Question 1

How much does pool excavation cost on the Gold Coast?

Accepted Answer

Pool excavation on the Gold Coast typically runs $3,500–$7,000 for the dig itself — fibreglass or concrete — plus around $2,000 to cart the spoil away, so most backyard pools land around $5,500–$9,000 all up. Size, soil, access and rock all move it within that range, and heavy hinterland rock or canal-front dewatering can add more. Use our free online estimator for an instant ballpark, or call 0487 193 085 for a tailored quote.

Question 2

How long does pool excavation take?

Accepted Answer

Most residential pool excavations on the Gold Coast take 1–3 days. Simple digs in good soil with easy access can be done in a day. Larger pools, hard rock, or tight access may take 3–5 days. We'll give you a realistic timeframe when we quote — we don't give false promises.

Question 3

Do you need council approval for pool excavation on the Gold Coast?

Accepted Answer

Your pool builder or certifier handles the council approval process for the pool itself. For the excavation, you generally don't need a separate approval — however, if your property has retaining walls, steep slopes, or is in a regulated area, additional requirements may apply. We recommend checking with your certifier before work begins. Our team can advise based on your specific site.

Question 4

What happens to the soil and rock removed during pool excavation?

Accepted Answer

All excavated material — soil, clay, rock — is loaded into our tipper trucks and removed from site. We dispose of it responsibly at approved facilities. Spoil removal (cart-away) is quoted as its own clear line, usually around $2,000 for a typical pool, so you can see exactly what it costs. We'll confirm the volume when we price your job.

Question 5

Can you excavate next to an existing structure or fence?

Accepted Answer

Yes — tight access is something we handle regularly on the Gold Coast. Our 1.7T mini excavators are specifically built for confined spaces and can work close to fences, houses, and retaining walls. We assess every site before starting to make sure we protect surrounding structures.

Question 6

What types of pools can you excavate?

Accepted Answer

We excavate for all pool types — fibreglass pools, concrete (gunite/shotcrete) pools, plunge pools, swim spas, and above-ground pools requiring a sub-excavation. Each pool type has different depth and dimension requirements, and we work directly from your pool builder's specifications to ensure the dig is accurate first time.

Question 7

Do you work with all pool builders on the Gold Coast?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we work with all pool builders and are happy to be recommended by your builder or to recommend one if you're still deciding. Our job is to have the hole ready to their spec, on time, so their install goes smoothly. We're experienced at coordinating with builders to fit within their schedule.

Question 8

Can you remove or demolish an existing pool?

Accepted Answer

Yes — pool demolition and removal is one of our services. Whether you want the pool partially demolished (filled in) or fully removed, we can handle the whole job. This includes breaking up the existing shell, removing the debris by tipper, backfilling, and compacting the area so it's ready for landscaping or construction.

Question 9

How much does pool demolition cost on the Gold Coast?

Accepted Answer

Pool demolition costs depend on pool size, construction type (fibreglass vs concrete), and what you want done with the space afterward. Partial fill-ins (where the shell is broken and backfilled) are more cost-effective than full removals. Prices typically start from $3,000–$5,000 for partial demolition. Call 0487 193 085 for a site-specific quote.

Question 10

Do I need a permit to demolish a pool on the Gold Coast?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes — Gold Coast City Council requires a development approval or building approval to demolish a pool. Your certifier or builder can advise on the specifics for your property. We recommend sorting approvals before booking so there are no delays on the day.

Question 11

What happens to the pool material after demolition?

Accepted Answer

All demolished pool material — broken fibreglass, concrete rubble, plumbing, and fittings — is loaded into our tipper trucks and removed from site and taken to an approved waste facility. We leave the area clean and ready for the next stage of your project.

Question 12

Can the space be used for building after pool removal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but proper compaction is critical. When we backfill after a pool removal, we compact in layers to ensure the ground is stable enough for future use. If you're planning to build over the area, let us know so we can backfill and compact to the right standard from the start.

Question 13

What is rock breaking and when do I need it?

Accepted Answer

Rock breaking is the process of using a hydraulic breaker attachment on an excavator to fracture and remove hard rock that a standard bucket can't dig through. You'll likely need it if your Gold Coast property sits on basalt or sandstone — which is common in many hillside suburbs. Signs you may need rock breaking include previous quotes that flagged 'rock', visible outcrops on your land, or neighbours who've had rocky ground. We assess for rock during our site visit.

Question 14

How much does rock breaking cost on the Gold Coast?

Accepted Answer

Rock breaking is typically charged at a higher hourly rate than standard excavation — usually $160–$220/hr depending on machine size and rock hardness. Because the duration is hard to predict before digging starts, we generally quote rock breaking as an hourly rate alongside the standard excavation price. Call 0487 193 085 for a site-specific assessment.

Question 15

How do I know if I have rock on my Gold Coast property?

Accepted Answer

The best way is a site visit from an experienced operator. Signs that suggest rock include a property on a hill or ridge, basalt boulders visible on the surface or in surrounding gardens, neighbouring properties that required rock breaking, or a soil report flagging 'rock' or 'refusal'. Areas like Tallai, Bonogin, Mudgeeraba, and parts of Nerang are commonly rocky. Call us and we can often give you a preliminary assessment over the phone.

Question 16

Does rock breaking cause damage to nearby structures?

Accepted Answer

Hydraulic rock breaking does generate vibration, but modern machines allow operators to work carefully and methodically to minimise impact on surrounding structures. We always assess proximity to fences, footings, and neighbouring buildings before commencing. For very close proximity to structures, we may recommend a smaller breaker or alternative technique. Safety is always the priority.

Question 17

What happens to the rock after breaking?

Accepted Answer

Broken rock can either be removed from site by tipper truck or — if you want to keep it — stockpiled on your property for use in gabion walls, garden features, or drainage. Recycled rock is also a valuable material. Just let us know your preference and we'll plan accordingly.

Question 18

Can you break rock in tight access areas?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our 1.7T machine can be fitted with a hydraulic breaker and is narrow enough to access most residential backyards, side gates, and confined spaces. If you've had other operators tell you the access is too tight, call us — we often find a way in.

Question 19

What is a site cut?

Accepted Answer

A site cut is the process of cutting into a sloped block to create a level platform for a house slab, driveway, or building pad. This typically involves removing soil from the high side of the block and either retaining it or carting it off site. Site cuts need to be done to your engineer's specifications, and we work from your plans to hit the correct levels.

Question 20

How much does a site cut cost on the Gold Coast?

Accepted Answer

Site cut costs vary widely based on the volume of material to move, slope severity, soil type, and whether rock is present. Small residential site cuts start from around $2,500–$5,000. Larger cuts on steep or rocky land can be $15,000+. The best way to get an accurate price is to share your plans with us — call 0487 193 085 or use our online estimator.

Question 21

Do you service Brisbane as well as the Gold Coast?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we regularly work across Brisbane's southside suburbs, Logan, Beenleigh, Ormeau, Pimpama, and Coomera. If you're unsure whether we cover your area, just call 0487 193 085 and we'll let you know straight away.

Question 22

How do I prepare my property before earthmoving starts?

Accepted Answer

Before we arrive, it helps to: mark out any underground services (Dial Before You Dig — 1100 is a free service), remove any obstacles in the access path such as vehicles or garden furniture, ensure the site is accessible by the machine size we've agreed on, and have your plans or peg marks ready if precise levels are required. We'll walk through specifics with you before every job.

Question 23

What is bulk earthworks?

Accepted Answer

Bulk earthworks refers to large-scale moving, cutting, and filling of earth across a site — typically for new home builds, subdivisions, commercial developments, and civil projects. It involves cut-and-fill balancing, compaction, and shaping the land to engineering plans. Sollid Solutions handles bulk earthworks for residential and small commercial projects across the Gold Coast and Brisbane.

Question 24

What is cut and fill earthmoving?

Accepted Answer

Cut and fill is a technique where material is cut from the high parts of a site and used to fill in the lower areas, reducing the need to import or export material. Done correctly, it creates a balanced site with minimal waste. We work from your engineer's cut and fill plans to achieve the required finished levels.

Question 25

Can you do earthmoving on a steep block?

Accepted Answer

Yes — steep blocks are common on the Gold Coast hinterland and we're well experienced with them. Steep terrain requires careful planning of machine access, benching sequences, and spoil management. We'll walk the site with you before starting so you understand exactly what the plan is.

Question 26

What does house excavation involve?

Accepted Answer

House excavation is the process of preparing the ground for a new home build. This typically includes stripping topsoil, cutting the site to the correct level, excavating footings or pad areas to engineer specifications, and either stockpiling or removing spoil. We work closely with your builder and engineer to ensure the site is ready for the slab or stumps.

Question 27

How much does house excavation cost on the Gold Coast?

Accepted Answer

House excavation costs depend heavily on the size of the home, the slope and soil type of the block, and whether rock breaking is required. A straightforward single-storey home on a flat block can start from $3,000–$6,000. Split-level designs on sloped or rocky blocks may run $10,000–$25,000+. Call 0487 193 085 with your plans for an accurate quote.

Question 28

Do you excavate footings and trenches for new builds?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we excavate strip footings, pad footings, and trenches for new home builds and additions. We work to your engineer's trench dimensions and depths, checking levels as we go. Accurate footing excavation saves time and money at the slab stage.

Question 29

How long does house excavation take?

Accepted Answer

A standard residential house excavation on a flat or gently sloped block typically takes 1–3 days. Larger homes, steep blocks, or rock can extend this to a week or more. We'll give you a realistic schedule when we quote so your builder can plan accordingly.

Question 30

Can you coordinate with my builder and certifier?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — we're used to working within a construction schedule and liaising directly with builders, project managers, and certifiers. Just introduce us and we'll make sure the earthworks sequence fits with your overall build programme.

Question 31

What types of rubbish and waste do you remove?

Accepted Answer

We remove construction waste, demolition rubble, green waste (tree branches, stumps, vegetation), soil and spoil, old fencing, concrete slabs, and general site rubbish. We use our tipper trucks to haul material away and dispose of it at approved facilities. If you're not sure whether we can take something, just call — we'll let you know.

Question 32

How much does rubbish removal cost on the Gold Coast?

Accepted Answer

Rubbish removal is typically charged on a tipper load or hourly basis depending on the job. A single tipper load of general mixed waste starts from around $350–$500. Larger site clean-ups are quoted on a job basis. Call 0487 193 085 for a fast quote — in many cases we can give you a price over the phone.

Question 33

Do you do full site clean-ups after construction?

Accepted Answer

Yes — post-construction site cleans are a regular part of our work. We clear timber offcuts, packaging, excavated soil, spoil heaps, and any leftover construction debris so the site is clean and ready for landscaping, fencing, or handover. We work efficiently and leave the site in a professional condition.

Question 34

Can you remove concrete and rubble from a demolition?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we load and remove concrete, bricks, blocks, and demolition rubble using our tipper trucks. Concrete is recycled where possible at approved recycling facilities, which is better for the environment and often more cost-effective than landfill disposal.

Question 35

Do you remove green waste and tree stumps?

Accepted Answer

We can remove green waste — branches, shrubs, and vegetation — as part of a site clean or land clearing job. For large tree stumps, we typically work alongside a stump grinder. Once the stump is ground down we can remove the mulch and debris. Call us to discuss your specific situation.

Question 36

What does slab preparation involve?

Accepted Answer

Slab preparation involves getting the ground ready for a concrete pour. This includes: excavating or cutting to the correct depth and level, importing and compacting a base layer of road base or aggregate, trimming to finished level, and ensuring the correct falls for drainage. We work to your engineer's specifications so the slab has a solid, stable base.

Question 37

What base material do you use under a concrete slab?

Accepted Answer

Typically road base or compacted natural ground, depending on your engineer's specification. We can supply and spread crusher dust, road base, or recycled aggregate as part of the slab prep job. The right choice depends on your soil conditions and what your engineer has specified.

Question 38

Do you supply and lay turf on the Gold Coast?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we offer a full turf service from bare earth to finished lawn. This includes topsoil spreading, grading and levelling with our Positrack, and supply and lay of your chosen turf variety. We work with quality turf suppliers across the Gold Coast to make sure you get the right grass for your soil and aspect.

Question 39

What turf varieties do you supply and lay?

Accepted Answer

We can source and lay most common Australian turf varieties including Kikuyu, Sir Walter Buffalo, Couch, Zoysia, and Wintergreen Couch. The best choice depends on your sun exposure, soil type, and how much foot traffic the lawn will get. We're happy to advise on what works best for Gold Coast conditions.

Question 40

How do I prepare for turf to be laid?

Accepted Answer

If you're using our full turf service, we handle the soil preparation for you. If you're organising turf yourself and just want the levelling done, we'll spread and grade to a smooth finish ready for your turf delivery. Just make sure any irrigation is already in the ground before we spread topsoil.

Question 41

What is under house excavation?

Accepted Answer

Under house excavation is the removal of soil from beneath an existing house to create usable subfloor space, improve ventilation, allow drainage work, or enable underpinning. It requires specialised equipment and careful methodology to avoid disturbing the existing footings and structure above.

Question 42

Why would I need under house excavation?

Accepted Answer

Common reasons include: converting an existing subfloor space into a usable room or storage area, fixing drainage or plumbing issues under the slab, improving ventilation to prevent moisture damage, or underpinning works to stabilise the structure. It's more common in older Queenslander-style homes and those with stumped foundations.

Question 43

Is under house excavation safe?

Accepted Answer

When done correctly by experienced operators, yes. We assess the footing depths and structural situation before starting and work methodically to avoid undermining any footings. If a structural engineer is required before work begins, we'll tell you upfront. Safety is always the priority — we won't start a job we're not confident is safe.

Question 44

What equipment do you use for under house excavation?

Accepted Answer

We use our compact 1.7T mini excavator for under-house work — it's specifically sized for low-clearance, confined-space access. Combined with our tipper trucks to remove spoil, we can complete most under-house jobs cleanly and efficiently with minimal disruption to the rest of your property.

Question 45

What is tipper wet hire?

Accepted Answer

Wet hire means the tipper truck comes with one of our experienced operators included — you're not hiring just the machine. This is the standard way we work. You get the truck, the driver, and the expertise. Wet hire rates typically run $130–$160/hr for our tipper, with a minimum call-out. Call us for current pricing.

Question 46

What size excavator do I need for my job?

Accepted Answer

For most residential jobs — pool excavation, house excavation, site cuts — our 1.7T to 3.5T mini excavators are ideal. They're compact enough for tight residential access but powerful enough to shift significant material. For bulk earthworks and larger commercial projects we use up to 5T machines. We'll recommend the right size when you describe your job.

Question 47

What is a Positrack and what is it used for?

Accepted Answer

A Positrack (also called a rubber-tracked skid steer loader) is a compact, highly manoeuvrable machine used for grading, levelling, spreading, and pushing material in tight areas. It's ideal for backyard levelling, turf preparation, finish grading, and working in confined spaces where a larger machine can't access. Our Positrack is available with an operator as wet hire.

Question 48

What is the minimum hire duration for equipment?

Accepted Answer

We have a minimum call-out for all equipment hire — typically 2–4 hours depending on the machine and travel distance to your site. For small jobs, this ensures we can cover our mobilisation costs and still give you a competitive rate. Call 0487 193 085 and we'll give you a straightforward answer for your specific job.

Question 49

Do you operate GPS-guided equipment?

Accepted Answer

Yes — our fleet includes GPS grade control capability, which allows us to achieve precise finished levels without constant manual checking. This is particularly valuable for large site cuts, bulk earthworks, and any job where accuracy to your engineering plans is critical. It also speeds up the work, which saves you money.

Question 50

What recycled aggregate materials do you supply on the Gold Coast?

Accepted Answer

We supply and deliver recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) in 5mm, 10mm, and 20mm grades, crusher dust, road base, mattress rock, 20–40mm blended RCA, and woodchip mulch. All materials are competitively priced and delivered across the Gold Coast and Brisbane. Call 0487 193 085 for current pricing and availability.

Question 51

What is recycled concrete aggregate used for?

Accepted Answer

Recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) is crushed recycled concrete used as a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to virgin road base. Common uses include: driveways and hardstand areas, backfill under slabs, drainage trenches, access tracks, and base layers for car parks. It compacts well and is approved for many residential and commercial applications.

Question 52

Do you deliver materials without excavation work?

Accepted Answer

Yes — materials supply and delivery is a standalone service. You don't need to book earthmoving to order a load of crusher dust or aggregate. Call 0487 193 085 for a delivery quote, including minimum loads and current pricing.

Question 53

What is crusher dust used for?

Accepted Answer

Crusher dust (also called blue metal dust or quarry dust) is a fine aggregate used as a compactable base layer under pavers, tiles, pathways, and hardstand areas. It binds well when compacted and provides a stable, level surface. It's one of our most popular materials for residential landscaping and paving projects on the Gold Coast.

Question 54

What is mattress rock and where is it used?

Accepted Answer

Mattress rock is a clean, coarse aggregate (typically 65–150mm) used for drainage purposes — particularly in subfloor drainage, French drains, retaining wall drainage, and areas with poor natural drainage. It allows water to flow freely while still providing structural support. Common on the Gold Coast where clay soils and heavy rainfall create drainage challenges.

Question 55

What is woodchip mulch used for?

Accepted Answer

Woodchip mulch is great for garden beds, pathways, and areas where you want to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and improve the look of your landscaping. We sell it by the cubic metre and deliver across the Gold Coast. It's particularly popular after site cleans and landscaping jobs.

Question 56

How do I work out how much material I need?

Accepted Answer

Use our materials calculator on the Materials page — enter your length, width, and depth and it calculates the volume in cubic metres for you. Or call 0487 193 085 and we'll work it out with you. We'd rather give you the right amount than have you order too much or run short.

Question 57

What drafting services does Sollid Solutions offer?

Accepted Answer

We provide a full range of drafting and CAD services including site plans, earthworks drawings, cut and fill plans, retaining wall design drawings, as-built surveys, drainage plans, 3D modelling, and council submission documents. Our drafting team works with residential home owners, builders, developers, and engineers across the Gold Coast.

Question 58

Do I need a site plan for my earthmoving project?

Accepted Answer

For simple jobs like rubbish removal or a small site clean, no. But for site cuts, house excavation, retaining walls, and pool excavation, having a site plan and engineer's specifications ensures the earthworks are done correctly and to standard. We can prepare the plans for you, or work from plans your engineer has provided.

Question 59

Can you prepare drawings for council submission?

Accepted Answer

Yes — our drafting team prepares drawings formatted to meet Gold Coast City Council and certifier requirements. This includes site plans, proposed works drawings, drainage plans, and retaining wall details. Having properly prepared plans reduces back-and-forth with council and speeds up your approval.

Question 60

What is an as-built survey and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

An as-built survey documents the finished state of earthworks — what was actually built vs what was planned. It's often required by councils, certifiers, or engineers after earthmoving to confirm the work was done to specification. We can prepare as-built drawings for your completed earthworks.

Question 61

Do you do 3D modelling for earthworks projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes — 3D modelling is available for larger or more complex projects where a visual representation of the finished earthworks helps with planning, council approval, or client presentations. It's particularly useful for sloped sites and retaining wall projects. Contact us to discuss your project and we'll advise whether 3D modelling adds value for your situation.

Question 62

How long does drafting take?

Accepted Answer

Simple site plans can often be turned around in a few days. More complex drawings with council submission requirements may take 1–2 weeks depending on the scope and how much site information we need to collect. We'll give you a realistic timeline when you engage us.

Question 63

What steel fabrication services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Sollid Solutions offers custom steel fabrication and boilermaking for trade, residential, and industrial clients on the Gold Coast. Services include structural steel fabrication, custom gates and fencing, trailer fabrication and repair, steel frames and brackets, plant and equipment repairs, and general welding. We work from your drawings or can design and fabricate to your brief.

Question 64

Can you fabricate custom steel gates on the Gold Coast?

Accepted Answer

Yes — custom steel gates are one of our popular fabrication items. Whether you want a simple driveway gate or a heavy-duty sliding gate with automation-ready reinforcement, we can design and fabricate to your dimensions and style. We use quality structural steel and apply appropriate finishes for outdoor durability.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Pool Excavation

Pool Demolition

Rock Breaking

Site Cuts & Earthmoving

House Excavation

Rubbish Removal & Site Clean

Slab Preparation & Turf

Under House Excavation

Equipment & Hire

Materials & Delivery

Drafting & CAD Services

Steel Fabrication & Boilermaking

About Sollid Solutions

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