From a new lateral in Hazel Dell to a long run from the well to a Brush Prairie shop, we dig to the installer's depth and keep wet trench walls from caving.
Trenching around Vancouver can be quick in the sandy flood gravels under much of the city and slow in the wet clay to the north, where trench walls slump and water seeps in. We choose the machine and the shoring or sloping based on the soil and the depth, and we keep trenches short and open for as little time as possible in the rainy season.
We dig trenches for water service lines, sewer laterals, gas lines, electric conduit to shops, accessory dwelling units and EV chargers, and lines from the well or the pump house on rural parcels. The contractor installing the pipe or wire sets the depth and bedding, and we dig to that, then backfill and compact in layers so the trench does not settle.
Washington law requires marking the dig area with white paint before requesting a locate and giving Washington 811 at least two full business days, and no more than ten, of notice. Marks are good for 45 days. Operators mark only their own lines; private lines such as a feed to a shop or a line from a well are not marked, so we ask what you know is buried.
Trenching & utilities in Vancouver: common questions
How long are Washington 811 marks good for?
Locate marks must be kept for up to 45 days, after which a new locate is needed.
Can you trench from my well to a new shop?
Yes. We plan the route around the septic system and wet spots and dig to the installer's depth.
Do you install the pipe or wire?
We dig and backfill. The plumber or electrician who holds the right state credentials installs and connects the line.
How it works
- Free estimate: Call, text or book online. We walk the site with you.
- Written quote: Scope, equipment and price in writing.
- Utility locate & plan: We have utilities marked and plan access, haul-off and erosion control.
- Dig, grade & clean up: We complete the work, grade the site and haul away spoil.