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>

Do excavation companies need to be licensed?

• <div><p>Most states do not require excavation companies to hold specific licenses, but many require at least a contractor’s license. Additionally, heavy equipment operators require a special commercial equipment license to operate machinery required for excavation. You can use Angi’s <a href="https://www.angi.com/angi-license-check.htm">contractor licensing tool</a> to confirm that an excavation company you’re considering hiring is fully licensed. You should also make sure that the excavation team is fully insured before allowing them to work on your property.</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>

What type of soil is best to build on?

• <div><p>The best type of soil to build on is a mixture of sand and clay, known as loam soil. Loam soil has the best combination of these soil types to build a foundation on. The clay particles help with water retention, so it won’t erode like sandy soil might, and the sandy particles help with drainage, so you won’t see unsafe soil expansion or have an increased risk of leaks from water sitting against your foundation.</p></div>

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Powell Plumbing Co.

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Powell Plumbing Co.

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Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

17 years of experience

Providing Jackson and the surrounding areas with the best possible solutions to plumbing problems for the best prices! We specialize in plumbing services, repairs, inspections, installations, drain cleaning, water heaters, and more! We offer a diverse range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of every customer. We take a personalized approach to each project. We work closely with our clients to understand their vision, preferences, and budgetary requirements. We strive to exceed expectations by delivering exceptional service, great quality work, and professionalism on every job. Read more below on all the services we offer and contact us with any questions or to schedule a free estimate today!

"Kelly Powell was amazing. He was so professional and through. He is the only one I will use in the future. I’ve used other plumbers but Kelly with Powell Plumbing was by far the best. I highly recommend Kelly Plumbing!!"

Jason C on April 2025

"Kelly Powell was amazing. He was so professional and through. He is the only one I will use in the future. I’ve used other plumbers but Kelly with Powell Plumbing was by far the best. I highly recommend Kelly Plumbing!!"

Jason C on April 2025