If you are in the construction business, there will come a time when you need to know all about trenching to finish a job. This is especially true if the job involves landscaping to make room for drainage or if you are going to be placing utility pipelines or data cabling underground. Although trenching does not take much time, it still should be done with careful precision. The following are a few tips to help you get past the trenching part of your project.
Planning Everything
It is pretty easy to map the route of the trench, and all you need are a few strings and stakes. It does not matter how quickly you need to finish the project, but you should never skip this step. According to what your installation requires, plan the length and width.
Unless your project has specific requirements, it is best to use standard depth for the job, especially if you are working on things like utility pipelines. There might come a time when you will need access to them, so when installing pipelines and electrical wiring, make sure that they are at least 2.5 feet deep so they do not freeze. They should not be any deeper than four feet though so that they remain accessible. If you are placing sprinkler systems, you can have them placed just a foot underground.
Try to locate any and all potential problems such as any drop-offs or soft spots. Make sure that you are aware of all the power lines and pipes that are already in the area. When you are placing new pipelines, make sure to put at least 1.5 feet of distance between them and the existing ones. Take other factors into account such as any trees growing nearby with widespread roots as they could end up interfering with your trench. If there are any smaller trees in the area, consider how far they might end up spreading in the future.
Choose the Right Equipment
The best equipment to choose when you are digging a trench is a mini excavator as it can get the job done rather quickly and efficiently. Its footprint is a lot narrower than other machines, so it can easily work in tight spaces. Since it needs less workspace, it is ideal for working in residential areas. It has certain features that make it much more maneuverable, and its strongest model’s arm has the ability to support around 18500 pounds. If you have a job that requires trenching, it is time to start looking for mini excavators for sale.
A Certified Trainer
The person you hire for trenching should be adequately trained and OSHA certified. With the help of this training, it will be easier for the operator to identify any problems that may arise. Even minor changes in the condition of the soil could necessitate serious adjustments to be made to the sloping that is to be trenched. If the trench is going to be three feet or deeper, it will require special consideration regarding safety. To keep the trench from collapsing, make sure the sloping is done properly and use timber posts and panels to help shore up the sides.