Footings here must clear a deep frost line, and some lots in Wellington and Fort Collins sit on clay that swells. We follow the soil report and keep frost out of the hole.
Foundations in Cheyenne go deep because the frost does. Basements and frost-protected footings are standard, and the building code sets the minimum depth. We dig to the plan elevations, trim the bottom where the footings go and keep snow, water and frost out of the hole until the concrete is poured. In winter, frozen ground at the bottom of a hole must be removed or protected before footings go in.
Soil decides how the hole behaves. Sand and gravel dig quickly but the walls slough off when cut too steep, while caliche can need a breaker. In Wellington and Fort Collins, swelling clay and claystone may call for over-digging and special foundation designs from the engineer. We follow the soil report and the engineer's plan on every new foundation. Groundwater near creeks is pumped before footings go in.
We also dig beside existing foundations for repair and waterproofing crews, and for additions on older Cheyenne and Laramie homes. That work is done in sections, keeping heavy equipment back from the wall and hand digging the last few inches. Backfill goes in with clean, well-draining material in compacted layers, and the surface is sloped away from the wall. Window wells are set and drained at the same time.
Foundation excavation in Cheyenne: common questions
How deep are footings in Cheyenne?
Your local building code sets the frost depth and minimum footing depth. The plans and the inspector confirm it for your address.
Can you dig a foundation in winter?
Yes, with care. Frost at the bottom of the hole is removed or protected, and the footings are poured on unfrozen ground.
Do I need a soil report?
On swelling clay, as in parts of Fort Collins and Wellington, the engineer usually needs one. On sandy ground it is still a good idea for new homes.
How it works
- Free estimate: Call, text or book online. We walk the site with you.
- Written quote: Scope, equipment and price in writing.
- Utility locate & plan: We have utilities marked and plan access, haul-off and erosion control.
- Dig, grade & clean up: We complete the work, grade the site and haul away spoil.