water line

[mama53]

I live in n.y state northen part and it gets very cold here .We have to put in a new water line. How far down do we have to dig down to go past the frost line.

[Bob NH]

It depends on conditions.

Sod will reduce the depth of freezing. If the line is where it gets covered with snow, it won't freeze as deep. If it is under bare earth or a concrete driveway that is kept free of snow, it will go deeper.

Most places in the north want at least 4 feet. Someone in the local town offices should know.

[Mikey]

I'm pushing my memory here, but I think Rochester NY wanted more than 4' when I did this in the early 70s. Bob's right on, though -- call whatever building department has jurisdiction in your area. I'd add another foot for global warming effects.

[hj]

Global warming would reduce the recommended depth not increase it.

[Mikey]

Even though I was joking, that depends on where you live, actually. Depending on what happens (at 65, I'm not terribly concerned, btw), your home could be under water (e.g., Miami Beach), or under lots of snow most of the time (e.g., Europe). There's general agreement there'll be dramatic climate change, but there are still lots of devils in the details.

[Michael McCann]

I'm new to this web cite and this is my fist reply - everyone start clapping now.
I live in Pennsylvania and I'm replacing my water line to. It was suggested that I go no less than 40". I'n not sure how much colder it is in New York though but 4 feet seems to be the standard. Good luck. Are you doing it yourself?