Pipe bursting and pipe relining have the same goal: replace an existing pipe with a new one, without digging a huge trench and physically removing the original pipe. This is a tall order. Both pipe bursting and pipe relining accomplish this goal, but they come at it from drastically different perspectives. When you compare the process and the effects, which one is right for you should soon come to light.
Pipe bursting lets you increase the size of your pipe
Pipe bursting is true to the name. The old pipe is split with a bursting head, then your new pipe is dragged into place behind it. Pipe bursting also allows you to increase the size of your pipe if you so desire. After the original bursting head, an extender can be fitted between the new pipe and the bursting head. This slides the dirt and stones out of the way, making room for a larger pipe where your smaller one once was. Pipe relining does not allow you to increase the size of your pipe.
Pipe relining lasts a long time
Pipe relining replaces your pipes with something very durable. The mixed resin and epoxy pipe can last decades with basic maintenance and upkeep. This vastly cuts down on the number of problems you can expect to have with your pipes. Relined pipes have longevity on their side. The result with pipe bursting depends on what kind of pipe you place in the newly formed trench. Some pipes will last a long time, and some will only have an average lifespan. Pipe relining guarantees a long-lasting pipe.
Pipe bursting can affect some soil types more
Pipe bursting is a form of trenchless pipe repair, but it can still impact the landscape that it’s placed it. The act of ripping through the pipe tends to cause a disturbance in the soil. This is especially pronounced when using pipe bursting in sandy soil. When the soil is loose already, the effects of pipe bursting can reach beyond the area of the pipe to be replaced. In severe cases, it could even impact the foundation of any buildings or construction happening in the area. Before pipe bursting is done, a simple soil study can determine how likely problems are to occur; well-packed, less sandy soil often doesn’t have a problem.
Pipe relining typically costs more
Which process costs the most? Pipe bursting and pipe relining can get expensive. The final price of any job depends on a collection of different factors. The low end of average prices for pipe relining is higher than the low end for pipe bursting, but that doesn’t always mean that pipe relining is always more expensive. Reach out to a professional for an estimate, and find out which method of trenchless pipe repair best suits your project.
Pipe relining and pipe bursting both replace your pipe without a trench. In other ways, however, they vary greatly. Pipe relining can be more expensive, but it lasts a long time. Pipe bursting can damage the foundations of nearby buildings if used in the wrong soil. Only a professional can tell you which method is best for you.