Over time, sewer lines clog, start to corrode and deteriorate, and eventually need to be repaired or replaced. Thanks to advancements in trenchless technology, you no longer have to tear up your yard to repair a damaged sewer line. Since it is a relatively new option for residential customers, you may be wondering exactly what trenchless plumbing involves. Knowing the facts before you experience a major water or sewer line problem can help you make the right decision when the need arises.
What Is Trenchless Plumbing?
As the name suggests, trenchless plumbing or trenchless sewer repair circumvents the need for excavation. Instead of bringing in heavy equipment to dig invasive trenches and physically remove the pipe from the ground, trenchless repair methods require only two small access holes at either end of the pipe.
There are two primary methods of trenchless sewer replacements: pipe lining and pipe bursting.
- With pipelining, a new pipe is installed inside the interior of the existing sewer line by inserting an epoxy-coated sleeve into the sewer drain. The sleeve is then inflated and allowed to cure, which creates a new pipe within the old one.
- With the pipe bursting method, a device is inserted into one end of the sewer line which breaks up the old pipe as it moves forward. Attached to the back of the device is a new, flexible sewer line that instantly occupies the space the old sewer line once took.
6 Advantages of Trenchless Sewer Repair
1. Minimal Digging
Unlike traditional repair methods, trenchless plumbing doesn’t rely on invasive evacuation to locate and repair water or sewer line issues. Most of the time, problems can be located and repaired using only two small access points at either end of the pipe. Because there is minimal digging, repairs can be completed quickly with little disruption to landscaping and pavement.
2. Seamless Replacement Pipes
Older plumbing pipes are likely made from clay, concrete, cast iron, or PVC pipe. Each of these materials can be punctured or broken. With trenchless pipe replacement, pipes are replaced with high-density polyethylene (HDPE). This material is seamless and stronger than other materials.
3. Prevents Future Problems
The pipes used for trenchless pipe repairs are long-lasting and designed to improve water flow. The materials reduce clogging, tree root invasion, leaks, and corrosion. Pipes lined with epoxy resin can easily last up to 50 years or longer.
4. Saves Money
With trenchless plumbing technology, labor costs are dramatically reduced. There’s no crew of workers digging up the lawn and driveway and no costs afterward to repair the damage left behind. All of these factors make trenchless plumbing less expensive than traditional sewer line repairs.
5. Versatility
Trenchless plumbing technology can be applied in a wide variety of situations including aging sewer lines, tree root invasions, and clogged sewer lines. A sewer camera inspection can quickly identify the exact location of a clogged or damaged pipe saving time and money. A trained technician can then recommend the right repair option to restore the line’s integrity.
6. Proven Results
While most people consider trenchless sewer repair relatively new, the technology has been around since the early 1970s. Originally used in commercial and industrial projects, trenchless technology is now becoming widely available to residential customers. The lining materials and techniques have evolved over the years and homeowners can count on long-lasting repairs. Trenchless technology offers many benefits and can be a cost-effective way to solve many sewer and water line problems.
Is Trenchless Plumbing Repair Right for You?
In most cases, a new sewer line can be installed within the old line without any disruption to lawns, driveways, sidewalks, or landscaping. Trenchless sewer line repair or replacement is a good alternative to traditional excavation methods in many circumstances, including:
- Pipes damaged by movement in the ground
- Installation of larger water lines to the home
- Blocked pipes that have burst due to tree roots
- Corrosion in cast-iron pipes
The extent of the sewer line damage determines whether a trenchless repair is a viable option. Some sewer line problems can only be properly addressed using conventional repair methods. Pipes with catastrophic damage are rarely good candidates for trenchless repairs.
When choosing trenchless plumbing repair, it is important to find someone who is well trained and experienced. Not all sewer pipes are the same, and not all plumbing issues are the same. Choosing a plumbing contractor with a proven track record is important no matter what type of plumbing repair you need.
Trust a Professional Plumber for Sewer Line Repairs
The professionals at Simply Green Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter have the training and experience to handle all of your plumbing needs. If you’re experiencing sewer line problems, we are pleased to offer trenchless technology repair to eliminate property damage and reduce the time associated with sewer line replacement. Call us at (408) 716-1686 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
Our technicians have over 30 years of plumbing experience. We understand that plumbing emergencies can happen at any time, that’s why we offer emergency plumbing services at no extra cost.