Trenchless sewer repair is a method of repairing or replacing damaged or broken sewer lines without digging long trenches. This type of repair is a more efficient and less disruptive alternative to traditional sewer repair methods, which often require extensive digging and can take weeks or even months to complete.

Trenchless Sewer Repair Methods

Several methods can be used for trenchless sewer repair, including pipe lining, pipe bursting, and horizontal directional drilling. Keep reading to learn more. 

Pipe Lining

Pipe lining involves inserting a new, seamless pipe inside the existing damaged pipe. This is done using a process called cured-in-place pipe (CIPP), in which a resin-impregnated tube is inserted into the damaged pipe.

The resin is then cured using heat or UV light, creating a strong, durable new pipe within the old one.

Pipe Bursting

Pipe bursting is a method of replacing an existing pipe by breaking it up and replacing it with a new pipe. This is done using a machine that pulls a bursting head through the old pipe, breaking it into small pieces as it goes. Then, the bursting head is attached to a new pipe, which is pulled through the old pipe’s path, replacing the old pipe as it goes.

Horizontal Directional Drilling

Horizontal directional drilling (HDD) is a method of installing a new pipe underground without excavation. It involves drilling a small hole at the surface and then using a steerable drill to bore underground and install the new pipe. HDD is often used when installing new pipes under roads, rivers, or other obstacles that would be difficult or impossible to dig through.

Benefits of Trenchless Sewer Repair

Regardless of the method used, trenchless sewer repair has several benefits over traditional methods. One of the main advantages is that it requires minimal excavation, which means that it can be done much more quickly and with less disruption to the surrounding area. This is especially important in urban areas with limited space, and the disruption caused by traditional excavation methods could be significant.

Another benefit of trenchless sewer repair is that it is less costly than traditional methods. Because it requires less excavation, there are fewer materials and labor costs involved. It is also less disruptive, which means that businesses and homeowners can continue with their daily activities while the repair work is being done.

In addition to these benefits, trenchless sewer repair is also more environmentally friendly than traditional methods. Because it involves less excavation, there is less impact on the surrounding area and less risk of damage to plants and wildlife.

Overall, trenchless sewer repair is a more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods of repairing or replacing damaged sewer lines. In addition, it requires minimal excavation and is less disruptive, making it an ideal choice for urban areas where space is limited, and disruption needs to be kept to a minimum.

Is Trenchless Sewer Repair Right For Me? 

To determine whether trenchless sewer repair is the best option for a particular situation, a professional plumber will first need to assess the condition of the damaged sewer line. This may involve using a video camera to inspect the inside of the pipe and identify any problems, such as cracks, blockages, or tree roots that have grown into the pipe. 

Once the problem has been identified, the plumber can recommend the best repair method. If the pipe is simply damaged but still structurally sound, pipe lining may be the best option. This involves inserting a new pipe inside the old one, creating a seamless, long-lasting repair.

If the pipe is severely damaged or too far gone to be repaired, pipe bursting may be the best option. This involves breaking up the old pipe and replacing it with a new one, which can be done with minimal disruption to the surrounding area.

If the damaged pipe is located under a road, river, or another obstacle that would be difficult or impossible to dig through, horizontal directional drilling may be the best option. This involves drilling a small hole at the surface and then using a steerable drill to bore underground and install the new pipe.

Trenchless Sewer Repair Process

Once the repair method has been determined, the plumber will begin the repair process. For example, if pipe lining is used, the plumber will first clean the inside of the damaged pipe using a high-pressure water jet. This removes any debris or blockages that could interfere with the repair process. 

Next, the plumber will insert the resin-impregnated tube into the damaged pipe and position it to cover the damaged area. The resin is then cured using heat or UV light, creating a strong, seamless new pipe within the old one.

If pipe bursting is used, the plumber will first dig a small access hole at either end of the damaged pipe. Then, the bursting head is inserted into one end of the pipe and pulled through to the other end, breaking up the old pipe as it goes and pulling the new pipe behind it.

If horizontal directional drilling is being used, the plumber will first mark the location of the damaged pipe and the desired path for the new pipe. They will then drill a small hole at the surface and use a steerable drill to bore underground and install the new pipe.

Have Questions? Contact Goodbee Plumbing Today

Regardless of the method used, the expert team at Goodbee Plumbing will ensure that the repair is done correctly and that the new pipe is appropriately connected to the existing sewer system. Once the repair is complete, the plumber will test the new pipe to ensure it is functioning correctly and that there are no leaks.

Trenchless sewer repair is a modern, efficient, and cost-effective method of repairing or replacing damaged sewer lines. It requires minimal excavation and is less disruptive than traditional methods, making it an excellent choice for urban areas where limited space and disruption need to be kept to a minimum. Whether using pipe lining, pipe bursting, or horizontal directional drilling, one of our professional plumbers will be able to assess the condition of the damaged pipe and recommend the best repair method, ensuring that the repair is done correctly and that the new pipe is functioning properly. Click here to schedule your service or give us a buzz at 985-307-5815.