IS 10714 covers pipe bedding — the granular or concrete bed that supports buried pipes. Proper bedding is critical for pipe longevity — most pipe failures are due to poor bedding, not pipe defects. Bedding class determines the load-bearing factor used in pipe structural design.
Code of practice for bedding of buried pipes covering bedding classes, materials, compaction, and backfill requirements.
Key Values
Class AConcrete cradle (best support, highest cost)
Class BGranular bedding 120° (standard for most pipes)
Class CShaped trench bottom (rigid pipes only)
Practical Notes
! Class B (granular bedding, 120° support) is the standard for most water and sewer pipe installations.
! 80% of pipe failures are caused by poor bedding, not pipe defects — invest in proper bedding.
! Side fill compaction is as important as the bedding itself — for flexible pipes (PE, PVC) it provides the structural support.
! Never use angular rock or debris as pipe bedding — it concentrates point loads and damages pipes.
! Minimum 150mm granular bed below pipe invert for Class B bedding.