Glossary

Potholing

What is Potholing?

Potholing is digging a small, precise test hole to expose and verify the location and depth of an underground utility, commonly performed with hydro excavation to avoid damaging the line.

Potholing (also called daylighting or test-holing) creates a compact excavation over a suspected utility so the line can be visually confirmed before larger construction begins. Hydro excavation is the preferred method because pressurized water and vacuum remove soil without the risk of cutting or cracking the pipe or cable.

Potholes are used to check depth of cover, confirm horizontal position, and identify unknown or abandoned lines ahead of directional drilling, trenching, or grading. A hydrovac truck or hydrovac trailer with a dig tube and wand is the typical tool. Renters can request potholing-capable vacuum excavation equipment on Vac4Rent for free and hear back directly from rental companies.