Trenchless methods get most of the attention, but they share a limitation: they rely on the old pipe's path or shape. When the existing lateral has a belly, has collapsed, is badly offset, or needs to be rerouted, an open trench lets the crew set new pipe on proper bedding at a steady slope.

An open trench also gives a clear look at what surrounds the pipe: soil conditions, nearby utilities and the condition of the connection at the city main. The tradeoff is surface disruption along the whole route, which can include lawn, planters, walkways and part of a driveway.

When an open trench is usually the better fit

  • IfThe camera shows a sag holding water over a long stretchThenOpen trench lets the pipe be re-laid at a correct slope.
  • IfThe pipe has collapsed or lost its shapeThenLining needs a host pipe; open trench does not.
  • IfThe lateral runs shallow under open lawn or plantersThenDigging may be simpler than setting up trenchless equipment.
  • IfThe route needs to change, such as avoiding a new structureThenOnly a new trench can follow a new path.

How the work usually unfolds

  1. Locate and mark.Underground utilities are marked and the lateral's route is traced with a locator.
  2. Protect and remove surfaces.Sod, pavers or concrete along the route are cut or lifted, with a plan for replacement.
  3. Excavate.The trench is dug to the pipe, with shoring as needed for depth and soil.
  4. Remove and bed.Old pipe comes out and the trench bottom is prepared with proper bedding.
  5. Lay new pipe.New pipe is set at a steady fall and connected at the house and the city connection.
  6. Inspect, backfill and restore.A camera run and any required inspection happen before backfill and surface repair.

Plan the restoration before the dig

  • Which surfaces will be cut: lawn, walkway, driveway, planters
  • Whether sprinkler lines cross the route and who repairs them
  • Who replaces concrete or pavers, and to what standard
  • How long the trench may be open and how it will be made safe
  • Where excavated soil and old pipe will go during the work

Questions to settle in writing

  1. How deep is the pipe along the route, and will the trench need shoring?
  2. What pipe material and fittings will be used?
  3. Is restoration of hardscape included or excluded?
  4. Who obtains permits for work in the parkway or street? Check with the city if unsure.

Common questions

Is open trench always the most disruptive option?

Usually on the surface, yes. But for a short, shallow lateral under lawn, the difference from trenchless may be smaller than expected.

Can part of the lateral be trenched and part lined?

Yes. A combined approach is common, for example digging out a sag and lining the rest.

Does the city have to inspect the work?

That depends on the work and location. Check with the City of Placentia and ask the contractor who arranges any inspection.

General information for Placentia, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.