Get matched with top excavation pros in Honokaa, HI

Most states do not require excavation companies to hold specific licenses, but many require at least a contractor’s license. Additionally, heavy equipment operators require a special commercial equipment license to operate machinery required for excavation. You can use Angi’s contractor licensing tool to confirm that an excavation company you’re considering hiring is fully licensed. You should also make sure that the excavation team is fully insured before allowing them to work on your property.

The best method for digging a trench depends on the scope of the project. For a short, shallow trench (less than 2 feet deep) in light, soft soil, digging by hand may be sufficient. However, digging by hand is labor-intensive, so consider the effort required. A machine trencher is the better option for longer trenches (over 100 feet), deeper ones, or when dealing with difficult soil conditions, such as rocky or hard ground, or obstructions like tree roots. A machine can save significant time and energy in these situations.

A mini excavator can dig between 5 and 11 feet deep, depending on the type and size of the mini excavator. Mini hydraulic excavators are more powerful and can reach deeper into the earth, but electric models have a more limited range. Mini excavators over two tons in size are also more powerful and able to dig as deep as 11 feet.

Most residential basements are 8 to 10 feet deep. You can dig deeper depending on building codes, but it does become more difficult. You’ll likely need to install stronger foundation walls and additional supports to handle the increased load. Depending on the water table, you may also need a water management system. Clay soil can support a deeper foundation than sandy soil. A structural engineer will be able to tell you the maximum, feasible depth.