Quick Answer
For standard residential footings, a 1.7T or 3.5T excavator is most common. The 3.5T is faster for larger slabs due to its bigger bucket capacity.
The right excavator for footing excavation depends on slab size, footing depth, and site access. For standard residential footings (up to 150m² slab), the 1.7T mini excavator is the most popular choice. It fits through residential gates, has sufficient digging depth for standard footing depths (300–600mm), and is manoeuvrable on typical residential sites. For larger slabs (150m² and above) or commercial footings, the 3.5T excavator is more efficient. Its larger bucket capacity (200L vs 80L) means fewer bucket loads and faster excavation. For very tight sites where a 1.7T won't fit, the 1T (900mm wide) or 0.8T (750mm wide) can be used, though excavation takes longer. Most builders in NSW hire a 1.7T for standard residential footings and a 3.5T for larger or commercial footing excavation.
The 1.7T has a maximum dig depth of 2,400mm, sufficient for all standard residential footing depths (typically 300–600mm).
The 1.7T excavator is under 3 tonnes and does not require a licence in NSW. The 3.5T requires a High Risk Work Licence (HRWL).
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