Breaking Ground? 5 Tips to Tackle Land Excavation Challenges Like a Pro

Post by Longhorn Funding on March 13, 2025

Breaking ground on a new development project is exciting—but excavation challenges can derail your timeline and budget. At Longhorn Funding, we’ve seen developers turn dirt into dollars by mastering these hurdles. Here are five actionable tips to keep your land development on track.

1. Know Your Soil Before You Dig
Soil type impacts excavation costs and methods. Clay-heavy soil, common in Texas, can swell with moisture, slowing progress. A 2023 study by the American Society of Civil Engineers found poor soil analysis adds 15-20% to project costs.

Action Step: Order a geotechnical report ($1,000-$5,000) to test soil composition and avoid surprises like rock layers or unstable ground.

2. Check for Underground Utilities
Hitting a gas line or water pipe can halt work and cost thousands in repairs—average utility damage claims hit $3,500 (per Common Ground Alliance).

Action Step: Call 811 (Texas One Call) at least 48 hours before digging to mark utilities for free. Double-check with a private locator for unmarked lines.

3. Plan for Weather Delays
Rain can turn your site into a muddy mess, especially in flood-prone areas like Houston.

Action Step: Schedule excavation during drier months (e.g., June-August in Texas) and budget for contingencies—add 10% to your timeline for weather delays.

4. Manage Erosion and Runoff
Excavation disturbs soil, risking erosion that violates local regulations. Fines for non-compliance can reach $10,000/day in Texas (per TCEQ).

Action Step: Install silt fences ($2-$5 per linear foot) and schedule regular inspections to keep sediment on-site.

5. Hire the Right Excavation Crew
An inexperienced crew can double your timeline.

Action Step: Vet contractors with at least 5 years of local experience—ask for references and verify their equipment matches your project’s scale (e.g., bulldozers for large lots).

Takeaway
Excavation sets the foundation for your development’s success. Plan smart, dig safe, and fund your project with confidence—Longhorn Funding is here to help with private money if needed!