Initial Assessment and Trenching

• Identifying the Leak: Confirm the leak by checking the water meter with the main house valve shut off.
• Trenching Preparation: Choose an appropriate shovel for trenching; the type of soil will affect the difficulty of this step.
• Depth Consideration: Determine the required depth for your new water line, which varies by region (24 inches below grade in the Pacific Northwest for frost line considerations).

Finding and Removing the Old Line

• Discover the Existing Line: Locate the existing water line during trenching.
• Evaluate Previous Work: The type of existing pipeline (like PEX or galvanized) can give clues about past repairs.
• Removing Old Pipes: Safely remove or disconnect the old pipeline.

Installation of New Waterline

• Choosing Materials: Consider modern materials like Uponor, which simplifies the plumbing process with expandable PEX piping.
• Drilling for Pipe Installation: Use a hammer drill for creating passages through concrete.
• Installing the New Line: Install the new waterline, ensuring proper connections with the main water supply and house plumbing.
• Soldering Joints: If soldering is required, ensure a proper seal on the joints.

Finalization and Testing

• Securing the Pipe: Use tape on the pipe ends during installation to prevent dirt from entering.
• Tracer Line Installation: Install a tracer line along with the plastic piping for future detection.
• Insulation for Protection: Use foam insulation around the pipe for added protection and insulation.
• Testing for Leaks: After installation, conduct thorough testing to ensure there are no leaks.

Refilling the Trench

• Gradual Refilling: Refill the trench in stages, compacting the soil every few inches to prevent settling.
• Clean Up: Use tarps or other methods to manage dirt and debris during the digging and refilling process.

Monitoring and Prevention

• Install a Water Monitoring System: Consider installing a device like Flume to monitor water usage and detect leaks early. Ensure compatibility with your meter before purchase.