Site Prep That Sets the Project Up Right

Excavation Services in Long Island

When you're building a patio, installing a foundation, or regrading your yard for drainage, the excavation has to be done correctly before anything else goes in. On Long Island, where soil types vary and drainage issues show up after storms, proper site prep means removing unstable material, grading to the right slope, and compacting the base so it doesn't settle later. Lorenzo Napolitano Construction INC provides full-service excavation for exterior home projects where the digging, grading, and construction are handled by the same crew.

The service includes site prep for foundations, patios, driveways, retaining walls, landscaping, and drainage systems. Grading is done to support long-term structural integrity, and the process accounts for local soil conditions and lot layouts across Long Island. Because excavation and construction are coordinated in-house, there are no delays waiting on separate contractors, and the crew knows exactly what the next phase requires.

If you're starting a project that involves digging, grading, or site prep, get in touch to review what your property needs and how the work gets done.

What the Work Includes and How It Connects

The process begins with marking the area, locating utilities, and removing topsoil or unstable material down to solid ground. On Long Island properties, that often means digging through sandy or organic soil until the base is firm enough to support the structure or surface being installed. The site is graded to direct water away from the foundation or patio, and the base is compacted in layers to prevent settling.

Once excavation is complete, you'll see a site that is level where it needs to be, sloped correctly for drainage, and free of soft spots that would cause sinking or shifting later. The base is firm underfoot, water runs off instead of pooling, and the area is ready for the next phase without delays or adjustments.

The service covers excavation, grading, and base compaction for exterior projects. It does not include removal of structures such as sheds or decks, tree removal, or underground utility relocation unless specified. If your project involves multiple phases or requires coordination with landscaping or hardscaping, that work is scheduled in sequence to keep the timeline intact.

Excavation brings up practical questions about what gets removed, how drainage is managed, and how the work fits with the rest of the project.

Questions That Come Up Before Starting

What types of projects require excavation?
Excavation is required for foundations, patios, driveways, retaining walls, drainage systems, and any project that involves changing grade or installing a structure below ground level. It's also used to prepare sites for landscaping or hardscaping.
How do you handle drainage during excavation?
The site is graded to direct water away from structures and toward natural drainage routes or catch basins. If the property has standing water or poor drainage, additional grading or stone base layers are added to improve flow.
Why does base compaction matter?
Compaction prevents the ground from settling after construction is finished. Without proper compaction, patios, driveways, and foundations can sink, crack, or develop low spots that collect water.
What happens to the soil that's removed?
Soil is either spread on the property if it's usable or hauled off-site if it's unstable or excess. You'll be told ahead of time what the plan is based on the amount of material and what your project requires.
How long does excavation take?
Most residential excavation projects take one to three days depending on the size of the area, access, soil conditions, and whether utilities need to be located. Larger projects or sites with drainage issues may take longer.

Lorenzo Napolitano Construction INC handles excavation and construction together across Long Island, and the crew is familiar with local soil conditions, drainage challenges, and how site prep affects every phase that follows. If you're ready to start your project with proper excavation and grading, contact us to schedule a site visit and go over the details.