Excavating services for a garden landscape

If you’re planning a complete overhaul of your garden design and need to create the space for it, consulting with an excavation contractor can help you bring your landscape plans to life.

Do you often get called to do excavation work for garden projects?

Yes, probably around two or three jobs per week. This might involve breaking up and clearing concrete, removing grass and rubbish so landscaping works can commence, excavating earth according to landscaping plans, bringing in base materials and loam, or excavating trenches for power cables and drains.

What preparations do people need to make before the excavator arrives?

As an excavating contractor, I try to establish the rough details of what the client wants from an initial phone call. Then we go and look at the site and discuss the job and advise on what the client needs to do before the machinery arrives. They might need to take steps to ensure access for the machines, clear obstacles, or finalise their landscaping plans.

Is it possible for people to hire earthmoving equipment?

Some companies offer that service, but we don't. We supply the excavation machines with operators because inexperienced operators can damage the site and jeopardise the safety of themselves and others. Our operators have the expertise to do the job in the most efficient way.

The minimum requirements to become qualified to operate these machines is a three-day course, but I believe that people need at least 12 months’ experience before they can be confident of handling all the potential scenarios safely and proficiently.

What happens if there is tight access to the garden? Are there smaller types of equipment for these jobs?

These days, with house blocks being smaller, access can often be a problem, but there are machines specifically designed for this. Some bobcats and mini excavators go down to 900mm wide, and although they don't have the same capacity as the larger machines, they are still very efficient and cost effective.

Do you need a landscape design plan in place before excavation commences?

Landscape designs are very important, especially with larger garden projects. These usually involve landscape designers and architects setting out precise plans, and these must be adhered to for the project to go ahead smoothly.

With smaller projects, there tends to be a bit more flexibility, and directions given by the client are usually sufficient. If you have any questions you would like to ask Michael Hayes please email him at pha29801@bigpond.net.au

How did you get into the earthmoving and excavating game?

In 1974, my father-in-law retired from his sand and metal business and at the same time I was looking for employment and business opportunities. My wife and I decided to buy a truck and take over the business. Since then it has gradually expanded until now we have two bobcats, three excavators, three tip trucks and three full-time staff.

Ensure you talk with an excavating contractor in your area to discuss your garden design: