Why Is Sitework Important?

When starting a new construction project, it is really easy to focus on the actual construction of the new building and neglect the project's sitework.

However, sitework is just as important, if not more important, than your new building.

And sitework is equally important in both commercial and industrial projects.

Sitework and excavation is the process in which a construction site is prepared for the construction job.

This phase of the construction process contains a variety of activities performed on the site and is an essential part of the construction project.

Sitework will vary from project to project and depend on things like the project's needs and environmental conditions.

Below are a few things that may be necessary for site work on your construction site and why they are essential.

Table of Contents

• Tying In The Utilities
• Erosion Control and Shoring
• Excavation
• Providing a Good Base
• Water Systems and Drainage
• Subgrade Stabilization
• Exterior Features
• Clearing and Grubbing
• Safety
• Build With STEVENS

Tying in the Utilities

The functionality of your building depends on how well the utilities are tied into it.

Filtration systems, septic tanks, and underground lines for sewer, water, gas, and electricity are all aspects of sitework.

These all need to be installed with care and precision to reduce the problems you could have when you hook everything up to your building.

Erosion Control and Shoring

Erosion control and shoring are used to prevent your construction site from experiencing problems with soil erosion, collapse, or weathering while your building is being constructed.

If erosion control and shoring aren't performed correctly, your job site won't be safe for your workers and their equipment.

Excavation

During excavation, excess soil and rocks will be removed from your construction site.

Excavation of soil and rocks on many job sites can be pretty exhaustive.

It often requires the use of heavy machinery to get the job done correctly.

Experienced excavators, like the ones with STEVENS, have the necessary experience for the demanding job.

Providing a Good Base

Much of the long-term damage to a building comes from not having a solid base.

The foundation of your building can shift if the land beneath it is too soft, shortening the life of your building and leading to extensive repairs.

If damage due to a weak foundation happens early on, it can lead to a liability suit dealing with the build quality.

That's why you should always work with a company experienced in sitework.

Water Systems and Drainage

This aspect of sitework is usually the difference between a poorly made structure and a project you can be proud of.

Drainage systems on your construction site will be used to eliminate excess water from storms to prevent damage to your equipment and keep it from compromising your jobsite.

Systems will also be installed to bring clean water into the area and pump out wastewater.

Subgrade Stabilization

To make sure your construction site doesn't experience any cracks or other structural damage, you need subgrade stabilization.

During subgrade stabilization, the soil just below the topsoil is stabilized to avoid any shifting or caving.

This is an essential part of sitework that will help ensure the integrity of your project.

Exterior Features

Site work generally includes preparing job sites for driveways, sidewalks, and concrete pads.

It's not unusual for sitework to include installing much of the base and having paving contractors come in and do the surfacing work.

The installed surfaces need solid engineering underneath them, so it's important to get this part of the job right.

Clearing and Grubbing

Clearing and grubbing is the part of sitework that clears vegetation, such as bushes, shrubs, trees, and other plants from the job site.

Based on the types and the amount of vegetation on your job site, clearing and grubbing can include other processes due to regulatory and environmental considerations.

Safety

Several factors influence the safety of site work, but operating heavy equipment is an essential part of sitework.

Anyone who has worked in construction has met people who can put a bucket on an egg without cracking it.

You need people on your job site that can perform their jobs with such precision to ensure a certain level of safety.

Build With STEVENS

The experts at STEVENS pride themselves on delivering the best experience and products for their customers.

STEVENS Engineers & Constructors Sitework and Excavation Division has over 75 years of experience preparing sites for construction. 

Everything from de-watering and utility relocation to mass excavating and backfill, they can handle. 

Our attention to detail and ability to understand every step of the construction process will set your project up for success from the start. 

STEVENS tailors its plan for safety, environmental protection, and efficiency. 

If you need expert site work done for your construction project, click the button below to see how we can help.

Check out our other articles:

How Long Does It Take To Excavate A Construction Site?

What Types Of Equipment Are Used In Civil Construction?