An excavator is a type of digging equipment often used in construction. They are powerful machines that include a cabin with all the necessary mod cons, and a large bucket to scoop and move waste. It is important to hire the right excavator for your unique job, as your specific requirements will dictate the style and size of digger you require.
Discover everything you need to know about hiring excavators in this simple guide
5 Criteria to Consider Before Choosing Your Excavator
With so many different types of excavators to choose from, it is important to consider your criteria before hiring a digger. From digging depth to bucket type, the wide range of excavators Coates Group has to offer means there is a digger for every construction project! Before you make your decision, consider the five criteria below.
Digging Depth
Before you choose an excavator, consider the depth you need to dig, as this will tell you the force required to complete your project.
Dump Location
Whether you are dumping in a pit or piling the waste high, the dump location will inform the boom height you need.
Bucket Type
There are different kinds of excavator buckets and attachments to choose from, so take a look at the many varieties available.
Site Location
Some locations are easier to access than others. Make sure to choose an excavator that is compact enough to operate on your site.
Budget
Finally, consider your budget. Excavators are often hired over multiple days, so factor the timeframe and cost into your project breakdown.
See our selection of plant hire services then contact Coates Group to secure the perfect excavator for your project. Our friendly and knowledgeable representatives are available via our contact form, so do not hesitate to contact our team.
Top Tips for Using an Excavator in Winter
Using an excavator in icy weather brings its own challenges. As the nights grow darker and the ground becomes hard and icy, you as the operator must be careful in your approach and confident in your abilities.
Before you use the machine, remove the snow and ice that may have built up overnight. Then, complete a comprehensive inspection to identify any issues before you use the excavator, like degradation of the rubber components around the hydraulic hose.
In extremely low temperatures, the excavator has to work twice as hard. Give the engine five minutes to idle and warm up, then two or three minutes at the end of the day to cool down again – this will allow the engine to stabilise and prevent faults.
Finally, though excavators are designed with high-traction tracks, icy conditions can turn your construction site into a slip-and-slide. While using the digger, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution.
Do I need a licence to drive an excavator?
In the UK, there is no legal requirement for machine operators to own a road driving license – unless they wish to drive on the road – or any other specific digger licence. However, it is important to undertake the appropriate training to ensure you can operate the machine safely.
At Coates Group, we require proof of identification, like a copy of your passport or driver’s licence, along with a utility bill that includes your home address. Additionally, you must be over the age of 18. This ensures that our clients are competent and experienced enough to use an excavator.
How to Hire an Excavator
The quickest and easiest way to hire an excavator is through Coates Group, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of plant hire in Gloucester. See our extensive range of diggers for hire, then use our plant hire request form or call Coates Group UK at +44 1452 447 013. Alternatively, you can use our easy online contact form.
