Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Vacuum Excavation or Suction Excavation?

  Vacuum Excavation also referred to as ‘Suction Excavation’ is a process that uses high-powered suction to remove soil and debris. It’s commonly used in construction and utility work to safely expose underground utilities without damaging them.

• How does Vacuum Excavation work?

  Vacuum Excavation works by using a truck-mounted system which includes a vacuum pump, debris tank, and several hoses. The process begins by locating the area to be excavated, once the site is marked the Vacuum Excavation equipment uses a high-pressured air lance to loosen the soil. The underground utilities are gradually exposed and can be inspected visually, the loosened soil and debris are then sucked up through a large hose into a skip which is mounted on to the Vac-Ex machine for disposal or later reuse.

• What are the benefits of using Vacuum Excavation?

  The benefits include increased safety for construction workers, it reduces environmental impact, safe and controlled digging and is also a much faster method than traditional digging.

• Is Vacuum Excavation safe for all types of soil?

  Yes, Vacuum Excavation can be used on several different soil types some examples include, sand, gravel and clay.

• What happens to the debris?

  The debris is collected into the skip which is mounted onto the truck. Once this is full the material is transported to a disposal site or into a low mounted skip.

• How long will it take to complete a project?

  The time it takes to complete a project varies based on the ground conditions and complexity of the work. It is much faster than traditional digging due to its precision and efficiency.

• Do operators need special training for Vacuum Excavation?

  Our operators undergo rigorous training and hold the highest levels of accreditation in the industry. We specialise in some of the most challenging construction sectors, including airports, nuclear power, oil & gas, and more. Our commitment to training and accreditation ensures that our operators are well-prepared to meet the demands of your excavation project, no matter how complex.

• How much does Vacuum Excavation cost?

  The cost of vacuum excavation varies based on several factors, including type of project, location, equipment used, project duration, and disposal fees. For the most accurate pricing, it’s best to obtain quotes from our experts who can quote based on your specific project needs.

• How deep can Vacuum Excavation go?

  Vacuum Excavation can reach depths of up to 30 meters.

• How can your company assist in scoping and planning our excavation project correctly?

  Our sales and service teams have deep knowledge of a wide range of projects, and we work closely with you to understand the specific requirements of your excavation project. We provide expert guidance to help you scope and plan the job correctly, ensuring it aligns with your goals and expectations.

• What types of Vacuum Excavators do you offer, and how do I choose the right one for my project?

  We offer two variants of Vacuum Excavators to suit different project needs. Our fleet includes several 32-tonne, 8-wheel rigs that are ideal for most jobs, as well as smaller MIDI-tracked excavators designed for hard-to-access or smaller projects. Our experienced team can assist you in selecting the most suitable equipment based on your project’s unique requirements.

• Where do you provide excavation services?

  We provide excavation services nationally, serving clients across the country. Regardless of your project’s location within the UK, you can rely on our expertise and equipment to meet your excavation needs efficiently and effectively.

• What types of materials can be excavated using vacuum excavation?

  Vac-Ex is great at removing many materials including soil, sand, gravel, and clay, which makes it perfect for all kinds of construction and utility work. Since it can handle different materials, it’s a handy tool for many industries, offering quick and accurate excavation for all sorts of projects.