The KB Lewis Blog

Industry knowledge, project updates, and expert advice from our excavation team.

Commercial excavation site work
March 2026 · Site Preparation

5 Things to Know Before Breaking Ground on Your Commercial Project

Planning a commercial build? Here's what every developer and GC should have in order before the first bucket hits dirt.

Read Article →
Boulder retaining wall
February 2026 · Retaining Walls

Boulder vs. Block: Choosing the Right Retaining Wall for Your Property

Natural boulder walls and engineered block systems each have strengths. Here's how to decide which is right for your project.

Read Article →
Excavation equipment on Utah jobsite
February 2026 · Cost Guide

How Much Does Excavation Cost in Utah? A Complete Pricing Guide

A breakdown of what excavation actually costs in Utah — from small residential digs to large commercial projects — and the factors that drive pricing.

Read Article →
Grading project with mountain backdrop in Utah
February 2026 · Scheduling

When Is the Best Time to Schedule Excavation Work in Utah?

Weather, demand, and soil conditions all affect when you should schedule excavation. Here's how to time your project for the best results.

Read Article →
Grading and site preparation
January 2026 · Grading

Why Proper Grading Is the Most Important Step in Any Build

Drainage issues, foundation problems, and settling — most of these trace back to poor grading. Here's why getting it right matters.

Read Article →
Excavation project requiring Utah permits
January 2026 · Permits

Utah Excavation Permits: What You Need and How to Get Them

Navigating excavation permits in Utah can be confusing. Here's a clear guide to what's required for residential and commercial projects.

Read Article →
Winter excavation work
December 2025 · Winter Work

Can You Excavate in Winter? What Utah Builders Need to Know

Frozen ground, frost lines, and weather delays — winter excavation in Utah is possible, but requires planning. Here's the breakdown.

Read Article →
Septic system installation in Utah
December 2025 · Utilities

Septic System Installation in Utah: What Homeowners Should Know

From perc tests to final inspection, here's a complete guide to septic system installation for Utah properties outside municipal sewer service.

Read Article →
Utility trenching and installation
November 2025 · Utilities

Underground Utility Installation: What Homeowners Should Expect

From water lines to storm drains, here's a straightforward guide to what happens during utility trenching on your property.

Read Article →
Professional excavation team on jobsite
November 2025 · Hiring Guide

How to Choose the Right Excavation Contractor in Utah

Not all excavation companies are equal. Here's what to look for — and what to avoid — when hiring for your next project.

Read Article →
Land clearing with heavy equipment
October 2025 · Land Clearing

Preparing Raw Land for Development: A Step-by-Step Overview

Turning an untouched parcel into a build-ready site involves more than just removing trees. Here's the full process.

Read Article →
Erosion control liner installation on construction site
October 2025 · Compliance

Erosion Control on Construction Sites: Requirements and Best Practices

Utah's erosion control requirements can catch contractors off guard. Here's what you need to know about SWPPP, BMPs, and staying compliant.

Read Article →
Foundation excavation for residential home
September 2025 · Foundations

Choosing the Right Foundation Type for Utah Soil Conditions

Utah's soils range from clay to sandy gravel to solid rock. Here's how your soil type influences the right foundation — and excavation — approach.

Read Article →
Road grading with heavy equipment
September 2025 · Grading

What Is Site Grading and Why Does It Matter?

Grading is one of the most critical steps in construction — and one of the least understood. Here's what it is and why getting it right matters.

Read Article →
Retaining wall on hillside property in Utah
August 2025 · Hillside Building

Building on a Hillside Lot in Utah: Challenges, Costs, and Solutions

Hillside lots offer views but come with excavation complexity. Here's what to know about cut-and-fill, retaining walls, and building on sloped terrain.

Read Article →
Drainage trenching installation
August 2025 · Drainage

French Drains: When You Need One and How They're Installed

Water pooling near your foundation? A French drain might be the solution. Here's how they work and what installation involves.

Read Article →
Excavation equipment arriving on residential jobsite
July 2025 · Homeowner Guide

What to Expect on Excavation Day: A Homeowner's Guide

Your first excavation project? Here's exactly what to expect when the crew and equipment arrive on your property.

Read Article →
Retaining wall block construction with drainage
July 2025 · Retaining Walls

Why Drainage Behind Your Retaining Wall Is the Most Important Detail

A retaining wall is only as good as its drainage. Here's why water management behind the wall determines whether it lasts 5 years or 50.

Read Article →
Utility locating and underground safety
June 2025 · Safety

Call Before You Dig: Why Utility Locating Saves Lives and Money

Hitting a gas line or electrical conduit during excavation can be catastrophic. Utah law requires utility locating before any digging begins.

Read Article →
Earthwork and soil management on construction site
June 2025 · Materials

Topsoil vs. Fill Dirt: Understanding the Difference

Topsoil and fill dirt look similar but serve completely different purposes. Using the wrong one can cause expensive problems.

Read Article →
Excavation and base preparation for driveway
May 2025 · Residential

Driveway Excavation and Preparation: What Homeowners Should Know

Your driveway's lifespan depends on what's underneath it. Here's why excavation and base prep are the most important steps.

Read Article →
Professional excavation crew following safety protocols
May 2025 · Safety

Excavation Safety: How Professional Contractors Protect Your Property

Excavation is one of the most hazardous activities in construction. Here's how professional contractors keep workers and properties safe.

Read Article →
Commercial and residential excavation comparison
April 2025 · Industry Insight

Commercial vs. Residential Excavation: Key Differences Explained

Think excavation is excavation? Commercial and residential projects differ in important ways that affect cost, timeline, and complexity.

Read Article →
Land clearing and site preparation in spring
April 2025 · Seasonal

Preparing Your Property for Spring Construction Season

Construction season is approaching. Here's a practical checklist for getting your Utah property ready for excavation and building.

Read Article →

Have a Project in Mind?

Let's discuss how KB Lewis can help bring your vision to life.

Get a Free Estimate