How Deep Will a Trencher Dig? Which Trencher to Choose

If you want to add plumbing to your pole barn or electrical to a shed, you’ll need to dig a trench to run the utility lines underground. Most residential-use trenchers can dig 12 inches to 6 feet deep, depending on the type of trencher. Larger models can reach up to 18 feet deep. Check out more important info about how deep a trencher will dig and what type of trencher to use for your project.

How Deep Will a Trencher Dig?

A non-commercial-use trencher will dig between 1 foot and 6 feet deep, depending on the type of trencher. Larger models for more complex jobs can reach up to 18 feet deep.

Here are the most common types of trenchers:

• Walk-behind trenchers: 12 to 48 inches deep and 8 inches wide

• Microtrenchers: 12 to 48 inches deep and 5 inches wide 

• Standard ride-on trenchers: Up to 6 feet deep and 16 inches wide

• Quad trenchers: Up to 18 feet deep and 48 inches wide

When you look for trenchers, review the specs to ensure the machine can dig the depth and width you need for your project, local guidelines, and utility type. If you need some extra help planning, call an excavation pro near you for a little guidance. 

Types of Trenchers and When to Choose Each

There are several types of trenchers to rent or buy, each designed for different projects, depths, and terrain. 

Walk-Behind Trenchers

Walk-behind trenchers are ideal for short-term, small trenching projects, such as digging a trench less than 4 feet deep and 8 inches wide. Walk-behinds work well on properties with space constraints, and they don’t cause as much damage to the terrain as other types. They are more labor-intensive than ride-ons, but they’re far less labor-intensive than digging with a shovel. 

Walk-behinds are less expensive to buy or rent because they don’t offer the same power and depth as ride-on models. 

Microtrenchers

Microtrenchers are ride-on trenchers that dig deep, narrow trenches, cutting through everything from dirt to asphalt and pavement. Within a slender cut, less than three inches wide, micro trenchers cause minimal damage to the surrounding environment. Microtrenchers are ideal for installing cables in shallow trenches that are 4 feet deep or less.

Ride-On Trenchers

Ride-on trenchers are drivable diggers, making them faster and less labor-intensive than walk-behinds and shovels. These trenchers can handle dense and rocky soil with ease. Rise-ons are great for projects longer than 250 feet, trenches wider than 8 inches, and trenches up to 6 feet deep. If you have a long trench to dig or multiple trenches, it makes sense to rent a ride-on trencher, but you’ll need to learn how to operate the machinery safely and accurately.

Quad Trenchers

Quad trenchers are heavy-duty, powerful ride-on trenchers that are great for digging deeper than a standard ride-on. Quads can dig up to 18 feet deep and 48 inches wide. They also have different attachments to move material, place pipes, or backfill soil. 

How to Choose a Trencher

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To ensure a smooth and effective dig, make sure you’re familiar with your property’s soil conditions and terrain and that you have a clear plan of action for your project. Here are the main factors to consider when choosing a trencher type:

• Depth and width of the trench needed

• Type of soil

• Type of terrain (i.e., hilly, rocky, full of roots)

• Obstructions and space restrictions

• Surrounding environment and ecosystem

• Familiarity and comfort level operating machinery

• Time allocated to complete the project

• Budget 

Steps to Take Before You Dig

Before trenching, check your local guidelines to see if a permit is required and if there are any special regulations for the utilities you’re installing. You should also call the 811 dig line. They’ll mark all underground utilities so that you can avoid personal injury, a gas leak, or damage to an existing utility line. 

Before just setting it to “dig” and wishing yourself luck, learn how to use a trencher to ensure safe operation. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you could damage your property or hurt yourself or others. There’s also a very real risk of death if you’re not 100% sure how to safely operate a trencher. If you’re not confident about the job, contact local excavation companies to receive quotes and discuss your project.