Question 1

How long has Bear Excavating been in business?

Accepted Answer

Bear Excavating has been serving Southern Alberta for over 25 years. We are a family-owned and operated business with deep roots in Foothills County.

Question 2

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We primarily serve Foothills County including Okotoks, High River, Black Diamond, Turner Valley, Nanton, and surrounding areas. We also work in south Calgary and throughout Southern Alberta.

Question 3

Are you licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Bear Excavating is fully licensed, insured, and WCB covered. We are also COR certified for safety and an Alberta Certified Septic Installer.

Question 4

Do you offer free estimates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide free, no-obligation estimates for all projects. Contact us to schedule a site visit and discuss your project needs.

Question 5

What forms of payment do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept cheque, e-transfer, and cash. Payment terms are discussed during the quoting process and vary based on project size.

Question 6

Do you work in winter?

Accepted Answer

Many excavation tasks can be performed year-round. Some work, like septic installation, may be limited during frozen conditions. Contact us to discuss your timeline.

Question 7

Will the equipment fit between my property and my neighbours?

Accepted Answer

Bear Excavating has a large range of equipment so we can choose the ideal machine for your site, minimizing disruptions for you and your neighbours. If space is especially limited, fences or other obstructions can be temporarily removed to allow equipment access. This is done in consultation with you and your neighbours, and the site is restored after we leave.

Question 8

How much does a new septic system cost?

Accepted Answer

Septic system costs vary significantly based on size, soil conditions, system type, and site accessibility. Most residential installations range from $15,000 to $30,000. We provide detailed quotes after site assessment.

Question 9

How long does septic installation take?

Accepted Answer

A typical residential septic installation takes 2-4 days once permits are approved. The permit process with your local municipality typically takes 2-4 weeks.

Question 10

Do I need a permit for a septic system?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all septic systems in Alberta require a permit from your local municipality. We handle the entire permit process for you.

Question 11

What is a percolation test?

Accepted Answer

A percolation (perc) test measures how quickly water drains through your soil. This determines the type and size of septic system suitable for your property. We conduct these tests as part of our assessment.

Question 12

Do you offer septic pumping?

Accepted Answer

We specialize in septic installation and repairs. We can recommend trusted septic pumping services in the area for regular maintenance.

Question 13

Can you repair my existing septic system?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we diagnose and repair failing septic systems including tank issues, drain field problems, and system upgrades. Contact us for an assessment.

Question 14

I need to install a septic system on my property. Who do I call to dig the hole?

Accepted Answer

Bear Excavating is a certified Alberta Septic System installer with the knowledge and training to complete your septic system to specification. We can provide excavation services only or complete installation. Due to Alberta regulations, the septic system must be designed by a certified designer. If you need a designer, we can recommend firms who provide this service. Once you have plans, we can provide full installation and ongoing maintenance.

Question 15

What size arena should I build?

Accepted Answer

Standard sizes range from 60x120 feet for basic riding to 80x200 feet for dressage or larger disciplines. We help you determine the right size based on your discipline, budget, and available space.

Question 16

What footing material can you supply and install?

Accepted Answer

We can supply and install footing material including sand, rubber, and synthetic options. We also prepare the base for footing installation, including proper grading, drainage, and base layers.

Question 17

How important is drainage for a riding arena?

Accepted Answer

Drainage is critical. Poor drainage leads to water pooling, unstable footing, and maintenance problems. We install proper subsurface drainage, under drainage for riding arenas, and grade the arena for optimal water management.

Question 18

Can you build indoor arena bases?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we excavate and prepare bases for both indoor and outdoor arenas. Indoor arenas require coordination with your building contractor for foundation requirements.

Question 19

What base material do you use for arenas?

Accepted Answer

We typically use crushed gravel as a base layer, properly compacted for stability. The specific materials depend on your soil conditions and footing choice.

Question 20

How long does a basement excavation take?

Accepted Answer

A typical basement excavation takes 1-2 days, depending on size and soil conditions. Larger projects or challenging terrain may take longer.

Question 21

Do you handle utility locates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we coordinate with Alberta One-Call to ensure all underground utilities are properly located before excavation begins. This is included in our service.

Question 22

What happens to excavated material?

Accepted Answer

We can haul away excavated material or spread it on-site if you have a use for it. Disposal costs, when applicable, are included in our quotes.

Question 23

Can you excavate in tight spaces?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have equipment suitable for tight residential sites as well as larger projects. We assess site access during the quoting process.

Question 24

Do you provide topsoil stripping and stockpiling?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we strip and stockpile topsoil for redistribution after construction. This saves money on landscaping and is included in most site development projects.

Question 25

Who do I call before I dig?

Accepted Answer

Bear Excavating works with Alberta One Call and local councils or municipalities to ensure all underground services are properly located and marked by relevant authorities. This crucial step ensures site safety and prevents damage to services on your property and neighbouring properties, minimizing injury and costly repairs or delays.

Question 26

I want a foundation dug on a property I have just purchased. What do I do?

Accepted Answer

Give us a call and we will arrange a time to inspect your site and review your plans. Site and soil conditions affect the equipment required and the time needed to complete the job safely and effectively. Good planning from the start can significantly help keep your project on track.

Question 27

How long will the excavating process take on a new home foundation?

Accepted Answer

We aim to complete all projects as quickly as possible. Before starting, we provide a time estimate based on the size and type of home, site access, and unique site conditions. Weather or unforeseen ground factors can impact time on site, but you will be kept informed of any delays. Contact us for a consultation—time spent in initial planning helps accurately gauge requirements and completion timelines.

Question 28

What is included in acreage development?

Accepted Answer

Acreage development can include land clearing, driveway construction, site grading, building pad preparation, drainage solutions, utility trenching, and septic installation. We customize the scope to your needs.

Question 29

Do you help with development permits?

Accepted Answer

We can guide you through the development permit process and assist with requirements. Some developments require permits before work can begin.

Question 30

Can you clear trees and brush?

Accepted Answer

Yes, land clearing including tree removal and brush clearing is part of our services. We can also help with stump removal and disposal.

Question 31

How much does a gravel driveway cost?

Accepted Answer

Driveway costs depend on length, width, terrain, and drainage requirements. We provide detailed quotes after site assessment. Budget roughly $40-60 per linear foot as a starting point.

Question 32

I want to build a road to my property. What do I need to do?

Accepted Answer

Building a road is a multi-step process. First, consult your regional authority to determine requirements for permission, which may include neighbour consent, traffic estimates, environmental impact analysis, and proposed plans. How your property is classified (commercial, industrial, residential) can impact requirements. Bear Excavating can provide options for the type of road needed for your traffic requirements and site conditions. Once approved, we have the equipment and knowledge to finish your project safely.

Question 33

I desperately need fallen trees removed. Who do I call?

Accepted Answer

Call us at 403-371-6606 and we will arrange to have your trees removed as soon as possible. We have a large range of equipment available to handle trees of varying sizes and in varying locations. If you need the site smoothed out and tidied afterwards, this can also be arranged.

Question 34

How do I get started with a project?

Accepted Answer

Contact us by phone or through our quote form. We will discuss your project, schedule a site visit if needed, and provide a detailed quote with no obligation.

Question 35

How far in advance should I book?

Accepted Answer

We recommend booking 2-4 weeks in advance during busy seasons (spring and fall). Emergency repairs can often be accommodated sooner.

Question 36

Do I need to be present during the work?

Accepted Answer

You do not need to be present for the entire project. We communicate throughout the process and coordinate access requirements with you.

Question 37

What if there are unexpected issues during excavation?

Accepted Answer

We communicate any discoveries (rock, unexpected utilities, soil conditions) immediately and discuss options before proceeding. We do not surprise you with extra charges.

Question 38

Do you clean up the site when finished?

Accepted Answer

Yes, site cleanup and final grading are included in our work. We take pride in leaving your property better than we found it.

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