Step 1: Lay out the trench

Lay out the trench
Photo: Smith-Baer
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Use a string and 1x2 stakes to lay out the trench. Pound in two stakes 4 feet from the house and directly in front of each downspout. Place other stakes spaced 8 feet apart in between. Tie the string to the downspout, then stretch it out and around all the stakes.
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    More in House Exterior

    Tools List

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    • 16-foot tape measure
      Tape measure
    • flat blade shovel
      Shovel, used to dig trench
    • two-foot level
      Level, used to check drainpipe for proper slope
    • sledge hammer
      Small sledgehammer, used to pound in stakes
    • hand saw
      Handsaw, hacksaw or 12-inch power miter saw, used to cut the PVC pipe

    Shopping List

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    1. 4-INCH-DIAMETER PVC AND ASSORTED FITTINGS

    2. 4-INCH-DIAMETER FLEXIBLE PLASTIC DRAIN PIPE

    3. PVC PRIMER AND CEMENT

    used to join together PVC pipe and fittings



    4. WOODEN STAKES AND MASON'S STRING

    5. WHITE FLOUR IN METAL CAN

    sprinkled onto ground to indicate trench location



    6. CARDBOARD SHEETS

    used to temporarily hold soil dug from trench