How to Lay Pipes

Household drainage pipes, or sewer pipes, are typically made from polyvinyl chloride, a type of plastic known commonly as PVC. These pipes open into a main sewer line, which in turn runs into a septic tank or a municipal sewer. The individual lines are attached to the main sewer line with a connecting coupling that is primed and cemented. You may find yourself in need of new sewer piping if you're installing a new toilet, washing machine, shower or any other water fixture.

Shovel
Level
Rag
Marker
PVC pipes
Saw
Couplings
PVC primer
Paintbrush
PVC cement

Instructions

- 1
  Use a shovel to dig a trench to the required depth to reach the existing pipe that runs to the septic tank or city sewer pipe. Ensure that the depth and gradient of the trench comply with the requirements of local building codes. Clean the main line where you want to make the connection with a wet rag, to remove dirt and debris.
- 2
  Form a mark on the main sewer line where you will connect the new pipe to it using a marker.
- 3
  Cut through the mark on the main line using a hacksaw. Maintain steady pressure so you form a straight cut through the pipe. Also form a second cut through the pipe, parallel to the previous cut, spaced 2 inches apart, to accommodate the coupling. Allow any water in the pipe to drain out through the cut section.
- 4
  Scrape the cut edges of the pipe with a utility knife to remove loose burrs and give it a smooth finish.
- 5
  Apply a thin layer of PVC primer over the outer edges of the cut pipes. Also apply a thin layer of primer over the inner edge of a PVC coupling. Allow the primer to cure for the time specified on the label's directions.
- 6
  Apply PVC cement over the primed sections of the pipes and coupling. Insert the coupling between the ends of the pipes, ensuring its side spout faces upward in the direction of the fixture this new pipeline you are laying will connect to.
- 7
  Apply primer over the inner edge of the coupling's side spout. Measure and cut a length of PVC pipe to the required size, and apply a thin layer of primer along its inner edge on one side. Allow the primer to cure for the time specified on its label's directions.
- 8
  Apply a thin layer of PVC cement over the primed sections of the coupling and new pipe. Slide the pipe end into the coupling. Hold the pipe for 10 to 15 seconds to allow the cement to establish a secure bond. Repeat this process to measure, cut, prime and lay PVC pipes and couplings to create a new line that reaches the water fixture.
- 9
  Pour a thin layer of gravel over the new pipes in the trench. Backfill soil into the trench until it is level with the surrounding surface.

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