A closer look at the work beneath a well-built home. Explore the installation in 16 stages, from the first layout marks to inspected piping and careful backfill.
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Fixture locations, drain routes, and foundation openings are coordinated before excavation. This establishes where the underground system will connect to the future home.
Trenches follow the planned drain routes. Excavation creates room for the pipe, its supporting bed, and the connections that must remain visible for inspection.
A firm, even bed supports the pipe along its length. Suitable bedding is shaped around the installation so the pipe does not rest on rocks, debris, or isolated supports.
The main drain is placed along its planned route below the future slab. Connections are assembled using an approved piping system, with the trench still open.
Pipe elevations and alignment are checked as the drain is installed. A consistent fall toward the discharge helps the gravity drainage system carry wastewater.
Branch drains join the main through approved directional fittings. Wyes and sweeping connections guide flow into the downstream line.
The bathroom layout brings drain and vent connections together. The shower trap arm has an upward vent takeoff before it joins the drainage branch, with the vent rising toward a planned wall.
Underground branches connect to vertical drains at the future walls. This view also shows the next rough-in stage: capped fixture inlets above floor level, with vent pipes continuing upward from those connections.
Fixture-drain openings and vent risers are positioned for the next construction stage. The visible branch connection shows how the vent rises from the fixture drainage route; temporary caps protect the unfinished piping.
A planned wall penetration allows piping to pass through the foundation with appropriate protection. The opening is coordinated with the structural design.
The exterior sewer continues the drainage route away from the building. Pipe support, direction, and grade are maintained through the open trench.
A cleanout provides access to the sewer for future maintenance. Its placement accounts for the finished ground level and any paving or landscaping above it.
The potable-water service follows its own planned route to the home. This illustration shows a dedicated trench, with the supply system physically separate from drainage.
This isolated drainage section illustrates preparation for a water test while connections remain exposed. The tall filling standpipe is temporary test equipment; the test procedure is coordinated with the inspecting authority.
The exposed layout allows drain routing, vent takeoffs, fittings, and pipe support to be reviewed together. Vent risers are coordinated with the future walls and will continue upward during the next rough-in stage.
After acceptance, suitable initial backfill is placed around the pipe, supporting its sides and protecting its position. The area is then prepared for the next construction stage.