How to Lay a Water Line in Rock

Laying water pipes through rock poses some unique challenges.

Laying water pipes is a difficult project. Cutting and preparing the trench, assembling and placing the pipe, and finally covering the trench are required to do the job the right way. There are a few considerations when placing the pipe. One of the biggest worries is rock. Every trench will cross rock at some point. Smaller rocks should be removed by hand. Larger rocks require a different approach.

Things You'll Need

• Trencher
• Small gravel
• Shovel
• Electric jackhammer
• Pipe connectors
• Pipe dope
• 2 pipe wrenches

Instructions

1. Dig a trench 36 inches deep along the entire length of the pipe. Stop 24 inches from any marks made by the utility location service. Continue the trench 24 inches on the other side of the mark. Dig the area around the mark, using your shovel, while being careful not to damage the hidden line. Shovel a 4-inch layer of gravel into the trench along the entire length.

2. Dislodge smaller rocks with the shovel and remove them by hand. Cut the trench through the larger rocks with the jackhammer. Place the point of the bit against the edge of the rock and chip off small pieces and remove them from the trench. Chip out the rock so that there are 12 inches between the remaining rock and the route of the pipe. Fill in the bottom of the trench by shoveling gravel into the hole to bring it up to the level of the rest of the trench.

3. Lay your pipe into the hole. Paint pipe dope onto the threads, twist on the connectors, and tighten them with your pipe wrenches. Place a pipe wrench onto each side of the juncture and snug each fitting. Hook up the line at the meter and at the house. Open the faucets inside of the house. Turn the water on at the meter and allow the air to be purged from the line. Close the interior faucets when the water runs clear and smoothly from each faucet.

Tips & Warnings

• Always call before you dig. It is the law. It will keep you safe. It just makes sense. A utility location service will come out and mark the location of existing utility lines and pipes. Always contact them and allow them to do their job before proceeding with a digging project.

• Safety glasses, work gloves, and safety boots are necessary equipment for every digging job.

References

• Landscape Irrigation Installation Tutorial: Install Underground Piping