The Art Of Backfilling

Why it’s just as important as Trenching

At AFT, we talk a lot about trenching, but where does backfilling fit in? It might not get the same level of attention, but if you’ve ever had to do it, you’ll know it’s far from a simple afterthought. In fact, the way you trench has a direct impact on the quality and efficiency of your backfilling. Get it wrong, and what should be a quick job can turn into a tedious, time-consuming process.

The importance of Poor Trenching

It’s easy to assume that once the trench is dug, the hard part is over. But if the trench isn’t cut precisely, backfilling can become a real headache. Using a digging bucket for trenching is one of the main culprits behind inefficient backfilling. Why? Two key reasons:

1. The trench ends up wider than necessary
2. The excavated soil used for backfilling is uneven and lumpy

These issues lead to a ripple effect:

• A 15-minute job suddenly takes an hour
• The work is physically demanding and inefficient
• The ground becomes unstable after backfilling, increasing the risk of future complications

Time is money, and inefficient backfilling means wasted time, increased costs, and a poor final result.

Trencher vs Excavator for Backfilling

When it comes to trenching and backfilling, many contractors rely on excavators. While they are a versatile piece of equipment, they are not the most efficient option for trenching and, by extension, backfilling. Here’s why a trencher is the better choice:

Trenchers create uniform, narrow trenches, which means less soil displacement and a cleaner backfill process. Excavators, on the other hand, tend to create wider, uneven trenches that require more backfilling material and effort. A trencher also breaks up the soil into finer particles, making it easier to replace and compact. Excavators often leave large chunks of displaced earth, making backfilling uneven and unstable.

Because trenchers cut trenches to the exact required width, less time is spent moving excess soil and refilling gaps. Excavators require more passes to achieve the same result, significantly slowing down the process. Reduced labour time and increased efficiency mean lower overall costs for projects. With an excavator, backfilling takes longer and requires additional equipment or manpower to smooth out the final surface.

By choosing the right equipment from the outset, contractors can avoid unnecessary delays and ensure a smooth, stable finish after backfilling.

How to improve your Backfilling process

So, what’s the solution? The key is precision trenching. By using the right equipment from the start, you can dramatically improve the speed and quality of your backfilling.

Using a dedicated trencher ensures clean, precise cuts that make backfilling far more straightforward. A narrower trench means less soil displacement, leading to a faster, easier backfill process. Trenchers that break up the soil evenly make it easier to replace and compact, ensuring long-term stability.

Investing in the right trenching approach doesn’t just save time on the initial dig, it streamlines the entire process, backfilling included.

Why our customers rely on our Trenchers

AFT Trenchers machines are designed to optimise both trenching and backfilling, ensuring efficiency from start to finish. Their reputation for solid construction, ease of operation, and minimal maintenance makes them the go-to choice for contractors worldwide. Unlike traditional excavation methods, AFT trenchers create the narrowest possible trench, reducing the volume of displaced soil and simplifying the backfilling process.

With a range of tractor-mounted, PTO-driven, and hydraulically driven trenchers, AFT provides solutions for various industries, from agriculture and sports turf to fibre optic cabling and water pipe installations. By ensuring precise trench cutting, their machines prevent excessive soil disruption, allowing for quicker, more stable backfilling.

Excavated soil is finer and easier to compact, eliminating the lumpy, uneven texture that often leads to unstable ground. This results in a more secure and long-lasting installation, saving contractors valuable time and reducing costs. Whether mounted on an excavator, skid steer loader, or tractor, AFT trenchers deliver the precision and efficiency needed for a streamlined backfilling process.

By investing in AFT trenchers, contractors can improve productivity, lower operational costs, and ensure a smoother, more efficient workflow without the headaches associated with traditional digging buckets or excavators.

Efficiency from start to finish

At AFT, we know that trenching is only half the battle. Efficient, stable backfilling is just as crucial for long-lasting results. Whether you’re installing drainage, utilities, or fibre optic cabling, getting the backfill right ensures that your work stands the test of time.

Need trenching equipment that makes backfilling easier? Get in touch with our team to find the right solution for your next project. Want to see backfilling in progress? Take a look at our video here.