UTILITY
POTHOLING

Precision. Safety. Clarity.

Utility potholing—also known as daylighting—is the process of safely exposing underground utilities using non-destructive vacuum excavation techniques. It’s a critical step in preventing utility strikes, verifying utility depth and location, and keeping construction projects on schedule and within budget.

At OBC, we perform utility potholing with expert precision and unwavering professionalism. It’s not just about locating what’s below—it’s about protecting people, property, and infrastructure while setting the foundation for safe, efficient work ahead.

Utility Potholing

Why Utility Potholing Matters

Before any digging or drilling begins, it’s essential to know exactly where existing utility lines are located. Even with utility locates and as-builts, nothing replaces visual confirmation. That’s where potholing comes in:

  • √ Expose buried utilities without damaging them
  • √ Confirm depth, size, and position of utility lines
  • √ Prevent costly delays, repairs, or outages
  • √ Comply with state and municipal safety standards
Why utility potholing matters

How It Works

Our potholing process uses high-pressure water or air to break up soil, which is then vacuumed away to reveal the utility line below. This method ensures:

  • No damage to fiber, gas, electric, or water lines
  • Minimal surface disruption
  • Fast, clean, and accurate utility verification
  • Ideal conditions for directional drilling and excavation planning
How utility potholing works

When is Utility Potholing Needed?

  • Before horizontal directional drilling (HDD) or trenching
  • In areas with complex or undocumented underground infrastructure
  • For permitting and regulatory compliance
  • During upgrades, utility relocations, or construction near critical assets
When is utility potholing needed?

Our Approach:
Safe. Skilled. Professional

At Oregon Brothers Construction, we combine industry-leading hydro excavation equipment with certified, experienced operators who understand the stakes. We don’t just expose utilities—we do it with precision, communication, and care that reflects our commitment to doing the job right.

Every pothole we dig is a safeguard against risk. Every step we take reflects our values: craftsmanship, accountability, and professionalism from start to finish.

When is utility potholing needed?
ABOUT US
BUILT BY OPERATORS,
FOR OPERATORS
Oregon Brothers Construction is the Northwest’s premier directional drilling company, proudly based in Oregon. Founded on a dream and a leap of faith in 2024, we’ve rapidly grown into a full-scale, multi-crew operation specializing in turn-key utility installations.
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White Arrow

OUR VALUES

SAFETY
EXCELLENCE
DEDICATION
REPUTATION

LET'S BREAK GROUND TOGETHER

Let's break ground together.
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