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: Why is slab more affordable than a crawl space?

• <div><p>Slab foundations are more affordable than crawl spaces because they require minimal excavation, as the slab sits directly on the ground or on footers that only sink a few feet into the ground. Crawl spaces require excavation of the entire footprint of the home to several feet below the surface. Not only does that mean higher labor costs, but more materials are necessary for the concrete foundation walls. </p></div>

Q: Can excavation be done in the winter?

• <div><p>Yes, you can <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/can-you-excavate-in-the-winter.htm">excavate in the winter</a>, but it might make the job harder. Frozen ground is harder to dig, and snow or ice can make the work site more hazardous. A contractor may need special equipment and techniques, such as ground-thawing methods, to break through frozen soil. Although winter excavation is possible, it may take longer and be more costly than excavating during warmer months.</p></div>

Q: How far can I hand drill a well?

• <div><p>The physical constraints of hand-drilling a well limit the depth you can achieve. Manually digging with picks and shovels may only lead to shallow wells of up to 60 feet in depth. To reach greater depths, you need more specialized equipment. The diameter of your well and the tools you&rsquo;re using will determine how far down you can dig. </p></div>

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>

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Tri State Land Development, LLC

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Tri State Land Development, LLC

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7 years of experience

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With over 5 years of experience, Tri-State Land Development, is dedicated to providing our customers with the best quality and craftsmanship. We are here to build relationships with our customers and communities and to provide our employees with a great place to work. We look forward to working with you.