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>

How do I know if my well was dug or drilled?

• <div><p>Drilled wells have a pipe sticking up that’s covered in a plastic or metal casing. On the other hand, a dug well will look like a big hole in the ground and is more similar to what you’d see in a fantasy or Western movie. If you want to be sure, contact the city for documentation on your property’s construction and excavation history. </p></div>

Get matched with top excavation pros in West Bend, IA

Q: How deep are trenches?

• <div><p>Trenches are typically <b>12 inches to</b> <b>24 inches deep and 8 inches wide</b>. However, your city or county may have specific ordinances that clarify the dimensions needed for the project. For instance, a water pipe may need to be 24 inches deep, but a drainage pipe may need to be 36 inches deep.</p></div>

Q: How do I know if my well was dug or drilled?

• <div><p>Drilled wells have a pipe sticking up that&rsquo;s covered in a plastic or metal casing. On the other hand, a dug well will look like a big hole in the ground and is more similar to what you&rsquo;d see in a fantasy or Western movie. If you want to be sure, contact the city for documentation on your property&rsquo;s construction and excavation history. </p></div>

Q: What permits are required for excavation?

• <div><p>Most municipalities require excavation permits for any significant digging, especially if the excavation affects utilities or public property. However, permits for excavation depend on your local government and the scope of the project. Hire an experienced contractor for your excavation job so that they can be the ones to deal with permitting, not you. </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>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your excavation project in West Bend, IA?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in West Bend, IA

*The Angi rating for Excavation companies in West Bend, 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 West Bend, 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 20, 2026

Reviewed in November 2024
I was very pleased with the caepet ckeaning. He took care of my furnature and did an excellent job of cleaning. I will use the company again and will refer my friends to use him.
Advanced Interior Care, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2023
They were very prompt and professional.
Mr. Appliance of Sioux City
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2023
Had her completely strip and custom paint a few small furniture pieces and they came out way better than I had anticipated..... she's definitely worth every dollar and a gem at its finest.
The Princess of Paint
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2023
Dave did a complete exterior renovation to our home and garage. The place looks amazing
Guns & Hoses Construction
Request a quote
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
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2023
Called the same day and was even a Sunday
D&J Tree Service, LLC
Request a quote
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
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2023
The individual I dealt with was Chris Vanderpool, he made sure to explain everything about what was happening to my basement and how it be rectified. Chris even went over and above when it came to getting financine for my project.
Foundation Recovery Systems
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2021
The workman was punctual and very neat and clean. There was never any dirt left around. Also very polite.
Bath Planet
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2021
My issue turned out to be minor and he resolved it immediately. He fixed it, tightened a couple bots and showed me how to troubleshoot for this should it happen again.
Custom Garage Doors & More
Request a quote

Find Excavation pros in West Bend

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

myhometutions

No reviews yet

myhometutions

No reviews yet

Home Tuitions in Hyderabad: http://www.myhometutions.com has become the one stop shop for Home Tuitions in Hyderabad where it serves from KG to PG and also hobbies, Sports and Physical Trainers and so on...

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

No reviews yet

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

No reviews yet

No reviews yet

10 years of experience

Excavation, Demolition, & Concrete Flat Work serving throughout Northwest & Central Iowa.

Showing 1-10 of 20

Excavating questions, answered by experts

Trenches are typically 12 inches to 24 inches deep and 8 inches wide. However, your city or county may have specific ordinances that clarify the dimensions needed for the project. For instance, a water pipe may need to be 24 inches deep, but a drainage pipe may need to be 36 inches deep.

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.

Drilled wells have a pipe sticking up that’s covered in a plastic or metal casing. On the other hand, a dug well will look like a big hole in the ground and is more similar to what you’d see in a fantasy or Western movie. If you want to be sure, contact the city for documentation on your property’s construction and excavation history.

Most municipalities require excavation permits for any significant digging, especially if the excavation affects utilities or public property. However, permits for excavation depend on your local government and the scope of the project. Hire an experienced contractor for your excavation job so that they can be the ones to deal with permitting, not you.

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 West Bend, 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

Haley Nothstein
•
Dec 29, 2025Dec 29, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Dig Out a Basement? [2026 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.
Alison Kasch
•
Nov 19, 2025Nov 19, 2025
How Much Does Mobile Home Leveling Cost? [2026 Data]
The cost to re-level your mobile home depends on your home’s location, size, and whether it needs extra support. Read more about the cost of leveling your mobile home.
Xiao Faria daCunha
•
Dec 29, 2025Dec 29, 2025
How Much Does Concrete Removal Cost? [2026 Data]
Time to get rid of that old chipped and crumbling walkway? Concrete removal costs can add up, but you have options to simplify the process. Learn more here.
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.
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.
Jamie Cattanach
•
Oct 22, 2024Oct 22, 2024
Who Can Demolish a House?
Demolishing a house is a major project that’s best completed by professional demolition services. Read more about why and who to hire.

What do you need done? We’ll find top pros.

🌱 "Mow a small front yard"
🛠 "Fix a leaking pipe under the sink"
🏠 "Repair shingles on an asphalt roof"

Get matched with top excavation pros in West Bend, IA

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your excavation project in West Bend, IA?

Tree Removal Service

Building Site Preparation and Clearing

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in West Bend, IA

Find Excavation pros in West Bend

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

myhometutions

myhometutions

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

K&M Exteriors LLC

K&M Exteriors LLC

Gilbert's Septic Service

Gilbert's Septic Service

VANS Excavating, LLC.

VANS Excavating, LLC.

The West Bend, IA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

How Much Does It Cost to Dig Out a Basement? [2026 Data]

How Much Does Mobile Home Leveling Cost? [2026 Data]

How Much Does Concrete Removal Cost? [2026 Data]

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

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

Who Can Demolish a House?

Get our Angi-powered app

Get matched with top excavation pros in West Bend, IA

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your excavation project in West Bend, IA?

Tree Removal Service

Building Site Preparation and Clearing

Handyman for Multiple Small Project Service

Verified Reviews for Excavation pros in West Bend, IA

Find Excavation pros in West Bend

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

myhometutions

myhometutions

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

Glens Sackett Trucking & Excavating

K&M Exteriors LLC

K&M Exteriors LLC

Gilbert's Septic Service

Gilbert's Septic Service

VANS Excavating, LLC.

VANS Excavating, LLC.

The West Bend, IA homeowners’ guide to excavation services

How Much Does It Cost to Dig Out a Basement? [2026 Data]

How Much Does Mobile Home Leveling Cost? [2026 Data]

How Much Does Concrete Removal Cost? [2026 Data]

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

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

Who Can Demolish a House?

Find Excavation Pros in other cities near youNot finding what you are looking for in West Bend? Check surrounding areas for Excavation pros.

Related projects