Can an edger be used as a trencher?

An edger and a trencher are two different landscaping tools that serve different primary purposes. An edger is used to create clean, defined edges along flower beds, driveways, walkways, and other landscape features. A trencher is used to dig narrow trenches for installation of irrigation, drainage, electrical, or plumbing lines. While they are designed for different tasks, in some cases an edger can be used to trench small projects under the right conditions.

What is an Edger?

An edger, also sometimes called an edge trimmer or lawn edger, is a landscaping tool used to create sharp, clean lines along landscape borders and edges. Edgers use a vertical spinning blade to cut neat lines and small trenches along flower beds, gardens, driveways, walkways, patios and other yard features.

Edgers come in several types:

Walk-behind edgers

Walk-behind edgers are the most common type. They have wheels and operate similarly to a push lawn mower, with the operator guiding the edger along the desired edge line. The edger blade cuts into the soil at an angle perpendicular to the traveling direction. Most have adjustable cutting depth settings. Many models have rear roller wheels to help guide the edger in a straight line.

Stand-on edgers

Stand-on edgers are larger wheeled models that the operator rides on, controlling the machine similar to a lawn tractor. The increased size and power allows them to cut wider and deeper trenches in a single pass.

Handheld edgers

Handheld edgers are smaller models operated in a sweeping sideways motion. Since they do not roll along the edge, handheld models require more exertion by the user. They are best suited for precision edging of smaller areas.

What is a Trencher?

A trencher is a digging machine used to excavate long, narrow trenches for underground utility lines or drainage. There are several types:

Chain trenchers

Chain trenchers use a toothed metal chain to dig into the soil. They can excavate trenches from 2 feet to several feet deep, and 6-36 inches wide. Hydraulic drive motors power the digging chain.

Wheel trenchers

Wheel trenchers have a rotating toothed wheel that dislodges the soil. The trencher is pulled forward as the spinning wheel digs the trench. These are lighter-duty models for small residential jobs.

Walk-behind trenchers

Walk-behind trenchers operate like a large powered tiller to churn up soil. The operator guides it along the trench path. An attached plow blade excavates and dumps soil to the side.

Tractor mounted trenchers

Heavy duty tractor-towed trenchers use augers or buckets on an arm to excavate trenches up to 5 feet deep and 24 inches wide. Some models can dig over 200 feet per hour.

Purpose and Design Differences Between Edgers and Trenchers

While edgers and trenchers both involve cutting into soil, there are important differences in their purpose, design and capabilities:

Cutting depth

Edgers are designed to cut shallow trenches 1-4 inches deep to define landscape edges. Trenchers dig much deeper, normally 1-5 feet depending on utility depth.

Cutting width

An edger cuts a very narrow channel, generally 1/2 inch to 2 inches wide. Trenchers excavate wider trenches up to 2-3 feet wide to allow workers access for installation of pipes or cables.

Blade design

Edgers use smooth vertical blades to cut clean lines. Trencher chains or wheels have aggressive teeth or points that fracture and churn through densely packed soil.

Direction of operation

Edgers move parallel along the trench length. Trenchers excavate perpendicular into the soil.

Soil displacement

Edgers sweep loose soil and grass clippings cleanly to the side. Trenchers aggressively churn and break up soil, scattering it widely into the trench.

Engine power

Edgers require less power, typically 5-10 hp for residential models. Trenchers have robust 20-600 hp diesel engines to drive the excavation chain/wheel through dense soil.

In summary, edgers are designed for precision surface line cutting, while trenchers aggressively dig deeper trenches through compacted soil.

When Can an Edger be Used for Trenching?

Due to its more delicate design, an edger should not be used for most trenching jobs it’s not designed to handle. However, there are cases where an edger may work:

Very shallow, narrow trenches

If you need a trench less than 2 inches wide and 4 inches deep, such as for shallow landscape lighting wire, an edger may be able to excavate it. Pass slowly in multiple sweeps to gradually cut deeper.

Soft, loose soil

If the ground is freshly cultivated loose topsoil, an edger may be able to trench 2-4 inches down. It won’t handle densely packed clay soil.

Dry conditions

Damp or muddy soil is harder to trench. Let the area dry out first before attempting to use an edger.

Short trench length

Don’t try to trench long distances with an edger not designed for it. Limit any edging to less than 10 feet to avoid straining the edger.

Precise control needed

Edgers allow careful control of the cut line, which may be needed for precise placement of shallow wires or pipes.

Reasons Not to Use an Edger for Trenching

There are also important reasons you should avoid using an edger when a real trencher is required:

Too deep

If your trench needs to be more than 4 inches deep, an edger won’t have the force to power through densely packed subsoil.

Too wide

Edgers only cut a very narrow channel. If you need more than 2 inches width, a standard trencher is required.

Long runs

Don’t attempt long trenches more than 10 feet with an edger. Trenchers are designed to efficiently dig continuous trenches over 100 feet if needed.

Hard, compacted soil

Edgers lack the power to cut through densely compacted clay soil. You’ll risk damaging the edger.

Large rocks/roots

Trenchers can power through obstructions like rocks and thick roots. Edgers will jam and stall.

Insufficient power

Comparison of 5 hp for an edger versus 20+ hp for a trencher shows the difference in excavation power capability.

Can’t slope/empty trench

Edgers leave loose soil mounded on each side. Trenchers empty the trench allowing pipes/cables to be laid at proper depth and slope.

Factors When Deciding to Use an Edger for Trenching

If you decide an edger may work for a very shallow narrow trench, keep these factors in mind:

Rental vs. owned edger

Don’t risk damaging a rental edger, since you likely would be responsible for repairs. Consider buying an inexpensive model.

Edger condition

Make sure blades are sharp. A worn edger won’t have enough force. Check that engine and wheels are in good working condition.

Soil conditions

Judge whether the ground is soft enough for the edger to penetrate. If too compacted or damp, trenching will be very difficult.

Work pace

Go slow to limit strain on the edger. Make multiple gradual passes to reach the needed depth. Rushing may damage the edger.

Operator technique

Don’t force the edger. Let the spinning blade do the work. Lifting up slightly eases downward force.

Precise layout

Mark trench lines clearly with spray paint or stakes. Precise tracking will result in a cleaner trench.

Debris removal

Remove any sticks, rocks or debris that could jam the edger blade. Trenching works best in cleared soil.

Safety Tips When Using an Edger for Trenching

As with any power tool, safety is paramount if you attempt to use an edger for trenching:

Wear protective gear

Use safety goggles, sturdy boots, long pants and gloves when operating any edger. Trenching increases risks from flying debris.

Read the instruction manual

Thoroughly read and understand the edger operator’s manual. Follow all warnings and instructions. Watch for any trenching prohibitions.

Check conditions

Don’t use an edger for trenching if the soil is too wet or compacted. Jamming the blade increases kickback risks.

Go slowly

Rushing will strain the edger and make controlling the trench line difficult. Work at moderate speed.

Don’t over-exert

Forcing the edger too aggressively can lead to loss of control. Operate it steadily with even pressure.

Watch for kickback

If the edger blade binds in the trench, the edger can kick violently backwards. Maintain a firm grip at all times.

Keep others away

The flying debris scattered by trenching poses a hazard to bystanders. Keep children and pets at a safe distance.

Avoid inclines

Only trench on flat ground. Trenching on slopes places risky side forces on the edger.

Best Practices When Using an Edger for Trenching

Follow these tips to trench successfully and safely with an edger:

– Evaluate soil conditions first – Only trench in loose, cultivated topsoil, not compacted subsoil.

– Start shallow and work deeper – Begin with gradual passes just an inch deep, progressively cutting deeper.

– Work in short sections – Trench in 3-5 foot long sections, then move forward. Don’t attempt long continuous runs.

– Empty trench frequently – Regularly stop to clear loose soil mounded in the trench so you can see your cutting line.

– Follow marked lines – Use spray paint or stakes to clearly layout the trench line before starting.

– Adjust blade depth carefully – Set blade only as deep as needed to avoid over-straining the edger.

– Maintain full control – Grip edger securely with both hands and plant feet firmly to counteract kickback forces.

– Stop and clear jams – Immediately turn off if the blade binds on a rock or root. Safely clear obstruction before continuing.

– Check edger condition – Stop if you hear odd noises or it begins vibrating excessively. Examine for damage.

Conclusion

While trenchers are specially designed for all trenching jobs, edgers can be used with proper care and technique for very shallow, narrow excavation in ideal soil conditions. An edger is not built to withstand the strains of aggressive trenching in all cases. By understanding the equipment differences and limitations, as well as following safe operating procedures, you can determine when an edger might be used successfully for minor trenching projects. For deep, wide or long utility trenches, always call in an equipment rental for the right trencher to do the job efficiently and safely.