More Than a Pipe Dream

Posted on: 19 January 2022

When you have a sewer line problem, you may need the pipe replaced or repaired. You have a choice of two options: trench or trenchless repair. If you opt to dig a trench, you could end up destroying your property. Trenchless repair can keep your property intact while still replacing or repairing your sewer pipe.

You can choose from two trenchless sewer repair options: pipe bursting and pipe lining. Keep reading to learn more about the difference between the two methods and the benefits and drawbacks of each kind.

What Is Trenchless Sewer Line Repair?

Trenchless sewer line repair is, as the name says, it is repair or replacement of a sewer line without digging. This type of sewer line repair is ideal for those situations where digging is impossible. For example, it is good for fixing sewer lines under a large building.

Trenchless sewer line repairs generally have two different versions. Below are the details for each type.

Pipe Bursting

With pipe bursting, the contractor breaks up, removes, and replaces the old line with a new one. A new pipe with a busting mechanism is fed through the old pipe. As the head goes through, it breaks up the old pipe.

Pipe Lining

With pipe lining, the contractor inserts a new CIPP lining through the deteriorating pipe. The new lining covers the damage to the old pipe to prevent clogs and leaks.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Pipe Bursting?

The benefits of pipe bursting are:

• Complete replacement of the problem pipe
• Retention of the pipe's original diameter
• An efficient way to replace your pipe without digging
• Great for crushed and dented pipes

A couple of the drawbacks of pipe bursting are:

• Some terrain disturbance as the newer, larger pipe or bursting head breaks up the old pipe
• Potential increased costs depending on how much pipe you need to replace

What Are the Pros and Cons of Pipe Lining?

Pipe lining may be better for certain situations. Some of the pros of pipe lining include:

• It works well for pipes that have small leaks but are otherwise in good shape
• It is a quick and effective way to repair your pipe
• It is potentially less costly but can be as costly as pipe bursting under certain circumstance

A few of the downsides of pipe lining are:

• It won't work with crushed or bent pipes
• It creates a reduced pipe diameter
• It is less permanent than pipe bursting
• It is not as effective for extensive pipe damage as pipe bursting

Sewer line problems can be a serious issue both inside and outside your home. If you suspect you have sewer line problems, contact a plumber experienced in sewer line repair. They can break down the procedures and costs of each type. Some trenchless sewer line repairs can be done quickly to minimize inconvenience.

For more information, contact a local company, like Drainline Plumbing & Trenchless Sewer Specialist.