One of the more expensive home repairs is pipe replacement. Over the decades, the materials used to make plumbing pipes have changed a lot. From iron, galvanized steel, and plastic. In an older home with original plumbing, there is a good chance that the plumbing is nearing the end of its lifespan. While proper maintenance can prolong the life of plumbing pipes, eventually natural wear and tear will take its toll. Pipes made out galvanized steel are particularly susceptible to sediment buildup. Trenchless pipe repair, also known as pipe relining, is a method of repairing plumbing pipes from the inside out. Advances in plumbing technology have made this method and effective way of repairing old pipes and prolonging the life of a plumbing system.
What is Trenchless Pipe Repair?
Trenchless pipe repair works by using a resin-based or epoxy based substance. The substance is pumped into the broken or damaged pipe, where it coats the inside of the pipe and seals any leaks or cracks. This creates a pipe within a pipe. Trenchless pipe repair saves time because it does not require the same amount of manual labor. As opposed to traditional methods, extensive digging is not required.
The Benefits of Trenchless Pipe Repair
Trenchless pipe repair is a good option for many homeowners because it keeps their existing plumbing system intact. While trenchless pipe repair may seem like a more expensive option, it actually can be more cost effective because it reduces the amount of manual labor. Other methods of repair involved countless man hours, digging and tearing up the ground, which can add up over time in labor costs, not to mention the cost of landscaping. And since the ground doesn’t have to be torn up in order to make repairs, there is less hassle, less mess, and less disruption to daily life.
In some cases, trenchless pipe repair may not be possible. In instances where there are other utility pipes nearby, trenchless pipe repair may not be the best solution to prevent damage to neighboring pipes. The appropriateness and effectiveness of trenchless pipe repair should be on a case by case basis. Contact a trenchless pipe repair specialist to determine if this is the best method for you.