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Friday Mar 29, 2024

Types of Excavation

When you need to dig down into the ground for any reason, using proper excavation methods will be essential to the success of your project. Whether you are building the foundation for a new home, working at an archeological site or anything in between, it is important to know your options for the best excavation approach. 

Below you will find explanations of some of the most common excavation methods and when to rely on each to help you get the job done right. 

Earth Excavation

Needing to remove the topsoil and some degree of soil beneath for a project is known as earth excavation. This type of excavation does not require the removal of any other natural material such as rocks or muck. Excavators typically used for this process are on tracks, rather than wheels, to ensure easy navigation around the construction site.

Using earth excavation is common for most new constructions whether for building structures or underground installation of new pipes or utilities. 

Hydro Excavation

Hydro excavation is a method of excavation that uses high-pressure water to cut through the soil. After the soil has been targeted with the water, an air vacuum will be used to remove the soil from the area. This method is an ideal option for plumbing pipes and sewers or the installation of small components such as telephone poles. 

As opposed to mechanical excavation options, hydro excavation offers a safer and much more precise method of soil removal. As a result of such precise excavation, this method will most often eliminate the need for backfilling the space after the work is finished, which will lower the cost and materials needed for completing the project.

Borrow Excavation

Contrary to the traditional excavation techniques to remove material, borrow excavation requires the addition of new materials. This type of excavation is typically done in the aftermath of the initial excavation process. 

After you remove soil and other materials and complete the installation or maintenance of the area, you will likely need to backfill the area, and this cannot always be accomplished with the leftover soil you initially removed. If this is the case, borrow excavators will borrow material such as gravel or soil from another source to refill the excavated area as needed to fill and level the area. 

If you find yourself in need of excavation services, it is best to contact a local contractor to see what he or she recommends is the best method to meet the needs of your project.

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