Is it better to dig a trench by hand or machine?

• <div><p>It all depends on the scope of the project. A trencher can certainly save time and energy, but you might not need to dig that deep in the first place. Aside from the depth of the trench, the quality of the soil matters. If it’s light, soft soil, you might try a shovel first. However, if the soil is rocky and hard or there are obstructions in it, like tree roots, a machine trencher might be the better option.</p></div>

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Q: How close to the gas line can I dig?

• <div><p>Call 811 to locate and mark the gas lines at least three days before digging. In many areas, you can dig within 18 inches of the lines, though in some locations, the distance may be further. Check local regulations, as you may need a utility company representative onsite when digging. Document your calls to 811 and precautions taken to avoid gas lines. A homeowner can be held <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/homeowner-liable-damage-gas-line-contractor.htm">liable for hitting a gas line</a> in some cases, but contacting the proper authorities and following all guidelines can offer protection.</p></div>

Q: Will a walk-behind trencher cut through roots?

• <div><p>A walk-behind <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/will-a-trencher-cut-through-roots.htm">trencher can cut through roots</a> as long as they&rsquo;re not too thick, making a project much easier than digging with a shovel and other hand tools. Assess your terrain and the number of trees in the surrounding area to determine if a walk-behind trencher will ease the job. Digging a trench by hand is much more time-consuming and labor-intensive. </p></div>

Q: Should I install an above-ground or underground wine cellar?

• <div><p>Almost any kind of home can have a wine cellar or cabinet installed. You&rsquo;ll need an area where a concrete floor can be put in, along with the necessary insulation, climate control, and ventilation systems. If you think of yourself as an aspiring sommelier, an underground wine cellar may be ideal, but it will cost significantly more. </p><p>What you choose to install really depends on your budget and how many bottles you&rsquo;re looking to store.</p></div>

Q: How long does it take an excavator to dig a pool?

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-long-does-it-take-build-pool.htm">time it takes to build a pool</a>&mdash;and dig out the area&mdash;varies based on the pool size and type. A professional excavator will take between four and eight hours to dig a pool. The process will take longer if they encounter large boulders or tree roots. Keep in mind that this is a small part of the process in the long run. You will need between eight and 12 weeks to build a pool from start to finish, including the time to apply for permits.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in Garnavillo, IA

*The Angi rating for Excavation companies in Garnavillo, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Excavation needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Excavation companies in Garnavillo, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Excavation needs.

Last update on January 06, 2026

Reviewed in March 2025
Came within one day of my request because it was urgent. Arrived on time very nice. Understood the problem and how to fix it with the least amount of damage the surrounding areas. Finished up the work the plumber could not finish because of the damage to the flooring And then finished off the...
Ravens Nest Solutions LLC
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Reviewed in March 2024
They workers were super nice and respectful, they worked really hard. The owner was great to talk to while setting up the appointment! The best thing about the visit was their work - the doors slide open like a feather now!!
Slider Genius
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Reviewed in June 2023
THE BEST contractor we have ever worked with. Gabe worked on a Saturday to meet our needs. Home town friendly and provides quality work.
Gabe's Construction & Restoration, PLLC
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Reviewed in May 2023
Did a great job. They were fast and efficient. Cleaned up area with minimal lawn damage.Would definitely recommend them.
B & E Tree Service
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Reviewed in April 2023
I couldn't have got a better service ..I don't believe ..they were very good had the tree cut down in no time at all .(and to top it off started raining .).they worked very fast in the rain and got the job done and cleaned up everything and hawled it off! And the price was very reasonable ð ð
TimberScape, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2023
I would definitely recommend Metz Home Appraisals. The appraiser was an absolute professional and conducted a very accurate and thorough appraisal on my home.
Metz Home Appraisals, LLC
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Reviewed in June 2022
I asked Kyle to come look at what I wanted. He came quickly, gave me a fair quote quickly and planned the work. Showed up when he said and completed the work plus some other things I added in. Was super pleased with Kyle and his work. A very nice gentleman and gave me exactly what I wanted. ...
Faith Landscape
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Reviewed in June 2021
From our sales rep, Jim, to the project lead, John, the Hoffman team was knowledgeable, pleasant and efficient. I would hire them again!
Hoffman Cooling and Heating
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Reviewed in May 2021
Be Frank has the most personable crew to work with -would allow them in my home at anytime-very detail-conscious and cleanup oriented-Chris made it easy to work with you would be lucky to get him and his team.
Be Frank Painting
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Reviewed in May 2021
John is very professional, thorough and prompt. I would highly recommend him. Additionally, his services are priced well within reason, if not less than you would expect.
Caldwell Homescapes
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MidAmerica Basement Systems

4.55(

140

)

MidAmerica Basement Systems

4.55(

140

)

Customers say: Quality work

37 years of experience

MidAmerica Basement Systems is your premier locally owned and operated company that specializes in foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space repair, concrete leveling, and radon mitigation.

"Salesman that we were to replace dry wall. Later learned we were to have it removed. Attempts to reach supervisors and owners resulted in zero until time to do installation. Gave $1300+ down. Note: this went to the salesman, not to MABS. Then salesman stated $12,000 more if MABS removed the dry wall. Paid salesman and his friend to remove it but didn't do all of it! Sent certified letters to Cedar Rapids address after we got no verbal responses to phone calls. Later learned they receive no mail there, only in Davenport. Were to have GFI outlet placed at far end of basement. 3 electricians said not possible. Also discharge was to be underground to rear of yard which we thought meant to back! House sits on clay. Was to discharge under ground out 10 feet from house. Canceled installation and have found that other basement waterproofing companies do not require 2.5 feet of dry wall removed: only baseboard. Cost was same as MABS. Now we must pay to have drywall installed after the waterproofing is completed."

Barbara S on September 2020

"Salesman that we were to replace dry wall. Later learned we were to have it removed. Attempts to reach supervisors and owners resulted in zero until time to do installation. Gave $1300+ down. Note: this went to the salesman, not to MABS. Then salesman stated $12,000 more if MABS removed the dry wall. Paid salesman and his friend to remove it but didn't do all of it! Sent certified letters to Cedar Rapids address after we got no verbal responses to phone calls. Later learned they receive no mail there, only in Davenport. Were to have GFI outlet placed at far end of basement. 3 electricians said not possible. Also discharge was to be underground to rear of yard which we thought meant to back! House sits on clay. Was to discharge under ground out 10 feet from house. Canceled installation and have found that other basement waterproofing companies do not require 2.5 feet of dry wall removed: only baseboard. Cost was same as MABS. Now we must pay to have drywall installed after the waterproofing is completed."

"On time. Very polite and very informative"

Brad W on July 2024

"On time. Very polite and very informative"

Brad W on July 2024

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

5.00(

)

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

We have done all our own work we do not sub work out to anyone We want you to be happy with us. We accept Checks and credit cards their is no job to small we can't handle

Gilbert's Septic Service

No reviews yet

Gilbert's Septic Service

No reviews yet

J.E. Britton Company can help you with all of your excavating and bull dozing needs! We have all of the equipment and experienced staff to complete any job for you. We will travel to you to complete any project small or large in a timely fashion. With references to back up the quality and diversity of work we provide, we look forward to helping you with any excavating and bull dozing projects soon to come!

Showing 1-10 of 21

Excavating questions, answered by experts

Call 811 to locate and mark the gas lines at least three days before digging. In many areas, you can dig within 18 inches of the lines, though in some locations, the distance may be further. Check local regulations, as you may need a utility company representative onsite when digging. Document your calls to 811 and precautions taken to avoid gas lines. A homeowner can be held liable for hitting a gas line in some cases, but contacting the proper authorities and following all guidelines can offer protection.

A walk-behind trencher can cut through roots as long as they’re not too thick, making a project much easier than digging with a shovel and other hand tools. Assess your terrain and the number of trees in the surrounding area to determine if a walk-behind trencher will ease the job. Digging a trench by hand is much more time-consuming and labor-intensive.

It all depends on the scope of the project. A trencher can certainly save time and energy, but you might not need to dig that deep in the first place. Aside from the depth of the trench, the quality of the soil matters. If it’s light, soft soil, you might try a shovel first. However, if the soil is rocky and hard or there are obstructions in it, like tree roots, a machine trencher might be the better option.

Almost any kind of home can have a wine cellar or cabinet installed. You’ll need an area where a concrete floor can be put in, along with the necessary insulation, climate control, and ventilation systems. If you think of yourself as an aspiring sommelier, an underground wine cellar may be ideal, but it will cost significantly more.

What you choose to install really depends on your budget and how many bottles you’re looking to store.

The time it takes to build a pool—and dig out the area—varies based on the pool size and type. A professional excavator will take between four and eight hours to dig a pool. The process will take longer if they encounter large boulders or tree roots. Keep in mind that this is a small part of the process in the long run. You will need between eight and 12 weeks to build a pool from start to finish, including the time to apply for permits.

The Garnavillo, IA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Dec 9, 2025Dec 9, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Dig a Trench? [2025 Data]
Digging a trench is usually the first step in a larger home project. Our trenching cost calculator breaks down the factors that affect the price tag of this job.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Dec 9, 2025Dec 9, 2025
How Much Does Pool Excavation Cost? [2025 Data]
You can't have an in-ground pool without digging into the ground. How much does pool excavation cost, and can you take it on yourself? Our guide explains.
Mariel Loveland
•
Nov 28, 2025Nov 28, 2025
How Much Does Excavation Cost? [2025 Data]
Excavation costs $1,500 to $6,300 for most residential projects—but it depends on factors like the size of the area. This guide will help you plan a budget.
Rachel Presser
•
Oct 24, 2024Oct 24, 2024
Who Can Dig a Trench for Me?
Who can dig a trench for you? You can rent trenching equipment for a simple job, but a local excavation company can help with tough ones. Here's how.
Barbara Bellesi Zito
•
Nov 4, 2024Nov 4, 2024
What’s the Difference Between Trenching and Edging?
Trenching involves digging long, deep channels, but edging creates shallow, neat borders. Learn more about each method and when to use them.
Paige Bennett
•
Oct 22, 2024Oct 22, 2024
Can You Excavate in the Winter? What to Know About Breaking Ground in the Cold
Can you excavate in the winter? Sometimes, but it’s complicated. Find out the pros, cons, and steps for planning a winter excavation project.

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Tree Removal Service

Building Site Preparation and Clearing

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Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in Garnavillo, IA

Find Excavation pros in Garnavillo

MidAmerica Basement Systems

MidAmerica Basement Systems

Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Northeast Iowa Mechanical

Northeast Iowa Mechanical

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

ArrowHead Excavations LLC

ArrowHead Excavations LLC

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Gilbert's Septic Service

Gilbert's Septic Service

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

J.E. Britton Company

J.E. Britton Company

The Garnavillo, IA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

How Much Does It Cost to Dig a Trench? [2025 Data]

How Much Does Pool Excavation Cost? [2025 Data]

How Much Does Excavation Cost? [2025 Data]

Who Can Dig a Trench for Me?

What’s the Difference Between Trenching and Edging?

Can You Excavate in the Winter? What to Know About Breaking Ground in the Cold

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Get matched with top excavation pros in Garnavillo, IA

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your excavation project in Garnavillo, IA?

Tree Removal Service

Building Site Preparation and Clearing

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in Garnavillo, IA

Find Excavation pros in Garnavillo

MidAmerica Basement Systems

MidAmerica Basement Systems

Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Northeast Iowa Mechanical

Northeast Iowa Mechanical

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

ArrowHead Excavations LLC

ArrowHead Excavations LLC

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Gilbert's Septic Service

Gilbert's Septic Service

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

J.E. Britton Company

J.E. Britton Company

The Garnavillo, IA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

How Much Does It Cost to Dig a Trench? [2025 Data]

How Much Does Pool Excavation Cost? [2025 Data]

How Much Does Excavation Cost? [2025 Data]

Who Can Dig a Trench for Me?

What’s the Difference Between Trenching and Edging?

Can You Excavate in the Winter? What to Know About Breaking Ground in the Cold

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