What Is Trenchless Pipe Repair?
Any kind of plumbing issue can be a hassle. However, when the issue affects an underground pipe, whether a water line or the main sewer pipe, the solution can almost be as much of a headache as the problem itself. The affected pipe may need to be excavated for repairs or replacement. That usually means heavy equipment, demolition, and a big, unsightly trench running through the yard.
Fortunately, many underground plumbing issues can be resolved using trenchless pipe repair. As the name suggests, trenchless repair involves fixing or effectively replacing a damaged pipe with minimal digging and destruction. But there’s more to it than that—this article will explain how trenchless pipe repair works, what it can be used for, and its main benefits.
How Does Trenchless Pipe Repair Work?
There are three main methods for trenchless sewer repair, each with advantages in specific situations: pipe bursting, slip lining, and cured-in-place pipe (CIPP).
- Pipe Bursting involves forcing a “bullet” or “bursting head” through the damaged pipe, breaking it apart, and pushing it outward. Simultaneously, a new pipe is pulled behind the bursting head to replace the old pipe.
- Slip Lining – With this method, the old pipe is left intact, and a slightly smaller pipe is inserted. The main downside of this method is that the new pipe’s diameter is a little smaller, potentially reducing the flow capacity.
- CIPP (cured-in-place-pipe) – With CIPP, a resin-soaked felt liner is fed into the old pipe and then inflated so that it conforms snugly to the interior of the old pipe. A curing agent is then introduced, causing the resin to harden, effectively sealing any leaks and creating a new pipe within the old one.
What Problems Can Be Fixed Using Trenchless Repair?
Trenchless pipe repair can fix a variety of issues. It is sometimes used to repair or replace underground water lines that have ruptured or corroded, but it is most commonly used on sewer lines.
Invading tree roots, corrosion, pipe misalignment, and shifting soil can all cause cracks, leaks, or collapsed sections in a home’s sewer line. Trenchless sewer line repair can resolve these issues by sealing or replacing the damaged pipe. Trenchless pipe repair is also a good way to replace old, outdated pipes made from clay or lead.
What Are the Advantages of Trenchless Pipe Repair?
Trenchless pipe repair involves minimal excavation – usually just a small hole at each pipe end to be repaired. The benefits of trenchless pipe repair stem from this fact:
- Saves money – Less digging means less heavy equipment, fewer workers, and fewer labor hours.
- Saves time – Traditional plumbing excavation and repair can take days and be incredibly disruptive. Trenchless sewer repair can often be done in one day.
- Less destructive – Sewer line excavation often involves tearing up driveways or landscaping, which costs even more money to restore. With trenchless sewer line repair, the damage to the yard is kept to a minimum.
- Durable, longer-lasting plumbing – No matter which method homeowners choose, trenchless repair can add decades of life to their underground pipes thanks to the durable and corrosion-resistant materials used.
Considering these benefits, trenchless pipe repair is quickly becoming the industry standard!
About Henco Plumbing Services
Since its founding in 2015, Henco Plumbing Services has become one of the fastest-growing and top-rated plumbers in Vancouver, WA, and the surrounding areas. With their trustworthy expert technicians, competitive up-front pricing, and outstanding customer service, it’s no surprise they’ve won multiple awards and been named the “Best Plumbers” in Vancouver by Home Advisor and Expertise.com. They also offer same-day service, so don’t hesitate to call Henco for trenchless pipe repair in Vancouver, WA!
