Introduction to Pipe Relining
Pipe relining is a revolutionary trenchless method for repairing damaged drainage pipes without the need for extensive excavation. At Penshurst Plumbing, we specialise in this innovative technique that can restore your plumbing system to full functionality.
Rather than digging up pipes and replacing them entirely, pipe relining involves inserting a thin, resin-coated liner into the existing pipe. The liner is then inflated, bonding to the inner walls of the pipe to form a smooth, watertight seal. Once cured, it essentially creates a new pipe within the old one.
The benefits of pipe relining over traditional pipe replacement are significant. Overall, relining is a cost-effective and convenient solution for restoring your plumbing.
It is minimally invasive, avoiding the property damage and disruption caused by digging trenches. Repairs are also long-lasting, with liners that can extend the lifespan of pipes by 50 years or more.
If you have noticed signs of pipe damage like leaks, reduced water flow or sinkholes, pipe relining may be the answer. Contact our team at Penshurst Plumbing to learn more about this pipe repair technique and how we can implement it for your home or business.
What is Pipe Relining?
Pipe relining is a process that repairs damaged pipes by inserting a resin-coated liner into the existing pipe. This liner is made of materials like epoxy resin or polyester felt that have been impregnated with a thermoset plastic resin.
Once inserted, the liner is inflated with air pressure, causing it to tightly adhere to the inner walls of the pipe. The resin is then cured, either by introducing hot water or steam, or via UV light. As it hardens, the liner forms a smooth, seamless, jointless inner pipe that essentially creates a new pipe within the old one.
The resin-saturated liner bonds to the aged pipe, restoring structural integrity and providing leak protection. It resolves issues like cracks, corrosion and root intrusion without the need to fully replace the pipe. Pipe relining is a cost-effective, convenient solution that can extend the lifespan of your pipes by decades.
At Penshurst Plumbing, our skilled technicians use industry-leading pipe relining methods and materials. We can assess damage in your pipes through CCTV drain inspections and determine if relining is the right solution. Contact us to learn more about restoring your plumbing with pipe relining.
How Pipe Relining Compares to Full Replacement
When faced with damaged pipes, homeowners often wonder whether to opt for pipe relining or full replacement. While replacement involves removing the old pipe and installing a new one, relining creates a new pipe within the existing pipe using epoxy resin. Here’s how the two options compare:
Cost
Full pipe replacement can cost $2,000 to $8,000 on average, varying based on factors like pipe length and material. Pipe relining averages $3,000 to $7,000 for a whole house, making it the more budget-friendly option in most cases.
Time
Replacing pipes is highly disruptive, taking 1-2 weeks with trenches dug throughout the property. Pipe relining is much quicker, usually completed in 1-3 days with minimal invasive work.
Property Damage
Digging extensive trenches to access and replace pipes inevitably causes property damage. Relining involves small access points only, limiting disturbance to landscaping, driveways and structures.
Longevity
With proper installation, relined pipes can last 50 years or longer. Replacement pipes may need replacing again in 25-30 years. In terms of lifespan, pipe relining provides better value.
In many situations, pipe relining is the superior choice over replacement. The process is faster, less invasive, more affordable, and provides long-lasting results. Contact the team at Penshurst Plumbing to see if your pipes are suitable candidates for pipe relining.
The Process of Pipe Relining
The pipe relining process begins with an inspection of your pipes. Our plumber will use a special CCTV camera to examine the interior condition and locate any damage. This allows us to determine if your pipes are suitable candidates for relining.
Once deemed relinable, we’ll schedule the reline. First, we clean the pipes thoroughly to prepare the surface. We then insert the folded liner into the pipe and inflate it with air pressure so it expands evenly.
The liner is coated with epoxy resin, which we cure using hot water or steam. As the resin hardens, it bonds to the aged pipe walls. This seals cracks and gaps, restoring structural integrity.
After the resin cures thoroughly (usually within a few hours), technicians will cut out the liner material at pipe connections and then seal the openings. This reinstates proper flow.
The relined pipe is now structurally sound again, with restored flow capacity. Your underground pipes are renewed without the need for invasive digging or replacement. The process usually takes 1-3 days with minimal disturbance to your property.
Pipe relining is an innovative, effective method for making durable repairs to your pipes. Contact Penshurst Plumbing to learn more about this trenchless pipe rehabilitation process.
Applications and Limitations of Pipe Relining
Pipe relining is suitable for repairing damaged pipes made from materials like concrete, clay, PVC and cast iron. It works well for pipes suffering from:
- Cracks and leaks
- Blockages from buildup or encrustation
- Corrosion and deterioration
- Invasive tree root growth
However, there are some limitations to pipe relining that may make full replacement the better option:
- Pipes that have collapsed or are severely misaligned may not be good candidates.
- The process can’t resolve joint leak issues.
- Galvanised steel pipes are difficult to properly bond with epoxy resin.
- Very small pipes under 1.5 inches in diameter can’t accommodate liners.
In many cases for residential plumbing, pipe relining is an excellent solution. We take care of the entire process with minimal disturbance. We take care of the entire process with minimal disturbance.
Our team at Penshurst Plumbing can assess your pipes through CCTV inspection and advise if they are suitable for relining.
Pros and Cons of Pipe Relining
Pipe relining offers numerous benefits, making it a recommended repair approach for homeowners and businesses alike:
- Cost savings compared to full replacement, with typical prices ranging from $3,000 to $7,000
- Minimal invasive work and property damage since no trenches are dug
- Fast repairs, usually completed within 1-3 days
- Long-lasting repairs that can extend the lifespan of pipes by 50+ years
- Eliminates pipe leaks, restoring watertight flow
- Resolves common issues like cracks, corrosion and blockages
Potential downsides to consider include:
- Only fixes pipe interiors; unable to repair exterior joint leaks
- Not suitable for severely misaligned or collapsed pipes
- Small diameter pipes under 1.5 inches can’t be relined
- Requires bypass pumping if main sewer line is relined
- Older metal pipes like galvanised steel do not bond well with epoxy resin
In most residential situations, the pros of pipe relining far outweigh the cons. The process renews your plumbing affordably and conveniently.
We highly recommend pipe relining to homeowners needing pipe repairs without major digging or replacement. Contact the team at Penshurst Plumbing to see if your pipes are suitable candidates for relining.
Pipe Relining Cost Factors
The cost of pipe relining can vary based on several factors:
- Type of pipe - Clay, concrete, galvanised steel and cast iron pipes tend to be more expensive to reline than PVC or ABS plastic pipes due to accessibility and resin bonding challenges.
- Pipe size - Larger diameter pipes will require more lining material and take longer to reline, increasing costs.
- Pipe length - Longer pipes mean a longer liner is required, adding to material expenses.
- Accessibility - Ease of accessing the pipes can impact labour time and difficulty.
- Location - Pipe relining may cost more for kitchen lines versus other areas due to appliance disconnections.
- Contractor rates - Labour, material and equipment costs can vary between contractors.
While pipe relining costs are project-specific, they average $3,000 to $7,000 for a full house. While pipe relining costs are project-specific, they average $3,000 to $7,000 for a full house. Overall, pipe relining provides excellent value and long-term savings for homeowners needing pipe repairs.
Relining also avoids future replacement costs for decades.
The team at Penshurst Plumbing offers competitive pipe relining rates. We can provide a detailed quote accounting for all your unique cost factors. Contact us today to learn more and get an accurate estimate for restoring your plumbing through trenchless pipe relining.
FAQs about Pipe Relining
What does pipe relining involve?
Pipe relining involves inserting a resin-coated liner into damaged pipes and inflating it to form a new pipe within the existing one. Epoxy resin is used to coat the liner, which cures to bond with the aged pipe walls.
How long does pipe relining take?
The relining process usually takes 1-3 days from start to finish. Smaller jobs may only take a single day, while whole-house relining could take up to 3 days depending on pipe accessibility.
Is pipe relining less disruptive than replacement?
Absolutely. Pipe relining requires just a few small access points rather than digging large trenches to fully replace pipes. It causes minimal disturbance to structures and landscaping.
Can you reline pipes under concrete?
Yes, pipes under concrete floors and foundations can often be accessed and relined from a nearby opening without jackhammering.
How long do relined pipes last?
Properly installed pipe liners can last 50 years or longer before needing replacement. The epoxy resin provides durable protection from corrosion and leaks.
Can you reline galvanised steel pipes?
Galvanised steel is one material that does not bond well with epoxy resin. We generally recommend replacing these types of pipes.
Conclusion
In summary, pipe relining is an innovative plumbing repair solution that offers immense value for homeowners and businesses alike. Compared to full pipe replacement, relining is far less invasive, faster, more affordable and provides exceptional durability. With a single epoxy resin liner, it can restore cracked, corroded and leaking pipes for 50 years or more.
At Penshurst Plumbing, we are specialists in pipe relining and trenchless pipe repair techniques. Our skilled team can assess your pipes through CCTV camera inspection and determine if relining is suitable. We handle the entire process cleanly and efficiently, with minimal disturbance to your property.
If your plumbing system is showing signs of pipe damage, pipe relining should absolutely be considered before resorting to major pipe replacements. We urge you to contact Penshurst Plumbing to learn more about renewing your pipes through pipe relining.
The process provides long-lasting repairs and significant cost savings. The process provides long-lasting repairs and significant cost savings.