Moling Services, Reputable Moling Contractors

Impact moling is an innovative, trenchless solution used to install or replace underground pipes with minimal disruption to your property. As one of several trenchless technologies, moling is a key trenchless technology for underground utility installation, offering a modern alternative to traditional excavation. At Hamblin Watermains, we specialise in professional water leak detection services, including impact moling services that are designed to deliver fast, accurate, and cost-effective results. With over 50 years of experience, we are trusted by homeowners, developers, and businesses across the South East to complete underground pipe installations efficiently and safely.

Unlike traditional excavation, impact moling allows us to create underground pathways for new water pipes without the need for extensive digging. This modern approach reduces surface damage, cuts project times, and helps maintain the appearance of gardens, driveways, and landscapes. The key advantages and many advantages of moling include efficiency, minimal disruption, and impact moling cost savings. Impact moling is suitable for installing pipes, cables, and ducts, and is commonly used for new water main installations and other underground utilities. Careful planning is required to avoid underground infrastructure during the installation process. Prior to moling, we use a CAT (Cable Avoidance Tool) and Genny (Signal Generator) to accurately locate and mark underground utilities. Whether you need water mains installed or old pipes replaced, our skilled team ensures the job is completed to the highest standard.

What Is Impact Moling?

If you’re wondering what is impact moling, it is a trenchless digging method used to install underground pipes or cables without digging large trenches. Impact moling is a trenchless method and part of a family of trenchless technologies and trenchless technology, including horizontal directional drilling and directional drilling. A pneumatic “mole” (a type of steel torpedo) is an earth piercing tool, also known as a soil displacement hammer, powered by compressed air. The hammering action of the impact mole drives the mole forward through the ground, creating a bore hole and bore path. The mole moves forward in a straight line, typically for straight bores, and most impact moles are non-steerable or non-steerable moles, but steerable moles with a slant face or slant face head are available for curved trajectories and more complex installations.

Impact moling is ideal for projects where minimal disruption is a priority, such as residential gardens, roads, or commercial sites. Because it avoids large-scale excavation, moling is much quicker and cleaner than traditional digging. It also helps preserve surfaces like tarmac, paving, and lawns — saving time and reducing reinstatement costs.

At Hamblin Watermains, we use advanced moling equipment to provide a seamless, non-invasive solution that ensures your new water supply line is installed safely and accurately, with minimal disturbance to your property.

When Is Impact Moling Used?

Impact moling is commonly used for installing new water mains and replacing lead pipes, or repairing existing underground systems. It is especially useful in residential and commercial areas where traditional digging would cause major disruption. Moling is also used for installing gas pipes, small diameter pipes, and other underground utilities.

Typical situations where moling is recommended include laying water supply pipes under driveways, roads, or landscaped gardens, connecting new builds or extensions to the main water supply, and replacing old or damaged pipes without disturbing existing structures. This flexible method allows installations up to 20 metres or more between access points, making it perfect for a wide range of property layouts. Impact moling is ideal for short distances, and careful planning is required to avoid existing utilities and underground objects.

Why Choose Hamblin Watermains?

With decades of experience in underground water pipe installation and repair, Hamblin Watermains has become a leading name in the South East for professional impact moling. Our expert engineers are fully trained and equipped with the latest moling technology, using the right tools and a range of moling equipment to ensure every project is completed efficiently and safely.

We pride ourselves on providing a complete service — from planning and site assessment to installation and testing. Our commitment to quality and minimal disruption has earned us the trust of homeowners, contractors, and commercial clients alike.

Book Impact Moling Services Today

If you’re looking for an efficient, affordable, and low-impact solution for your underground pipe installation, impact moling is the answer—an efficient method and part of the latest trenchless technologies. Contact Hamblin Watermains today to arrange a free site survey and receive a no obligation quotation. Our friendly and professional team will guide you through the process and provide expert advice on the best approach for your property.

Avoid unnecessary disruption and costly excavation — choose the trusted specialists at Hamblin Watermains for reliable, trenchless installation.

Impact Moling FAQs

How do your moling services work?

Impact moling uses earth piercing tools powered by compressed air, which generate a hammering action to create a bore hole through the ground from an entry pit to a reception pit. The mole is carefully aligned and then driven forward, moving in a straight line as the mole moves forward beneath the surface. After the bore hole is complete, the product pipe is pulled through the tunnel, allowing for efficient underground installation with minimal disruption.

Is impact moling suitable for all ground types?

In most cases, yes. Before we begin, our team will carry out a detailed assessment of the ground conditions to ensure impact moling is the right fit for your pipe installation. Impact moling is most effective in soft, compressible soils such as clay, chalk, and silts. These types of ground allow the moling equipment to travel smoothly and accurately beneath the surface.

Impact moling may not be suitable in very dense or rocky soils, such as compacted sands, gravels, dry hard clays, or solid rock, as these conditions can limit the impact moles effectiveness. If we find that the ground isn’t suitable for impact moling, we’ll recommend an alternative method that ensures the job is done safely and effectively.

How much does impact moling cost?

The impact moling cost depends on several factors such as the distance covered, soil conditions, and pipe size. At Hamblin Watermains, we offer transparent quotes tailored to your needs, ensuring fair and competitive pricing for every project.

How long does moling take?

Most small residential installations can be completed in just one day. Larger or more complex projects may take longer, but our team always works efficiently to minimise disruption and ensure a smooth process.

Can impact moling fix existing water pipe problems?

Yes, moling is often used to replace old or leaking pipes with new, durable ones. During replacement, care is taken to avoid minor damage to existing utilities, especially older materials such as asbestos cement pipes, by careful planning and site assessment. If you suspect a leak, our Leak Detection specialists locate the issue before replacement begins, ensuring a complete and lasting solution.