How Underground Utility Installation Works: A Step-by-Step Overview

Underground utility installation is one of the first and most important things that needs to happen on a new construction site. During this phase, we handle the initial excavation as well as placement and connections for the pipes and conduits that are needed to run the water, sewer, storm drainage, and other applicable services.

While all utilities are placed underground, they create the foundation that is needed to ensure that everything above ground goes smoothly. Hiring our experienced utility excavation team is one of the best decisions that you will make. Here’s everything that you need to know about this process.

What is Included in Underground Utility Installation

Each project is unique, which is why there is never a one-size-fits-all solution for utility excavation and installation. Our team will review your plans and discuss your needs, then create an ideal plan to support your goals. The most common utility services that we offer include:

Wet Utilities: Including water mains, sanitary sewer systems, storm drains, fire lines, and more. This category covers all water and plumbing waste.
Dry Utilities: Including electrical conduits, telecom duct banks, and gas lines. Dry utilities can often be installed in the same trench lines, but they are managed under separate scopes and inspections.

When we are working on underground utility installation for a new commercial development, we understand the importance of staying on schedule and on plan. Our team takes a proactive approach to prevent delays and set the tone for future construction and development.

The 9-Step Underground Utility Installation Process

Here’s what you can expect when our experienced team is on the job for your utility trenching and excavation:

Pre-Construction Planning: We start by reviewing the engineering drawings, which include information about pipe sizing, slope, potential conflict points, and locations where the tie-ins need to be placed. Our goal is to catch any possible issues in the planning stages so they can be addressed before we are on-site.
Utility Locating: In the state of Texas, one legal requirement is to call 811 before excavation begins. We follow the proper protocols to verify the existing utility locations before trenching gets started.
Site Preparation: When we are getting ready to start the project, we’ll review the site to find the best access points and see if anything is needed for erosion control. Additionally, we set up staging areas before the equipment starts arriving on site.
Trenching and Excavation: Professional strategies are used to ensure the proper depth and width based on the burial requirements and the pipe sizing that will be used. We also make accommodations based on the soil conditions. For example, here in DFW, it’s common to have clay and/or limestone site conditions that require specific equipment and strategies.
Pipe Bedding: We use graded bedding material and make sure that it is well-compacted before the pipes are set. This step helps to prevent issues relating to soil settlement and joint failures.
Pipe and Structure Installation: Now that the trenches have been dug, it’s time to lay the pipes. We follow proven sequences, starting with the water main installation process before moving on to the gravity sewer, storm drain, fire lines, and duct banks.
Backfill and Compaction: Several factors need to be addressed during this stage of the utility installation. We evaluate the moisture content and lift thickness and always use soil testing to prevent future issues and concrete rework.
Testing and Inspection: Before the next stages of construction are approved, we test and inspect all of the utility installations. For example, fire lines and water systems need accurate water pressure, and we can use video inspection tools to ensure sewer function.
Surface Restoration: The trench areas aren’t finished until they have been restored to the condition as planned. As-builts are helpful for protecting all other contractors that will be on-site.

Common Mistakes That Delay Utility Line Installation

Whether you are getting ready for sewer line installation or you need a full site excavation, it can be helpful to hire a contractor that offers full-service solutions. Working with several contractors for excavation and grading can cause complications, which is why it makes sense to work with a team that can handle the full scope of work instead of risking complications from multiple providers.

One of the most common issues is setting the pipes before the final grades are confirmed. The slope needs to be precise for efficient water management, and proactive testing will prevent the need to reset long stretches of pipe.

Another mistake that must be avoided is rushing the backfill in order to meet the schedule. If the site fails the compaction test, then rework can be expensive because you need to remove and replace the fill (which costs quite a bit more than doing it right the first time).

Also, watch out for municipal approval timelines. Some of the major cities here in Texas, such as Frisco and McKinney, have approval windows that should be built into the project schedule from the beginning.

FAQ

How long does underground utility installation take on a commercial project?

Most commercial projects need 6-14 weeks for the full underground utility installation process. The timeline depends on the specific scope of work that needs to be handled, as well as the site conditions.

How deep are utilities buried in Texas?

In the state of Texas, water mains are usually placed at a depth of 36 to 48 inches. The sewer depth depends on the slope requirements, and storm drain depth is determined by the elevations listed in the design.

What happens if existing utilities are hit during excavation?

If the existing utility lines are hit, then we must stop work immediately. We’ll verify the utility owner and notify them of the issues. Then repairs need to be coordinated and completed before we can move forward with the rest of the project.

Call the Team You Can Trust for Utility Trenching and Excavation

Are you looking for a contractor to help with your utility trenching and excavation? Our team at Moss Utilities is here to assist, offering full-service solutions for your projects. Call today to schedule a consultation and learn more about available services.