Backfill & Compaction

Backfill & Compaction in Broomfield, CO

Backfill and tamping done in lifts around foundations and in trenches, so the ground stays where it belongs and your slab and yard don’t settle later.

Ground that doesn't settle later

Settling around a foundation or along a trench line usually comes back to backfill that was dumped in and not compacted. We place backfill in lifts and compact each one, so the ground around your building stays put.

Backfill services

  • Foundation backfill after the walls are cured and approved
  • Trench backfill after utility inspection
  • Compaction in lifts
  • Backfill around footings and piers
  • Import of fill, road base or gravel if on-site soil isn't suitable

Why lifts matter

Compaction equipment only reaches so deep. Placing and compacting backfill in layers gets the whole depth tight, instead of just the top.

Part of the full site package

Since we often dig the foundation and trenches ourselves, we know what went where. Backfill and final grade are the natural finish to the job.

Common projects

  • New foundations: backfilling around basement and foundation walls once they are approved.
  • Utility trenches: backfill and compaction after water, sewer or electric inspection.
  • Footings and piers: backfill around smaller footings for decks, porches and outbuildings.
  • Settling repairs: re-compacting and regrading areas where old backfill has sunk.

Why one crew for the whole site

When the same crew digs, preps, trenches, backfills, grades and pours, nothing falls between the cracks. We know where the utilities went, how the backfill was placed and what the base looks like under the slab, and you have one person to call if something needs attention.

Trench with service line being backfilled
From our jobs

Backfill photos

Service line laid in the trench, ready to backfill, BK Builders, north Denver metro
Service line laid in the trench, ready to backfill
Lines set along a foundation before backfill, BK Builders, north Denver metro
Lines set along a foundation before backfill
Compacted base in a new barn stall, BK Builders, north Denver metro
Compacted base in a new barn stall
Our process

How backfill works

  1. Confirm it’s ready

    Walls are cured, waterproofing and drains are in, and backfill is approved.

  2. Place in lifts

    Backfill goes in layers rather than all at once.

  3. Compact each lift

    Each layer is compacted before the next goes in.

  4. Grade the top

    The surface is shaped so water moves away from the building.

Pricing

What affects the cost

Every site is different, so we price after seeing the ground. These are the things that move the number most. Estimates are free.

Volume

How much backfill is needed around the foundation or in the trench.

Material

Using on-site soil costs less than importing fill or gravel.

Access

Tight spaces near walls may call for smaller equipment and more hand work.

Depth

Deeper backfill means more lifts and more compaction passes.

Combined scope

Backfill is often bundled with the original dig and final grade.

Where we work

Backfill & Compaction across the north Denver metro

Based in Broomfield, we take backfill & compaction jobs throughout the north and east metro. Not sure if you're in range? Send the address.

  • Broomfield
  • Westminster
  • Thornton
  • Northglenn
  • Arvada
  • Louisville
  • Lafayette
  • Longmont
  • Commerce City
  • Bennett
  • Keenesburg

See our full service area

Related services

Common questions

FAQ

When can foundation backfill start?

After the foundation walls are cured and your builder or engineer approves backfill. We coordinate with your builder on timing.

Can you use the dirt that came out of the hole?

Often yes, if it’s suitable. If it isn’t, we can bring in better fill.

Do you compact trench backfill?

Yes, trench backfill is placed and compacted in lifts after the lines are inspected.

Why does backfill settle?

Backfill that isn’t compacted in layers can settle over time as it consolidates, especially after rain or snowmelt. Compacting in lifts reduces that.

Can you backfill against a new foundation right away?

Only once the walls are cured and approved for backfill by your builder or engineer. Backfilling too early can damage walls.

Do you install foundation drains?

Tell us what your plans call for and we’ll talk through what we can handle and what your builder or plumber should install.

Ready when you are

Get your site build-ready.

Send the project details and we’ll follow up to talk through the site, usually the same day.