GILLON CONTRACTING & EXCAVATION
Veteran Owned and Operated
Have questions about your upcoming project? We've put together answers to some of the most common questions we receive about our services, estimates, scheduling, and what to expect when working with our team. If you don't find the information you're looking for, we're always happy to help. Contact us directly to discuss your project or schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between land clearing and logging when preparing land for a new home, and which should I choose?
While both methods involve removing trees, selective land clearing and logging serve different purposes. Logging primarily focuses on harvesting timber, often using heavy equipment across large portions of the property. Selective land clearing takes a more targeted approach, removing only the trees and vegetation necessary for your planned home site, driveway, and other improvements while preserving as much of the surrounding property as possible.
One important consideration is how these methods affect the soil, particularly when planning for a septic system. Logging operations can cause significant soil disruption that will likely impact the property's suitability for septic approval. In many cases, heavily disturbed areas may no longer qualify for a septic permit. For this reason, we generally recommend selective land clearing for future home sites, especially before septic evaluations and permitting are complete. This approach allows us to protect sensitive areas, preserve desirable trees, and prepare your property with the overall construction process in mind.
How far in advance should I schedule excavation work?
We recommend reaching out as early as possible, especially if your project involves new construction or requires coordination with builders, surveyors, or other contractors. Our schedule varies throughout the year, and factors such as weather and project complexity can affect availability. Getting in touch early allows us to better understand your project, coordinate with your construction timeline, and help prevent unnecessary delays.
How long does a typical excavation project take?
Project timelines vary depending on the scope of work, property conditions, weather, and materials required. Smaller projects may take just a day or two, while larger land development projects can take several weeks. We provide an estimated timeline before work begins and maintain open communication throughout the project. One thing that sets GCE apart is our commitment to focusing on one project at a time. When we begin your project, our team stays dedicated to your job through completion rather than moving between multiple job sites and leaving your project sitting unfinished.
Can you work directly with my home builder or general contractor?
Absolutely! We regularly work alongside builders and general contractors to coordinate excavation and site preparation with the overall construction process. From driveway access and building pads to foundation excavation and underground utilities, we understand how important it is for each phase of construction to be completed correctly and on schedule. If you haven't selected a builder or general contractor yet, we're also happy to recommend professionals we've worked with and had positive experiences with in the past.
I found another contractor who can complete the work for less. Do you price match?
We always encourage property owners to research their options and choose the contractor who is the best fit for their project. While we understand that budget is an important consideration, our estimates reflect the equipment, materials, labor, and methods we believe are necessary to complete your project properly. For that reason, we generally do not offer price matching, as estimates from different contractors may not always include the same scope or level of service. When you hire GCE, you're investing in more than the finished product. You're choosing an experienced team that values quality workmanship, professionalism, clear communication, and a commitment to your project from start to finish.
Ready to Discuss Your Project?
Whether you're preparing land for a new home, planning site improvements, or just figuring out where to start, we're here to help. We understand that every property and project is different, and we're happy to walk through your plans, answer questions, and discuss the best approach for your needs.