how to calculate dirt excavation

Dirt excavation is the process of removing dirt or soil from an area, usually for construction purposes. Knowing how to calculate dirt excavation is important to make sure that the process is properly planned and budgeted for. In this article, we will discuss the steps involved in calculating dirt excavation.

Step 1: Determine the Area to be Excavated

The first step in calculating dirt excavation is to determine the area that needs to be excavated. This can be done by measuring the length and width of the area using a tape measure. Once the length and width are determined, multiply them together to get the total area in square feet. For example, if the length is 50 feet and the width is 20 feet, the total area to be excavated is 1000 square feet.

Step 2: Determine the Depth of Excavation

The next step is to determine the depth of excavation required. This will depend on the type of construction project and the type of soil that needs to be excavated. The depth can be measured using a measuring tape or a laser level. Once the depth is determined, it is important to add an extra 10% to the depth for any unforeseen circumstances, such as soil compaction or settlement.

Step 3: Calculate the Volume of Excavation

Once the area and depth have been determined, the next step is to calculate the volume of excavation. This can be done by multiplying the area by the depth. For example, if the area is 1000 square feet and the depth is 5 feet (including the additional 10%), then the volume of excavation required is 5000 cubic feet.

Step 4: Convert Cubic Feet to Cubic Yards

Most excavation contractors price their services by the cubic yard, so it is important to convert the volume of excavation from cubic feet to cubic yards. To do this, divide the volume in cubic feet by 27 (there are 27 cubic feet in a cubic yard). Using the example above, 5000 cubic feet divided by 27 equals 185.2 cubic yards.

Step 5: Account for Shrinkage

Finally, it is important to account for shrinkage. Shrinkage occurs when soil is excavated and then used as backfill or disposed of elsewhere. There is always some loss of volume due to compaction and settling. The amount of shrinkage will depend on the type of soil being excavated. It is safe to assume a shrinkage factor of 15% for most soil types.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing how to calculate dirt excavation is an important part of any construction project that involves excavation. By following the above steps and accounting for any unforeseen circumstances, you can ensure that your project is properly planned and budgeted for. Remember to always consult with a professional excavation contractor to ensure that your project is completed safely and within budget.