process quickly and keep your project in legal compliance.

Environmental Responsibility
With increasing concern about construction waste and dust pollution, your contractor should use dust suppression methods, sort debris for recycling, and dispose of materials at approved facilities. This reduces environmental impact and ensures local compliance.

What to Expect During an Emergency Demolition Service

A full-service contractor, like Colorado Excavating, will handle the entire process from evaluation to cleanup. Here’s what that typically looks like:

• Initial assessment to determine structural risks
  
• Utility coordination to safely disconnect power, water, and gas
  
• Permit acquisition based on site location and condition
  
• Demolition planning that includes safety staging and controlled takedown
  
• Debris removal with options for recycling and responsible disposal
  
• Site stabilization for future rebuilding or hazard mitigation
  

Each site is unique. That’s why we tailor our emergency demolition service to the conditions, ensuring safety and efficiency every step of the way.

Keeping Up With Changing Standards

Emergency demolition service in Colorado has evolved in response to recent events and new regulations. Agencies now focus more than ever on air quality, dust control, and the handling of toxic building materials.

For example:

• The EPA’s demolition of the Return to Nature Funeral Home involved odor suppression and hazardous cleanup
  
• Wildfire-prone areas now require erosion control measures post-teardown
  
• Flood-prone sites must be prepped with drainage plans and water runoff controls
  

Working with a contractor who understands these evolving standards protects your investment—and the community around it.

Why Colorado Excavating?

At Colorado Excavating, we’ve built our reputation on fast, professional, and responsible emergency demolition service. We respond quickly, operate with safety as our top priority, and follow through with cleanup and compliance. From urban commercial sites to rural properties, we help property owners take swift action when every second counts.

Need Emergency Demolition Service?

If you’re facing a building emergency, don’t wait. Reach out to Colorado Excavating for reliable, responsive, and safe demolition services. Our team is ready to restore safety and clear the path for recovery—no matter the size or scope of your project.

When you’re getting ready to break ground on a construction project in Colorado, few steps are more important than proper site preparation. With our unpredictable weather, mountainous terrain, and seasonal extremes, preparing a site the right way isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

From floods and freeze-thaw cycles to wildfire-prone landscapes, Colorado’s climate presents unique challenges. In this blog, we’ll walk through the most important steps for resilient, long-lasting site preparation and what to expect when building in such a dynamic environment.

Why It’s More Than Just Moving Dirt

Site preparation sets the foundation—literally—for everything that follows. It’s where you shape the land, stabilize the soil, plan drainage, and coordinate infrastructure. But beyond the basics, it’s also how you future-proof your project against natural threats.

When done right, it ensures structural integrity, protects against weather-related damage, and minimizes costly surprises once the build begins.

Planning for Drainage and Flood Risk

Heavy rain and fast-melting snow can lead to major flooding across Colorado. If your site isn’t designed with proper drainage in mind, you could be dealing with washed-out foundations or standing water problems.

Good site preparation includes designing for runoff with solutions like:

• Graded slopes that direct water away from buildings
  
• French drains and swales for stormwater management
  
• Proper culvert and pipe sizing to handle peak flow events

These drainage strategies help protect the site—and everything built on it—from water-related damage.

Managing Colorado’s Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Colorado’s frequent temperature swings are tough on buildings, especially during winter. Moisture that freezes and thaws in soil can lead to heaving, cracks, and structural shifting.

To counter this, builders often:

• Use frost-resistant fill materials
  
• Compact soil thoroughly to limit movement
  
• Design foundations that extend below the frost line

These measures help stabilize the site and ensure long-term performance for whatever structure is being built.

Preparing for Wildfire and Erosion Risks

Wildfires aren’t just destructive during the burn—they can destabilize the land long after the fire is out. When scorched soil loses its ability to absorb water, it’s more likely to erode during storms.

That’s why post-fire site preparation must include erosion control measures like:

• Mulching or hydroseeding exposed areas
  
• Installing check dams or terracing to slow runoff
  
• Using native vegetation to reestablish healthy soil

Especially in high-risk zones, these steps are essential for preserving site integrity and safety.

Grading, Soil Stabilization, and Utility Coordination

Leveling your site is just one piece of the puzzle. Effective site preparation also includes stabilizing soil to prevent settling and planning utility access from the start.

This might involve:

• Cutting or filling to create flat, stable building pads
  
• Compacting soil to eliminate air pockets
  
• Coordinating water, sewer, and power installations early on

Working with experienced excavators like Colorado Excavating ensures these processes are handled correctly and efficiently.

Don’t Forget Permits and Regulations

Every project in Colorado must comply with local, state, and sometimes federal regulations. During site preparation, it’s important to:

• Verify zoning restrictions and permit requirements
  
• Plan for erosion control and stormwater runoff per local guidelines
  
• Follow FEMA and floodplain development rules, where applicable

Colorado Excavating’s familiarity with permitting across the Front Range helps streamline this process and prevent delays.

Best Practices for Smart Site Preparation

Here are a few expert tips to keep your project moving in the right direction:

• Start early—engage with your excavator and engineer as soon as possible
  
• Tailor your strategy to the land’s conditions
  
• Build with sustainability in mind, including erosion control and stormwater reuse
  
• Be ready to adapt as weather, soil conditions, or requirements change

Build with Confidence

Solid site preparation is the first step to a successful project. It’s where durability, safety, and climate resilience begin. Whether you’re building a home, a commercial facility, or an entire development, how you prepare the site can make or break your investment.

Colorado Excavating is here to help. With decades of experience across Colorado’s diverse terrain, we know how to navigate every aspect of site preparation—from drainage and grading to permitting and erosion control.

Ready to start your next project with confidence? Contact our team today to make sure your project is done right, from the ground up.

Water Line Replacement and Water Line Repair

If you’re dealing with strange puddles in your yard, a sudden drop in water pressure, or discolored water coming from your tap, chances are you’re facing a water line issue. And in Colorado, with our fluctuating weather and complex terrain, these problems can sneak up fast. At Colorado Excavating, we’ve seen firsthand how important it is to act quickly when it comes to water line repair and water line replacement.

In this blog, we’ll walk through what causes water line problems, how to know whether you need a repair or a full replacement, and what to expect from the process. Whether you’re a homeowner, property manager, or business owner, this guide is for you.

What Causes Water Line Damage?

Over time, water lines naturally wear out. Colorado’s freeze-thaw cycles, shifting soil, tree roots, and even the type of piping material can all contribute to water damage. Common signs that you may need repair include:

• Puddles or soggy areas in your lawn
  
• Drops in water pressure
  
• Discolored or foul-smelling water
  
• Unusual noises when water is not running
  
• A sudden increase in your water bill
  

Ignoring these red flags can turn a minor water line repair into a major replacement—and a much bigger headache.

When is Water Line Repair Enough?

Not every leak or crack means you need to dig up your yard. In many cases, water line repair is the right call. At Colorado Excavating, we assess each situation carefully. For isolated leaks or cracks, targeted repair is typically the most cost-effective and efficient solution.

We offer both traditional and trenchless repair methods. Trenchless options are less invasive and preserve your landscaping, which is a huge win for homeowners trying to avoid a backyard construction zone.

When Does Water Line Replacement Make More Sense?

There are times when water line replacement is the smarter—and safer—choice. If your pipes are made of outdated or hazardous materials like lead or galvanized steel, or if you’re experiencing recurring issues, it’s likely time to invest in a replacement.

Persistent low water pressure, multiple leaks, or water discoloration across your system can signal widespread degradation. Water line replacement ensures your system is brought up to modern standards, improving water quality, pressure, and peace of mind.

We typically recommend durable materials like copper or PVC that can better withstand Colorado’s climate and soil conditions.

Why Choose Colorado Excavating?

If you’re searching for a trusted local expert for water line repair or replacement, you’ve come to the right place. At Colorado Excavating, we combine decades of experience with a true commitment to our community. Our team understands the specific needs of Colorado properties and uses that insight to deliver smart, long-lasting solutions.

We don’t just patch problems—we find the root cause. And whether it’s a quick repair or a full-scale replacement, we’ll walk you through every step with transparency and care.

Can You Prevent Water Line Issues?

Absolutely. While some water line issues are unavoidable, regular inspections and maintenance can go a long way in preventing emergency water line repair or premature water line replacement.

Here are a few simple ways to stay ahead:

• Schedule annual inspections for aging systems
  
• Keep an eye on water pressure and water color
  
• Consider updating older plumbing systems before a failure occurs
  

Taking these proactive steps can save you time, money, and the stress of an unexpected water line repair.

Your water line system is easy to forget—until something goes wrong. Whether you’re noticing early warning signs or dealing with a full-blown issue, Colorado Excavating is here to help. Our team specializes in both water line repair and water line replacement, and we’re ready to deliver solutions that are efficient, effective, and built to last.Need an inspection or have questions about the best option for your property? Contact us and let’s get your water flowing right again.

Before you even think about building a home or any other type of building, there’s one thing you need to do to ensure its future health – hiring a lot leveling and grading contractor for proper drainage. While having an even lot is often something people forget about when commissioning a new construction, it’s no less important. In this article, we’ll run you through what lot grading and leveling are, and why you should hire a grading contractor and a sloping contractor.

What is Lot Grading?

Lot grading is the act of evaluating a lot for its ability to be safely built on. Lot graders chiefly measure a lot’s type and elevation, and let those results inform the next step – lot leveling. One of the main purposes of lot grading is to ensure that water flows properly around the home when it rains – a poorly graded lot can have consequences that we’ll touch on in a minute.

What is Lot Leveling?

Lot leveling is the act of preparing the lot for building. It involves literally leveling the lot so that it’s flat to build on, and sloping the lot so that water is drained properly and directed away from the lot. There’s not a modern structure in existence that hasn’t had its lot leveled before building.

Property grading usually occurs in the initial stages of construction and the final finishing touches. In all cases, building plots and building sites should be landscaped to make them suitable for construction, i.e. tree roots, bushes, small hills, and larger mounds should be leveled.

Balancing is a key part of the lot grading process because the land must not only be excavated but in the case of many plots, it must also be filled on other parts. In some cases, this can be done with the help of on-site logistics, while in other cases, the excavated earth has to be transported to the construction site or the other way round, additional material needs to be available on-site for backfilling.

Why are Lot Leveling & Lot Grading Contractors Important? 

In short, the best leveling and lot grading contractors are the ones you don’t ever have think about because their experience and track record speak for itself. 

Good grading and leveling jobs keep your house level and stable, and water only where it’s supposed to be. If you’ve never noticed structural issues in your home, and never noticed water damage in your basement or foundation, you owe much of that to those who graded and leveled your lot.

However, poorly graded and leveled plots can prove to be a nightmare. Damaged foundation, leaks in unexpected places, and standing water in your basement are just some of the things you’ll risk with a poorly graded lot.

A bad lot grading job can cost you thousands in repairs in the future, if not more. It’s paramount that you grade and level correctly now so that you can avoid huge repair bills in the future, and the best way to ensure a good grade and level is to trust an expert. DIY grading jobs may save you a few dollars now, but without the tools and expertise of a seasoned lot grader and leveler, you’re putting your property at risk before it’s even built.

Even before you buy a property, you should obtain an expert’s opinion on the extent of the work you can expect in the future, as this may be a factor that affects the final purchase price. If you are planning a purchase, construction, renovation, or landscaping project, contact our Customer Success Team at any of our contact information and we will be happy to assist you with the design, permitting, and construction.

Residential and commercial excavation is the process of removing soil or rock from an area using heavy machinery and tools, this much is true among both residential and commercial excavating. However, there are several key areas in which commercial and residential excavating differ, and before you begin your excavation project, you would do well to be up-to-speed on the key facets of your respective project type. In this article, we’ll provide you a few tips on how residential and commercial excavation are different.

Size of the Project

Naturally, residential excavation projects are typically smaller in scale than their commercial counterparts – this is the biggest difference between the two. While excavation contractors may go about excavating for residential and commercial differently, the end goal for any reputable contractor is a job done right, the first time. Especially when working on sloped land, high water and poor soil, you need an excavation contractor that’s certified and experienced – your building’s foundation is not something you want to risk having to do over. 

Complexity of the Job

For residential excavation, excavators will need to prepare the site and lay down the outline of the site you’re excavating. The tools and equipment they’ll need to accomplish this depends on the size of the project – larger projects may require more time and a heavier-duty set of excavation equipment. The time the dig process takes may also scale with the size of the job, as well as the depth of the dig and the conditions in and around the dig site. 

Commercial jobs are often much more complex than residential projects. Commercial buildings often come complete with parking lots, underground garages, special structures, and other features that require a longer, more intensive process to complete. The larger the project, the more expertise is required from your excavating contractor, and so you are strongly advised to consider your excavating company carefully.

Different Codes and Regulations

Commercial excavation has more extensive regulations compared to residential work. This is because there are other things to be considered such as the techniques used, electrical, plumbing, zoning laws, and getting the equipment physically to the jobsite. Choose the right commercial excavating contractor to avoid problems with the federal and local governments. Make sure they’re well-versed with all the rules that need to be adhered to especially when it comes to safety. 

Contact Colorado Excavating for Commercial Excavation 

We are a full-service excavation repair company that can help with both residential and commercial excavation projects. Our team of experienced professionals can also help with sewer, demolition and stormwater management. We’re fully equipped to work on any excavation project, big or small. Work with us and our excavators will make sure the project is properly carried out and you’re completely satisfied with our services. Contact us today for an appointment. 

There’s a lot that goes into utility excavating, we’ll be the first to tell you. From planning to digging to marking, the trenching process can take many steps, yet is one of the most integral steps of making your home or property truly livable. But before ground can be broken, there are several key things that you need to establish and take note of in order for a smooth, stress-free excavation. In this article, we’ll go over three of the most important things you need to do before you begin the process of utility excavating.

Know Exactly What You Need

Before anything else in utility excavating, you should organize a rough plan of what, in particular, you will need from your new utility lines. Think in terms of what you anticipate the home/property will require when it’s complete — for instance, in the case of water and sewer lines, how much volume per day do you expect? How many bathrooms will this property have? Or in the case of electrical, how much power does your home/business draw?

Your answers don’t need to be precise or detailed by any means, but even the roughest of estimates can give your contractor a head start in their planning stages.

Map Out the Space Below The Property

Especially if your lot has been in use prior to when you obtained it, there may be other utilities and/or wires already running beneath your lot. To minimize the risk of accidentally severing one of these connections during utility excavating, complicating the entire trenching project, it’s recommended that you mark where these lines before any work begins.

The primary way you would do this is via small flags, placed in the ground of your property. If already know for sure where these other lines or wires are, if any, you can mark them yourself with store-bought marking flags. Otherwise, get in touch with your local utilities district, internet service provider, or other relevant company and request that they mark their respective lines on your property.

Doing so is in their best interest — they don’t want their local service to be interrupted, just as you don’t want your dig to be interrupted. In our experience, most utility companies and service providers will be happy to help.

Inform the Relevant Parties

You’ve given your contractors a rough estimate and flagged all your pre-existing utility lines — all set, right?

You may be all ready for your utility excavating dig, but it’s still recommended that you get in touch with your local water and power companies before the dig commences. Inform them of your intention to dig and where you plan to dig, and don’t hesitate to fill them in if they request any additional information from you. The goal is both ensure that there won’t be any sudden, utility-related complications to the dig, and to ensure the safety of your workers and their equipment during the digging process.

If you’ve got questions about trenching or utility excavating, we’re here to answer them. Get in touch with the experts at Colorado Excavating today.

If you’re planning an excavation project, it’s important to hire a skilled and experienced excavator to handle the work. However, there are a few common mistakes that people make when hiring an excavator that can cause problems down the line. Here are some things to keep in mind to ensure that you get the best possible results from your excavation project.

1. Do Your Research

It’s important to take the time to research different excavating companies and compare their rates, services, and reputation. Most excavators will have photos or online galleries of their work so you can see what their projects look like before and after the work is completed. Also, make sure to read online reviews and ask for references from past clients to get a sense of the quality of work you can expect because pictures don’t always tell the full story.

2. Not Getting a Detailed Quote

Don’t just go with the first bid or the lowest bid you receive without understanding what it covers. Make sure to get a detailed quote that outlines all of the work that will be done, as well as any additional costs that may come up. An experienced excavator will be able to outline where your money will be spent and why.

3. Ask About Background & Experience

It’s essential to hire an excavator with a proven track record of successful projects. Ask about their experience with projects similar to yours, and make sure they have the necessary skills and equipment to handle the work. Most experienced excavators will have photos to show examples of their work or similar projects to help you understand their qualifications. In Colorado, contractors are licensed through the city they are working in, most cities have a way to search and verify contractor licenses online.

4. Not Discussing the Project in Detail

Before hiring an excavator, make sure to discuss the details of your project in depth. This includes the scope of the work, the timeline, and any specific requirements or concerns you may have. By communicating clearly, you can help ensure that the project is completed on time and to your satisfaction. Inexperienced excavators will try to rush this step and discuss as little detail as possible to avoid their inexperience being uncovered.

5. Not Having A Clear Contract

Again, experience is in the details, it’s essential to have a clear and detailed contract in place before starting the excavation work. This should include the scope of the work, the timeline, and the payment terms. A contract lacking detail should be an immediate red flag, exposing an inexperienced excavator.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help ensure that your next groundwork project is a success. Take the time to do your research, communicate clearly with the excavator, and have a clear contract in place to protect your interests. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your excavation project is completed on time, within budget, and to your satisfaction.

Excavation is an essential aspect of many construction and renovation projects, and it requires the expertise and skill of a trained professional. From the beginning stages building a new home to grading or scraping a new commercial lot, excavation is often a necessary step in the construction process. It’s important to ensure that the excavation work is done correctly and safely, and that’s why it’s so important to hire a licensed excavator. In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of hiring a licensed excavator for your excavation needs.

The Importance of a Licensed Excavator in Colorado

First and foremost, hiring an excavator who that is licensed ensures that the work is done to the highest standards of safety. Excavation is a dangerous task that requires specialized equipment, such as bulldozers, excavators, and dump trucks. If not operated correctly, these machines can cause serious injury or death. Licensed excavators are guaranteed to have the training and experience necessary to operate this equipment safely and efficiently, which minimizes the risk of accidents and injuries on the job site.

Further, a licensed excavator will have the necessary insurance coverage that are required by the state law. Hiring an unlicensed contractor, who may not have the right insurance coverage, puts you at financial risk in case of an accident. If an uninsured contractor is injured while working on your property, you may be held liable for their medical expenses. Furthermore, it also covers damage to the properties, in case if any unexpected damage occurs during the excavation process.

Another important aspect is that a licensed excavator will have the necessary permits and comply with the Colorado regulations. Excavation work often requires permits from local and state governments, and failure to obtain the necessary permits can result in fines or even legal action. Licensed excavators have the knowledge and experience needed to navigate the permit process and ensure that all work is done in compliance with local regulations.

The licensed excavator will also have the right equipment, tools, and resources to get the job done right. Excavation requires specialized equipment and tools, such as backhoes, bulldozers, and dump trucks, that not every contractor has access to. A licensed excavator, on the other hand, will have the necessary equipment and resources to handle even the most complex and challenging excavation projects.

Hiring a licensed excavator can save you money in the long run. Excavation is a complex task that requires precision and skill, and mistakes made during the process can end up costing you more in the long run. Licensed excavators have the experience and expertise needed to get the job done quickly and efficiently, which can help to minimize the cost of your project.

A licensed excavator is the best way to ensure that your excavation project is done safely, efficiently, and in compliance with local regulations. They have the training, experience, equipment, and insurance required to get the job done right. It is important to do proper research, read reviews and check the licenses and insurance before hiring an excavator to ensure that you’re getting the best quality service.