Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Vacuum Excavation can reach depths of up to 30 meters.

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.

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.

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.

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.