How to Install PVC Sewer Lines
Having an adequate, functional sewer line system is key to keeping a house's internal plumbing free from clogs or backups. Sewer systems are prone to breaks caused by tree roots or backups that result from a lack of tank pumping and maintenance. Installing a PVC pipe sewer line is economical, and it connects easily so the average homeowner can install one by following a few steps. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Construction marker spray paint
- Backhoe tractor, rental
- Shovel
- PVC sewer pipe, 8 feet long
- PVC pipe lubrication (if needed)
- PVC cement (if needed)
- Rubber mallet
- Measuring tape
- Hacksaw (if needed)
- Circular saw (if needed)
- Utility knife
- Carpenter's file
Instructions
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1
Clear the area where the sewer line will be laid of any debris. Mark the path where the trench will be dug for the line using construction marker spray paint.
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2
Dig the trench starting from the exit point of the home and to the the septic tank or the city's main sewage line, depending on your specific need. Dig the trench using a backhoe to the specific depth and width required by the codes in your local area. Use a shovel to smooth out the bottom of the trench and remove any rocks or roots.
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3
Lay the sections of PVC pipe on the ground next to the trench. Lay each pipe as it will be installed with the narrow end facing the belled end of the next pipe.
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4
Attach the first section of pipe to the exit pipe on the house. If your PVC pipe has gasket in the bell, lubricate the end of the pipe that extends out of the home, and slide the bell of the new pipe over the end of the existing pipe. Have an assistant tap on the opposite end of the new pipe with a rubber mallet, as needed, to help slide it on as you guide the two pipes together to fully seat them together. To glue the connections, apply PVC cement to the straight end of the pipe, and quickly slide the bell end over. Allow the glue to set for two to three minutes.
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5
Continue to assemble the sections of pipe as need, following the process in step 4, until you reach the septic tank or city sewage line.
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6
Measure the distance between the last pipe and the septic tank or sewage line with a measuring tape, and cut a piece of PVC pipe to fit. Use a hacksaw or circular saw to make the cut. Scrape away any plastic burrs using a utility knife so the edge is clean and smooth.
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7
Using a carpenter's file, file a 30- to 40-degree beveled edge on the end of the pipe that will connect to the fitting on the septic pipe or sewer line. Follow the local codes in your area for proper fitting and connection.
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8
Fill in the hole with dirt removed in step 1, and pack the dirt as tightly as possible to help reduce delayed settling and shifting.
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Tips & Warnings
The number of PVC pipe sections you need depends on the project, and the pipe diameter depends on local codes.
It's helpful to have an assistant tap the end of each pipe with a rubber mallet as you assemble the connections.
Use extreme caution when using a hand or power saw because the blades can cause injury to the fingers or hands.
Contact your local municipal property office for the plumbing codes for your specific area.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Pipes and more pipes image by rider from Fotolia.com
