Sock dewatering (also known as horizontal wellpointing or one-pass trenching) is a specialized groundwater control method.
Using a heavy-duty single-pass trencher, we install a 5-inch perforated corrugated drainpipe wrapped in geotextile filter fabric (“sock”) at depths typically ranging from 12 to 20 feet below grade.
Groundwater enters the continuous drainage system and is conveyed through collector piping to surface suction lift pumps for safe removal.
At Holland Pump, we deploy turnkey sock systems for a wide range of complex projects across the US East & Gulf Coast, including:
Watch our one-pass trenching crew in action
As a recognized leader in sock dewatering across the US East Coast and Gulf Coast, Holland Pump maintains a fleet of specialized trenchers and experienced field installation crews. We deliver efficient, cost-effective groundwater control where traditional vertical wellpoints aren't as practical.
Our process:
Heavy-duty, specialized single-pass trenching machinery that simultaneously cuts the trench and installs continuous drainpipe down to 20 feet below grade.
High-grade 5-inch corrugated perforated drainpipe wrapped in specialized geotextile filter fabric (“sock”) paired with solid PVC/HDPE header lines.
Industry-leading vacuum-assist and self-priming centrifugal pumps engineered for continuous, pulse-free groundwater extraction.
Integrated settlement units and clarifiers to strip out suspended solids and sediment before off-site discharge, ensuring strict compliance with local, state, and federal environmental permits.
Fill in your details and our engineering team will get back to you with a custom proposal for your site.
For 24/7 support, please call our emergency line directly at (561) 697-3333.
Sock dewatering is often the preferred solution for long, linear projects where continuous drainage can provide a more economical groundwater control method.
If you're unsure whether sock dewatering is right for your site, you can get in touch with the team, and we'll recommend the best solution for your challenge.
Sock systems perform best in permeable soils that allow groundwater to move freely toward the drainage system.
Sock drains are typically installed between 12 and 20 feet deep, with actual performance dependent on site conditions and project requirements.
Adequate access is needed to accommodate specialized trenching equipment and supporting installation machinery. If you get in touch with the team, we'll talk you through the requirements.
For many utility and infrastructure projects, sock dewatering can reduce installation time, material requirements, and operating costs compared to conventional wellpoint systems.
Our team has over 45 years of experience in dewatering and will walk you through the best option for your site.
All Holland Pump sock dewatering projects are executed in compliance with OSHA standards, environmental regulations, permit requirements, and Holland Pump safety procedures, including our internal Home Safe initiative.
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