Pasadena, MD & Nearby Areas 
If you’re building a home or have to replace an old sewer line, depth is an important consideration. Installing at the wrong depth can result in numerous problems down the line. Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question. It depends on many factors, including the local climate and the lay of the land.
Why Depth Matters
It would be convenient if you could install sewer lines directly below the ground surface. After all, accessing the pipe for clogs and other issues would be a lot simpler. The reason plumbers bury sewer lines deeper is to protect the pipe. Protecting the pipe helps prevent sewer line repairs, premature replacement, and potential wastewater contamination. Even just mowing your lawn could damage a pipe too close to the surface due to your weight.
Building Codes and Permits
All states in the U.S. have a plumbing code that dictates how deep sewer lines must be at a minimum. There can also be local codes, such as county and city, that supersede the state codes. You must adhere to those regulations. Sewer installation generally requires a permit. Your plumber will acquire the permit before beginning work. After installing the pipe, the plumber needs to complete an inspection with a local code-compliance officer. In Maryland, for example, the state plumbing code requires sewer lines to be buried at least 18 inches deep. Our plumbers will ensure that the pipe meets all city, county, and state standards. If it doesn’t, you can face fines and other penalties.
Property Characteristics
A plumber must meet the minimum requirement established by the codes. However, our plumbers also will provide you with a personalized recommendation based on the unique characteristics of your property. While not common for residential applications, you can often bury the line 8 feet or even deeper. One reason you may want to go deeper is the number and type of trees on the property. Burying them deeper can help protect against invasive tree roots.
The Climate Factor
Plumbers in warmer climates will generally install sewer lines as close to the surface as possible. Plumbers in colder climates, on the other hand, will go much deeper based on how cold it gets. That’s because of the frost line, which is the depth at which frost extends into the earth. The frost line varies based on your region. The frost line in Maryland, for instance, is typically 30 inches. The pipe needs to be below that line, or it will freeze. A frozen pipe will eventually crack and can even burst.
The Importance of Professional Sewer Line Installation
Sewer line installation is not a DIY job. Plumbers must coordinate with local utilities to ensure they don’t cause damage. They must adhere to local codes and, if applicable, HOA regulations. A plumber will also ensure that your sewer line has the appropriate depth and grade for your property.
The Sewer Line Installation Process
The process begins with an on-site consultation. This is to determine the appropriate depth, grade, material, and so forth. Our plumbers will then coordinate with local utilities and acquire the permit. An excavation team will dig the trench for the sewer line. The plumbing team will then install the new line and have a code-compliance officer inspect it. Our team will then fill in the trench and ensure the area is level and ready for reseeding.
Trench vs. Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement
Excavation is necessary for new installations. However, if you’re replacing an old line that’s at an appropriate depth, we may be able to avoid digging. Pipe bursting is an example of trenchless sewer line replacement. The plumber uses a bursting head to break up the old sewer line. At the same time, that head pulls a new sewer line into position.
Trusted Sewer Line Installation in Pasadena
Priority Plumbing & Drain is a fully licensed and insured plumbing contractor with locations in Pasadena and Odenton, MD. Our company employs licensed plumbers who oversee all of our sewer line installations. Our services include excavation, new sewer line installation, and trench and trenchless sewer line replacement. We offer free estimates for installations and have flexible financing options available on approved credit. Call today or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
