The term “sitework” is a general term used in the construction industry to refer to the preliminary work of getting a construction site ready for building and development. It encompasses a range of different preparatory activities and may vary somewhat depending on the particular environmental conditions of the site and the goals and needs of the construction project. Sitework is an extremely important step in good construction practices because it sets the stage for everything that is to come, protects the site, and helps minimize or eliminate a range of potential future problems.
Key Aspects of Good Sitework
The following is an overview of six highly important aspects of good sitework, what each different type is, why it is important, and the factors that affect it. These different areas of sitework are common to most types of construction projects, though depending on the circumstances of the project, some may require more intensive work than others.
Clearing and Grubbing
- What Is Clearing and Grubbing and Why Is It Important? – Clearing and grubbing refers to the removal unwanted of vegetation such as trees, shrubs, bushes, and other plants, as well as general debris, from a construction site. Clearing and grubbing is a crucial aspect of sitework for the obvious reason that it physically clears the area of things that might be situated directly in the way of the new building or development, or which might block access to the worksite.
- What Factors Matter for Successful Clearing and Grubbing? – Several factors influence the success of clearing and grubbing. One important factor is the tree, bush, or plant size. Naturally larger, thicker vegetation requires more extensive grubbing than smaller, sparse vegetation. Likewise the particular type of vegetation is an influencing factor. Some trees and shrubs are harder to remove than others or may simply require different removal techniques. The depth below the surface to which the site is cleared and grubbed is also important and may depend on the intended depth of foundation to be laid. The disposal method of the vegetation and debris removed from the site is also a significant consideration. For example trees and shrubs may be cut up and chipped as a means of disposal, burned, or buried. Environmental considerations, ecological factors, state and local regulations, and the demands of the construction project itself will all likely play a role.
Subgrade Stabilization
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- What Is Subgrade Stabilization and Why Is It Important? – Subgrade stabilization refers to the process of stabilizing soil levels below topsoil. This is done to prevent the ground from shifting or caving in while the construction work is being done. Subgrade stabilization is also important because it prevents the soil beneath the foundation from later shifting or caving after construction has been completed, which could in turn cause cracks or structural damage.
- What Factors Influence Subgrade Stabilization? – Subgrade stabilization is typically performed by using a stabilizing or reclaiming agent which is blended with cement or lime and then added to the soil. As a result the soil type and moisture content present in the soil are very important because they influence the type and amount of additives used. Soil tests and samples are usually taken first to determine the best approach to subgrade stabilization.
Shoring and Erosion Control
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- What Is Shoring and Erosion Control and Why Is It Important? – Shoring and erosion control is a method of protecting the worksite against collapse as well as the effects erosion and weathering. This is an extremely important element of good sitework because it helps ensure the safety and integrity of the worksite, materials, and equipment.
- What Factors Influence Shoring and Erosion Control? – Because shoring and erosion are so heavily dependent on environmental factors those are also the factors that influence how the shoring and erosion control will be undertaken. Rainfall, wind, and other weather conditions in the area are also important.
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Heavy Haul Roads
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- What Are Heavy Haul Roads and Why Are They Important? – Heavy haul roads are the service roads used to access the construction site. They are important because without them accessing the site would be impossible or impractical. Heavy haul roads also prevent equipment and vehicles from getting bogged down or damaged en route.
- What Factors Influence Heavy Haul Road Construction? – The construction of heavy haul roads is influenced in large part by the demands that will be placed on the road. Such demands include the volume, size, and weight of the equipment, vehicles, and machinery that will be using the road.
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Excavation
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- What Is Excavation and Why Is It Important? – Excavation refers to the process of removing soil and rock from the worksite. It is important because excavation may be required to dig out an area that will need to be occupied by something else as part of the construction and development project.
- What Factors Influence Excavation? – Excavation requires large earthmoving equipment and work crews who are experienced and knowledgeable at the process. It is influenced in large part by the depth of excavation required as well as the soil and rock type present.
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Drainage Systems and Water systems
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- What Are Drainage and Water Systems and Why Are They Important? – Drainage systems are used to clear stormwater from the area. Water distribution systems are used to bring safe, potable water into the site. These types of systems are crucial because just about all commercial, industrial, or residential sites will need a means of bring clean water in and pumping wastewater out.
- What Factors Influence the Construction of Drainage and Water Systems? – Construction of the drainage and water systems is likely to be influenced by the water source and wastewater destination, required volume and capacity, and the needs of particular facilities.
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Good sitework lays the groundwork for the rest of the construction project and it is essential to start things off on the right foot. STI Group offers its civil construction customers outstanding sitework and preparation services. We have an extensive range of capabilities and resources and we are committed to providing superior quality and value.
