Backfill material for slab trenches

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CaliforniaPlumber

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Hi,

What would be the best backfill material once I am done with the plumbing?
The trenches are about 9” wide, and 5”-14” deep below slab, probably averaging 10” for a total of about 1-1.5 yard of backfill.

I did a lot of research, and found the following. I am leaning towards the easiest one, sand.
- sand. Pros: cheap, less labour: easy to spread evenly, the existing dirt/foundation walls will ensure no compaction needed.
- flowable fill. Probably best but more costly. (Would that be much different than wet sand mix?)
- pea gravel. Would require fabric between dirt. Would need some compaction. 3/4 sharp gravel to be avoided due to pipe damage risk.
- dirt. Would require a lot of compaction, might be risky for pipes.

Which one would you do? Any concerns on going with sand?

Thank you
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Breplum

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we like road base rock when filling under piping where too much soil has been removed.
Pack it in with maul/sledge.
 
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