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    CalebC's Avatar
    CalebC Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #1

    Nov 3, 2010, 10:44 AM
    Exposed Septic Pipe
    I am installing doors below my deck so I can use that space for storage. Part of this involved digging a small ditch along one side of the deck. In doing so, I uncovered a large pipe (looks like PVC, 4-5" wide) that was buried about 8" deep. I believe it is the pipe that runs from my septic tank to the field.

    I am planning to lay a landscape timber over it with just a thin layer of dirt between the timber and pipe. Should I wrap the pipe with insulation before continuing to prevent a freezing situation? If so, what type of insulation should I use?

    My guess is that it is not necessary to wrap the pipe for two reasons. 1) It is buried only 8" deep which is above the frost line (1 foot). 2) It is mostly an empty pipe as water does not remain inside of it (it runs into the septic field).

    Thank you for your time and attention to my question!

    CalebC
    speedball1's Avatar
    speedball1 Posts: 29,301, Reputation: 1939
    Eternal Plumber
    		  
    #2

    Nov 3, 2010, 11:20 AM

    It would help if we knew your area but if you haven't had a problem in the past with freezing you should be OK there.
    However the weight of the timber concerns me. How heavy is it? Will anything go on top? If you think it might crack it or put a bell or dip in the line could you cut the timber leaving a space above the pipe? Let me know, Tom
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
    Home Repair & Remodeling Expert
    		  
    #3

    Nov 3, 2010, 11:28 AM

    From your description this is likely the pipe between the house and the tank, not the field. If all is working correctly the pipe does not ever have standing water and is not required to be below the frost line. However, it would be helpful for you to tell us where you live.
    CalebC's Avatar
    CalebC Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #4

    Nov 3, 2010, 11:38 AM
    I live near Charlotte, NC. So you are saying that I do not need to insulate the exposed area of the pipe?

    The pipe seems to be leading from an outlet sticking out of the ground (under my deck) -- I am guessing this is where the septic is pumped from -- to the top of where my septic field is located. Does that help you know what this pipe is for?

    Thanks for your concern. The timber will be resting on dirt for the most part though it may be touching the pipe. I will ensure that it is not putting any pressure on the pipe. It is not heavy and will only have a track for the sliding door (mesh)
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