Step 2 · Break Concrete and Excavate

Before starting, put on your personal protective equipment: safety glasses, heavy-duty gloves, steel-toed boots, and a dust mask or respirator. Using a demolition hammer (jackhammer) is most effective, but a sledgehammer and cold chisel will also work. Carefully break up the concrete within the marked area. Work from the center outwards to avoid cracking the surrounding floor. Remove the broken concrete pieces with a bucket. Once the concrete is removed, use a shovel to dig out the gravel, sand, and soil around the main drain pipe. You must excavate deep enough to fully expose the top, sides, and bottom of the pipe, providing enough clearance (at least 6-12 inches) to make cuts and install the new valve.

Tools and Materials

Anvil 41 in. Handle, Wood Handle Digging Shovel PRL-PE-HDUnger 6 Gal. Heavy-Duty Plastic Bucket DB02MCR Safety BearKat Safety Glasses MCSCRWBK110Husky Large Heavy Duty Glove 67812-06ROCKY Men's IronClad Waterproof 8 inch Lace Up Work Boots - Steel Toe - Brown 9.5(W) FQ0006693Dyiom Reusable Mask, Dust Mask, Lightweight and Comfortable Dust Mask for Woodworking, Paitning, Landscaping, Black, Large B00XLNCC6S