Trenchless Pipe Lining Is An Effective Way To Repair A Cracked Sewer Pipe

Sewer lines are exposed to chemicals, tree roots, and toxic materials, so it's no wonder they eventually wear out. Sewer pipes can last a long time, but no matter what they're made of, cracks and other problems are likely to develop. You have options for repairing a bad sewer line, and trenchless pipe lining is a good one to consider. Here's a look at this effective way to repair a sewer pipe.

Why It's Called Trenchless

Originally, pipes had to be dug up to be repaired or replaced. That involved digging a trench along the length of the pipe. That was very disruptive, took a long time, and was an expensive process. The trench would destroy your landscaping, and sheds and sidewalks had to be dug up too.

None of that has to happen with trenchless pipe lining. That's because the repairs can be done while the pipe is still under the ground. Depending on the method used, the contractor may not need to dig any holes at all. Other times, the contractor might need to dig a hole at each end of the pipe, but no trench is necessary.

Sewer Cameras Make Trenchless Pipe Lining Possible

The contractor usually sends a sewer camera down the pipe before work begins in order to find the crack. If the crack is the only damaged part of the pipe, the contractor may locate the crack with the camera and then send a repair patch in. If there are multiple cracks, it might be necessary to line the entire length of the pipe. A video camera is also useful for checking the finished work.

Liners Start Flexible And Collapsed

A liner is flat and flexible when it is wound on a reel. When the liner is in place, it is inflated so it pushes against the sides of the pipe. The liner has a coating that then cures in place and makes the liner hard like a pipe. This allows the liner to act as a patch that seals cracks and also acts as a new pipe. This allows the old pipe to stay in place and out of the way.

Trenchless Pipe Lining Is A Long-Lasting Repair

A pipe liner is inserted as a single piece of pipe. This new pipe has no seams, so tree roots can't get inside any longer. Without tree roots digging into the pipe, you'll have fewer problems with clogs and damage. Plus, the material the liner is made from is very durable and it lasts a long time.

A liner is just as good as having a new plastic pipe put in so you can put off getting a new sewer pipe for many years. Plus, putting in a liner is less expensive than replacing an old pipe, so you get an effective repair at a more economical price than replacing the pipe.