Best excavation pros near East Pecos, NM

Water lines are buried at various depths, depending on the type of line. For example, most sprinkler lines are buried between four and 12 inches underground. On the other hand, water mains usually sit between one and 3 feet below ground. However, they can go even deeper in cold climates to prevent freezing.

Because decomposed granite is a durable material, a crushed rock or gravel base is optional as long as the DG is properly installed and compacted. However, installing a base is a good idea because it will ensure proper drainage and stability and act as a weed suppressant (although you may still occasionally have to pull weeds). Installing an adequate base can also increase the durability of driveways and walkways. If you forego the paver base or gravel underneath, line the area with landscaping fabric to avoid weeds.

Trenching and boring are two distinct methods for installing underground utilities. Trenching involves digging a channel using equipment like an excavator, trencher, backhoe, or shovel. While it is a simpler process, it causes significant disruption to the surface, landscaping, and surrounding ecosystems.

Boring, also known as directional boring, is a less invasive alternative that uses a drill to create a tunnel for utility lines without disturbing the surface. This method is more precise and is ideal for installations that need to go underneath buildings, roads, or bodies of water. Although boring is less disruptive, it is generally more expensive than trenching.

Trenching is a specific kind of digging. Trenching means digging a depression in the earth that’s deeper than it is wide, often with heavy machinery. Digging refers to any kind of removal of earth in order to create a human-made depression, hole, or cut in the earth’s surface. You can dig with big tools or even with just a hand shovel.