They say Rome wasn’t built in a day. What they forget to add is that construction work for Rome also didn’t start on day one. That’s because any construction work, whether you’re building a new structure or adding to an existing one, requires proper site preparation.
From site clearing to excavation, the right heavy equipment in construction can make light work of site preparation. Here’s how to prepare for construction to save time and prevent problems in the long run.
What’s the role of heavy equipment in construction site preparation?
Construction doesn’t just start with the wave of a wand. Projects of all sizes require thorough site preparation prior to construction beginning. This involves clearing the area, grading the land, and compacting the soil. If site preparation isn’t properly done, it compromises the safety and quality of the entire project, leading to long delays and budget blowouts.
Heavy equipment is undeniably essential for carrying out thorough site preparation. Now let’s unpack the details.
What does site preparation for construction include?
There are several processes involved in site preparation. These can be broken into the following phases:
- Clearing the site of vegetation and existing buildings
- Grading to reshape and level the land to accomodate your site plan design
- Compacting the land to create a solid base where the project will be built.
It’s not just a matter of making the ground firm enough to support the new structure. It also includes considerations around:
- Access points (such as driveways and walkways)
- Landscaping
- Drainage and septic systems.
Unique site factors will determine exactly what preparation needs to be carried out. For example, a fresh plot of land that hasn’t been built on before will likely to require more attention to compaction. On the other hand, a previously developed site (perhaps where a building has been demolished) is likely to already be compacted. In this case, the key challenge is grading (ie. levelling) and clearing any leftover debris.
Included in these heavy machinery applications are other more important steps to be taken. Examples include:
- Site surveyance
- Soil teating
- Planning of underground works (such as pipes and plumbing).
These steps in site preparation will determine how the site should be laid out and what type of foundation is needed to support the weight of the building.
Used correctly, heavy equipment allows you to carry out the preparation and construction work efficiently and to a high standard. It will also ensure that workers remain safe throughout the process.
What’s more, site preparation also vastly improves accessibility for vehicles and workers around the site, while reducing the impact of construction on the surrounding environment.
What types of heavy equipment are used to prepare the site?
Although soil compaction may be the main objective of site preparation, it takes a range of different equipment to get the job done.
Site access may determine exactly which equipment can be used. For example, on a cramped urban construction site with small streets and neighbouring buildings, you may only be able to use smaller equipment. For example, an 8-11 tonne smooth drum roller, which is compact and manoeuvrable, is better suited for small spaces.
In contrast, on large, isolated sites, where there are no traffic or noise considerations, you can use whatever equipment will get things done more efficiently. In this case, you’ll most likely select a larger unit that can cover more ground, like a 24-27 tonne roller.
Looking to hire compaction rollers for your next project? Explore our hire range
Here’s a quick breakdown of the equipment commonly used in site preparation.:
- Rollers and Compactors
Rollers, plate compactors, and vibratory compactors are all types of compaction machinery. This equipment is used to compact the soil and lay a firm foundation. Effective compaction is essential to prevent settling, while guaranteeing the stability and safety of the structure.
Need to hire the best smooth drum rollers in Australia? Get a quote now
- Excavators
Excavators can be used for a wide range of site preparation tasks, and not just excavation. Their hydraulic systems enable them to carry out a variety of operations like digging, lifting, and moving heavy objects needed for clearing debris, grading land, and digging trenches. The size of the excavator is generally dictated by the size of the project. - Bulldozers
Bulldozers can be used in a wide range of applications, from modest construction sites to significant infrastructure projects. Built for heavy-duty work, they’re used to level the ground and remove debris as well as large amounts of earth. Both tracked and wheeled versions of bulldozers are available in various sizes. - Scrapers
Scrapers are typically used to level and grade large areas of land, such as construction sites, highways, and airports by moving large quantities of soil and other materials from one location to another. Scrapers consist of a tractor unit that pulls a blade, which is used to scrape the ground and collect material. The material is then taken to a place where it can be dumped, like a stockpile or fill area, where it can be used for different things, like filling in holes or elevating certain sections of the ground as needed.
- Loaders
Skid steer loaders are compact and versatile machines. They help prepare the ground for digging, grading, and moving materials. They’re perfect for smaller projects because they’re highly manoeuvrable and built to operate in confined spaces. Skid steer loaders come in a variety of sizes and can be equipped with a variety of attachments. - Graders
Graders are large machines, available in a range of sizes, that are used to level the land and adjust the gradient of the slope as needed, making them popular for road construction projects. They smooth out the surface and remove any ridges and with its adjustable blade, the operator can grade the land to the desired level.
Looking to hire compaction rollers for your next project? Explore our hire range
How to get the best value from your heavy equipment in construction
Of course, with heavy machinery comes potentially heavy consequences. Not only in terms of worker safety, but also erosion of the surrounding environment. To reduce these risks, it’s crucial to put erosion control and stormwater management measures in place.
We’re also proud to say that Deutz’s US EPA Tier 4 / EU Stage IV engines meet all the latest emission standards to keep your people safe and protect the environment without sacrificing performance.
At Conplant, we focus on building successful partnerships, not just transactions. We don’t just sell you the roller. We follow up to make sure you’re getting the most value out of it, helping you to optimise your time and resources.
Our support doesn’t stop when your equipment leaves our yard. Our team is knowledgeable and always happy to offer their advice, expertise, and extensive experience when you need it to ensure you buy, or hire, the right equipment.
Want to buy brand new compaction equipment? Get a quote
Not sure exactly what equipment you need? Call us on 1300 166 166 to discuss options and find the best price in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Essential steps that might happen during the site preparation process include:
- Site surveying and assessment
- Site clearing (if there are existing structures, demolition will also be necessary)
- Grading
- Soil testing
- Utility marking
- Planning of drainage systems
- Building access roads and site entrances
- Erosion and sediment control
- Securing the site
The steps involved in a construction project can be broken into the following seven stages:
- Planning and design
- Site preparation
- Foundation construction
- Framing
- Systems installation
- Interior and exterior finishes
- Final inspection and handover
Proper site preparation for a residential development is a critical part of the construction process and can take between one and two months. That said, there are several factors that can impact the site preparation work which will increase the time needed. These include the size of the lot, soil conditions, access, presence of existing vegetation/structures, and, of course, the weather conditions.
