Archaeologists use various excavation methods to discover what lies beneath the surface of a site. They can work with a small unit across a place or a large trench. Each technique has its advantages and disadvantages. For instance, a small team can examine a large area quickly and easily. It can also be placed next to other units to follow up on exciting features. On the other hand, a large trench requires more time and costs.
Excavation involves the removal of soil and vegetation. This process can be done manually or by heavy equipment. The manual hole is possible in small sites, but the heavy plant will be used for larger excavation jobs. Depending on the site, an excavation can reach a depth of 150-300 mm.
Archaeologists often use a method known as stratigraphic excavation, where layers of the site are excavated one at a time. This helps preserve the chronology of materials. During recess, the layers of the site are separated using mechanical means, and artifacts are processed with sieving and flotation. Archaeologists also use digital methods for recording the results of excavation. Ideally, the data collected should be sufficient to recreate the site in three-dimensional space.
Excavation work starts with a thorough site survey and site preparation. The site surveyor determines the site’s boundaries and the area to be excavated. Once the edges are defined, the supervisor and engineer will determine the best action plan. Once the site is prepared, the excavation crew will begin rough-staking the area to expose designated areas for buildings and structures.
An extensive excavation is often done to build a foundation. It is typically lower than the frost line and is several feet deep. This protects the foundation from frost heaving. A grade checker or laser helps keep the excavation level. This type of excavation requires a heavy excavating machine.
Excavation can be used for different projects, such as basement construction. The excavated dirt is then filled in around the home. Sometimes it also involves the removal of vegetation or tree roots. The debris removed is often hauled away. Excavating requires heavy equipment, such as bulldozers, backhoes, and dump trucks.
Excavation can also be used to investigate archaeological deposits. However, it is essential to remember that the process is inherently destructive and should only be performed when no other method is available. The goal is to understand the archaeological resource better and create a lasting record. To do this, excavation techniques should be compatible with the project aims and principles of preservation in situ.
Archaeologists must collect information about the site before and during excavation to create a fully documented archive.
Archaeologists must also document any objects that they uncover. This is particularly important for seabed archaeologists, as they must keep track of objects recovered from the site, their context, and their locations.