Excavation Projects in Economic Uncertainty and Storm Season

With the economy in flux and storm season on the way, you might wonder which excavation projects are worth budgeting for and which can wait.

Since 1978, we have been dedicated to helping NJ homeowners prioritize and navigate these circumstances. We understand the challenges you face and are here to support you.

Don't hesitate to contact Toby Barkman for a free, proactive, and prioritized plan to protect and maintain your property.

Proactive Planning -

1. Drainage and Erosion

Keep an eye on:

1.   Standing water near your foundation or septic system

2.   Erosion near walkways or patios

3.   Sloping areas that seem to be washing away

4.   Overflowing gutters or downspouts that don't lead anywhere useful

If your property isn't draining after rain, water might seep down and damage the foundation or septic system. In worst-case scenarios, like in Warren County, stormwater can cause sinkholes and landslides.

Grading, trenching, or a simple French drain can protect your wallet from major foundation repairs and septic system failures.

2. Age and Function of the Septic System

Many homeowners in rural parts of Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren counties rely on septic systems. And unfortunately, many of those systems are well past their prime.

If your system is over 20–30 years old and you've never had a professional inspection (or noticed weird smells, soggy ground, or slow drains), it's time to take a serious look.

We can help you assess whether your system needs a minor fix before it becomes an emergency.

3. County's Soil Challenges

Soil conditions in Hunterdon, Morris, Somerset, or Warren County can turn backyards into swamps and rivers, and older septic systems exacerbate the problem.

1.   Hunterdon County: Clay-heavy in many areas. This means drainage can be slow, and excavation requires extra muscle. Septic systems here often need careful placement and good water flow design.

2.   Morris County: Rocky terrain is the norm, especially up north. Excavation here can take longer and sometimes needs specialized equipment to break through the layers.

3.   Somerset County: You'll find more loamy, silty soils here, which is great for drainage but can shift more easily during storms. That means extra care in grading and retaining walls.

4.   Warren County: Rolling hills and mixed soils. We've seen everything from sandy slopes to dense clay pockets, sometimes all on the same property. Drainage and slope stability are key.

We know your neighborhood's soil conditions and can offer the best solution the first time around. Whatever the case, we're here to help you prioritize so you can budget confidently.

4. Proactive Long-Term Grading, Foundations, and Storm Prep Projects.

Even if you're not building a new home, proper grading and land prep can significantly affect how your property handles water and weather.

1.   Planning a garden or new patio? Let's grade the area so it doesn't flood.

2.   Worried about basement leaks? Sometimes, it's re-sloping the yard to direct water away.

3.   Want to future-proof your property for storms? We can help with berms, swales, and other landscape features that guide water where it should go.

If you're considering any construction in the next few years—a shed, garage, or addition—let us know so we can ensure your site prep prevents drainage issues.

5. Budgeting Tips

1.   Do a site assessment: We offer these for free. We'll walk the property, discuss your concerns, and help you prioritize what's urgent vs. what can wait.

2.   Bundle projects: Sometimes, it makes sense to do grading, drainage, and septic updates simultaneously, which saves you money.

3.   Ask about phased work: We can also create a plan that spreads the work over time—like tackling drainage this year and septic next spring.

4.   Stay proactive: Catching minor issues now can keep them from becoming big bills later.

About Toby Barkman Excavating

With over 40 years of experience excavating and installing septic systems in New Jersey, Toby Barkman Excavating is a trusted name. We know the back roads, the soil types, and the zoning quirks, making us the ideal partner for your property needs.

Call Tobin Barkman for a free, no-obligation site assessment. 908.832.7757