Precision Excavation

Expert site prep and grading for safe, stable, and successful projects—delivered with care and precision.

Improper site preparation can lead to drainage issues, unstable foundations, and costly delays. Ensuring proper site preparation is essential to prevent future structural issues and reduce the risk of water damage, erosion, or instability. Many homeowners and builders struggle to find an excavation partner who understands the unique needs of residential projects and communicates clearly from start to finish.

At J&RS, we specialize in light excavation for residential properties. Our skilled operators use the right equipment—like skid steers and small excavators—to handle site prep, grading, utility trenching, and drainage with meticulous attention to detail. During excavation, materials such as soil, rocks, and earth are removed to ensure a stable foundation for construction.

Request for a free Consultation today to learn more about our full range of excavation services!

What Our Clients Are Saying

Margaret S
October 31, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Excellent work by J&RS. They have done so much for us and we will continue to use their services! Shower and tub install, reworked plumbing, ceiling repair, fan install, exterior siding repair are just a few of the services we have experienced and each a wonderful experience
Heidi M
October 30, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I would highly recommend J&RS. Their salesman, Zach, was knowledgeable and helpful. Connor was always available to answer any questions that I had. Louie and his team transformed the look of my house with their expert workmanship, installing new windows, siding, gutters, and building a new deck. I'm very pleased with the end result, and I will definitely call them for any future projects.
Peggy H
October 29, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had them come and redo part of my back steps and couple of other projects and I am so impressed with the work done. I really can’t recommend them enough.
Vince &
October 12, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
In 2025, we approached J&RS with an idea for an expansion to our house. Chad was very professional and quick to respond with an initial rough estimate. After looking over the quote and signing with J&RS, we appreciated working with Chad and Kate over the winter to go over design iterations and make final decisions. Our expansion project included a new sunroom/recreation room, a bedroom/office, and a mudroom/powder room. Although our plans had grown and changed during the initial phase, we were happy J&RS was able to accommodate our requests within a reasonable budget, given the scale of the project. In spring of 2026, work began within the time frame they initially provided, and we were pleased with how Micah managed the project from start to finish. We were thankful for Micah’s communication and reassurance throughout the project if any issues or delays came up. If we had a concern, J&RS talked it through with us to come up with a solution that worked for everyone, and any problems were resolved in a timely manner. For example, one of our new windows was accidentally broken, and a window replacement was immediately ordered and installed by the end of the project. We also had a few minor design things that we wanted to adjust during the finishing touches, which were handled with care and done to satisfaction. One night, Micah even came out with a tarp to help cover an open portion of our addition that was exposed to extremely heavy rain. It was very exciting to see the progress each week, and we are very happy with the final results! Chad, Kate, Micah, and all the J&RS staff and subs worked hard to make sure our project was completed on time while meeting quality standards and permit requirements. We were especially impressed with how the roof line was tied into our existing home and the efficiency of the framers. We also love how the interior wood doors, trim, and ceiling turned out as well as the custom windows! We have been enjoying our new space and would recommend J&RS for anyone considering a renovation or expansion to their home.
Kim K
September 20, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Our basement remodel was the first time using J&RS but it definitely won't be our last! We've owned four homes and had over a dozen remodeling projects over the years. We have never had an experience like we did with J&RS! Starting with Ryan Blomquist and Kate Erickson as the sales and design team- we couldn't believe how hard they worked to meet our wish list! We were thrilled with their attention to the tiniest details, careful listening to get to the heart of our family's needs, and presenting beautiful options that took the stress and guesswork out of the design process. They took the time we needed to be educated about the process, timeline, products, expectations and cost. We never felt there was a "silly question" or that we were wasting anyone's time. We felt so taken care of! Rory Sundberg and his team (Marlin, JB, Ben, John, Henry, Bo) went so far past our expectations! Professional, friendly, patient, quiet, clean, respectful to us, our home, dog and each other, great communication, awesome sense of humor. It made the experience fun! Can you imagine a remodel being FUN!??? IT WAS! Ultimately they transformed our basement into a two bed/bath retreat for our guests while improving our structure and safety. The outcome was mind-blowing. Check out our photos! We love our new space! DO NOT HESITATE to reach out to J&RS - they will do everything in their power to make sure you're satisfied! We'll definitely be back!
Tom W
September 15, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Finally we found a reliable contractor. We had J&RS start with building our deck..Zac, our salesman was knowledgeable, professional and took the time to listen to what our goal was.. their crew showed up as planned and did an outstanding job. We then had them design and build an awning for the front of our house again they delivered a great looking product. I honestly can't say enough good about them. We're looking forward to the bathroom remodel.
Spaghettios
August 24, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Rebuilt the floor of my old front porch. Night and day difference! The price was right and they were efficient and tidy. Connor, Zach and their crew were all a pleasure to work with.
Sue
July 22, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Can’t say enough good things about this company and its employees. From the receptionist, to Ryan, Monica, John and Ben, our experience was amazing. Ryan and Monica came out and gave us ideas we never thought about. Ryan’s ideas for the layout of the kitchen, to Monica’s questions about colors and how we wanted the kitchen to feel, made us think. They gave us ideas to think over and time to decide. After a few meetings with Monica, and changes we made, we were ready to begin the project. John and Ben were our team. They came everyday, on time, and explained what they planned for the day. Before they would leave, they explained what they accomplished and what they planned for the next day. We were always kept informed. Ryan would stop by and oversee the project and ask if we had any concerns or questions. And John and Ben made sure everything was cleaned up before they left. Job completed! And we couldn’t be happier. See you at our next project.
John D
July 17, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Eli and Louie are friendly, dedicated workers. They addressed any concerns we had. The finished product is beautiful!
Frank
July 16, 2026
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Our front porch project is finished. We want to tell you how impressed we were with both Sam and Eli and the work they did on the railing.. They did an exceptional job. They took care to make sure the railing was straight, mounted securely and made sure to tell us what they were doing. When finished the area was cleaned and before they left visited with us to make sure we were pleased with their work. They are an asset to your company. Please be sure and comp[liment them for us on their work. Frank and Pat Riggio

Build on a Solid Foundation

J&RS provides precise site preparation, grading, and trenching—laying the groundwork for safe, stable, and successful projects. Rely on our expertise and attention to detail to ensure your build begins on solid ground. Every project starts with a detailed plan to ensure the proper installation of utilities and that foundations are laid correctly.

Site Prep & Grading

  • Level and stabilize your property for new construction or landscaping, managing and moving soil, gravel, and sand as essential materials in the grading process.
  • Prevent drainage issues and erosion with expert grading, controlling sediment and other material to maintain site stability.
  • Completed with precision for a safe, lasting result.

Utility Trenching

  • Safe, accurate trenching for water, sewer, and electrical lines, with the ability to dig trenches and deep holes for utility installation, including the removal of other materials such as soil, rocks, and sediment as needed.
  • Minimize disruption to your property, as careful excavation of trenches ensures safety and stability.
  • Code-compliant and ready for inspection.

Drainage Solutions

  • Custom grading and trenching to direct water away from your home, removing excess water and sediment to protect the property.
  • Protect foundations and landscaping from water damage.
  • Long-term solutions for a dry, stable property.

Light Dirt Work

  • Small-scale excavation for residential projects, including earth excavation techniques to create hollows and holes for foundations, landscaping, or utility access.
  • Ideal for additions, patios, and utility installations.
  • Handled with care to preserve your property, with drilling available for precise utility installations.

Foundation Excavation for Additions

  • Precise digging for new home additions or outbuildings, including excavating a large area and removing rocks to prepare the site.
  • Ensures a stable base for concrete and construction, with carrying away excavated materials as part of the process.
  • Expert coordination with your build team.

Backfilling & Final Grading

  • Smooth, even surfaces after construction or utility work, using quality material for effective backfilling.
  • Prevents settling and supports healthy landscaping.
  • Attention to detail for a clean, finished look, ensuring the project is complete and ready for the next phase.

Excavation with Integrity – Schedule Your Consultation Today

At J&RS, every excavation project is completed with safety, transparency, and a commitment to quality, creating strong partnerships with our customers. We stand behind our work so you can build with confidence.

Visit Our Duluth Showroom

Looking for Inspiration?

Get inspired by browsing our project gallery to see our craftsmanship in action, or visit our design center to experience materials firsthand and receive expert guidance from our design specialists. Both options will help bring your vision to life with confidence.

4802 Oneota St
Duluth, MN 55807

Monday – Friday
8am – 4:30pm

Excavation FAQs

We specialize in residential site prep, grading, utility trenching, drainage solutions, and small-scale excavation for additions and landscaping.

Our focus is on residential and light excavation. For large-scale commercial work, we recommend a dedicated commercial excavation contractor.

Our operators are trained in safe excavation practices, and we follow all local codes and regulations to protect your property and our team.

Yes, we offer grading and trenching solutions to direct water away from your home and prevent future problems.

Absolutely. We work closely with your builder or project manager to ensure seamless site preparation and project success.