The Latest Sewer Line Replacement Methods Available

A damaged sewer line can cause significant plumbing issues for any home and require immediate attention. Luckily, trenchless sewer line replacement techniques have evolved to be more environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

Trenchless methods of repairing or replacing sewer lines mean that plumbers can access the underground sewer without digging up a trench in your yard. It makes for a quicker overall repair and can save you the headache of restoring landscaping after a massive dig. Here’s what you should know about the three different trenchless repair methods.

Pipe Bursting

The pipe bursting method involves a busting head, or bullet, connected to a new pipe. Plumbers push the new pipe through the existing sewer pipe, causing it to shatter and break away, leaving the new pipe in its place. This form of sewer line replacement makes it possible to replace a smaller pipe with a larger-diameter sewer line.

Pros and Cons of Pipe Bursting

Pipe bursting can take as little as one day to achieve, is eco-friendly and involves no chemicals, and provides a brand new, durable piping system. However, it does require minimal excavation at the entry and exit points.

Slip Lining

Slip lining was the original trenchless method for sewer repair. It involves placing plastic liners within broken pipes to seal any leaks. This results in a smaller overall diameter of the pipe but effectively repairs any small cracks or leaks.

Pros and Cons of Slip Lining

The “pipe within a pipe” technique of slip lining can repair a sewer line issue relatively quickly and affordably. However, it may not be the ideal repair method if the sewer pipe runs underneath a building, if the pipe has collapsed, or if your area’s sanitation district authority does not approve the method.

Cured-in-Place Pipe Lining

Similar to slip lining, cured-in-place pipelining, or CIPP, also involves placing a new pipe within the existing one. This method, however, uses a resin-saturated liner which plumbers then heat to secure it in place in the damaged pipe.

Pros and Cons of Cured-in-Place Pipelining

CIPP has the lowest average cost of the three methods and does not require any digging, whereas pipe bursting and slip lining require your plumbing company to excavate small holes for entry and exit. CIPP creates pipes that are as long-lasting as the replacement structure used in pipe bursting. On the other hand, it can be a longer project to complete overall and reduces the diameter of the pipe, so it may not be the best solution if your entire sewer line has been repaired before.

These trenchless replacement methods each offer a solution to a broken sewer line and feature their own benefits and drawbacks. Taking this information into consideration can help make the process of repairing your sewer line much easier. 

Trust VA Plumbing Pros, LLC, to handle any sewer line replacement. Contact us at 571-218-2290 or request a call to schedule an inspection of sewer damage and determine the right method to repair or replace your sewer line.