A planned garden suburb

Excavation Contractors in Shaker Heights, OH

About 75 percent of the city is a National Register historic district.

Free on-site estimates
Written, line-item pricing before we dig
Ohio 811 locate filed for every excavation

Excavation Contractors in Shaker Heights, OH

Careful Work in a Preserved Suburb

Excavation contractors in Shaker Heights work in one of the most carefully planned suburbs in the country. The Van Sweringen brothers bought the land in 1905 to build Ohio's first garden-style suburb, and the city is known for strict building codes and zoning that preserved its housing. About 75 percent of Shaker Heights is listed on the National Register as the Shaker Village Historic District. The 2020 census counted 29,439 residents and 13,564 housing units on about 6.3 square miles.

High ground and old dams

Shaker Heights sits at about 1,050 feet, about 6 miles inland from Lake Erie. Doan Brook runs through it, and between 1826 and 1854 the North Union Shakers dammed it to create the lakes that remain, including Horseshoe Lake and Lower Shaker Lake. Lots near the lakes and the brook valley need restrained excavation and attention to where runoff goes.

Old homes, careful digging

Large period homes from the early 1900s have deep basements, stone or block foundations, clay laterals and mature trees. Exterior waterproofing digs, drain replacement and lateral repairs are common. We protect walks, driveways and plantings, keep cuts tight, and work around big tree roots wherever possible.

Review before you dig

With most of the city in a historic district and strict local codes, visible changes like new garages, driveway widening or major grading can need review. We confirm what the city requires for your address before scheduling.

Typical projects

Exterior basement wall excavation
Footing drain and downspout line replacement
Sewer lateral repair
Garage replacement and driveway bases

Call (216) 480-2103 or

Get a Free Estimate

What to Know in Shaker Heights

Planned suburb. The Van Sweringen brothers bought the land in 1905 and envisioned Ohio's first garden-styled suburb; the city is known for strict building codes and zoning.
Historic district. About 75 percent of Shaker Heights is listed on the National Register as the Shaker Village Historic District.
Shaker Lakes. Between 1826 and 1854 the Shakers dammed Doan Brook to create Upper and Lower Lake; the city has Horseshoe, Green, Lower Shaker and Marshall lakes.
Size and housing. 29,439 residents and 13,564 housing units in 2020 on about 6.3 square miles, at about 1,050 feet elevation.

Basement Dig-Outs & Footings in Cleveland, OH

Our Services in Shaker Heights, OH

Shaker Heights Questions

Do I need approval to replace my garage in Shaker Heights?

Likely, given the city's strict codes and historic district. We check the requirements before the work is scheduled.

Can you dig near large old trees?

We plan the dig to limit root damage, hand dig near major roots and talk with you or an arborist when a tree could be affected.

Is lateral work common here?

Yes. Many homes are a century old and still have original clay sewer pipe.

Free Estimates in Shaker Heights, OH

Free site visits across Shaker Heights.

Call (216) 480-2103 Free Estimate