18 January 2023
 Categories: Construction & Contractors, Blog

When it comes to commercial excavation projects, there are two main methods of digging: trenching and blasting. While both have their pros and cons, trenching is often deemed the better option due to its greater safety, cost-effectiveness, and accuracy. Here's a closer look at the differences between these two techniques and why trenching is the better option.

What Is Blasting?

Blasting is a form of excavation used primarily in hard rock environments where manual excavation would be too difficult or dangerous. It involves detonating explosives in strategic spots to break up the rock into smaller, more manageable pieces that can then be removed from the site. The process requires specialized equipment and highly skilled personnel, making it an expensive option for most commercial excavation projects. Additionally, because it uses high-powered explosives, there are potential risks associated with blasting that must be accounted for when planning any project that requires it.

What Is Trenching?

Trenching is another form of excavation used for many commercial projects. It involves using mechanical equipment such as backhoes or excavators to dig trenches into the ground in order to create spaces large enough for pipes or other materials to be laid down and secured. This method is much safer than blasting since no explosives are used. Furthermore, trenching provides greater control over how deep or wide the trenches need to be dug than blasting does. Additionally, it typically costs less than blasting due to its relative simplicity and lack of specialty equipment required.

What Are the Benefits of Trenching over Blasting?

The primary benefit of trenching over blasting is safety, but there are more reasons to choose trenching over blasting, including:

• Risk-free. Since no explosives are being used, there's no risk of injury or property damage due to unexpected explosions or misfires.
• Precision. Trenching allows for greater accuracy in terms of depth and width thanks to its mechanical precision, meaning you can be sure your pipes will fit exactly as intended without having to worry about any unpredictable, explosive blasts disrupting them.
• Cost-effective. Trenching can save you money since you won't need additional specialized personnel or equipment beyond what's required for normal excavation jobs, a plus if your excavation project is on a tight budget.

Trenching is the better option for commercial excavation projects due to its increased safety, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness. When it comes time for your next excavation project, consider using trenching instead of blasting to avoid costly misfires and property damage while still getting the job done quickly and efficiently.

For more information on why trenching is better than blasting, contact a company near you.