In the world of construction and plumbing, every project carries its own set of surprises, challenges, and learning opportunities. A recent job we undertook—a supposed routine sewer replacement—morphed into a vivid testament to this unpredictable nature, underscoring the adage that what lies beneath can often complicate what’s on the surface.
The Beginning: A Simple Job Turns Complex
Our journey began with a call for what was anticipated to be a standard sewer replacement, prompted by persistent backups that plagued the property owner. An internal plumber, upon investigation, discovered a collapsed pipe through a camera inspection, setting the stage for what was expected to be a straightforward excavation and replacement.
However, mere days into the excavation along the sidewalk, we stumbled upon a revelation that would drastically alter the course of our project: the existing sewer line was not just damaged; it was illegal. The sanitary sewer was improperly connected to the storm sewer, with both erroneously dumping into the storm sewer line. This discovery prompted an immediate visit from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), which confirmed our findings and mandated a separation of the two sewers. The stormwater had to be redirected to the city storm sewer, and the sanitary sewer to the city sanitary system.
Navigating Bureaucracy and Engineering Challenges
Securing the necessary permits was just the beginning of our adventure. Excavation revealed that the sanitary sewer lay at a depth requiring potentially complex modifications, including a riser connection to achieve the proper pitch. Collaborating closely with DEP, we endeavored to adjust our plans, seeking a solution that would negate the need for this additional work. Fortunately, by digging deeper beneath the sidewalk, we managed to lower the pipe enough to meet pitch standards—a victory in our ongoing battle with the unpredictable.
Groundwater: An Unforeseen Adversary
Our challenges were far from over. The excavation within the roadway introduced us to a formidable opponent: groundwater. The presence of groundwater transformed a routine dig into a battle against nature itself, necessitating the preparation of the excavation site with specialized shoring, gravel, and water pumps. It was a painstaking process, with our team on-site for five grueling days, fighting to keep the water at bay until we could finally reach the city sewer to perform the new connection—all under the watchful eye of DEP.
The Final Stretch: Laying the Storm Sewer
With the sanitary sewer successfully installed, our attention turned to the storm sewer line. This phase of the project took an additional two days, a testament to the team’s dedication and resilience in the face of unforeseen obstacles.
Conclusion: A Lesson Learned
This experience, though fraught with unexpected challenges, ended with the successful installation of a legal and functional sewer system, duly inspected and approved by DEP. What was initially estimated as a simple two-day job extended over seven business days, serving as a poignant reminder of the complexities lurking beneath the surface.
The moral of our story is clear: when venturing below ground to install new infrastructure, one must always be prepared for the unknown. The earth beneath our feet holds many secrets, and the process of uncovering them can be as unpredictable as it is enlightening. Our team emerged from this project not just with a sense of accomplishment but with a deeper understanding of the intricacies of below-ground work—a valuable insight that will guide us in all our future endeavors.
