Underground pipe lining is an essential aspect of any property. If you’re a homeowner, engineer, or contractor, you probably know how stressful failed underground pipes can be. They destroy structures and landscapes, and they can even introduce mold.
There are two main types of underground pipe lining: trenchless and trench pipe repair. The latter is a more traditional approach that requires contractors to dig out and replace the entire failed line. It can be expensive and destructive; hence experts favor the trenchless alternative.
Read on as we explore some of the perks of trenchless pipe repair and how it can benefit underground pipe lining.
What is Trenchless Pipe Repair?
Trenchless pipe repair is a technique experts use to restore failing underground pipes without extensive excavation. It has become popular because it’s non-invasive and offers benefits over conventional trench repair.
The most widely used form of trenchless repair is cured-in-place pipe repair (CIPP). It requires experts to insert a flexible epoxy liner in the damaged one. Afterward, they expand it with water or air pressure to fit the line inside and cure it with heat or UV light. By now, specialists have created a new pipe within the old one, sealing up any cracks.
Types of Trenchless Pipe Repair
Aside from CIPP, trenchless pipe repair comprises other methods, including:
Pipe Bursting
Pipe bursting is a trenchless repair method that requires experts to pull a bursting head through the damaged line, breaking it apart and pushing out any debris and clogs. The new pipe is connected to the busting head’s end; hence it follows closely behind and replaces the old line.
Slip Lining
Slip lining involves the insertion of a smaller-diameter pipe into the existing line. The new pipe serves as reinforcement and is particularly useful when the former pipe needs support. Sometimes, however, experts use it to change the initial pipe’s purpose. For instance, a line that carries oil can carry other materials with slip lining.
Pipe Relining
Pipe relining is an eco-friendly and sustainable method of supporting old pipes. It is used in CIPP scenarios to reinforce epoxy pipes with resin. It is versatile, as it works with PVC, clay, steel, and concrete pipes.
Benefits of Trenchless Pipe Repair
Trenchless pipe repair methods have several benefits over conventional methods. Here are some of these perks:
It is Cost-effective
Trenchless pipe repair methods are more cost-effective than traditional methods, as they help avoid excavation, repair, and replacement costs. Additionally, trenchless repair takes significantly less time to complete, minimizing downtime. This is especially beneficial in commercial property scenarios, where downtime can directly equate to losses.
Minimally Disruptive
Due to its non-invasive nature, property owners can avoid damage to their buildings, landscapes, roads, and gardens. Trenchless pipe repair requires minor access points to allow experts to reach the damaged line. In contrast, trench repair requires experts to dig out the entire line, causing significant damage and incurring expensive costs.
Durable
Trenchless methods like CIPP and pipe relining use epoxy, a durable substance, to support the failing lines. Epoxy can resist corrosion, wear, and root intrusion, making it a long-lasting alternative. CIPP pipes can extend the lifespan of a pipe system by up to 50 years.
Eco-friendly
CIPP relines old pipes with epoxy, an organic and plant-based material. It is biodegradable and doesn’t harm the environment. Trenchless pipe repair also generates less noise, carbon, and other waste than trench pipe repair. Hence, it is an environmentally safe option that experts can safely redo.
Sustainable
Pipe relining is safe to use to support failing pipes. Relined pipe systems are known to last over a century, making the process affordable and sustainable.
Versatile
Trenchless pipe repair methods are a versatile alternative to trench pipe repair, as experts can apply them to various pipes and in different situations.
Trenchless pipe repair methods can benefit property owners in various ways. The most prominent is the minimal disruption, as well as increased sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Property owners and managers can protect their sidewalks, landscapes, and roads using these methods.
If you’re a Dallas resident with underground pipe problems, then you need professional services. At Dallas CIPP, our expert team has the expertise and equipment to safely handle pipe issues and return your property to its pre-damage state. Contact us, and we’ll conduct a video inspection to determine the most suitable trenchless method.