Proper site preparation is crucial before beginning any construction project in or around Eastern Tennessee, whether you’re building a new home, parking lot, or retail space. Every construction project needs a solid foundation, which starts with clearing the land.
At Starr Mountain Land Services, we recognize the importance of land clearing for construction. Our guide below outlines what you need to know about the service before breaking ground on your project.
The Importance of Land Clearing for Construction
Land clearing is essential before constructing buildings or infrastructure because it removes rocks, trees, vegetation, and other obstacles on and around the worksite. Eliminating these obstacles will provide a clearer view of the property as a whole. The improved insight allows for better decision making regarding the construction project.
Clearing land before building on it also prepares the site for foundation laying, which would be impossible with obstacles in the way.
What To Expect During a Lot Clearing Project
Now that you understand the different methods of land clearing and the service’s importance in construction, learn about the general process below:
Site Assessment
When you hire a professional land clearing company, they will assess the site before working on it. They take note of the land’s condition, including its vegetation type, density, and terrain. The crew also identifies nearby protected or invasive species and other environmental concerns.
Permits and Approvals
You can’t ignore permits and regulations for clearing land. While some locations and projects might not require municipal approval, others require permits for the following:
- Tree removal
- Erosion control
- Soil disturbance
Fortunately, the contractor will navigate local regulations and obtain the necessary approvals on your behalf.
Brush and Tree Removal
Once the contractor obtains the necessary permits and approvals, they’ll begin removing vegetation from the worksite. They’ll use various equipment to cut down trees, remove stumps, and eliminate undergrowth and unwanted brush. The contractor may also grind down or excavate plant roots to prepare soil for grading, leveling, and construction.
Debris Removal and Disposal
Land clearing generates a significant amount of debris. The final stage of the process is usually waste hauling and disposal.
Sometimes, forestry mulching is the best way to clear a piece of land. In that case, workers grind vegetation at the worksite and leave the mulch on the ground to minimize erosion and enrich the soil.
Different Methods for Construction Land Clearing in Eastern Tennessee
The condition of your property will determine the best clearing method. Selecting the right method is crucial to minimize your environmental impact and prevent disrupting local ecosystems.
Mechanical clearing is usually best for large-scale vegetation removal that doesn’t involve protected spaces or ecosystems. Crews use backhoes, bulldozers, and other heavy-duty machinery to quickly remove trees, shrubbery, rocks, and debris from the plot of land. It’s less time-consuming and prepares the site for grading, leveling, and laying the foundation.
When precision is necessary, manual land clearing is often the most effective method to use. It’s ideal for small pieces of land and spaces where environmental impacts are a greater concern. Manual land clearing is more labor-intensive because it utilizes smaller machinery as well as axes and chainsaws to handle vegetation removal.
Projects sometimes have unique challenges that require different approaches altogether. For instance, the site might have existing structures that require careful demolition or massive boulders that require excavation. Every project and property differs, so contractors conduct thorough site assessments to determine the best way to clear the land.
DIY Versus Professional Land Clearing: Which Is Best?
Site preparation doesn’t always have to be a major undertaking. Clearing vegetation on small plots under an acre in size may be suitable for DIY efforts if they don’t require tree removal or the use of heavy machinery. However, for construction, hiring a local contractor with ample experience is best.
Land clearing contractors have access to skilled technicians, industrial-grade equipment, and essential tools. They’re also familiar with local permit requirements and environmental regulations, as well as the process of preparing sites specifically for construction.
DIY land clearing might seem appealing if you have a modest budget, yet your expenses could rise if you make mistakes or need to rent equipment. Remember the following cost factors for construction land clearing and budget accordingly:
- Property size
- Labor
- Equipment
- Debris removal
- Vegetation density
- Plot accessibility
Experience the Best Eastern Tennessee Site Preparation Services From Starr Mountain Land Services
Give your upcoming construction project the greatest chance of success with professional land clearing and site preparation. Starr Mountain Land Services has a crew of experienced technicians with the skills, resources, and equipment to provide a comprehensive suite of services, including land clearing for construction projects.
When it comes to hiring a land clearing contractor in Eastern Tennessee, look no further than our experts for customizable solutions and outstanding workmanship. Call (423) 370-5851 today to request a quote.
