A damaged pipe in your sewer or drain can be a pain. They are inconvenient and difficult to repair. Fortunately, they don’t have to be as complicated as they used to be, as you may not need to dig a trench to get the job done.
While this is true, it raises the question of how much trenchless pipe repair costs. Fortunately, we have all the answers for you. We will look at the types of trenchless repairs, why they are so popular and how much they cost. Read on to learn more!
What is the trenchless pipe method?
Trenchless piping methods are underground constructions which involve the installation, repair and renewal of underground pipes using non-invasive techniques. These non-invasive techniques greatly minimize the need for excavation and, in some cases, eliminate the need for excavation at all.
The trenchless pipe method uses cameras on thin, flexible pipes to accurately inspect and estimate the level of damage. Repairs are then made using a high-tech, flexible, epoxy-saturated tube (liner).
Why do people do Trenchless Piping?
There are several reasons why people choose trenchless pipes, the biggest of which is its non-invasive technique over the traditional method. While not digging a ditch is often seen as the biggest positive, there are other big advantages, and here we look at some of them.
- Ducts without trenches are Faster compared to the traditional method. Think back to the days when you used to excavate yourself and trenchless pipes come out ahead. This can be vital in cases where excavation is highly disruptive.
- Although it may seem expensive, the cost of damage to your property is non-existent compared to the trench method. With trenchless repairs, you don’t have to worry about any secondary damage.
- The trenchless method is convenient for everyone. Whether on the road or at home, you won’t suffer much damage. Less means less stress and a happier situation for everyone involved.
- Trenchless pipe technology is efficient and long-lasting. You don’t have to worry about having a smaller solution because the results are similar to trench repairs.
How much does trenchless pipe repair cost?
Price trenchless pipe repair may vary depending on the trenchless method you use during the repair. Generally, there are three types of trenchless repair methods. This section will compare types of trenchless repairs with traditional repair cost.
1. Break without grooves
This type of repair does not dig, but requires high-tech equipment due to the use of a small tunneling device. On average, breaking trench pipe will cost you between $70 and $220 per foot. This could be as high as $20,000 for a single pipe repair project.
Trench pipe bursting is the trenching technique for the complete replacement of underground pipes. So the repair cost depends on the size and length of the damaged pipe.
Pipe bursting professionals usually do the job in one day. These professionals use a pneumatic head that destroys the old pipe while pulling a new pipe to replace the old pipe.
2. Pipes without trenches
Pipe relining is when a new lining is applied to the old pipe. This is done by creating a layer of epoxy that effectively creates a new pipe inside the old one.
This trenching method is more expensive than the pipe breaking method. It will cost anywhere from $90 to $270 per foot. Work on a pipeline project can cost up to $20,000, similar to the pipe bursting method.
3. Comparison of the traditional method
The traditional method generally involves digging up the entire section of pipe to be replaced. You can usually replace pipes for between $50 and $200 per foot, often a cheaper option for smaller jobs.
Although it may be cheaper, the cost of landscaping and repairs damaged property it can add up quickly. For smaller projects, the traditional method can cost around $6,000 and around $15,000 for larger projects.
For example, if you have to dig up a road to reach the pipeline, you will need to factor in the cost of resurfacing the road. However, these are factors you often don’t have to consider when repairing trenchless pipes.
Factors Affecting the Price of Ditch Repairs
Ditch repair costs vary. For a rough estimate of your ditch repair, there are certain factors that you need to consider. Here are some of them.
- Location – Location has everything to do with the cost of your plumbing repairs. The material the pipeline passes through, the landscape around the pipeline, and the disruption caused will change from one location to another.
- Pipe size – Smaller pipes will usually cost less than larger pipes. The size of your pipe in question will suggest the kind of cost you can expect. That said, even a small pipe can be expensive to repair if other factors come into play.
- Pipeline condition – The damage or condition of the pipe to be replaced will also play a massive role in the cost of the repair. Minor damage usually makes the process easier, while significant damage will mean a more complicated repair.
How to repair trenchless pipes
Whether you’re using trenchless pipe lining or trenchless pipe bursting, there are generally four steps your plumber will follow.
Inspection – Plumbing professional uses cameras on a flexible track attached to a bulkhead to assess pipe damage.
Inspection allows professional plumbing company to estimate the materials needed and the cost incurred.
Cleaning – In most cases, damaged pipes must be cleaned. Cleaning removes debris or other material that may still be present in the pipe and could prevent repair. The cleaning can is done using low pressure or high pressure. But again, it depends on the piping system.
This debris can include trees, clothes, grease and other items harmful to the piping system. Cleaning the duct system allows the repair work to run smoothly and ensures that the repairs last a long time.
Repair – Regardless of the trenching method you have opted for, this is where the installation professional works.
If the liner method is the preferred choice, the installer inserts the epoxy-coated liner into the pipe. The liner is routed using a tube. When it reaches the damaged area, the liner is inflated against the damaged area of the pipe.
The next step is to allow the liner to harden. The tube is then removed and the new tube is in place. Lining is usually favored when the damage to the pipe is not that severe.
The plumber inserts a pneumatic head into the pipe if the bursting method is preferred. The pneumatic head has a new pipe attached, destroying the old pipe while bringing in a new one. This tunnel goes right through the old pipe.
Final inspection – The installer inspects the job to make sure everything is in order. They will also test it to make sure it is working properly.
How to prevent damage to trenchless pipes
While grooveless pipes are long-lasting, they are still subject to damage from careless use or environmental issues.
It is important to know what they are these because the same problems that caused the original pipeline to fail may occur again in the future. So here are the signs to check for to make sure your pipes don’t need to be repaired repeatedly.
Tree root infiltration – Pipes that have been installed for a long time tend to be exposed to trees and plants. These trees can and often do grow through them because of the water content through the pipes.
If you have a tree near your piping systemyou can either install root barriers near the pipe, cut the roots to prevent seepage, or cut down the tree and remove the root system completely.
Lowering sewer lines – Overtime pipes that have been in place for a long time tend to sink due to the ground around them. No matter what your piping system is, it can be affected by soil structure.
Leaving sewer lines will constantly cause blockages in the pipe. If you’re having repeated problems with your pipes, there may be a problem with the soil around them.
Washing the debris – When people throw hard materials or items such as grease on pipes, they tend to cause blockages, increasing pressure in the pipe system and causing damage. You may need to change your drainage habits if a blockage is found during the inspection phase.
Poor maintenance and inspections – Pipes, sewers and drainage systems should be constantly checked or maintained to help identify and solve problems. It’s always good to inspect your drains to prevent minor problems from becoming major.
Final thoughts
Traditional pipe repairs are still quite popular, but they have some huge drawbacks. Trenchless pipe repairs offer a faster solution, less disruption, and often don’t cost much more than the old style of pipe repair.
You can generally expect to pay $50-$250 per foot for trenchless repairs, but as we’ve seen, this can change based on various factors. Hopefully, you now have a clear idea of whether or not trenchless pipe repair is for you.
