Drain relining is an innovative process used to repair broken or deteriorating drain pipes without the need for major excavation work. This involves inserting a liner or resin-coated flexible tube into the existing pipe and inflating it to take the shape of the pipe.
Once cured, the liner hardens into a tough inner lining, restoring the structural integrity of the drainage system and making it more leak-resistant than before. This process effectively seals cracks, leaks, and various defects. If you’re looking for a solution that avoids fully dismantling the sewer line, trenchless drainage repair is a highly effective method.
Pipe Relining Repairs Damaged Pipes
Pipe relining is used to fix pipes that have cracks, fractures, or leaks. These issues can arise due to age, corrosion, tree root intrusion, ground movement, or poor installation.
Additionally, pipe relining helps prevent joint displacement. In traditional drain systems, separate pipe sections are joined by connectors or joints, which can shift over time due to soil movement, causing misalignment. Drain relining eliminates these joints, creating a seamless pipe that minimizes the risk of future misalignment and damage.
This technique offers a less invasive, cost-effective solution compared to traditional methods, making it ideal for many situations.
Drain Relining Prevents a Crack from Turning into a Fracture
The main reason why pipe relining is performed is to seal any cracks, fractures, or leaks in the existing pipe. The relining process creates a continuous pipe inside of the old pipe by inserting a resin-coated liner inside the affected drain. This helps contain the water rather than allowing it to seep through cracks and leaks, which can contribute to additional damage to surrounding soil and structures.
Drain relining, if the first sign of cracking is attended to, is an excellent preventative step to get in place as a tiny crack, when ignored, can become a damaged drain pipe almost overnight and can cause extensive damage or create a small and ongoing leak, that over time bleeds into the surrounding earth and damages landscape, foundations, and more.
Another Common Cause of Drain Damage Is Root Intrusion
A common cause for drain damage is tree roots in search of moisture and nutrients. When drains crack or joints open, roots may invade them and sprout in the pipe, causing obstructions and further damage. This effectively seals over the problematic areas where roots would typically enter the drain and creates a smooth, seamless surface inside the pipe.
Pipe Relining Prevents Further Damage
If left unchecked, damaged drainage pipes can lead to significant problems like blockages, flooding, and sewage backups. Drain relining offers a proactive solution to address issues early, preventing further damage by strengthening the pipe. The resin-coated liner used in this process hardens into a durable layer inside the existing pipe.
This not only seals cracks and leaks but also enhances the structural stability of the drain. The liner offers better resistance to external pressures and environmental factors than the original pipe material, significantly reducing the chances of future issues like collapse or deformation.
Some pipe relining materials are also resistant to corrosion, which is common in older metal-based systems. Using a corrosion-resistant liner helps protect the pipe from chemical damage caused by acidic or alkaline substances in wastewater, extending the pipe’s lifespan and preventing further wear and tear.
Drain Relining Is More Efficient Than Traditional Pipe Repairs
The main advantage of drain relining is that it minimizes disruption to the surrounding area. Unlike traditional pipe replacement, which often involves excavation and potential damage to landscaping, driveways, or structures, drain relining can usually be done with minimal digging.
Instead of digging up the entire length of the damaged pipe, only small access points at the beginning and end of the affected section are needed, reducing disruption to your property.
Drain relining can be completed much faster than traditional pipe replacement. Depending on the extent of the damage and the pipe’s size, the relining process can sometimes be done in just a few hours, minimizing the impact on your property. And because no extensive excavation is required, the process is less messy as well.
Drain Relining is More Affordable
Compared to traditional methods of pipe replacement, drain relining is usually more cost-efficient since it requires less labor, time, and materials. It also avoids the expense of excavation and restoration, providing a more affordable solution for repairing damaged drainage pipes.
While the initial costs for drain relining may be higher than traditional methods, the overall cost can be lower when you factor in the reduced labor, equipment, and restoration costs involved in excavation. The quicker completion time can also save you on labor costs and the inconvenience caused by longer projects.
Drain Relining is a Permanent Solution
Drain relining offers a long-term solution for repairing damaged pipes, with the new lining expected to last for many years. The durable, joint-less lining creates an even surface inside the pipe, reducing the likelihood of clogs, blockages, or corrosion, and extending the life of the drainage system.
This seamless new pipe can last for 50 years or more, eliminating worries about future issues in the repaired section and minimizing potential disruptions.
Professional Help is Key
If you’re experiencing recurring drainage issues like frequent blockages, slow draining, or unpleasant odors, it’s crucial to consult a professional plumber. They can assess the damage and recommend the most suitable repair option, which may include drain relining if the pipes are still viable.
In Summary
Drain relining is a cost-effective, minimally invasive method for repairing damaged drainage pipes, helping to restore the functionality of your plumbing system. If you’re facing drainage problems, consulting with a professional plumber can help determine whether pipe relining is the right solution for your needs.