An excavator is a heavy construction machine which features a boom, stick, cab and bucket on a rotating platform. They have either a tracked or wheeled undercarriage, and can be used to dig or lift materials depending on the attachments you use and size of the excavator. This versatility is one of the main reasons excavator hire is fast becoming one of the most used services for all types of construction projects.
Excavators range in size from mini excavators which are 1.7T through to large excavators which have a capacity of 46-100T or more. There are also a range of attachments available for excavators, which may also be available to hire. When it comes to your project, make sure you have considered which size machine will suit your needs, the site you're working on, and the attachments you may need to complete the work.
Generally, excavators are hired to: dig holes for foundations, large trees and pools, dig trenches for utility services like irrigation, drainage, water mains and electricity, drill post holes for fencing, levelling site cuts, and demolition of concrete slabs and buildings. Excavator hire is especially popular with home renovators, construction workers and demolition experts.
Although an excavator can be operated without a licence, if you are hiring without an operator you will need to show that you can operate the machine safely. Generally, the excavator hire company you choose will provide compliance and safety training before you can hire the machine.
Wet hire, or hiring the excavator with an operator, is another option to consider when it comes to excavator hire. Wet hire is generally more expensive than dry hire, but you will be getting a professional to complete the work which will likely save you time in the long run, especially if you aren't experienced behind the machine.
Due to the popularity of these machines, you'll find there are a range of excavators for hire locally, and at affordable rates. When hiring any machine, you may want to consider if the machine has a minimum hire time and how much time you will actually need the machine for. You will also be expected to refuel the machine once your hire period has expired.
