Under sidewalk drainage

[pauljanp]

I need to install a six foot PVC pipe under a sidewalk to drain an area next to a house. The soil under the walk is compacted clay. Is there a relatively easy method to do this without a great deal of expense?

 

[Focht3]

Not really. You will have to excavate a hole beneath the sidewalk, or remove a section of the walk and dig a trench.

I have seen landscapers use a high pressure water jet to wash a hole beneath a sidewalk, but this was for an irrigation line (0.75 inch Schedule 20 PVC pipe.) I suppose that you could use the same technique, but it is quite likely you will damage the pavement by reducing its' support, causing it to settle and crack over time. The introduction of water under pressure could also lead to soil swell - also damaging the pavement.



Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[KRSServices]

Have you checked with the municipality? You need their permission (permit). Once under the sidewalk where does the water go...into a ditch (I presume)? More importantly, what size is this pipe? If it is too small, it will plug with debris and will likely result water in backing up to the house. PVC will eventually crack and break apart, particularly at the ends, ending up looking like a shoddy mess.

When I was a municipal manager, my first response was to look at the site, if not deny the request outright. I always suggested that the owner provide additional landscaping as a first resort. My options suggested by others were usually a little more expensive than what the landowner was prepared to spend.

KRS Services

http://www.krs-services.com