Spring has officially arrived in Montana, and April is one of the best times to begin planning and executing excavation projects in Helena and the surrounding areas. At Schaefer Excavating, we specialize in providing reliable, professional excavation services in Helena, MT — and we’re here to help homeowners and contractors take advantage of the spring season.
If you’re preparing for site development, utility installation, or septic work, these April excavation tips will help ensure your project starts strong.
1. Take Advantage of Spring Soil Conditions
As the ground thaws and temperatures rise, April is ideal for excavation work. Soil conditions are softer, making it easier and more efficient to complete services like trenching, backfilling, and utility excavation. Acting early helps avoid delays caused by spring rain or late-season frost.
2. Always Mark Underground Utilities Before Digging
Before starting any excavation project in Helena, it’s critical to call 811 and have underground utilities located and marked. This ensures safety, avoids costly damage, and keeps your project compliant with local regulations. Schaefer Excavating always follows proper procedures for utility location before breaking ground.
3. Don’t Ignore Drainage Issues
April is the perfect time to assess your property’s drainage and grading needs. Snowmelt and spring rain can highlight problem areas on your land. Our team can improve drainage with precise grading, trenching, or backfilling to help prevent flooding, erosion, and foundation damage.
4. Start Planning Septic Installation Projects Now
If you’re building a home, cabin, or upgrading an existing septic system, early spring is the time to start. Septic system installation in Helena, MT requires permitting and planning. We work with homeowners, builders, and local agencies to get your system approved and installed efficiently.
5. Hire a Local Excavation Contractor You Can Trust
As a locally owned and operated excavation company in Helena, Schaefer Excavating understands the terrain, climate, and building codes unique to this region. We offer a full range of services, including:
Excavation and site prep
Trenching and utility installation
Septic system installation
Backfilling and grading
Crawlspace and foundation excavation
No matter the size of your project, we bring the equipment, experience, and local knowledge needed to get the job done right.