Frequently Asked Questions

Accurate depth during basement excavation ensures proper footing placement and prevents settling or wall cracking. In Merrillville and Valparaiso, local groundwater levels and soil composition require careful depth control and reinforcement. At Robert Balash Trucking & Excavating, we use precision equipment to maintain stable excavation lines and support long-term foundation integrity.

Drainage tile should be installed during excavation, before backfilling, to ensure proper placement around the footing. This timing allows for correct slope and connection to discharge points. Robert Balash Trucking & Excavating offers guidance on drainage tile placement and waterproofing prep to prevent future water intrusion.

Grading costs depend on lot size, existing slope, soil type, and the amount of cut or fill needed. Clay-heavy soil in Northwest Indiana often requires additional compaction work. Equipment type and accessibility also influence pricing, as does the need for laser-guided precision to meet drainage specifications.

Proper compaction prevents settling under driveways, foundations, and utilities by stabilizing the soil base. Clay-based soils around Merrillville and Crown Point require careful compaction to avoid future cracking or shifting. Robert Balash Trucking & Excavating uses professional equipment to ensure long-term stability and safe ground preparation.

Grading creates slopes that direct water away from structures and low spots, reducing pooling and erosion. Laser-guided equipment ensures accurate elevation changes tailored to property layout. In Northwest Indiana's clay-heavy terrain, correct grading is essential to manage runoff and protect foundations from moisture damage.

A swale is a shallow, graded channel that redirects surface water, while a French drain is an underground perforated pipe surrounded by gravel that collects and moves groundwater. Both address drainage issues but serve different water sources. Robert Balash Trucking & Excavating designs solutions based on soil conditions and runoff patterns across Lake and Porter Counties.

Yes, but clay soil has low absorption rates, requiring larger drain fields or engineered systems to ensure proper wastewater treatment. In areas like Demotte and Porter, soil testing determines the best septic design. Robert Balash Trucking & Excavating ensures accurate trenching and field placement to meet local code requirements and long-term performance standards.

Contact utility companies to disconnect or shut off gas, electric, water, and sewer lines before demolition begins. Verify local permits and notify neighbors if required. Robert Balash Trucking & Excavating follows safety procedures, utility checks, and controlled debris removal to ensure safe and compliant demolition across Northwest Indiana.

Water lines in Indiana should typically be buried at least 36 to 48 inches deep to stay below the frost line and prevent freezing. Local codes and site conditions may require adjustments. Robert Balash Trucking & Excavating ensures correct depth, slope, and alignment for all underground utility installations throughout Merrillville and surrounding areas.

Many homeowners underestimate the volume of runoff or ignore soil type, leading to undersized or improperly graded drainage systems. Clay soils in Lake and Porter Counties slow water absorption, increasing pooling risks. Robert Balash Trucking & Excavating designs solutions tailored to local weather patterns and soil conditions for lasting stormwater control.

Yes, drainage behind retaining walls prevents water buildup that causes pressure, cracking, and wall failure. Gravel backfill and weep holes or drain pipes allow water to escape safely. Robert Balash Trucking & Excavating uses proper excavation, compaction, and drainage techniques to ensure long-lasting stability in hilly areas near Chesterton and Valparaiso.

Heavy spring rains saturate clay soils, making excavation harder and delaying compaction and grading work. Wet conditions can also destabilize trenches and increase erosion risks. Robert Balash Trucking & Excavating schedules projects with weather patterns in mind and adapts techniques to ensure safe, quality work across Merrillville and surrounding communities.