Hi , I had a section of sewer line replaced in the front yard, directly beside the house foundation. The depth is about 10 feet. I'm responsible for backfilling the hole, and I'm trying to determine the type of material to use. I've read recommendations for sand, gravel or soil, and I'm not sure which is best for ensuring the pipe is not going to be damaged by the weight of the backfill. Thanks in advance, my plumbing knowledge is pretty minimal!

You pack 12" of sand around the pipe THEN backfill the trench.


make sure you have 6" under the pipe

pour in sand filling the hole halfway up the pipe

tamp the sand AROUND the pipe with a 2x4 held vertically adding sand as necessary as any 'low spots' are compacted - you may dampen the sand as needed

the pipe is now well supported from below in a stable trench

pour anther 6" of sand - repeat tamping process


NOW you can backfill the trench OVER the 'bedded piping'

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"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638

Thanks for this detailed response! Much appreciated



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1. The most common and recommended backfill material is the native soil that was removed during the excavation. This ensures that the soil composition is consistent with the surrounding area.

2. If the native soil is not suitable or if additional support is required, granular materials like sand or gravel can be used for backfilling.

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Caliber Plumbing, LLC
Hollywood, FL



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