Project Scope
Hinterland pool dig that hit shale at 800mm. Hydraulic breaker fitted on day 2 to break out the rock floor and walls.
The Challenge
Site visit flagged probable rock based on neighbouring properties. Initial dig confirmed shale layer at 800mm — required hydraulic breaker for the remaining 1.2m of the pool floor and walls.
How We Approached It
- 1Site visit pre-quoted a rock-breaking range based on surrounding evidence
- 2Started with standard 5T excavator and bucket
- 3Hit shale at 800mm — paused dig, called homeowner, agreed to proceed under rock variation
- 4Switched to hydraulic breaker, broke rock in lifts to design depth
- 5Loaded broken rock direct to tipper for recycling
- 6Hand-finish to pool builder template
Equipment Used
- 5T excavator with hydraulic rock breaker
- 8T tipper truck
- Hand tools for final trim
Materials Handled
55m³ of clay over broken basalt (mixed for recycling)
Outcome
Rock variation discussed with the homeowner before continuing — finished within the agreed range.
Key Takeaways
- Site visit warning probable rock saved the homeowner from a budget shock
- Communicating BEFORE switching on the breaker is non-negotiable
- Rock dig took 4 days vs 1 day for standard — within pre-quoted range
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