Pipe Pulling Systems Enable DIY Plumbers

Installing pipes in a home or building is a complex job that typically requires professional plumbers. However, pipe pulling systems are making DIY pipe installation possible. These tools allow motivated homeowners to take on projects like extending drainage pipes, running new water lines, or upgrading gas pipes without costly contractor fees. With proper planning and precautions, using a pipe puller opens up new opportunities for ambitious DIYers. Let's explore what pipe pulling entails and how it enables amateurs to become plumbers in their own home.

What Is Pipe Pulling?

Pipe pulling refers to pulling pipes horizontally underground instead of the traditional method of digging long trenches to lay new pipe. It utilizes powerful winches mounted on rollers to smoothly pull pipes through pre-dug access pits. Compared to trenching, pipe pulling saves enormous time and money while minimizing property damage.

In the past, only professional plumbers could tackle pipe installations because of the equipment and skills required. But with rental pipe pullers now widely available, regular homeowners can install all sorts of pipes across long distances.

Types of Pipes for Pulling Projects

• Sewer and drainage pipes
• Water service lines
• Natural gas supply pipes
• Conduit for electrical wiring

Benefits for Homeowners

• Saves thousands in labor costs
• Avoids major digging and restoration
• Prevents damage to landscaping
• Faster and less invasive installations

How Pipe Pulling Systems Work

While professional-grade equipment is intense, pipe pullers follow straightforward mechanical principles accessible to non-pros. Let's break down what's involved in typical pipe pulls.

1. Layout

First, access pits are dug where pipes will start and end. The pits must be long enough to accommodate pipe sections and join them together. Depth depends on pipe type and final position underground.

2. Assembly

Pipes are fused together alongside trenches, then fed with pull cables. Cables temporarily join the pipe so winches can drag it through the earth to the destination point. Careful measurements ensure pipes will align properly.

3. Pulling

With cables threaded through pipes in the entry pit, winches drag the line to the exit point. Pipe rollers guide movement and prevent buckling. A "pipe monkey" sprays lubricant to ease friction in the buried conduit.

4. Connection

Once pulled into final position, the pipe is detached from cables, trimmed and rejoined if needed, then integrated with water, sewer or gas lines as planned.

Equipment You'll Need

DIYers can purchase affordable "mini" pipe pullers, but most opt to rent professional rigs. Here's key gear you'll require.

Steel Pulling Cables

Thick steel cables threaded through pipes temporarily connect them to winches. Cables must be durable to withstand tens of thousands of pounds of pulling force.

Hydraulic Pipe Pulling Winches

These provide calibrated pulling force applied smoothly via a spool of steel cable. Winches enable precision pipe positioning. Most range from 10,000 to 40,000 lbs of force.

Rollers and Stands

Rollers placed under pulled pipes prevent scratches and buckling from friction with the ground. Some systems have powered rollers to assist movement.

Pipe Lubricants

Hydraulic or gel lubricant eases friction as pipes slide through conduits. Proper lubrication prevents overstressing cables or pipes.

Pipe Fusion Machine

To join pipe sections before pulls, you'll need a fusion machine suitable for your particular pipes. They use heat or friction to meld pipe exteriors.

Your First Pipe Pull

With some grit and sweat, an ambitious homeowner can absolutely install their own pipes. But where do you start? Here is a smart progression for new pipe pullers.

Start Small

Don't bite off more than you can chew on day one. Begin with pulls under 50 feet to get familiar with equipment and process before attempting long runs.

Have Help

Pipe pulling requires teamwork for measuring, assembling, lubricating, and guiding pipes. Recruit 1-3 able helpers for best results.

Follow Safety Rules

PPE is essential during pulls. Hard hats, steel-toe boots, safety glasses, hearing protection, and durable gloves reduce injury risks.

Start Straight and Short

Aim for straight conduit paths on early pulls. Long sweeping bends increase friction and cable/pipe stress.

Common Pipe Pulling Projects

Home pipe pulling creates exciting possibilities. Which pipes can ambitious DIYers reasonably install themselves?

Drains

Expanding drainage around properties only requires shallow, straightforward runs - an ideal first pull. Key steps include:

• Locate main sewer/septic connection point
• Map route from house to tap-in
• Rent suitable puller and fusion gear
• Excavate start and end pits
• Assemble 4" PVC sections with couplings
• String pull cables through pipes
• Lubricate conduit path thoroughly
• Power winch to pull drainage into place
• Join ends to main septic/sewer line

Water Lines

Upgrading home water plumbing is also realistic. Key steps include:

• Shut off main house water supply
• Locate best paths for new water lines
• Rent fusion machine for desired pipes
• Excavate start and end pits
• Fusion-weld pipe sections (typically 1")
• String pull cables through length
• Lubricate conduit path thoroughly
• Use winch to pull into place
• Connect ends to main house plumbing

Thanks to rental pipe pullers, amateurs can achieve professional-grade plumbing projects themselves instead of hiring contractors. This saves money while enabling homeowners to upgrade drainage, water lines, gas pipes, and more on their own terms.

Homeowners can pull off pipe installations that used to require qualified people. Pipe pulling systems open new potential for ambitious DIYers. Does a major plumbing overhaul sound compelling? Why not tackle it yourself and save thousands in the process?