Think you need to tear up your yard to fix a sewer line? Think again. Trenchless sewer replacement services are a method plumbers use to repair or replace sewer lines without digging up large trenches on your property. If you’re a homeowner, property manager, or real estate buyer, this method may be a convenient solution.
Key Takeaways
• Minimally invasive technique
• Fast repair time of 1-2 days
• Long-lasting method
• Environmentally friendly technique
• Not suitable for badly damaged pipes
• Costlier than traditional sewer repair
What Is Trenchless Sewer Replacement?
Previously, when plumbers needed to repair your sewer line, they would be forced to dig up trenches in your yard. Depending on the condition of your pipes, this may no longer be necessary.
Trenchless sewer replacement is a modern method plumbers use to repair sewer lines without having to dig large trenches. Plumbers use specialized equipment to access your sewer line through existing drain openings. They then insert a resin-coated liner into your old pipe, inflate the liner, and let it cure. This liner becomes the new inner pipe.
Trenchless sewer replacement came about in 1970 when Eric Wood invented the CIPP (cured-in-place piping) technique to repair ducts for his mushrooms in a way that was least invasive. By the 1980s and 1990s, the technique had evolved significantly, with more advanced materials being used to make stronger and longer-lasting repairs.
This cost-efficient technology has proven to be a game-changer. It can usually be completed in one day and requires a lot less labor than the traditional method.
The Main Types of Trenchless Sewer Replacement
Cured-In-Place Pipe Lining (CIPP)
Cured-in-place pipe lining involves inserting a resin-lined pipe into your damaged sewer line through an already existing drain opening. Once inserted, the pipes are cured in place, creating a new inner pipe.
Pipe Bursting
Pipe bursting involves bursting your old, damaged pipe while simultaneously inserting a new pipe.
Slip Lining
Slip lining is one of the oldest trenchless sewer repair methods. It involves inserting a new, smaller pipe inside the old one.
Spray Lining or Brush Coating
Both spray lining and brush coating apply resin to the inner layers of old pipes, sealing cracks and preventing further corrosion. Spray lining uses a spraying device, while brush coating uses a brush to evenly coat the resin.
Pros of Trenchless Sewer Replacement
Trenchless sewer replacement offers many benefits.
• No yard destruction: The technique is minimally invasive, using existing drain openings.
• Completed in 1-2 days: Because the technique is minimally invasive, it can be completed in a day or two.
• Long-lasting: This technique can last 50-100 years if the new materials are durable.
• Lower labor and restoration costs: Since the technique involves little digging, there are lower labor and restoration costs.
• Safe for homes with landscaping, driveways, and patios: Homeowners get to preserve their landscaping and patio designs.
• Environmentally friendly: This technique minimizes excavation, thereby doing little to no damage to the surrounding environment.
Cons of Trenchless Sewer Replacement
• Not suitable for fully collapsed or misaligned pipes: Fully collapsed or misaligned pipes don’t do well with this method. Badly damaged pipes may need traditional sewer repair services.
• Higher up-front cost: Due to the modern technology used, trenchless sewer replacement is a more expensive service than traditional sewer repair.
• Slight reduction in pipe diameter: Some methods, such as the CIPP and slip lining technique, result in a slight reduction in pipe diameter.
• Requires access points: In order to be minimally invasive, this technique needs an already existing drain opening, which is not always available.
• Limited availability among contractors: Not all contractors provide trenchless sewer replacement services.
Trenchless vs Traditional Sewer Replacement: Which Should You Choose?
If you’re weighing your choices between traditional sewer repair versus trenchless sewer line replacement, here’s a comparison to help you weigh your options.
Age of Your Pipes
Use trenchless sewer replacement services if your pipes are damaged but not heavily damaged or misaligned. If your pipes need to be replaced completely, choose traditional sewer repair.
Budget Concerns
If budget is a priority for you, compare the two prices. Traditional sewer repair services may be a better option if your budget is tight.
Available Access Points
If your pipes have mild to moderate damage and you have available access points, consider trenchless sewer replacement. If access points seem to be non-existent, traditional sewer repair may be the only option.
How Much Does Trenchless Sewer Repair Cost?
According to Angi, the normal range of trenchless sewer repair or replacement costs is between $1,900 and $6,000, with an average cost being $2,900.
Factors that influence cost are:
• Pipe length and depth
• Accessibility
• Soil conditions
• Local permit fees
Common Signs You May Need Sewer Replacement
Here are some common signs you may need to schedule sewer replacement services:
• Gurgling drains
• Sewer odor
• Recurring clogs
• Lush patches in the lawn
• Foundation cracks
Myths About Trenchless Sewer Replacement
While there are pros and cons to trenchless sewer repair, there are some myths we’d like to clear up.
• “It’s always cheaper”: Trenchless sewer repair is a minimally invasive method, but it’s not always cheaper. In fact, depending on your needs, it can cost more upfront.
• “You don’t need to dig at all”: Plumbers don’t need to dig large trenches, but they still need access points. This may require a little digging.
• “It’s a temporary fix”: Fortunately, this is false. Trenchless sewer repair can last 50-100 years if you use durable materials and maintain your pipes regularly.
Is Trenchless Sewer Repair Right for Your Home?
Whether trenchless sewer repair is the right choice for your home depends on several factors.
It’s right for your home if you have minor to moderate pipe damage, there’s tree root infiltration, and you’d like to preserve your landscape or hardscape design.
On the other hand, it’s not right for your home if your pipes have completely collapsed, are severely misaligned, have shifted, or you don’t have access points.
Why Choose Benjamin Franklin for Trenchless Sewer Replacment in Birmingham, AL?
When it’s time to choose a professional plumbing company for trenchless sewer replacement services, trust the team at Benjamin Franklin. Our plumbers have decades of experience, we provide licensed and trenchless-certified professionals, and you’ll get honest and upfront pricing. We also offer live booking and emergency services. Contact us to find out why we’re the right choice.
FAQs
Is trenchless sewer replacement covered by insurance?
General homeowner’s insurance may cover trenchless sewer repair if the damage was caused by a fire, major weather event, or vandalism. However, if the damage is due to wear and tear or age, your insurance may not cover it.
How long does trenchless replacement last?
Trenchless sewer repair can last between 50 to 100 years, depending on the type of materials used for the repair.
Will I have to leave my home during the replacement?
No, it’s usually not necessary to leave your home during the repair, as repairs are relatively quick. Repairs usually last 1-2 days.
Can tree roots grow back after trenchless repair?
Since trenchless sewer repair services don’t remove trees, it’s possible that tree roots can grow back and destroy your pipes again. The only way to prevent tree intrusion is to remove the tree in question.
Final Thoughts
Trenchless sewer repair services can be a great option if you want to avoid digging up your yard. In addition, you’ll get a fast repair that’s long-lasting and environmentally friendly. Is it worth it? Absolutely, if you have mild to moderate pipe damage and you’d like to preserve your property. Book a camera inspection today — we’ll help you decide if trenchless is right for you.