How Close Can You Dig to Your Foundation?

If you’re thinking about digging around in your yard, then you need to be mindful of your home’s foundation. It’s important not to get too close to avoid any issues. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at how close you can dig to your foundation.

Consider the Type of Soil

The type of soil you have is one factor to consider when determining how close you can dig to your foundation.

In general, you should avoid digging within two feet of your foundation. However, if you have sandy soil, you may be able to dig closer to the foundation without causing any damage. On the other hand, if you have clay soil, you must be more careful when digging near the foundation.

By taking the time to identify the type of soil you have, you can help ensure that your foundation remains intact.

Consider the Weight of the Soil

When you are planning to dig near your foundation, it is important to consider the weight of the soil and what it will carry. Generally, the closer you dig to your foundation, the more weight the soil will carry. This can cause the foundation to crack or collapse, so you’ll want to proceed with caution.

If you are unsure how close you can safely dig to your foundation, it is best to consult a professional. They will be able to assess the situation and advise you on the best course of action.

Consult a Structural Engineer

It is important to be aware of the location of your home’s foundation and to take precautions when excavating or doing any digging near it. After all, the foundation supports your house, and the damage would be extensive if it were to collapse. 

If you need clarification on the exact location of your foundation, you can consult a structural engineer or your city’s building department.

Even if you know where your foundation is, it is always best to locate the side of caution and consult a professional before doing any digging. They will be able to tell you how close you can safely dig to the foundation without jeopardizing the stability of your home.

Things to Keep in Mind

There are a few other things you should keep in mind when digging near any structure, foundation, or underground utility. This includes: 

• Trenches five feet deep or less may require only a shovel; however, excavations six feet deep or more will likely require heavy equipment.
• The size of the hole and its proximity to the structure will also dictate how much support is needed to prevent collapse.
• All excavations should be benched and braced accordingly. 

When in doubt, always avoid caution and consult a professional engineer or contractor before beginning any work.

The Bottom Line

As you can see, there are a lot of things to consider when determining how close you can dig to your foundation. If you’re unsure about anything, then the best thing you can do is hire a professional to help complete this type of project. You certainly don’t want to take any chances when it comes to your home’s foundation!

Need a hand with an excavation project? We’ve got you covered! Click here to get in touch with a member of the J Bond Construction team today.