How to Install 4-Inch Sewer Lines
Pitch is very important when running a 4-inch sewer line. A pipe that slopes down too much will cause the liquids to flow faster than the solids and create a clog in the pipe. A pipe that doesn't slope enough can cause solids to back up. Your pitch is already established because there is an existing depth to the pipe coming out of the house and an existing depth of the main utility sewer line. You must calculate this existing pitch and lay the 4-inch pipe accordingly. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Backhoe
- Shovel
- Gloves
- Level
- 4-inch PVC sewer pipe
- Marking spray paint
- PVC glue
Instructions
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1
Select the location where the pipe will be laid. Avoid laying pipe too close to trees due to root invasion.
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2
Mark the path on the surface of the ground with marking spray paint.
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3
Call your local utility company to come out and mark the ground for utility lines. This is normally a free service with a 48-hour turnaround time.
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4
Dig down with the backhoe to the bottom of the pipe you are connecting to.
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5
Measure the depth of the sewer line at the house and the depth of the sewer line at the street. Subtract the depth of the line at the street from the line at the house. Divide the difference by the length from the house to the street. This is your "pitch."
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6
Level the trench by hand at the calculated pitch.
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7
Insert the first piece of pipe into the trench without allowing any dirt to get into the ends of the pipe.
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8
Glue a coupling onto the existing pipe. Press the coupling on firmly and turn 1/4 of a turn in either direction. This ensures that the glue spreads evenly and gives a good seal.
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9
Glue the first length of pipe into the coupling.
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10
Check the pitch to ensure that it is sloping down properly.
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11
Backfill dirt around the pipe and pack down with your feet.
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12
Continue laying pipe until you reach the main sewer line at the road.
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13
Insert a cap on the end of the last piece of pipe.
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14
Call your local municipality so that they can send a crew out to connect your line into the main sewer line.
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15
Backfill the trench once the municipality connects your pipe to the main pipe and all the inspections are completed.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Call your county or municipality to set up a time for them to come out before you start work.
Hold pipe together tightly for 10 seconds after gluing.
Contact your local zoning board for permit requirements.
Call the utility company before you dig.
Avoid digging too deeply with the backhoe.
Your calculated pitch should be less then 1/4 inch per foot.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Pipes and more pipes image by rider from Fotolia.com
