How to Install a Sprinkler Pipe

Sprinkler pipe is almost always made out of PVC. This molded plastic is watertight, won't rust and is very durable for underground installation. Installing individual segments of pipe is very straightforward, since PVC is glued together using a special type of cement and primer. One small can of PVC glue is enough to lay out most moderate-size lawns. You will need to dig out a trench for the line, prime the pipe and glue them together. The process is the same for new installs or repairs.

Trenching tool or shovel
PVC pipe
PVC primer
PVC cement
PVC coupler

Instructions

- 1
  Dig a trench that's at least six inches deep in a straight line along the path where the sprinkler line is to be installed. You can use a shovel or a trenching machine, but make sure the hole is also at least four inches wide to accommodate the pipe.
- 2
  Lay down the segments of PVC supply line that you want to connect. Lay them end-to-end inside the trench to gauge spacing.
- 3
  Swab the outside end of the first pipe with a thin layer of PVC primer. Primer helps clean the surface of the pipe before gluing.
- 4
  Swab the outside end of the pipe that you just primed with a thin layer of PVC cement. Use just enough cement to cover about two inches of the end of the pipe.
- 5
  Place a PVC coupler over the end of the pipe with the primer and cement on it. Press the piece firmly onto the pipe and hold it there for 30 seconds while the cement sets.
- 6
  Swab the end of the next piece of PVC pipe with primer and cement, and press that end into the other side of the PVC coupler. Hold that piece in place for 30 seconds. The two pieces of pipe now have a watertight seal and are ready for water in about an hour.
- 7
  Continue gluing supply pipe together until you reach your desired length. Fill the trench with dirt, and step on the surface to compact the dirt around the supply pipe.

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