FAQ

Commercial Drilling/Moling

What happens if there is an obstruction such as a gas main underground where you need to drill?

Before commencing work we acquire all plans of underground services . Also with our steerable technique we are able to navigate around or under obstructions.

Do you have drain laying capability? How accurate is this?

Mole can lay drains to an accuracy of 1:100 fall (or 1%). We have carried out this service all over the UK from Hastings to Glasgow. We can connect mains into existing manhole chambers in the road without making any excavations in the highway.

What size working area do you need?

The 6 tonne surface launch is 5m from the rear of the rig to pipe entry. The 6 tonne pit launch is 1.8m in length, and the 3 tonne pit launch is 1.2m in length.

Domestic Water Main Replacement (these are the same as existing)

Isn’t external pipe work the Water Board’s responsibility?

Afraid not, the underground water pipe from the valve in the pavement leading to and entering your house is your responsibility. When you bought your house, you bought the pipe!

How long will I be without water?

Usually 15 minutes.

What about mess inside and outside my house?

All excavations are backfilled and reinstated. Our operatives clean up after each job as part of a day’s work and take their boots off to work inside.

What do I need to do regarding the Water Authority?

Nothing, we make the applications and acquire certification on your behalf.

Garden Drainage System

Does Mole’s system include a French drain? Or soakaway?

Sometimes we install a French drain with our system but it is not always necessary. In many parts of the country soakaways do not work, for example in clay-based soils the water would be held like in a bowl and this can make the problem worse.

How does your system work?

It is our own unique pumped system which costs little over a penny a day to run. Water is filtered and excess water is discharged into the existing drain system.

Do you follow the herringbone layout of French drains?

No. This is a “one size fits all” fix which does not address the specific elements of each site. As engineers we look for the causes of the situation in order to affect a long term resolution.

Domestic Mole Machine

Isn’t external pipe work the Water Board’s responsibility?
Afraid not, the underground water pipe from the valve in the pavement leading to and entering your house is your responsibility.  When you bought your house, you bought the pipe!

How long will I be without water?
Usually 15 minutes.

What about mess inside and outside my house?
All excavations are backfilled and reinstated.  Our operatives clean up after each job as part of a day’s work and take their boots off to work inside.

What do I need to do regarding the Water Authority?
Nothing, we make the applications and acquire certification on your behalf.