Hydrovac

Hydro excavation is a non-destructive digging method that uses pressurized water to break up and remove soil while a powerful vacuum suction system transfers the displaced material into truck-mounted debris tanks. This precise process allows crews to safely expose underground utilities, pipelines, and other buried infrastructure without the risk of damage that comes with traditional mechanical excavation methods.

NG Companies uses high-performance hydrovac trucks for precise, non-destructive excavation that protects underground utilities and keeps your project on schedule.

Hydro Excavating

Full-scale non-destructive excavation for utility exposure, foundation work, and subsurface access in congested or sensitive areas.

Potholing/Daylighting

Precision digging to visually confirm the exact location, depth, and condition of underground utilities before construction begins.

Slot Trenching

Narrow, controlled trenches for installing pipes, cables, and conduits with minimal surface disruption and faster backfill times.

Utility Access

Safe exposure of buried valves, manholes, and connection points for maintenance, repair, and inspection without damaging surrounding infrastructure.

Reduced Utility Damage

Non-destructive water-based excavation eliminates the risk of cutting, crushing, or puncturing underground utilities during the digging process.

Improved Job Site Safety

Minimized heavy equipment use and precise digging reduce hazards for workers and bystanders on active job sites.

Greater Efficiency and Cost Control

Faster excavation times, fewer repairs, and reduced backfill requirements translate to lower overall project costs and shorter timelines.

Enhanced Protection

Surrounding infrastructure, landscaping, and hardscaping remain intact, avoiding expensive restoration and repair work after excavation.

Up to 10x

Faster than traditional excavation methods

100%

Completely eliminate potential of utility damage

$30 Billion

Annually saved through damage prevention

Combine Hydrovac With Other Services for Turnkey Utility Protection

Hydrovac + Utility Locating

Locate underground utilities with precision scanning, then safely expose them with hydrovac for visual confirmation and project planning.

Hydrovac + Line Jetting

Clear debris and blockages from utility lines with high-pressure jetting, then use hydrovac to access and repair compromised sections.

Hydrovac + Video Pipe Inspection

Inspect pipe interiors with CCTV cameras to identify issues, then excavate problem areas with hydrovac for targeted repairs.

NG Companies has consistently delivered outstanding hydrovac services for our projects. Their crews are professional, efficient, and always prioritize safety on the job site.

Brad Griffith

COO

We rely on NG Companies for hydrovac excavation on our most critical projects. Their equipment and operators are top-notch, and they consistently meet our tight deadlines.

Brett McGee

Mach Energy Services

Featured Projects

Kansas City Water Main

NG Companies provided hydrovac excavation services for a critical water main project in Kansas City, safely exposing existing utilities in a congested urban environment.

Learn More

Tampa Airport / Crisdel

NG Companies supported the Tampa Airport expansion with precision hydrovac services, working within strict aviation safety requirements and tight project timelines.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hydrovac excavation and how does it work?

Hydrovac excavation uses high-pressure water to loosen soil and a powerful vacuum to remove the slurry into a debris tank mounted on the truck. This non-destructive method precisely exposes underground utilities without the risk of damage from mechanical equipment like backhoes or trenchers.

Is hydrovac safe for all types of underground utilities?

Yes. Hydrovac is the safest method for excavating around all types of underground utilities including gas lines, water mains, electrical conduits, fiber optic cables, and sewer pipes. The water-based process eliminates the risk of cutting or crushing that comes with mechanical digging.

How does hydrovac compare to traditional excavation in terms of cost?

While the hourly rate for hydrovac may be higher than traditional excavation, the overall project cost is typically lower due to faster completion times, elimination of utility damage repairs, reduced restoration costs, and fewer project delays. Many clients see significant savings on total project budgets.

Can hydrovac be used in cold weather or frozen ground?

Yes. Hydrovac trucks can use heated water to effectively excavate in frozen ground conditions, making it a versatile solution for year-round projects in all climates. This capability is particularly valuable for emergency utility repairs during winter months.

Precision Hydrovac Services: Safe & Efficient Non-Destructive Excavation