Ensuring that your home’s sewer line reaches the proper depth is critical in relation to effectiveness, efficiency, and safety. Because the frost line in the State of Pennsylvania is 44 inches beneath the surface, sewer lines that don’t at least dip below this threshold are at much greater risk of freezing. This can lead to bursting, very serious damage, and costly repairs. Working with the well-respected Pennsylvania sewer experts at American Sewer Specialist is the surest means of keeping your sewer system running smoothly.
Sewer Line Depth Matters
In Pennsylvania, the average frost depth is 44 inches, which means sewer lines that are not placed well below this mark are at risk of freezing during the winter months. The colder the average winter temperatures, the deeper the frost line, but there are other considerations that can also have an impact:
- The length of time the temps stay below freezing
- The type of soil
- The moisture content of the soil
Any water that is above the frost line, including water in sewer lines, will freeze under the right conditions, which leads to a 9 percent increase in volume and which forces the soil to heave – or move out of position. In the process, things fixed in the ground can shift, including foundations, footings, and sewer lines.
Determining the Depth of Sewer Lines
The depth of sewer line excavations for repairs is determined by several primary factors.
Climate
The climate in the area is fundamental when it comes to calculating sewer line depths. Because the frost line in Pennsylvania is 44 inches, the recommended depth for sewer lines is generally 4 to 6 feet.
Proximity to Main Sewer Line
The installation depth of your home’s sewer lines is also determined by their proximity to the main sewer line. Generally, the closer they are to one another, the less depth is required. Effecting the required gradient is also necessary to keep sewage moving, and when the slope is too shallow, backups can be a concern.
Current Requirements
The regulations set by different cities and counties across Pennsylvania can vary considerably. Further, these regulations can evolve over time. In other words, the sewer lines in a home that was built a century ago may be considerably deeper or shallower than those in a much newer home – depending on the regulations in place at the time each was built.
If you need sewer repairs that require excavation, it’s time to bring in sewer specialists who will do everything it takes to effectively and efficiently address the problem you’re facing.
You Need Pennsylvania Sewer Specialists on Your Side
The dedicated Pennsylvania sewer experts at American Sewer Specialist will accurately determine the necessary depth of your sewer line excavation and will take the care necessary to get your plumbing back up and running smoothly. We have earned an impressive reputation for our commitment to our customers’ satisfaction, and we’re here for you, too. Learn more about what we can do to help by contacting us online or calling us at 724-879-8130 today.
