Each layer of backfilled soil is compacted and tested. The process is slow but very rewarding.  When you know that compaction hasbeen done correctly and certified   Almost anyone can backfill a large excavation, but to have the excavation certified is the only way to go, especially when you plan the reconstruction of a new home or for resale of the property. 

The non-certification of the property can be a big selling factor let down if not done.  You would be surprised on how many contractors just do not do it or donot  figure this in there cost estimate, and it is only discovered when it is too late, or when you go for a permit to build.  

Back filling 12 inches at a time, from 18 feet down, the Engineer test each lift to insure compaction and firmness of each lift. The Compactor operates on a remote controlled radio signal, making the accessable in deep excavations.  The backfill material is first proctored in the soil lab, the Engineer knows the percentage of compaction that the soil can produce, in this case 95 % compaction is the goal.

The Meter he is using is called a Nuclear Density Meter. He test the lift in a number of different location to insure complete compaction for the entire lift. Upon completion of the backfilling process he will issue a compaction certificate for the property. The Certificate is certified to the home owner.

This certificate will now insure the Township Building Inspector that he can issue a Building Permit to build a new home on the is property in complete confidnece that the foundation will not fail and the ground will not settel.