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>

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: Are underground downspouts worth it?

• <div><p>Underground downspouts refer to the sections of downspout extensions that lead away from your home and gutter system. While they cost more than traditional extensions, they can provide several benefits, such as less frequent damage and no need to move them for lawn care tasks. Whether they're worth it or not depends on your budget at installation time and how much convenience they'll add to your situation. </p></div>

Q: What should I do before hiring an excavation company?

• <div><p>Prior to excavation, you should prepare the dig site and call 311 before you sign anything.</p><p>To get your site ready for excavation, you should move anything in the area that isn&rsquo;t affixed to the land. You can save money on the excavation by removing hardscaping, including walkways, decks, concrete patios, and paver patios.</p><p>Before you carry out any digging, you should call 311 to confirm that there are no utility lines running through your excavation site. Skipping this step could lead to severe injury and property damage if your excavator hits a water, sewage, or gas line.</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>

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

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Last update on January 06, 2026

Reviewed in September 2024
I had my inspection today concerning a large crack in my garage floor. The inspector that came out today, Abraham Mukulwa, was extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and thorough with his inspection of our garage. He put in the extra effort to make sure we were made aware of the issues that had...
Groundworks
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Reviewed in March 2022
Had a great experience with this company, they were reasonably priced and did a great job. I needed them to come back to the job and wrap up a loose end, I called them and they were there the next day, excellent service.
Restoration 1 of Northern Minnesota
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Reviewed in March 2022
Excellent communication. Very professional, personable installers. Very informative!
American Waterworks
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Reviewed in December 2020
It was my brother who told me to hire USA Family Moving for my move. I was relocating from one state to another. The moving guys were so professional. They packed everything very quickly and safely. Their price was great compared to other prices we have gotten so we went with them. I was very...
USA Family Moving, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2019
Jimmy was professional in getting us a quote and answering our questions. He communicated well and worked hard. He was true to his word and trustworthy. The finished deck looked great and I would highly recommend Roof to Deck Renew.
Roof to Deck Renew
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LChadwick Construction

LChadwick Construction

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New Roads LLC

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Haverkamp Utility Services

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Bearded Brothers

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New Era Underground

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Fargo floor to ceiling repair

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S&J Construction L.L.C.

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