Potholing

Potholing, also referred to as "test-holing," uses pressurized water and a powerful vacuum to create a small-diameter hole directly over a suspected utility line. The goal is to physically expose the buried infrastructure so that its horizontal position, depth, material type, diameter, and condition can be visually confirmed and documented.

This technique is essential for achieving Quality Level A data under ASCE 38 standards, the highest quality level of subsurface utility information. State departments of transportation, municipalities, and private developers routinely require potholing as part of pre-construction utility investigation. The data gathered eliminates costly utility strikes and project delays.

Hydrovac potholing is preferred over mechanical excavation because it eliminates the risk of damaging buried pipes, cables, and conduits. A trained operator can safely expose a utility in as little as 15 to 30 minutes, depending on soil conditions and depth. The method works effectively in most soil types, including clay, sand, gravel, and mixed fill.