KDM Earthworks provides professional excavation services for residential and commercial projects across Colorado Springs and the greater El Paso County area. Founded and operated by Colorado Springs native Kalten Mattics, we bring hands-on expertise to every job — from foundation digs in the Black Forest to drainage excavation in Fountain and utility trenching in Monument.
Excavation in Colorado Springs isn’t just about moving dirt — it’s about knowing what’s underneath it. El Paso County soil is notorious for caliche hardpan, dense clay layers, and decomposed granite in the foothills, all of which require a contractor who understands local conditions before the first bucket breaks ground.
When you hire KDM, you’re hiring Kalten. He’s on-site for every project, no subcontractors, no surprises. Just honest work from someone who knows this land.
Our Excavation Services in Colorado Springs
Foundation Excavation
Proper foundation excavation starts with understanding your site’s soil profile. We excavate foundations for new homes, additions, garages, and accessory structures, ensuring every dig accounts for Colorado’s freeze-thaw cycles and the clay and caliche conditions common throughout El Paso County. We grade to spec and confirm depth before your concrete crew arrives.
Utility Trenching
We trench for water, sewer, gas, and electrical lines with precision cuts that minimize disruption to surrounding soil and structures. Whether you’re connecting utilities on a new build site or rerouting lines on an existing property, we dig clean, accurate trenches and backfill properly to prevent future settling.
Site Preparation & Building Pads
Every construction project starts with site prep. We clear and excavate building pads for homes, barns, shops, and outbuildings — establishing proper grades, removing unsuitable soils, and compacting subgrade material so your foundation has a stable base from day one. We coordinate directly with your builder or concrete contractor.
Drainage Excavation
Colorado’s clay-heavy soils shed water rather than absorbing it, making drainage excavation one of our most common requests. We excavate for French drains, swales, retention areas, and dry creek beds that redirect water away from foundations, driveways, and structures before it causes damage. If your yard holds water or your foundation shows moisture intrusion, this is where the fix starts.
Driveway & Roadbed Excavation
Building a new driveway or private road? We excavate and prep the roadbed for proper drainage and base compaction. In El Paso County’s clay-heavy terrain, a properly prepared sub-base is the difference between a driveway that lasts and one that heaves and washes out after the first winter. We work closely with our gravel driveway installation team to ensure the base is right before any material goes down.
Grading & Backfilling
Excavation doesn’t end at the dig. We provide rough and finish grading services and backfill with the right materials using proper compaction techniques to prevent settling and erosion. We work around existing structures, utilities, and landscaping with care, leaving your site clean and ready for the next phase.
Xeriscaping Preparation
Preparing for a xeriscape or low-water landscaping project? We excavate and grade for proper drainage and ground preparation, removing existing sod and soil layers and creating the right base for decorative rock, native plantings, and drip irrigation systems.
Why Colorado Springs Chooses KDM Earthworks
- Colorado Springs native — Kalten Mattics grew up on this land and knows El Paso County soil, terrain, and seasonal conditions firsthand
- Owner on every job site — you’ll never deal with a crew you’ve never met
- Right-sized equipment for residential access, tight lots, and hillside terrain
- Free, itemized estimates with no hidden fees or surprise charges
- Fully licensed and insured in Colorado — proof of insurance available on request
- Clear communication from estimate to final grade — no guesswork, no gaps
Frequently Asked Questions — Excavation in Colorado Springs
How much does excavation cost in Colorado Springs?
Residential excavation in Colorado Springs typically runs $1,500 to $15,000+ depending on project type, soil conditions, depth, and access. Foundation excavations generally run $3,500–$12,000. Utility trenching is typically priced per linear foot at $8–$25. Caliche hardpan and foothills rock can increase time and cost significantly. KDM Earthworks provides free itemized estimates.
What makes excavation in Colorado Springs different from other areas?
El Paso County has challenging subsurface conditions — caliche hardpan, expansive clay, and decomposed granite in the foothills are all common. Caliche in particular can be extremely hard and requires machine-breaking rather than standard digging. Contractors without local experience often underestimate the difficulty and timeline of excavation projects here.
Do I need a permit for excavation in El Paso County?
Permits are typically required for foundation excavation, utility work, and significant land disturbance in El Paso County and the City of Colorado Springs. Requirements vary by project type, location, and depth. KDM Earthworks can walk you through what’s typically required for your project type, though permits are ultimately the responsibility of the property owner or general contractor.
Does KDM Earthworks handle both residential and commercial excavation?
Yes. We work on residential projects including foundations, drainage, and driveways, as well as light commercial site preparation throughout Colorado Springs and El Paso County. Call us at (970) 765-1862 to discuss the scope of your project.
How long does a residential excavation project take?
Most residential excavation projects take 1–3 days. Larger or more complex sites — including projects with significant caliche, drainage work, or hillside terrain — may take 3–5 days. We’ll give you a clear, realistic timeline upfront and keep you updated throughout.