Sewer Liner Repair VS Replacement

If you’re having problems with your sewer, you may wonder about the best options to achieve a worry-free flush. The […]

If you’re having problems with your sewer, you may wonder about the best options to achieve a worry-free flush. The good news is that there is an excellent solution for your situation, and we’re here to help you figure out which one that may be.

In this article, we will talk about traditional sewer replacement using the excavation method with its pros and cons. Then we will discuss The two most popular alternatives: epoxy sewer liner repair and trenchless pipe bursting, and how they have similar advantages and disadvantages depending on your situation.

Key Notes on Your Sewer

Each of the sewer replacement methods has the potential to be either the most or least expensive option for your specific situation.
The most significant factors for choosing the proper method are the amount of access, obstacles, and landscaping in the way of your sewer.
Every plumber has their preferred sewer liner repair or replacement method, which makes getting estimates from various plumbing companies a great idea.

Sewer Replacement

Sewer replacement using the excavation method involves digging up the old sewer pipes and replacing them with new lines. The excavation method is the traditional way of repairing or replacing damaged sewer pipes, and it has both advantages and disadvantages compared to sewer liner repair.

Sewer Replacement Advantages

Can repair or replace any type of pipe: Excavation allows for the repair or replacement of any kind of pipe, regardless of material, which can be especially useful if you have pipes made of materials unsuitable for other repair methods, such as epoxy sewer liner repair.
Can repair severe damage or corrosion: Excavation allows for the repair or replacement of pipes with severe damage or corrosion, which can be especially important if the pipes are in poor condition and are at risk of failing.
Durable and long-lasting: Pipes installed using the excavation method are typically made of durable materials, such as copper, steel, or thick-walled and rigid solid plastics known for their longevity. The new pipes are likely to last for many years with proper maintenance.
Suitable for all soil conditions: Excavation can be done in any soil condition, as the soil is removed and replaced during the process, which can be especially important in areas with soft or unstable soil, where an epoxy sewer liner repair may not be feasible.
Can upgrade to larger or better-quality pipes: Excavation allows for the installation of larger or better-quality pipes, which may be necessary if your home has older, smaller pipes or if you are experiencing frequent clogs or backups.

Sewer Replacement Disadvantages:

Time-consuming: Unlike sewer liner repair, excavation is a time-consuming process, as it involves digging up the old pipes and installing new ones, which can be disruptive to your daily routine and may take several days or even weeks to complete.

Expensive: Depending on your situation, excavation can be more expensive than other repair methods, such as epoxy sewer liner repair or pipe bursting, which can be a significant concern for homeowners on a budget. (On a positive note) You can also consider and take a look at our Trenchless Sewer Repair service.

Disruptive to landscaping: Excavation involves digging up large trenches, which can disrupt landscaping and other above-ground structures. Excavation can be especially concerning if you have a well-manicured lawn or other features you do not want to disturb, unlike sewer liner repair.

Requires specialized equipment: Excavation requires specialized equipment, such as backhoes and bulldozers, which can be expensive to rent or operate. Large excavation equipment can add to the overall cost of the repair or replacement process.

May not be suitable for tight spaces: Excavation may not be suitable for tight spaces, such as under buildings or other structures, where there needs to be more room to dig large trenches. Other repair methods, such as epoxy sewer liner repair or pipe bursting, may be necessary in these cases.

Sewer Liner Repair and Pipe Bursting

Pipe bursting and epoxy sewer liner repair are two alternative methods to repair or replace damaged sewer pipes. Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice for your home will depend on your plumbing system’s specific needs and circumstances of your plumbing system.

Here are some similarities between these two methods:

Both methods use only minimal excavation: Pipe bursting and epoxy sewer liner repair can be done without trenching, making them less disruptive to landscaping and other above-ground structures. Not digging trenches can be especially important if you have a well-manicured lawn or other features you want to avoid disturbing.

Both methods are suitable for tight spaces: Because neither method requires extensive excavation, they can work in tight spaces where traditional pipe replacement may not be feasible. Pipe bursting or sewer liner repair is especially useful when the sewer location is under buildings or other structures.

Both methods can be cost-effective: Pipe bursting and epoxy sewer liner repair can be cost-effective options for damaged sewer pipes, especially compared to traditional excavation where obstacles are present. They can also save money on landscaping costs, as they do not require the excavation of large trenches.

Both methods are quick and easy to install: Pipe bursting and epoxy sewer liner repair can be installed quickly and easily, with minimal disruption to your daily routine. They are typically less time-consuming processes than traditional sewer replacement methods.

Both methods may negate the need for project permitting: Since the sewer piping is not highly modified with either method, the city may not require permitting fees and inspections, which saves you time and money.

Sewer Liner Repair and Pipe Bursting Disadvantages:

Limited pipe diameter options: Epoxy sewer liner repair and pipe bursting typically only allow for the repair or replacement of small- to medium-diameter pipes. If you have a larger line diameter that needs replacement, fully excavated sewer replacement may be necessary.

Both methods use expensive technologically advanced equipment: Though very different technologies, both systems used for these methods cost plumbers into the six figures, with the sewer liner repair equipment being the most expensive. This cost gets passed to the consumer and can offset much of the saved labor expenses.

Risk of future problems: These methods may not address underlying issues that caused the initial pipe damage or clogs, such as sagging sections called “bellies” that collect debris which could lead to future problems. Fully excavated sewer replacement may be more thorough and less likely to cause future problems due to the ability to repack the soil and ensure the sewer is graded properly for even fall for proper drainage.

Limited access to the pipe: If the line is not easily accessible or there are other obstacles, sewer liner repair or pipe bursting may not be possible. In these cases, fully excavated sewer replacement may be necessary.

Limited repair options: Sewer liner repair may not be suitable for certain pipe damage or pipes. Fully excavated sewer replacement may be necessary if the damage is too severe or the pipe material is incompatible with these repair methods.

While epoxy sewer liner repair and pipe bursting can be helpful in certain situations, they may not always be the best choice for repairing or replacing damaged sewer pipes. If the pipe diameter is too large, there are certain physical obstacles, or the repair will remain incomplete, such as with a remaining pipe sag, a fully excavated sewer replacement may be the superior option.

Get a free, no-obligation quote to determine your ideal sewer repair method, including a free sewer video scope inspection by a Bright Side master plumber.

Call or contact us via the website and let us know when to arrive.