Navigating Your Pool Excavation - Standard Dig vs. Mini Dig

When you decide to add a swimming pool to your home, the excavation phase is a pivotal first step that shapes the entire project. Especially in the compact layouts of many Australian residential areas, where space between homes and property boundaries is often limited, planning the excavation carefully is crucial. A growing trend among homeowners is to install the pool before building the house in new construction scenarios, which helps to streamline the process and reduce the need for smaller, more expensive excavation equipment.

If you’re adding a pool to an existing property, it’s essential to understand the options available for excavation—namely, a standard dig and mini dig—and how they differ in terms of process and cost. This guide aims to equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions for your pool installation.

The Importance of Access for Pool Excavation

Contemporary home designs tend to maximise indoor living space, often at the expense of easy outdoor access. This limitation is a critical factor in determining which excavation tools can be used, directly influencing the cost and efficiency of your pool installation.

Standard vs. Mini Digs: What You Need to Know

Standard Dig: These require a clear access path of at least 1.8 meters in width. A standard dig typically employs a 4- 5 tonne excavator and a bobcat to remove the excavation material. This is the most cost effective solution to the homeowner.

Mini Dig: Required for narrower access points from 750 mm to 1.5m, a mini dig utilises smaller machinery such as mini excavators and dumpers. While these machines are perfect for tight spaces, they make the excavation process slow. The additional time it takes to complete the pool excavation greatly increases the cost of both the excavation and the soil removal.

What is the minimum width we need for access?

The narrowest width required for a pool excavation is 750mm. Through this gap, we are able to maneuver a 1.2-tonne excavator and small dumpers to efficiently remove soil.

What if I dont have the minimum access required?

There's always a solution for completing your pool excavation. If access is particularly challenging. Solutions include lifting machinery over the house, access using neighbouring properties.

The Excavation Process

Limited access might require innovative solutions such as temporarily removing fencing or coordinating with neighbours. The choice of equipment not only affects the time needed to complete the excavation but also impacts overall project costs. Standard digs can often be finished in a single day, whereas more restricted sites extend extend the excavation period significantly.

Ensuring Safety and Compliance

Safety is paramount in excavation projects. Adequate safety measures, including temporary fencing and adherence to local regulations regarding soil removal and disposal, are essential regardless of the excavation method used. Maintaining compliance with these standards helps ensure that your pool project proceeds smoothly and safely.

Conclusion

Understanding the distinctions between standard and mini digs is crucial for any homeowner embarking on a pool installation. These choices significantly influence both the method and the cost of building your pool. While limited access poses unique challenges, there is almost always a solution to achieving your dream pool. By making well-informed decisions, you can enhance the value and enjoyment of your home with a beautifully integrated pool.

Ready to take the next step in your pool project? Contact us today, and let’s discuss how we can help make your dream pool a reality.