Business Details
37 Years
experience
Expert Excavation & Site Development Services
Tri-County Excavating has been a trusted name in Northern Michigan's construction industry since 1989. Founded by Ben Sackrider and led by owner Phil Vandermus since 2015, our company combines decades of hands-on experience with a commitment to innovation and sustainability. With a team of 20-25 skilled professionals, we specialize in underground utilities, general excavating, site development, and shoreline protection, serving both residential and commercial clients across Northern Lower Michigan and parts of the Upper Peninsula. Our fleet of heavy equipment ensures timely project completion, while our recycling initiatives since 2000 demonstrate environmental responsibility.We pride ourselves on delivering precision and reliability for every project, regardless of scale, and maintaining strong relationships with engineering firms to support comprehensive design and planning. From septic systems to seawalls, our expertise in specialized services like helical piles and de-watering sets us apart in the region. Phil and Marcia Vandermus, who have called Harbor Springs home since 1990, credit our success to dedicated employees and community support. Our focus on quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction has solidified our reputation as one of the area's premier excavation companies.
Services
Residential Home Sites
Septic Systems
Site Development
Water/Sewer Lines
Road Building
Land Clearing
Snow Plowing
Helical Piles
Shoreline Protection
Demolition
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We've specialized in Northern Michigan excavation since 1989
- Only local company offering comprehensive seawall construction services
- Sustainable practices through material recycling since 2000
- 20+ experienced professionals with specialized excavation expertise
- Full-service solutions from residential sites to municipal projects
Services
Residential Home Sites
We prepare residential building sites through precise clearing, grading, and foundation excavation. Our team handles basement excavation, crawl spaces, and garage foundations with attention to detail. With proper drainage solutions integrated into every project, we ensure stable ground for new home construction across Northern Michigan's varied terrain.
Septic Systems
Our experts design and install complete septic systems including gravity, pump, and pressurized systems. We handle water and sewer line connections for residential and commercial properties. With proper permitting and code compliance, we ensure efficient wastewater management solutions tailored to Northern Michigan's soil conditions and environmental regulations.
Shoreline Protection
Specializing in seawall construction and riprap installation, we protect waterfront properties along lakes, rivers, and streams. Our shoreline stabilization solutions prevent erosion while maintaining natural aesthetics. From small residential docks to large commercial marinas, we provide durable protection against water damage in Northern Michigan's coastal areas.
Site Development
We offer comprehensive site development for commercial, residential, and industrial projects. Our services include land clearing, grading, utility installation, and stormwater management. With expertise in subdivision development and infrastructure projects, we transform raw land into functional spaces while maintaining environmental compliance throughout Northern Michigan.
Demolition Services
We safely demolish commercial and residential structures using specialized equipment and techniques. Our team handles complete building removal, garage demolition, and warehouse tear-downs. With proper debris management and recycling practices, we prepare sites for new development while adhering to safety regulations across Northern Michigan.
People
Phil Vandermus
Owner
Phil Vandermus has led Tri-County Excavating since 2015, bringing 25 years of industry experience. Starting as an estimator in 1996, he became partner in 2001 before assuming full ownership. Under his leadership, the company expanded its specialized services while maintaining commitment to quality and sustainability in Northern Michigan's construction industry.
Questions
What areas do you serve?
We serve all of Northern Lower Michigan including Harbor Springs, Petoskey, Charlevoix, Traverse City, and parts of the Upper Peninsula.
Do you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we provide excavation services for both residential home sites and large-scale commercial developments across Northern Michigan.
What makes your company unique?
We're Northern Michigan's only excavation company specializing in seawall construction and helical pile installation, with 35 years of local experience.
Are you environmentally responsible?
Since 2000, we've recycled construction materials like concrete, asphalt, and metal, reprocessing them for reuse on job sites.
What equipment do you own?
Our fleet includes dump trucks, rock quads, flatbeds, lowboys, and specialized excavation machinery for efficient project completion.
How can I get an estimate?
Contact us at (231) 347-5182 for a free estimate - we're happy to help with projects of any size.
