Trenchless Sewer Repair Explained

Understanding Trenchless Sewer Repair and Its Benefits

When a sewer line is damaged, repairing it has traditionally meant digging a trench across the yard to reach the pipe. Trenchless methods can repair and replace sewer lines with far less digging, which is why they are now used on many jobs. This post explains what trenchless sewer repair is and what makes it different, when it can be used, and the benefits it offers for sewer line repair and replacement.

What Is Trenchless Sewer Repair and What Makes It Different?

Trenchless sewer repair is a less invasive method of sewer line repair and replacement that works through small access points instead of an open trench. A new pipe or lining is put in place from those access points, so the existing line can be restored without exposing its full length. Depending on the condition of the pipe, the process either lines the existing sewer line from the inside or pulls a new line through the old one.

Traditional sewer line repair works differently. Reaching a damaged section calls for excavation along the path of the pipe, which can mean digging through a lawn, a driveway, or a patio, and the surface has to be rebuilt once the work is complete. Trenchless pipe repair limits the excavation to the access points, so most of the property above the line is left undisturbed.

When Can Trenchless Sewer Repair Be Used?

Several situations may call for trenchless repair or replacement. Leaking or cracked sewer pipes are common candidates, along with tree root intrusion, which happens when roots find a joint or crack and grow into the line. Aging pipes that are corroded or beginning to deteriorate but have not collapsed can also be good candidates for trenchless pipe replacement.

Not every problem can be corrected with these methods. A collapsed pipe or one that was installed incorrectly generally requires traditional sewer line replacement, since there is no sound pipe left to work with. A professional can inspect the line first with a camera to determine whether trenchless sewer line repair or replacement is an option for the situation. That inspection also shows how much of the sewer line is affected, which is part of deciding between a repair and a full replacement.

Benefits of Trenchless Sewer Repair and Replacement

The main benefit of trenchless sewer line replacement and repair is how little of the property is disturbed. Lawns, mature landscaping, driveways, and walkways stay in place because the work does not require a trench along the length of the line.

These projects are also completed faster than traditional ones, as the crew does not have to open and later close a long excavation. A job that would take several days with traditional sewer line repair methods can often be finished in a much shorter time. The materials used for trenchless pipe repair and replacement are designed to resist corrosion and root intrusion, so the repaired line can last for decades. Cost is another benefit, since trenchless sewer replacement can cost less overall by avoiding the expensive cleanup and restoration of the property and yard that follows a traditional repair.

About Plumbing Pals

Plumbing Pals is a family-owned and operated plumbing, heating, and air conditioning company serving Bensalem, PA, and the surrounding areas. They offer knowledgeable technicians, no-frills, no-fuss services, and nice and professional service. Call them today for trenchless sewer repair and replacement services in Bensalem, PA.