Your Trusted Partner for Excavation & Site Work in Central Maine
Professional Excavation Services Using GPS Technology
First Choice Excavation provides comprehensive excavation and construction services for residential property owners across Central Maine and the Midcoast. From foundation work and septic installations to land clearing and snow removal, we're your single point of contact from start to finish.
Serving West Gardiner and surrounding areas including Augusta, Gardiner, Hallowell, Manchester, Winthrop, and the Midcoast region.
Why Choose First Choice Excavation?
Precision Technology
We use Trimble GPS and grade control technology for accurate excavation work, ensuring your project is done right the first time.
One-Stop Solution
No need to coordinate multiple contractors. We handle excavation, trucking, septic work, and seasonal services all under one roof.
Transparent & Approachable
We provide free estimates, clear communication throughout your project, and straightforward answers to your questions.
Fully Insured & Certified
Certified in all septic installs. Certificates of insurance provided upon request.
Our Services
Foundation Excavation
Complete foundation work for new construction including basements, crawl spaces, and slab-on-grade foundations. We use GPS technology to geo-fence house plans to your property, set precise grades, and make adjustments before excavation begins.
Timeline: Varies by project size and complexity
Investment: Pricing varies by project scope—contact us for a free estimate
Septic System Installation
New and replacement septic installations designed to meet Maine regulations. Certified in all septic installs and work closely with septic designers to determine the best solution for your property.
Most Common: Three-bedroom home systems
Investment: Pricing varies by system type and site conditions—contact us for a free estimate
Land Clearing
Selective clearing, total clearing, stump removal, and brush cutting for residential properties. Ideal for 2–3 acre house lots.
Investment: Pricing varies by acreage and scope—contact us for a free estimate
Trucking & Materials
Delivery of gravel, sand, loam, and stone for your project needs. Deliveries scheduled during slow or rainy days to keep your project moving forward.
Snow Removal
Residential and commercial snow removal services throughout the winter season.
How We Work: Our Process
Free Consultation
Contact us for a free estimate and site walkthrough. We'll assess your property and discuss your project goals.
Detailed Estimate
Receive a clear, itemized estimate with timeline expectations. No charges for quotes or site assessments.
Permits & Planning
We'll guide you through permit requirements and coordinate with septic designers or architects as needed.
Project Execution
Our team completes your project using modern equipment and GPS technology. We keep you informed via phone and email throughout.
Final Walkthrough
We ensure you're satisfied with the completed work before final payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas do you serve?
We serve Central Maine and the Midcoast, typically within an hour of West Gardiner. Message us your location for confirmation.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes, all estimates and site consultations are completely free with no obligation.
What makes your excavation work more accurate?
We use Trimble GPS and grade control technology to preset grades and pitches, ensuring precision that traditional methods can't match.
How long does a typical foundation excavation take?
Timeline depends on the size and complexity of your project. We'll provide a specific estimate during your free consultation.
Do you handle permits?
We guide you through the permit process. For septic work, you'll need a septic design and installation permit. For foundation work, you'll need house plans. We conduct onsite meetings to determine optimal house placement and grading.
What if you encounter unexpected site conditions?
We'll consult with you immediately to discuss options and adjust the plan as needed. Additional work is billed hourly with clear communication about costs.
Are you insured?
Yes, we're fully insured and provide certificates of insurance upon request.
What payment terms do you offer?
We typically require a deposit to begin work. Larger projects have progress payments, with final payment due upon completion.
Can you work around my schedule?
We operate Monday–Friday with estimates and site visits available on Saturdays.
What happens if weather delays my project?
We reschedule as needed—no cancellations, just adjustments to keep your project on track.
Our Equipment & Technology
We own excavators and skid steers, with additional equipment rented as needed for specialized work.
Our Trimble GPS system allows us to:
- ✓Geo-fence house plans directly to your property
- ✓Set precise grades before excavation begins
- ✓Make real-time adjustments for accuracy
- ✓Reduce errors and rework
GPS Technology Advantage
Traditional excavation relies on manual measurements and stakes. Our GPS-guided system ensures millimeter-level precision, faster project completion, and fewer costly corrections. This technology is especially valuable for complex grading and foundation work where accuracy is critical.
Service Area
Primary Service Area
West Gardiner, Augusta, Gardiner, Hallowell, Manchester, Winthrop, Readfield, Wayne, Monmouth, Litchfield
Extended Service Area
Central Maine and Midcoast communities within approximately one hour of West Gardiner
Not sure if we serve your area? Message us your location and we'll confirm.
Contact UsWhat Our Clients Say
"I contacted First Choice to install some raised gardens & retaining wall. The walls came out perfectly lined up & functioned perfectly. Cost was much lower than other quotes, but work performed was flawless."
Phil L.
Winthrop, ME
"Nathan Theberge is someone with whom you can quickly establish a positive, trusting rapport. He's helpful in answering any questions you may have and very reliable. His work is very high quality."
Andrea T.
Alfred, ME
"Nathan got back to me with estimates and dates promptly, and did exactly what he said he would do."
Karen C.
"Great job by First Choice! I needed stumps removed, a small tree cut down, and maple trees near my house all removed. They were able to squeeze me in before winter, they came by quickly with a reasonable quote and had it all done very fast. I'd hire them again in a heartbeat. I highly recommend hiring them!"
James F.
"Service professional was very clear about expectations of service to be provided and was very personable. Contacted me quickly and did the job on time. Quoted a reasonable price and stuck to that price. Would not hesitate to recommend business to others."
Cheryl M.
"Professional, friendly, gets right down to business."
Linda L.
"Moving right along come on spring almost moving time! Future home Litchfield! Thank you First Choice Excavation!"
Jamie Tammy C.
Litchfield, ME
"Rain or shine we are ready to get the job done. We want to give a huge thank you to First Choice Excavation! Nate was able to dig and backfill our trenches so we could get the power lines in. This home site in Winthrop is ready for Concrete. Thanks Nate!"
Summit Electrical Services LLC
"Taking shape! First Choice Excavation making things happen!"
Seven Lakes Property Management
Ready to experience the First Choice difference?
Request Your Free QuoteTrust & Credentials
Fully Insured
Certificates provided upon request
Certified in All Septic Installs
GPS & Grade Control Technology
Current with Maine Excavation & Septic Regulations
Erosion & Sedimentation Control Certified
Free Estimates | Transparent Pricing | Single Point of Contact
Ready to Start Your Project?
Get a free estimate for your excavation, septic, or site work project. We serve West Gardiner and surrounding Maine areas.