How deep should a trench be?

• <div><p>Trenches are 12 to 24 inches deep and 8 inches wide. However, the right depth for your trench will depend on the nature of your project. For example, if you’re digging a trench as part of a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/french-drain-installation.htm">French drain installation</a>, it should be 18 inches deep. An excavation professional can explain how deep your trench should be. </p></div>

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Q: How do you cut through roots when digging?

• <div><p>There are many ways to cut through roots when digging, especially if your trencher doesn&rsquo;t seem to be removing the roots. First, use a shovel to expose the roots. Then, use gardening shears to clear out smaller roots or a reciprocating saw to remove larger plant roots. If you plan on keeping the plant, avoid cutting any roots over 2 inches thick.</p></div>

Q: How much does it cost to dig a well?

• <div><p>Digging a well can cost between <b>$20 and $25,000</b>,<b> </b>depending on your needs. If you&rsquo;re looking to dig a well yourself, all you need is a shovel. If you&rsquo;re looking to have a well drilled by a professional, you can expect to pay around $15 to $30 per foot. The total <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-well-drilling-cost.htm">cost of drilling a well</a> will average to <b>$5,500</b>.</p></div>

Q: How long does it take to dig out a basement?

• <div><p>Digging out a basement takes anywhere from a few days to a few months. Most projects take at least two to five weeks, but it could take several months if you encounter obstacles. This project takes longer if you need to brace or raise your home before the excavation. Digging out a basement in new construction can take as little as three days.</p></div>

Q: How long does it take to trench 100 feet with a trencher?

• <div><p>It takes two to three hours to trench 100 feet with a mechanical trencher or 10 to 12 hours if digging with a shovel. The total time to dig a trench depends on the depth, width, soil type, terrain, trencher type, and your level of experience. Digging in clay or rocky soil takes longer than soft ground. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in Ruthven, IA

*The Angi rating for Excavation companies in Ruthven, 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 Ruthven, 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 13, 2026

Reviewed in February 2025
BHG Frameless Shower Doors Denver provided top-notch service from start to finish. They helped us choose the right shower door for our space, and the installation was flawless. We highly recommend them to anyone looking for a quality shower door replacement!!!
BHG Frameless Shower Doors Denver
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Reviewed in March 2024
The trai n ing of the dogs went great. So far so good!
Dog Guard
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Reviewed in November 2023
They were very prompt and professional.
Mr. Appliance of Sioux City
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Reviewed in June 2023
My wife Lori hired Tammy a few times over the years. She's helped us clear out a house in Denver (we're in Iowa), organize house space, and organizing office space. This relationship has gone on for years and we keep going back to her because she's reliable, innovative, and...
Tidy Tammy Organizing Services
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Reviewed in March 2023
All I can say is wow. Mike was very nice and professional. He was Ontime and his team worked together very well. I was given an up front price and there were no surprises. I recommend TOP 1 Expert Home improvement LLC for your roofing work
Top 1 Expert Home improvement LLC
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Reviewed in July 2022
Len was very professional, friendly, conscientious and easy to work with! He did a great job and our area rug looks amazing!
Advanced Interior Care, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2021
They have been excellent and I have no problems with them. I like that I can make an appointment and they can work me in. I would highly recommend them.
Exhaust Pros
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Find Excavation pros in Ruthven

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

2.75(

)

Free onsite estimate

Frase Construction Inc is a locally owned and operated business in the Ottumwa area since 1999. Business owner, Jeremy Frase invites you to come visit his showroom, complete with a large variety of retail products. Frase Construction specializes in new construction and remodeling. Serves include: - Roofing - Additions - Windows - Siding - Kitchens & Baths - Cabinets - Concrete - Electrical - Plumbing - Decks - Garages - General contractors - Designed build - Egress Windows - Casement Windows - Energy Efficient Windows - Skylights - Sliding Windows - Storm Windows - Installation - New Construction - Remdeling - Repair - Wood Shake roofs and Shingles - Maintenance - Green Building - Residential - Commercial - Metal - Wood - Fiberglass - Vinyl - Driveways - Concrete removal - Concrete Coloring - Walls - Foundations - Decorative Concrete - Concrete Cutting - Stairs - Patios - Sidewalks - Stamped Concrete - Industrial - Garages - Cabinets - Laminate - Cabinet hardware - Snow Removal - Ice Removal - Snow Blowing - Snow Plowing - Additions ? - Bathrooms - Decks - Electrical - Kitchens - Plumbing - Roofing - Siding - and more Our project types include: Commerical (Office Buildijngs, Shopping Centers, Car Dealerships and more), Resteraunts, Warehouses, Rental Spaces, Residential (Multi-Family and Tenant Finish) For the best service in the area, give us a call so we can prove to you that you made the right choice.

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

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Gilbert's Septic Service

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Gilbert's Septic Service has been family owned and operated for over 50 years! Gilbert's will take care of your septic tank cleaning & repair. Certified for time of transfer inspection. Our services include residential: * Cleaning * Repair * Installation * Pumping * Maintenance * Inspection * Consulting Call Gilbert's Septic Service Today.

Excavating questions, answered by experts

There are many ways to cut through roots when digging, especially if your trencher doesn’t seem to be removing the roots. First, use a shovel to expose the roots. Then, use gardening shears to clear out smaller roots or a reciprocating saw to remove larger plant roots. If you plan on keeping the plant, avoid cutting any roots over 2 inches thick.

Digging a well can cost between $20 and $25,000, depending on your needs. If you’re looking to dig a well yourself, all you need is a shovel. If you’re looking to have a well drilled by a professional, you can expect to pay around $15 to $30 per foot. The total cost of drilling a well will average to $5,500.

Digging out a basement takes anywhere from a few days to a few months. Most projects take at least two to five weeks, but it could take several months if you encounter obstacles. This project takes longer if you need to brace or raise your home before the excavation. Digging out a basement in new construction can take as little as three days.

Trenches are 12 to 24 inches deep and 8 inches wide. However, the right depth for your trench will depend on the nature of your project. For example, if you’re digging a trench as part of a French drain installation, it should be 18 inches deep. An excavation professional can explain how deep your trench should be.

It takes two to three hours to trench 100 feet with a mechanical trencher or 10 to 12 hours if digging with a shovel. The total time to dig a trench depends on the depth, width, soil type, terrain, trencher type, and your level of experience. Digging in clay or rocky soil takes longer than soft ground.

The Ruthven, 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 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.
Haley Nothstein
•
Dec 29, 2025Dec 29, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Dig Out a Basement? [2025 Data]
If you’re building a new home, you might need to consider the cost of digging out a basement. Use this pricing guide to get an estimate for the project.
Taylor Freitas
•
Oct 27, 2025Oct 27, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Trencher? [2026 Data]
If you need to dig a trench, you might be tempted to do it yourself instead of hiring a pro. So, how much does it cost to rent a trencher? Let’s break it down.
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.
Veronica Sparks
•
Nov 5, 2024Nov 5, 2024
What Is Excavation? A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners
Discover what excavation is, the different types, and when it's needed in construction. Learn key insights for your next big home project.
Barbara Bellesi Zito
•
Nov 14, 2025Nov 14, 2025
How to Use a Trencher Safely and When to Call a Pro
Using a trencher is more efficient than using a shovel when excavating. Here’s a basic guide on how to use a trencher for your next project.

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Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Savannah Construction

Savannah Construction

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Gilbert's Septic Service

Gilbert's Septic Service

VANS Excavating, LLC.

VANS Excavating, LLC.

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

K&M Exteriors LLC

K&M Exteriors LLC

myhometutions

myhometutions

The Ruthven, IA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

How Much Does Pool Excavation Cost? [2025 Data]

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

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Trencher? [2026 Data]

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

What Is Excavation? A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

How to Use a Trencher Safely and When to Call a Pro

Get our Angi-powered app

Get matched with top excavation pros in Ruthven, IA

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

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

Tree Removal Service

Building Site Preparation and Clearing

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in Ruthven, IA

Find Excavation pros in Ruthven

Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Leroy Morford Construction Co. The Concrete King

Savannah Construction

Savannah Construction

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

Dirt Werks by Kurt LLC

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

FRASE & CO CONSTRUCTION

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Bills Concrete & Handyman Services

Gilbert's Septic Service

Gilbert's Septic Service

VANS Excavating, LLC.

VANS Excavating, LLC.

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

K&M Exteriors LLC

K&M Exteriors LLC

myhometutions

myhometutions

The Ruthven, IA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

How Much Does Pool Excavation Cost? [2025 Data]

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

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Trencher? [2026 Data]

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

What Is Excavation? A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

How to Use a Trencher Safely and When to Call a Pro

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