What Are the Differences Between Trenching and Excavation?

We’ve found that many of our customers use the terms trenching and excavation interchangeably. While they both involve digging into the ground to create a hole, they’re not the same practice.

Continue reading to learn what the difference between trenching and excavation is.

What is the difference between trenching and excavation?

Both trenching and excavation are dangerous jobs that should only be left to professionals. Here are the main differences when it comes to trenching vs excavation:

• Size and shape: The main difference is the size and shape of the hole. Excavation can be done in any size or shape. On the other hand, trenching refers to digging a narrow cavity that is deeper than it is wide. So, all trenches are excavations, but not all excavations are trenches.
• Purpose: Excavation work refers to any type of digging, typically using heavy machinery. One of the most common types of excavation is digging a foundation as one of the first stages in a construction project. Trenching is mainly used to lay utility lines, and contractors need to be careful to avoid striking existing lines or building foundations.
• Equipment: Trenching can be performed by hand with a shovel, while excavation work is done with heavy-duty machinery like backhoes. That said, many trenching contractors now have power trenchers that look like chainsaws to speed the process along.
• Safety: As we mentioned above, both jobs are dangerous. In fact, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that there are numerous job-related fatalities each year for both types of work. To help ensure workplace safety, OSHA requires all trenches over 5 feet deep to have a protective system in place to safeguard against cave-ins.

Why hire Es7 Comm-2 U, Inc.?

Although we specialize in directional drilling at Es7 Comm-2 U, Inc., we are capable of tackling your trenching project. Here are a few of the reasons to choose us:

• Wide range of services: Whether you need a trench dug to lay gas lines, communication cables, phone lines, electrical cables or anything else, we’re the team for the job. We also perform utility detection work to ensure existing lines or cables aren’t disrupted before trenching work begins.
• Locally owned and operated: It’s always better to work with a local company than a national brand—and that’s just what you get when you work with us. We’ve been working since 2000, and we’re proud to serve our community.
• Fully licensed and insured: We’re fully licensed, bonded and insured with the state, further illustrating that we’re a trusted team of professionals. When you work with us, you can rest easy knowing the job will be performed safely and correctly.
• Fair pricing: There’s no reason to pay an arm and a leg for trenching or directional boring. We offer free estimates and fair rates for all of our projects.

If you’re ready to get your project underway, call our trenching contractors at Es7 Comm-2 U, Inc. We’re happy to give you a free estimate or teach you some more about trenching vs excavation.

Categorised in: Trenching Contractors

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