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Site Prep Building In Bellingham

Strong Projects Start with Strong Groundwork

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Ready to build? It starts long before concrete is poured or asphalt is laid.

It starts with proper planning and preparation.

At Ritter Dirt and Asphalt, we know that site prep, utilities, site clearing, excavation, and trenching are not just early phases of construction. They are the phases that determine everything that comes next.

Strong projects do not happen by accident.
They start with the right groundwork.

Built on Integrity. Backed by Experience.

Around here, integrity is not just a buzzword. It is the foundation of everything we do.

With over three decades of boots-on-the-ground experience, Jason brings unmatched precision, planning, and execution to every job site. He has operated heavy equipment, graded properties, laid pipe, and run major construction crews since 1993. Today, he leads every Ritter project hands-on.

That leadership matters.

When you are preparing a site for a home, shop, driveway, retaining wall, or commercial project, there is no substitute for experience. Proper excavation and grading require an understanding of soil conditions, drainage patterns, compaction requirements, and long-term performance.

Alysha runs the front end, keeping clients informed, projects on track, and communication clear. Builders and homeowners are never left guessing about timelines, scope, or next steps.

Together, we bring a no-drama, no-babysitting approach to dirt and asphalt work that gets noticed. Our team is clean, respectful, and ridiculously efficient.

Site Prep: The Stage That Sets the Standard

Site preparation is more than clearing dirt.

It is the process that creates stability, safety, and structure for everything that follows.

Our dirt, gravel, and site prep services include:

  • Excavation

  • Grading

  • Trenching

  • Foundation preparation

  • Utility installation

  • Demolition

  • Stump removal

  • Delivery and installation of gravel, rock, fill, and topsoil

  • Rolling and compacting

Every one of these services plays a critical role in ensuring your project moves forward without costly delays or long-term issues.

Improper grading can lead to drainage problems.
Poor compaction can lead to settling.
Inaccurate trenching can compromise utilities.

We focus on precision so you can move forward with confidence.

Excavation and Grading Done Right

Excavation is not about moving dirt fast. It is about moving dirt accurately.

Correct elevations, proper slope, and strategic grading ensure water flows away from structures, foundations remain stable, and surfaces perform the way they are designed to.

Jason leads each project with a five-steps-ahead mindset. Access routes, equipment staging, drainage control, and future phases are considered before the first pass is made.

That level of planning reduces rework, protects budgets, and keeps timelines intact.

Utility Installation and Trenching with Precision

Utility trenching demands accuracy and safety.

Water lines, sewer, storm systems, and electrical conduit must meet depth, spacing, and compaction standards. Backfill procedures matter. Inspection readiness matters.

We coordinate closely with contractors and inspectors to ensure installations are compliant and completed efficiently.

Doing it right the first time is not optional. It is how we operate.

A No-Drama Approach That Keeps Projects Moving

When you hire Ritter Dirt and Asphalt, you can expect our site prep and paving crews to show up on time, do exceptional work, and get the job done right.

You can also expect project consulting and design support to help you make informed decisions along the way.

Construction should deliver confidence, not chaos.

That means clear communication.
Clean job sites.
Efficient crews.
Professional execution from start to finish.

Ready to Build? Start with the Groundwork.

The early stages of construction determine everything that follows.

When site clearing is precise, grading is accurate, utilities are installed correctly, and foundations are properly prepared, the rest of the project moves forward smoothly.

Strong builds begin beneath the surface.

If you are planning a project and want it done right from day one, contact Ritter Dirt and Asphalt for an estimate.

Whatcom County asphalt paving

Whatcom County asphalt paving: Plan Spring projects early

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Spring brings longer days and a short window to get outdoor work done. For property owners and managers in Whatcom County, planning early with a reliable asphalt paving contractor can save time and limit delays. Ritter Dirt and Asphalt is here to remind people to book spring projects now to secure schedules for asphalt paving, excavation and site prep.

Whatcom County’s weather plays a big role in paving and earthwork. Asphalt needs dry conditions and consistent temperatures to perform well. Excavation and grading depend on soil that has drained after months of winter rain. Areas like Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden and Blaine often see different soil and drainage conditions, which makes local experience important when planning spring work.

Once the weather improves, demand increases fast. Driveways, parking lots, access roads and farm or industrial yards all compete for the same crews and equipment. If planning waits until late spring, new projects often have to fit around others already on the schedule. That can mean longer lead times or limited flexibility. When a project is booked early, it goes on the calendar first. Other work is scheduled around it. This gives property owners more control over start dates and overall scope. Early planning also allows Ritter crews to plan work around weather patterns instead of rushing once demand spikes.

Whatcom County asphalt paving

Spring is also a practical time to address damage from winter use. Cracks, drainage issues and uneven surfaces can show up after heavy rain and freeze cycles. Catching these issues early can prevent larger repairs later in the year. Local knowledge matters during this process. Soil types vary across the county, from heavier clay areas to well-draining gravel zones. Drainage patterns also differ depending on elevation and proximity to water. Ritter Dirt and Asphalt uses this local experience to plan excavation and paving for each site.

Ritter Dirt and Asphalt serves customers across Whatcom and Skagit counties with asphalt paving, excavation and site prep. We work with property owners to create a plan that fits their needs, budget and timeline. Local knowledge helps crews plan around soil conditions, drainage patterns and seasonal weather. Contact us now for a free quote, to discuss your project and to reserve a spot on the schedule. Early planning leads to a timeline that works for you!

asphalt and gravel

Winter maintenance tips for asphalt and gravel in Whatcom County

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Winter in Whatcom County brings steady rain, freezing nights and long stretches of moisture that can wear down asphalt and gravel surfaces. Property owners who prepare early reduce safety risks and lower repair costs in the spring. Below are Ritter’s winter maintenance tips for asphalt and gravel and how we can help you protect your driveways, parking lots and private roads through the wet season.

Start with drainage. Standing water is one of the main causes of asphalt breakdown in winter. Even small pools can seep into cracks. When temperatures drop, that water freezes and expands, which widens the damage. Walk your paved areas after a heavy rain and note where water collects. Clearing clogged drains and removing debris from ditches helps water move away from the surface.

Check for cracks. Asphalt cracks draw in moisture throughout the winter. If left alone, they grow and lead to potholes. Filling cracks during a dry window can slow that process. It also helps maintain a smoother surface for vehicles and reduces the stress placed on nearby pavement.

Grading. A slight crown in the center of a gravel road helps water move to the sides instead of pooling. Regular light grading maintains this shape and keeps ruts from deepening. If your gravel road connects to main roads, keep the entry point clear of mud and debris for better traction.

Lighting. Winter brings longer nights and shorter periods of daylight. Good lighting around pavement and gravel areas helps drivers avoid hazards like soft shoulders, potholes or high edges. Clear fallen branches and windblown debris that may hide problems.

asphalt and gravel

Monitor gravel surfaces after major storms. Heavy winter rain can quickly create ruts and washouts on gravel driveways and private roads. After a storm, walk or drive the road slowly to identify low spots. Adding gravel promptly helps maintain a level surface and improves drainage before issues worsen. If the ground is still soft, hold off on bringing in equipment—working saturated gravel prevents proper compaction and can shorten the life of the road. Waiting for a colder or drier stretch allows the material to set correctly and ensures a longer-lasting result.

Snow and ice are less frequent in Whatcom County than rain, but they create challenges. Use deicer products that are safe for asphalt. Avoid rock salt because it can speed up surface deterioration. If you plow your driveway or parking lot, set the blade high enough to prevent scraping. Direct contact with the pavement can tear away the top layer and leave it more vulnerable to water.

Plan ahead for spring repairs and paving. Keep notes during winter about areas that break down or require frequent gravel additions. These patterns help you and your asphalt paving company decide where to strengthen the base, improve drainage or repave sections when the weather improves.

A consistent approach during the wet season makes spring repairs easier and helps keep traffic areas safe for residents, visitors and customers. And remember, call Ritter at 360-739-3472 for expert paving and gravel solutions.

dirt work

When rain proves you got the dirt work right

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Field notes from Alysha Ritter, operations manager at Ritter Dirt and Asphalt

It’s been a muddy kind of month—the kind where every truck tire leaves a story and every rainstorm reminds us why good dirt work really matters.

Just last week, I got off the phone with a client who couldn’t stop talking about his driveway. (And no, not because of the asphalt.)

He told me, “Alysha, I was standing at my window watching the rain come down, and it hit me—the design underneath says it all.”

This client had a beautiful setup: a sports court with a strip drain. He expected the water to run straight toward it. But as he watched the storm roll through, something different happened. The water didn’t rush toward the court. It quietly followed the grade we built, sliding right down the driveway as if it knew where it was supposed to go.

He said it looked like “mesmerized raindrops marching down the driveway.”

That kind of feedback makes the long day worth it.

Because that moment, that calm confidence when the rain falls and everything just works, is exactly why we take our Final First ApproachTM so seriously. Every grade, every slope, every bit of dirt we move is about making sure the final surface performs perfectly, not just looks good.

And here’s the part I love most: this client had booked his project over a year ago. He waited patiently, trusted the process and when the final asphalt went down, it was worth every bit of planning.

That’s the reminder I needed heading into next season.

Right now, we’re already looking ahead to spring 2026. If you have a project in mind—a house dig-out, an ADU site prep or even just cleaning up your grading before paving—now is the time to contact Ritter and start planning.

When you bring our local land grading and paving pros in early, we get to do what we do best: plan the base, protect the drainage and make sure your “final” is right the first time.

Rain or shine, it all starts with good dirt work.

Talk soon,
Alysha

P.S. If a friend or neighbor is thinking about a project, tell them to get in touch. We’d love to help them build something worth waiting for, and remember our referral program that rewards you for recommending Ritter Dirt and Asphalt.

repaving in Whatcom County

Hiring: Site Prep and Paving Technician, full-time

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Ritter Dirt and Asphalt is hiring a site prep and paving technician who will help shape and finish a variety of surfaces, including paved and gravel.

If hired, you will help Ritter’s crew provide services to residential property owners, land developers and general contractors throughout Whatcom and Skagit counties.

This could be a great opportunity for someone with a strong work ethic and dirt work or landscape construction experience. You’ll do well here if you’re detail-oriented, a problem solver and understand how to shape and grade land for drainage and long-term stability. Asphalt paving experience is a plus, but not required—we’ll train the right person.

Job functions:

  • Operate or assist with small equipment and hand tools.
  • Help set grade and slope, monitor to ensure proper drainage.
  • Prepare road bases, driveways, pads, etc.
  • Distribute asphalt and other materials evenly.
  • Assist in compaction.
  • Work alongside paving machine operators and other crew members.
  • Load and unload trucks, gather tools and set up jobsites.
  • Help ensure high-quality finish work and customer satisfaction.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

  • One or more years of dirt work, grading or other relevant construction experience.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Clean driving record and valid Washington State driver’s license.
  • Able to pass a drug test.
  • Must have reliable transportation and a cellphone.
  • Physically fit and able to perform manual labor.
  • Able to pick up and move at least 50 pounds.
  • Able to work outside in all weather conditions.
  • Able to stand for extended periods of time.

Skills and traits:

  • Understand site prep, grading and surface finish work.
  • Able to read and follow grade stakes or directions from operators.
  • Attention to detail and pride in work.
  • Follow instructions, including all safety procedures and protocols.
  • Perform detail-oriented work.
  • Troubleshooting, creative thinking.
  • Dependable and on time.
  • Excellent communication, observation and listening skills.

Work schedule:

  • Full-time, 30+ per week.
  • Shifts are typically between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
  • Monday through Friday with occasional weekends and overtime.

Compensation and work perks:

  • $30+ per hour, depending on experience.
  • Home every night with most weekends off.
  • Seven paid holidays per year.
  • Sick pay accrual.
  • Employer funded Premera medical benefits after 90 days.
  • Education reimbursement program.
  • Safety gear provided.

Sound like your kind of work? Send your resume to jasonritter007@gmail.com, or apply through Indeed.com.  https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Ritter-Dirt-and-Asphalt/jobs

This job summary is not intended to be a full list of all responsibilities, skills and work conditions. Its purpose is to be a preview of the job to help applicants make employment decisions. The job duties may change at any time to accommodate Ritter Dirt and Asphalt’s needs.

Ritter Dirt and Asphalt is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex. Ritter does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex.

asphalt driveways

What you should know about asphalt driveways

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Homeowners invest in asphalt driveways because they are durable, cost-effective and attractive. But like any surface exposed to the elements, asphalt needs occasional care to stay in good shape. Without proper maintenance, cracks, fading and water damage can shorten its lifespan and lead to repairs.

Here’s what you need to know about asphalt paving maintenance in Whatcom and Skagit counties:

  • Clean the surface. Keeping your asphalt driveway clean is a simple but important step. Dirt, leaves, oil and other debris can hold moisture and break down the surface over time. Sweep or blow the driveway once or twice a month and occasionally rinse it with a hose to remove buildup. For oil or chemical stains, use an asphalt-safe cleaner before they penetrate the surface.
  • Sealcoat every few years. (Ritter Dirt and Asphalt does not do seal coating) Sealcoating is an effective way to protect asphalt paving. It’s a thin protective layer that shields the surface from UV rays, moisture and chemicals. Most driveways should be seal-coated every few years, though heavy traffic or harsh weather may require more frequent application. Not only does sealcoating extend the driveway’s life, but it also restores a smooth, dark finish.
  • Repair cracks early. Small cracks may not look serious, but they allow water to seep beneath the surface. When that water freezes and expands, it can create larger cracks or potholes. Inspect your driveway annually and fill cracks as soon as you notice them. Asphalt patching products can handle minor issues, but larger damage should be repaired by a professional paving company.
  • Prevent standing water. Water infiltration is a threat to asphalt roads and driveways. Pooling water weakens the base layer and can lead to surface damage. Make sure your driveway has proper drainage and keep gutters and downspouts directed away from the pavement. If you notice dips where water is collected, talk to an asphalt paving contractor about leveling or resurfacing options.
  • Limit heavy loads and sharp objects. Asphalt is strong, but it can still be damaged by heavy vehicles or sharp objects. Avoid parking large trucks or storing heavy equipment on the driveway for long periods. Snow removal tools with metal edges can also gouge the surface, so use a plastic shovel or a snow blower with rubber paddles in winter.
  • Schedule professional inspections. Even with regular maintenance, some problems can go unnoticed until they become major. A professional paving contractor like Ritter Dirt and Asphalt can inspect your driveway for early signs of wear, drainage issues or structural damage. Scheduling an inspection every few years can help catch problems before they require expensive repairs.asphalt driveways

Routine maintenance can add years to the life of your asphalt driveway and keep it looking its best. Cleaning, sealing, repairing cracks and managing water are all simple steps that make a big difference. If your driveway shows signs of wear or you’re unsure about the right care schedule, contact Jason and Alysha Ritter, owners of Ritter Dirt and Asphalt, proudly serving Whatcom and Skagit Counties since 2015.

drainage

Preparing for the rainy season in Whatcom County: Drainage and grading solutions

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The rainy season in Whatcom County brings steady water flow that can create problems for homes, driveways and landscapes. Addressing drainage early helps reduce the risk of flooding, erosion and structural damage. Three solutions to consider are French drain installations, culvert repairs and grading improvements, and a local professional like Ritter Dirt and Asphalt can help.

A “French drain” directs water away from areas where it collects. It involves a trench with gravel and a perforated pipe that channels water to a safer location. This system is useful for yards with standing water, wet basements or areas with poor soil drainage. Installing a French drain before Bellingham’s rainy season ensures water is managed instead of pooling.

Culverts carry water under driveways, roads and pathways. Over time, they can clog, crack or collapse. A damaged culvert slows water movement and increases the chance of flooding nearby. Cleaning, repairing or replacing culverts before heavy rainfall helps keep water flowing where it should, especially if you live near or on the Lake Whatcom Watershed area.

drainage

Precision grading shapes the ground so water drains away from structures and low points. Proper grading prevents water from sitting near foundations and reduces erosion on slopes. Even small changes in soil elevation can improve drainage. Checking the grading around your property now helps avoid bigger problems later.

French drains, culvert installation and precision property grading can guide water safely and reduce the potential for damage. Planning these projects before the rain arrives can protect your land and structures. Hire an experienced dirt work team to get the job done! Contact Ritter Dirt and Asphalt at 360-739-3472.

repaving in Whatcom County

Signs your parking lot needs repaving in Whatcom County

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Seal coating is like sunscreen; it protects what is already solid, but it won’t fix cracks, sinking, or base problems. While seal coating is a valuable service for maintaining asphalt pavement, we want to be upfront that Ritter Dirt and Asphalt does not offer seal coating. Instead, we provide paving solutions that address the root of the problem — including repaving in Whatcom County for long-lasting, structural improvements.

Whether you own a Whatcom County retail store, manage an office building, or oversee a public facility, the condition of your parking lot impacts visitor experience and safety. Over time, wear and tear from traffic, weather and aging infrastructure can degrade the surface, leading to potential hazards and aesthetic concerns.

repaving in Whatcom County

Here are a few signs that show your parking lot may need repaving:

• Cracks, potholes and uneven surfaces: Cracks allow water to penetrate beneath the surface, leading to further damage, while potholes pose safety risks to vehicles and pedestrians. Over time, the asphalt surface may become uneven due to settling, root growth or poor initial installation.
• Fading and discoloration: Asphalt that has lost its original dark color and appears faded or discolored often indicates aging and surface wear. UV exposure and weather conditions in Whatcom County contribute to this deterioration, making the parking lot look unkempt and potentially reducing the property’s curb appeal.
• Drainage problems: Proper drainage prevents water pooling, which can weaken the pavement and create hazards. Poor drainage may collect as standing water after rain, indicating that the surface is no longer properly sloped or that drainage systems are clogged or inadequate.
• Customer complaints: Listen to feedback from customers and employees. If complaints about the condition of your parking lot are becoming more frequent, it’s a clear sign that repaving may be necessary. A well-maintained parking lot reflects positively on your business and demonstrates your commitment to safety and quality.
• Increased maintenance costs: As pavement deteriorates, maintenance costs can rise. Constant patching and repairs may become cost-prohibitive compared to investing in a repaving project, which offers a longer-term solution.

Addressing signs of asphalt paving deterioration can save you money in the long run and enhance the overall experience for visitors and customers. If you notice any of these signs, consider consulting with a reputable paving contractor like Ritter Dirt and Asphalt to assess the condition of your parking lot and discuss options for repaving.

Our team of precision equipment operators and skilled construction laborers help meet the needs of commercial and residential property owners, land developers and general contractors in Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden, the Nooksack Valley and throughout Whatcom and Skagit counties. Call 360-739-3472 for a free quote.

site prep

Summer ready: Get your Whatcom County site prep project started

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Summer has arrived in Whatcom County, so now is the perfect time for outdoor projects construction projects. Whether you’re ready for a new gravel or asphalt driveway, planning a foundation for an addition, installing utilities for a new home or hauling topsoil and gravel, Ritter Dirt and Asphalt is your go-to partner for all things related to site prep and material hauling.

It is a fact that successful construction projects start from the ground up–literally! Ritter’s experienced crew and robust equipment fleet can handle everything from planning to initial excavation and land clearing to precision grading for proper water runoff and erosion control.

site prep

Beyond site prep, Ritter Dirt and Asphalt can deliver bulk materials to your job site and place them exactly when you need them. Our hauling capabilities mean we can efficiently transport a wide range of bulk materials, including:

  • Rock: From decorative stone for landscaping to large aggregates for drainage, we’ve got your rock needs covered.
  • Gravel: Perfect for driveways, pathways and sub-bases, we deliver various sizes and types of gravel.
  • Bark: Ideal for landscaping, weed suppression and aesthetic appeal.
  • Sand: Essential for leveling and drainage.
  • And other materials: Need fill dirt, topsoil or something else? Just ask!

Of course, we specialize in asphalt paving, too. We manage driveway and road paving projects, asphalt repair and patching, parking lot overlays, and much more.

With summer’s longer, drier days, now is the ideal time to get site prep underway. If you live in Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden, the Nooksack Valley or throughout Whatcom and Skagit counties and are ready to break ground, contact Ritter Dirt and Asphalt at 360-739-3472 for a free quote.

Don’t have a project in mind? If you know someone who needs excavation, grading, bulk material hauling or asphalt paving, send them our way. When your referral turns into a job, you will receive a gift card to a Whatcom County restaurant. Check out our referral program online.

Lake Whatcom Watershed: Navigating the rules for site prep

Lake Whatcom Watershed: Navigating the rules for site prep

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If you’re planning a construction project in the Lake Whatcom Watershed area, understanding and following the area’s strict site preparation rules is essential. Lake Whatcom provides drinking water for over 100,000 people in Whatcom County, making it one of the most environmentally sensitive regions in the state. Because of this, local and state agencies enforce special regulations to protect water quality during and after construction.

Permitting requirements
Before any site work begins, you’ll likely need a Land Disturbance Permit (item 16.80.120) through the City of Bellingham or Whatcom County, depending on the location. Projects that involve clearing, grading or excavation in the watershed almost always require permits. Additional approvals may be needed for driveways, stormwater systems or shoreline buffers.

Erosion and sediment control

To prevent soil from washing into the lake during rain events, all projects must follow the same plan, like limiting equipment access to one entry and exit point to reduce tracking out of soil. This typically includes measures like silt fencing, straw wattles, mulch cover and hydroseeding. Timing is also important—construction is limited from October 1 through May 31 to reduce erosion risk.

Not sure if you live in the Lake Whatcom watershed? Use this map to help you find out.

Tree removal and vegetation limits
The watershed has limits on how much vegetation can be cleared, especially within buffer zones near streams or wetlands. In some areas, you may be required to retain a certain percentage of tree canopy or replant disturbed areas to meet watershed protection standards.

Inspections and penalties

Expect multiple inspections throughout your excavation, site prep and construction project. Agencies take enforcement seriously and failing to comply with watershed regulations can result in stop-work orders, fines and required remediation.Lake Whatcom Watershed

A Temporary Erosion and Sedimentation Control plan must be submitted at the time of Natural Resource Assessment submittal or building permit submittal (whichever comes first). Appropriate TESC measures must be installed before any clearing activity. A TESC inspection must occur before the first building permit inspection. Excavation professionals like Ritter Dirt and Asphalt can work through this process with you.

Hire a contractor who knows the rules
Site prep in the Lake Whatcom Watershed isn’t just about moving dirt—it’s about protecting one of the region’s most vital resources. Working with an experienced excavation contractor who understands the watershed’s unique regulations is critical to avoiding costly delays and ensuring your project is built responsibly.

If you’re looking for a licensed site prep contractor to help with a Lake Whatcom Watershed construction project, contact Ritter Dirt and Asphalt. Our experienced team knows how to navigate local permitting, implement erosion control and get your project started the right way.

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