The rain has been relentless for a few weeks, and the days are getting shorter. Our heavy clay soil turns first into a sticky mess, then a sloppy one. When wet, it’s heavier to shift, clings to the shovel and leaves our boots sticking to the bottom of the trench. Progress is slow.
Changing the drainage layout
We’ve made some changes to the drainage design and had them approved by the building inspector. The revised layout means fewer pipes underground, but more branches and connections to the soil pipe, which will be hidden behind a wall in the new ensuite bathroom.
One trench is no longer needed. We had almost finished digging it, but we’re pleased with the new design, so we’re trying not to feel too frustrated about the wasted effort.
Getting the levels right
Our drainage trench will be roughly 70cm deep where it meets the existing sewer pipe at the boundary. For our planned installation, the trench needs to be 30cm wider than the 11cm pipe, with a 10cm bed of pea gravel beneath it.
We’re working to a fall of 1:40 and have bought a laser level to help us get that right.
If the weather is kind, we could be ready to switch over to the new drainage system this weekend.