Stop Buildings from Damaging Your Pipes

Building and construction are full of challenges, but one that’s often overlooked is ensuring that sewer pipes aren’t damaged by building movement. If you’ve ever witnessed a sewer pipe destroyed by shifting soil or foundation movement, you know just how costly and frustrating it can be. But it’s preventable with a little planning and the right techniques.

Key Tips for Protecting Your Sewer Pipes

1. Know Your Soil Type
   The first step in preventing pipe damage is understanding the type of soil you’re working with. Reactive soils, particularly clay, can shift and cause pipes to bend or break over time. In these areas, always use a flexible adaptor for your sewer pipes. This will give your pipes the flexibility they need to withstand movement without compromising their integrity.
2. Lag Pipes Through Concrete and Foundation Walls
   When pipes are run through concrete or foundation walls, they need to be properly protected. Be sure to lag (insulate or wrap) around these pipes to prevent any potential damage from foundation shifts. This simple step can save a lot of costly repairs down the road.
3. The Middle 1/3 Rule
   When positioning pipes within footings, follow the ‘Middle 1/3 Rule’. This means placing larger pipes in the middle third of the footing so that the overall strength of the footing is not compromised. It’s a simple but effective way to maintain structural integrity.
4. Proper Trench Planning
   Another important factor to consider is trench placement. Trenches outside the building should always be planned so that they are never lower than the base of a nearby footing. If you’re not sure what this means, it has to do with the “Angle of Repose”—the angle at which the soil naturally settles. Make sure you’re familiar with this concept to avoid creating weak spots that could lead to pipe damage.

You Don’t Need to Be an Engineer

The good news is that you don’t need to be a structural engineer to protect your pipes from damage. By respecting how loads are carried through the building and following some basic principles when planning your trenches and pipe runs, you can avoid costly mistakes and safeguard your work.

Join the Anti-Damage Movement
Don’t let poorly placed pipes destroy your work. By understanding these simple principles and putting them into practice, you can ensure your pipes stay safe and your projects stay on track.

For more tips on how to navigate building codes and prevent costly mistakes, check out our other articles on Tools™ blog.