More Than Just a Clog: When Plumbing Issues Require Pipe Replacement

A one-time clog in your sewer line should not cause you much concern. However, if your sewer line is regularly clogging up, and normal fixes like hydrojetting aren’t working, you might have an issue bigger than a clog.

In this instance, you may have broken and corroded pipes. These problems will cause repeat clogs and future backups in your home if not addressed. If this rings true for you, then you need a more permanent solution to your clogged pipes.

You can decide between two solutions: pipe lining or traditional dig-and-replace methods. Advanced Trenchless Solutions explains the difference between the two methods so you can choose the right one for your home.

Traditional Dig-and-Replace Pipe Repair

If any of your neighbors have had similar sewer problems, then you’ve probably seen the trench dug in their yard. Traditional sewer pipe repair involves heavy machinery and more manpower to accomplish. It involves digging a trench in your yard to access the broken pipes.

From there, the old, cracked pipe is removed and replaced with a new pipe. After that, the hole is backfilled with dirt. The area will then be restored as much as possible to the way it was before. However, you might have some landscaping loss in the process.

Advantages of Dig-and-Replace Pipe Repair

This method is tried and true, and that’s why so many people think it’s the only option to repair broken pipes. Traditional dig-and-replace works for many types of pipes, including PVC, cast iron, clay, and more. Plus, traditional repair methods often align with local building codes and regulations.

Disadvantages of Dig-and-Replace Pipe Repair

If you’ve spent a lot of time making your front yard look beautiful, you may be dismayed to see it ripped out during traditional dig-and-replace pipe repair. The disruption from excavating the area can cause problems for your neighbors, such as if the sidewalk is torn away, and can displace local wildlife. This process is also time-consuming and can be very expensive.

What are your other options? Let’s take a look at pipe lining as a sewer pipe repair method.

Pipe Lining Pipe Repair

Pipe lining is another method of repairing sewer lines. Also called cured-in-place pipe (CIPP), this method involves digging a small access point in your yard and forcing a liner into your existing pipes. It is then cured in place and can be used very quickly after installation.

It is not technically a new pipe, but rather like-new, ensuring that any cracks or corrosion are covered up and no longer an issue. Though it’s not a new pipe, pipe lining can still withstand up to 50 to 100 years as a permanent repair.

Advantages of Pipe Lining

There are many benefits to pipe lining for sewer repair.

Pipe lining is a minimally invasive process that will leave the majority of your yard just as you had it. A small access hole is needed to reach the sewer pipe; other than that, no other digging is required.

This process is much faster than the traditional dig-and-replace method and can cost less. It is environmentally friendly and can repair your leaky and corroded pipes with minimal disturbance.

Disadvantages of Pipe Lining

There are a few disadvantages to pipe lining. One is that pipe lining does not work well with Orangeburg pipes, which were used in the 1970s. These pipes can only be lined when in good condition.

Pipe lining also won’t work with extremely fragile or deteriorated pipes. At that point, you may have to consider pipe bursting instead. In addition, if you have tree roots invading your pipes, pipe lining won’t necessarily fix that issue.

That would be another situation where you might need pipe bursting to remove tree roots.

Overall, pipe lining is a better solution than traditional pipe repair due to the lower cost and less disruption of your yard.

Repair Your Sewer Line with Advanced Trenchless Solutions

Advanced Trenchless Solutions is your local pipe repair company in Wisconsin. We can complete most sewer replacements in one day, meaning you won’t have to worry about using your plumbing for longer than a few hours.

We can handle everything from replacing lead service lines to water line installation. With ATS, you’re getting a cost-effective and quick solution to most common sewer line problems.

Give us a call today at 844-513-4106 or schedule an inspection online.