FAQs About Trenchless Sewer Repair

What Is Trenchless Sewer Repair - And Why Does It Matter?

It’s never fun having to call in a plumber to repair some part of the plumbing system - but it’s even worse when the problem is in an underground pipe like the sewer line. To fix an underground sewer line, professionals often have to dig a trench in the yard to expose the damaged pipe. This can be a messy, time-consuming, and expensive process.

Fortunately, there is an alternative approach – trenchless pipe repair. As the name suggests, trenchless repair is a way of fixing issues with underground pipes without having to excavate the lines themselves. Although trenchless sewer repair has been used for decades, there’s still plenty of confusion around it, and many homeowners aren’t even aware that it’s an option. So, to shed some light on the subject, this article will answer a few of the most commonly asked questions about trenchless pipe repairs.

How Do Trenchless Plumbing Repairs Work?

Several methods can be used for trenchless pipe repair, including slip lining, cured-in-place pipe lining, and pipe bursting. All three require minimal digging. Usually, just two small pits at either end of the pipe or sewer line access points can be used to prevent digging altogether.

Slip lining involves inserting a new, slightly smaller pipe into the damaged pipe and then filling the space between the lines with grout to hold the new one firmly in place. This is most commonly used for straight lengths of pipe, as the new pipe likely won’t be able to make sharp turns.

Pipe lining involves inserting flexible felt tubing with resin or epoxy that gets pulled through the damaged pipe. The flexible cloth tube lines the pipe's interior, conforming to its shape. The resin is then cured using heat or UV light, and the liner is pulled back out of the line, leaving a coating of cured resin that seals any cracks in the pipe. This method is highly effective and can even be used in pipes with sharp bends.

Pipe bursting involves pulling a bursting head through the damaged pipe. The bursting head is a little larger than the diameter of the line, so it breaks the existing pipe apart, pushing it outward into the surrounding soil. Simultaneously, a new pipe is pulled behind the bursting head to replace the old pipe. This is a great method for replacing badly damaged pipes without major excavation.

What Is Trenchless Sewer Repair Used For?

Trenchless pipe repair can be used to fix many plumbing problems, particularly with the home’s sewer line. Sewage backups and sewer line leaks often result from invading tree roots, clogs, old age, or damaged pipe sections. Professionals can remove any invading roots or obstructions using hydrojetting or a rooter and then repair or replace the damaged line using one of the trenchless sewer line repair methods above.

These trenchless methods are also a great way to replace old, corroded, or outdated pipes without having to excavate. Trenchless repair may also be able to remedy minor pipe misalignment and sagging. The next time a home needs sewer line repair, plumbers can determine whether trenchless sewer repair can be used.

What Are Some Benefits of Trenchless Pipe Repair?

Just as trenchless pipe repair has many applications, it also has many benefits and advantages over traditional repair methods involving plumbing excavation and digging. Some benefits of trenchless sewer repair include:

• Less mess: Excavating an underground pipe involves digging up the lawn and landscape or even demolishing parts of the driveway or sidewalk. Trenchless repair saves the yard from looking like a construction site.

• Saves time: Trenchless pipe repair typically takes less time than plumbing repairs involving excavation, which can take much longer to complete because of the digging necessary. 

• Saves money: Since trenchless repair typically takes fewer labor hours and involves less heavy machinery, it tends to be less expensive than conventional repair methods. Additionally, homeowners don’t have to worry about the costs of fixing the landscaping or driveway after excavation.

• Long-term peace of mind: The materials used in trenchless repair, such as polyethylene piping and epoxy resin, are durable and resistant to corrosion, so homeowners can expect their newly repaired or replaced pipes to last.

With all these benefits, it’s no wonder that trenchless sewer repairs are becoming the gold standard, and plumbing excavation is only used when necessary!

About Guardian Plumbing and Drain

Guardian Plumbing and Drain is a reliable local plumbing company serving Cobourg and the surrounding areas. They provide free estimates, same-day service, and financing options. Call them today for trenchless sewer repair in Cobourg, ON. 

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