Is Pipe Relining A Good Option?

If your home’s plumbing system ever fails, you need a solution fast. But many homeowners aren’t educated about their sewer and its repair, and make impulsive decisions that can cost them thousands of dollars.

One option for plumbing repair is trenchless pipe lining. Read on to learn how this common technique can save you money.

What Is Trenching?

Traditionally, when plumbers repair a pipeline, they start on the surface, then dig down into the area surrounding the pipe. This creates what’s called a trench.

Digging a trench allows access to the damaged pipe. But it’s a time-consuming process that tears up your yard, sometimes even part of the street (since the lateral line runs to the sewer main, which is under the street). You’ll pay extra for breaking up and digging through the pavement, shutting down part of the street, repaving the street and any repairs to your lawn.

Pipe Relining

There have been several trenchless pipe repair options entering the market. One of these is called trenchless pipe lining.

When plumbers use trenchless pipe lining, they dig an access hole and insert a tube filled with resin into the existing pipe (typically by blowing or pulling it through). They inflate this tube so it matches the dimensions of the existing pipe — creating a pipe inside the pipe. From there, the plumber allows the resin to cure.

Trenchless pipe lining isn’t possible in all situations: It doesn’t work if the pipe’s collapsed or is backfilling, but the result is as strong and long-lasting as a traditional repair in those scenarios where it is a viable option.

The materials used for a trenchless pipe lining repair are typically 30-50 percent more expensive than those used for a traditional repair. But you will see big savings on labor, and you’ll avoid some or all costs from shutting down your street, lawn repair or repaving.

Trenchless pipe lining doesn’t work in all situations, but it’s a powerful technique that revolutionized how plumbers repair lateral lines. In most situations, it saves money and time, and avoids huge headaches for homeowners.