How to Dig Under Sidewalks

Sidewalks provide a safe walking path for all citizens. Many times your business may be required to repair items around sidewalks. It is important that you know how to properly dig with sidewalks in your construction zone. Here is how to dig under sidewalks.

1. Prepare the area for safety. Use caution tape to mark off the area where you will be working. You don’t want the public to accidentally walk through your construction zone.




2. Understand that digging under a sidewalk will take time. Rushing through this part of your repair can create serious damage to the sidewalk.




3. Begin by digging rectangular holes on each side of the side walk.




4. Do not dig under the sidewalk immediately. You will need to dig an area around the sidewalk first.




5. Once a rectangular area is dug around the sidewalk, on both sides, you can begin digging under the sidewalk.




6. Be sure to dig slowly and watch for signs that the sidewalk is losing support. You must dig the hole under the sidewalk and provide support to the sidewalk at the same time.




7. Many times, pressurized water is used to create a hole under the side walk. Using a pick ax or other tool is also acceptable.




8. Once the hole is dug under the sidewalk, complete the necessary repairs or installation. Fill in the hole under the sidewalk as soon as possible. Leaving space under a sidewalk can create potential hazards for the longevity and structure of the sidewalk.