Everything You Need to Know about Pipe Relining  

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Pipe relining or cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) is a trenchless repair technology that helps us fix cracked, blocked, or leaky pipes. This innovative technique repairs broken or cracked pipes from the inside out without causing any alteration to the underground pipes.  Though underground pipes remain safe from the elements, they often suffer damage resulting from debris, invasive tree roots, blockages, high pressure, poor installation, or cold weather. Replacement of these pipes can be an expensive affair because it involves excavation of the site.     

Pipe relining is considered to be a preferred alternative to replacement because it eliminates the need for digging up the site and re-landscaping it. Air pressure, water, or UV light is used to insert a flexible liner into damaged pipes. A waterproof and corrosion-free seal is created by pouring epoxy or silicate resin into the pipe.  

How does it Work?    

A brief idea of the pipe relining process can help you understand how relined pipes derive their incredible strength.  

  • The first thing to do is to properly clean out the pipe’s damaged or blocked area using robotic cutters or water jetters. 
  • Review the pipe’s damaged area using CCTV inspection technology and determine the most appropriate course of action.  
  • Then, a flexible, resin-infused liner is inserted via the drain and it is inflated with air. A new and watertight pipe is created within the old pipe when the liner is set with UV light and air pressure or water.    

Longevity of Relined Pipes  

There is a common perception among people that pipe relining only provides a temporary fix that gives us a little more time to prepare a more permanent solution. However, in reality, relined pipes can last for decades as they create brand-new pipes.  

While there is no need to worry about the durability of pipe relining, there are certain things you can do to extend its service life. Tree roots are extremely common causes of underground plumbing issues. Therefore, if there are trees around the location of your underground pipes, you may have to rethink your landscaping preferences. Also, timely and regular plumbing maintenance can help address issues before they turn into serious problems.  

When Should We Choose Pipe Relining?    

Pipe relining is an excellent option to repair old and damaged pipes that can add tremendous value under certain circumstances.  

  • Relining is ideal for pipes that are underneath driveways, buildings, or landscaping, or positioned down an embankment. The cost of excavation can be prohibitive in these situations.  
  • If you need to fix your pipes quickly, it is always the better option because it takes a lot of time to excavate and rebuild the site. 
  • Businesses and individuals looking to minimise their carbon footprint should always opt for pipe relining because this method is less invasive and has a lower impact on the environment.  
  • Excavation of large areas comes with the risk of injuries, accidents, complaints, and service disruptions. Pipe relining helps address all these issues to a great extent. 
  • Finally, it is worth remembering that pipe relining also minimises expenses because it involves less equipment, less labour, fewer parts, and a considerably lower need for reconstruction of surrounding areas.  

If you need more information about pipe relining or any other plumbing requirements you have, please get in touch with our expert technicians at Austeck.