Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Trenchless Pipe Repair

What Is Trenchless Sewer Repair?

There’s no question that certain plumbing issues can be a massive headache. Everyone has dealt with a clogged toilet or a slow sink drain before, but the more serious issues — those that lie under the surface — are a little more challenging. If a homeowner starts experiencing sewer line issues, they may conjure thoughts of heavy equipment tearing up their yard in order to replace the sewer line. These types of plumbing repairs are certainly labor-intensive and can be expensive. 

However, trenchless repair is a quicker and often cheaper alternative to traditional sewer line repairs that require excavation. Trenchless sewer repair is what it sounds like. It’s a repair on the sewer line that doesn’t require digging a trench to access the line and is minimally invasive. Read on to learn more about this innovative plumbing repair option and when it’s appropriate. 

How Does Trenchless Pipe Repair Work?

Trenchless repairs can be done in several ways, including pipe bursting, slip lining, and cured-in-place pipe lining. Which method is appropriate for the repair will depend on a number of variables. A plumber can determine the best trenchless repair method for the problem. Here’s a quick look at all three trenchless repair options. 

Pipe bursting is the process of breaking the old line apart while adding a new one in its place — all without digging a trench. To do this, plumbing experts dig two holes,  one at each end of the pipe,  or use existing access points. They then attach a bursting head to the end of the cable. Behind the bursting head is a flexible pipe. They will pull the bursting head through one hole and out the other using the cable. This breaks apart the old line and puts the new one in its place. 

Slip lining uses a similar method, but instead of breaking the old pipe apart, the plumbers simply install a new, smaller line inside the old one. Finally, the cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining method involves pulling an epoxy pipe lining through an old or damaged pipe. The lining will then cure in place in a matter of hours. Of course, the slip lining and CIPP method require any obstructions inside the line to be cleared beforehand.  

When Is Trenchless Pipe Repair Appropriate?

Trenchless repair isn’t used or needed for every plumbing issue. These types of repairs are often used for sewer line repair or replacement. Because the sewer line is underground, trenchless repair is minimally invasive and time-efficient, making it an excellent option for homes with sewer line issues. 

If a sewer line is old, corroded, cracked, or damaged by tree roots,  ground shifts, or another cause, sewage could leak into the ground. Sometimes, these issues can also cause a backed-up sewer line, which is neither pleasant nor something homeowners want to live with for long. Trenchless sewer line repair can address and fix many of these sewer line issues, depending on the extent of the damage. 

Why Choose Trenchless Repair?

Trenchless sewer repair is ideal for homeowners who want to experience minimal disruption, save money, and have their sewer line repaired quickly. Traditional sewer line repair involves digging a trench, which means tearing up the grass, landscaping, and possibly even parts of the sidewalk or driveway, depending on the sewer line's location. With trenchless repair, two holes are dug at either end of the pipe, or existing sewer access points can be used, preventing digging altogether and allowing for a minimally invasive repair. 

Since trenchless repair is a more streamlined process that doesn’t require excavation, it’s usually cheaper than traditional repair. It’s also quicker, meaning the household can return to normal much faster than it could otherwise. Trenchless repair could be an ideal option for homeowners experiencing significant sewer line issues.    

About Magic Plumbing 

Magic Plumbing has more than 40 years of expertise serving San Francisco and the surrounding areas. They offer convenient scheduling, 24/7 live answers, and fast, prompt service. Call them today for trenchless sewer line repair in San Francisco, CA. 

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