Boring under a sidewalk is a common method used to install pipes, cables, or conduits without disrupting the surface of the sidewalk. Boring is preferred over cutting or breaking the concrete as it can cause significant damage to the surface, leading to costly repairs. Here are the steps to bore under a sidewalk:
Plan the route –
The first step in boring under a sidewalk is to plan the route. Determine the starting and ending points of the bore and the path that the bore will follow. Make sure to avoid any obstacles or utilities in the way.
Mark the locations –
Once the route has been planned, mark the locations of the starting and ending points of the bore on either side of the sidewalk. Use spray paint or chalk to mark the locations.
Choose the right equipment –
Choose the right equipment for the job based on the diameter of the bore and the type of soil. There are several types of boring equipment available, including augers, horizontal directional drills (HDD), and pneumatic piercing tools.
Prepare the equipment –
Prepare the equipment by attaching the drill head, auger, or piercing tool to the drill stem or drill pipe. Make sure that the equipment is in good working condition and that all safety features are in place.
Dig the entry and exit pits –
Dig the entry and exit pits on either side of the sidewalk using a shovel or excavator. The pits should be deep enough to accommodate the equipment and allow for the bore to reach its target depth.
Secure the bore rig –
Secure the bore rig to prevent it from moving during the drilling process. Use stakes, anchors, or tie-downs to secure the rig to the ground.
Start the bore –
Start the bore by turning on the equipment and feeding the drill stem or drill pipe into the entry pit. Make sure that the equipment is aligne with the target location on the other side of the sidewalk.
Monitor the bore –
Monitor the bore as it progresses to ensure that it stays on course and reaches the target depth. Use a tracking device or a camera to monitor the progress of the bore.
Remove the equipment –
Once the bore is complete, remove the equipment from the entry pit and attach a pullback device to the drill stem or drill pipe. Use the pullback device to pull the pipe, cable, or conduit through the bore.
Backfill the pits –
Backfill the entry and exit pits with soil and compact it to prevent settling. Use a tamper or compactor to ensure that the soil is properly compact.
Restore the sidewalk –
Once the pits have been backfill and compacted, restore the surface of the sidewalk. Use concrete or asphalt to fill in any gaps or holes and match the color and texture of the existing surface.
In conclusion, boring under a sidewalk is a common method use to install pipes, cables, or conduits without disrupting the surface of the sidewalk. By following these steps and choosing the right equipment, you can bore under a sidewalk safely and efficiently. Boring under a sidewalk requires careful planning and execution, and it is recommended to hire a professional contractor with experience in underground boring to ensure that the job is done correctly.