Construction sites inevitably find bedrock that needs to be excavated. This can be especially difficult if there are residences, businesses, or sensitive structures nearby. Blasting's concussive force can leave adjacent properties damaged by ground disturbance. This is an unnecessary liability when trenching cuts a smaller and neater terrain path with less ground disturbance.
Blasting may be the traditional method of excavation but trenching provides safety and efficiency when there are time constraints or nearby properties to consider.
Trenching Is Safe and Efficient
Trenching cuts a precise path through bedrock. The dispersion of soil and bedrock is contained rather than scattered after blasting. This reduces clean-up time and protects nearby properties. It often allows for excavated soil, sand, and gravel to be used as backfill. Blasting forces irregular fractures, scattering excavation material no matter how careful the excavation crew is. You can't use the blasted material as backfill.
It also takes less effort to trench in most cases. Trenching cuts and excavates in one pass. Blasting takes more time and uses more resources. Crews have to maintain safety zones to ensure no one is caught in the blast which can be time-consuming.
The bottom line is that trenching's increased efficiency reduces the chances of injury and structural damage, increasing safety. This saves time and money.
Trenching Is Cost-Effective
Although trenching speeds up the digging process by cutting clean with less clean-up, it still takes about 12 hours to dig a 100-ft. linear trench. Every trenching job is unique so the excavation costs will vary. A trench-only residential dig can cost between $400 to $1200-plus while an entire construction project can cost tens of thousands when all is said and done.
Blasting costs up add quickly since you also need to hire geological and explosives experts as well as the usual construction and excavation crews. There may be specialized personnel, like security guards or off-duty police officers, to keep the blast area clear of curiosity seekers. As explosives are placed, the project roadmap may change due to unexpected problems or logistical issues. Or heavier equipment may need to be brought in. Unexpected changes add to the cost of projects.
The bottom line is important for the return on investment for any size excavation project. Soil, type of terrain, trees, rocks, hills, and slopes all factor into the cost of a project whether you are trenching or blasting. For a specific cost-benefit ratio for your project, it is best to consult your local trusted, certified contractor.
For more information about blasting and trenching, contact a local company.
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