About Excavating Asheville

Bob Breining grew up on a family farm, but from a young age, he dreamed of living in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, inspired by his father, who was an avid outdoorsman. While Bob started his career in New Jersey, his love for the outdoors never left him. In 1975, he began as a landscaper with nothing more than an old rickety dump truck and a beat up bulldozer. With a relentless work ethic and a drive to learn, in a short time Bob expanded into larger projects, including septic systems, sewer and water lines, and pipeline work.

Over time, Bob’s reputation grew. He worked with the Army Corps of Engineers at West Point Military Academy, handling complex tasks like putting in the concrete storm drains and working on road improvements, paving, blasting, and building retaining walls. He also secured contracts with Exxon, various state governments, and the State of West Virginia’s Department of Transportation, working on everything from storm drains to major subdivision projects.

Bob’s career took him across the country, even to California, where he played a vital role in wildfire prevention, cleanup, and restoration after devastating fires. His experience includes land clearing for tens of thousands of acres, both residential and commercial, and working on storm restoration after natural disasters. Over the years, Bob mastered the operation of bulldozers, track loaders, wheel loaders, excavators, and dump trucks. Bob has extensive experience collaborating with state and federal engineers, working alongside them on complex projects.

In 2004, Bob decided to sell his thriving excavating company in New Jersey and finally move to Weaverville, North Carolina, to live out his dream. But after a short time in retirement, Bob realized that slowing down wasn’t in his nature. Following a throat surgery and advice from his doctor to stay active, Bob bought a Caterpillar 313 excavator and started doing odd jobs around the local community. His expertise didn’t go unnoticed, and soon, the demand for his skills took off.

Before long, Bob founded Rock & Dirt Contracting, Ltd., a company built on his decades of experience and his passion for providing quality excavating services. Today, Bob continues to serve the community with the same dedication that has driven his career for nearly 50 years. His story is one of hard work, resilience, and a deep love for the land he now calls home.

Our mission is straightforward: to offer high-quality excavation services while building long-lasting relationships with our clients. We are committed to delivering personalized service that is rooted in integrity, safety, and attention to detail. We go beyond just moving dirt. Our work is about building the infrastructure that supports our communities, providing both reliability and customer satisfaction on every job.