Pipe Relining vs Replacement – Which is Better?

Maintaining the plumbing system in your home is crucial for preventing costly water damage and ensuring the comfort and safety of your household. When pipes become damaged or deteriorate, homeowners are faced with the decision of whether to repair or replace them with a new pipe.

Both pipe relining and pipe replacement are two common methods for addressing leaks, cracks, and blockages in old pipes. Let’s compare pipe relining vs replacement.

We’ll examine the pros and cons of each method to help you determine which is better suited for your residential property. Understanding the differences between pipe replacements and relined pipes can guide you in making an informed decision for your home’s plumbing needs.

What is Pipe Relining?

Pipe relining is a modern pipe repair method for fixing broken pipes without the need for excavation. This innovative process involves inserting a resin-coated liner into the existing pipe, which is then inflated and cured to form a new, durable inner pipe.

Pipe relining techniques effectively seal any cracks or leaks, restoring the pipe’s functionality. By utilising this non-invasive method, homeowners can address broken pipe issues efficiently without extensive disruption.

Benefits of Pipe Relining

One of the primary benefits of pipe relining is the minimal disruption it causes to the property. Since there is no need to dig up the ground, relining is less invasive, making it ideal for homes with extensive landscaping or hard-to-reach plumbing systems. The benefits of pipe relining include:

• Minimal disruption: No need for excavation, preserving landscaping and avoiding the hassle of digging up the ground.
• Faster process: The pipe relining process is typically faster than traditional pipe replacement, reducing inconvenience for homeowners.
• Long-lasting solution: Relined sewer pipes can last for decades, providing a reliable solution to plumbing issues.
• Durability: The materials used in relining are resistant to corrosion and root intrusion, ensuring long-term effectiveness.
• Pipe relining cost: Avoiding excavation and reducing labour time can make pipe relining a more cost-effective solution compared to traditional methods.

Overall, pipe relining offers a convenient and cost-effective solution to effectively repair pipes, making it an attractive option for many homeowners.

What is Pipe Replacement?

Pipe replacement is the traditional method of addressing plumbing issues by completely removing and replacing damaged pipes. Most plumbers consider it to be very much a “last resort” option when pipe relining won’t get the job done.

This process involves excavating the area around the faulty pipe, removing the old pipe, and installing a new one. While more invasive than pipe relining, it ensures that all broken pipe sections are fully replaced. This traditional method is often used when dealing with severely damaged pipes that require complete renewal.

Benefits of Pipe Replacement

One of the main benefits of damaged pipe replacement is the opportunity to upgrade to newer, more durable materials. This can be particularly beneficial for older homes with outdated plumbing systems. The benefits of pipe replacement include:

• Upgrading materials: The chance to use newer, more durable materials for improved longevity.
• Comprehensive repair: Ensures all damaged sections are fully replaced, addressing severe pipe damage.
• Thorough inspection: Exposing the entire plumbing system allows professionals to identify and fix additional underlying issues.
• Preventive maintenance: Provides peace of mind that the entire system is in good condition, potentially preventing future plumbing issues.
• Enhanced durability: New pipes, especially PVC pipes, offer better resistance to corrosion and root intrusion.

Overall, pipe replacement offers a thorough and reliable solution for addressing severe plumbing issues, making it a suitable option for ensuring the long-term integrity of your plumbing system. To say that pipe replacement costs can get on the higher side would be an understatement, however, so keep that in mind.

Suitability for Different Situations

Pipe relining is ideal for minor damage or cracks, especially in structurally sound pipes with isolated issues like leaks or root intrusion. It is particularly beneficial for pipes in hard-to-reach areas, such as under driveways or within walls, where excavation is costly and disruptive.

Conversely, pipe replacement is more suitable for severely damaged or collapsed pipes. It ensures complete removal and substitution with new piping when structural integrity is compromised. This method is also recommended for homes with outdated or severely corroded pipes, where relining may not be a long-term solution.

Choosing between drain pipe relining and replacement depends on the pipe’s condition and location. Professional consultation is essential to assess the damage and determine the best solution.

Environmental Impact

Of course, when it comes to weighing up the pros and cons of both pipe relining and damaged drain pipe replacement, the effect that either option has on the environment invariably comes into play.

Sewer pipe relining is often seen as the more environmentally friendly option due to its minimal waste generation and reduced need for excavation, which helps preserve the surrounding landscape and lowers the carbon footprint.

In contrast, pipe replacement involves removing old pipes, potentially adding to landfill waste if not recycled, and disturbing the local ecosystem through excavation. Despite these drawbacks, using modern, eco-friendly materials for new pipes can offset some environmental impacts.

Homeowners should consider the immediate eco-benefits of relining versus the long-term advantages of burst pipe replacement, such as improved water efficiency and reduced leak risks. Consulting with professionals can help determine the most sustainable option for each situation.

Why You Need a Licensed Plumber to Do the Job

Hiring a licensed plumber for a pipe relining project or traditional pipe replacement is crucial for several reasons:

• It ensures a safe and correctly performed process that minimises potential issues down the line.
• You receive an expert assessment of the damaged pipe as well as recommendations for the most suitable solution.
• A licensed plumber has access to specialised equipment like CCTV drain cameras and high-pressure water jets for accurate diagnosis and repair.
• They comply with local regulations and standards to guarantee that your plumbing system meets all safety requirements.
• Experienced plumbers avoid costly mistakes and further damage that can result from DIY pipe repair attempts.

Whether you choose pipe replacements or getting your pipes relined, choosing a professional plumber ensures effective and long-lasting results for your plumbing issues.

Make the Right Choice for Your Home Plumbing

By comparing pipe relining vs replacement, you begin to learn the distinct advantages of each and discover suitable for different situations.

Pipe relining costs are generally significantly lower than excavation and replacement. The process is less invasive, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly, making it ideal for minor damages and hard-to-reach areas. Conversely, pipe replacement is necessary for severely damaged or outdated pipes, ensuring a comprehensive solution that addresses all underlying issues.

Consulting with a professional plumber can provide valuable insights and help determine the best course of action for maintaining a reliable and efficient plumbing system in your home.

Please note: Thanks for reading our blog “Pipe Relining vs Replacement – Which Is Better?”. This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See After Hours Plumbing’s Terms & Conditions here.