How to Install a Plastic Water Line Under a Gravel Driveway
The mantra of today's plumbing contractor is, "metal rusts, but plastic is forever." So, very few galvanized or copper pipes are being used in new construction or as replacement parts. Flexible plastic pipe is longer-lasting, easier to carry, simpler to install and under the right circumstances lasts forever. The one problem with standard plastic pipe is its tendency to crush under heavy weight. That makes running plastic pipe under your driveway a problem. A PVC sleeve and plenty of sand will protect your pipe and allow you to run it wherever it needs to go. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Round-point shovel
- Gravel
- Sand
- PVC pipe (3 inches by 20 feet)
- Plastic water line
- Work gloves
- Safety glasses
Instructions
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Dig a trench across your driveway with a round-point shovel. Make the excavation 42 inches deep and 36 inches wide across the entire span. Discard the gravel and dirt from the trench.
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Place a 3-inch layer of gravel into the bottom of the trench to promote drainage. Add a 3-inch layer of sand on top of the gravel base. Lay the PVC pipe on top of the sand in the bottom of your trench.
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Push your plastic water line through the PVC pipe. Center the PVC in your trench and cover it with sand. Add 3 inches of sand over the top of the PVC. Fill the trench with gravel.
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Build a mound of gravel 2 inches higher than the existing level of the driveway. Keep an eye on your trench an add gravel as necessary as the trench settles over the next few weeks.
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Tips & Warnings
The standard depth for underground water lines in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States is 36 inches. Northern climates, with lower winter temperatures, may require deeper trenching. Talk to your local building inspector before digging to learn the appropriate depth in your area.
Work gloves and safety glasses are required when using hand tools.
Always call your local utility-locating service before digging.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
