Dig It Right the First Time

When utilities need to run from the street to a new home, garage, or accessory structure, the trenches have to be dug to the correct depth, routed to avoid conflicts with septic systems or other buried lines, and backfilled in a way that prevents settling or future damage. In Pownal, where properties often include ledge, tree roots, and varying soil types, trenching for water, sewer, electric, and conduit requires planning and precision to meet code and support long-term function. McGovern Earthworks handles utility trenching as part of new construction site work and as a standalone service for properties adding outbuildings or upgrading infrastructure.

Trenching starts with locating existing utilities and marking the route based on the site plan or utility provider requirements. Trenches are excavated to code depth using a backhoe or trencher, with separate runs for each utility type to prevent interference. Water lines are buried below frost depth, electric and conduit are run in protective sleeves, and sewer lines are sloped correctly to maintain flow. The trenches are inspected before backfilling, and the excavated material is returned in layers and compacted to prevent voids or sinking.

If you need utility trenching in Pownal for new construction or an addition, McGovern Earthworks can coordinate the work with your builder, electrician, and plumber to keep the project on schedule.

Why depth and placement affect every utility that runs underground

Utility trenching in Pownal involves digging separate runs for water, sewer, electric, and any data or conduit lines, each at the depth required by code or the utility provider. Water lines are buried at least four feet deep to stay below the frost line, and sewer lines are sloped at a quarter inch per foot to maintain gravity flow. Electric lines are sleeved in conduit and routed to avoid crossing water or sewer, and all trenches are inspected before backfill begins.

Once the trenching is complete and the lines are installed, you will see utilities stubbed into the building at the correct entry points, trenches backfilled and compacted to grade, and no settling or soft spots where the ground was disturbed. The surface is left ready for grading, paving, or landscaping, and the lines are protected from frost, roots, and accidental damage. Proper trenching also means fewer service calls later, because the lines were placed at safe depth and separated to prevent interference.

McGovern Earthworks coordinates trenching with electricians, plumbers, and utility companies to ensure inspections happen on time and the work does not delay other trades. The team uses compact equipment when working near existing structures or in tight access areas, and all excavated material is either returned to the trench or hauled off depending on site conditions and what the builder specifies.

Homeowners and builders usually want to know how deep each utility needs to be, how trenching is coordinated with other site work, and what happens if bedrock or an existing line is in the way.

McGovern Earthworks provides utility trenching across Pownal for new homes, garages, ADUs, and infrastructure upgrades, with attention to code depth, safe routing, and coordination with other contractors. If your project requires trenching for water, sewer, electric, or conduit, the team can review the site plan and schedule the work to fit your construction timeline.