Underground plumbing is one of the least noticed modern conveniences. We rely on it day in and day out, and for the most part, people don’t think a thing about it. That is unless there is a problem with drains backing up, pipes linking or underground structural damage that slows down water flow. When a problem with plumbing hits, most people want the problem solved as quickly and as easily as possible.
If an inspection shows that you need an underground pipe replacement, there’s new technology that can help. Trenchless pipe replacement can take care of your underground pipe problems – without having to dig a hole and ruin your landscape.
Trenchless pipe replacement has been around for over 20 years – but it’s considered to be relatively new in the field of plumbing. The next newest pipe repair technique – drain snaking – has been around for over 60 years. Compared to drain snaking and digging up pipes for replacement, trenchless pipe repair is more cost efficient and effective.
The underground repairs are accomplished through a few different trenchless technologies, but both start with a camera inspection. Video camera inspections can help trenchless experts pinpoint exactly where the line is damaged and how that damage is affecting the water or sewage flow. It eliminates a lot of the guesswork and allows your plumber to focus on the techniques and sections of pipe that need work. Knowing exactly where to start repairs and which option to use will reduce your plumbing repair costs and prevent future problems.
In many situations, pipe lining is the best option. It helps restore the structural integrity of underground pipes through an epoxy lining substance. Your trenchless plumbing expert will place a special liner in the section that is to be repaired, and then a two part epoxy will be added to harden the liner and create seamless new pipe surface. It forms a new barrier of protection and will prevent future cracks and root intrusions.
Full pipe replacement is also possible with trenchless technology. With two holes on either side of the section to be replaced, your trenchless plumbing expert will burst the old pipe and replace it with a new pipe in one smooth motion. A torpedo-shaped bursting head is attached to a steel cable that is routed through your old pipe. As the bursting head is pulled through, it destroys the older pipe and pushes it out of the way to make way for the new pipe. The new pipe is pulled along through the same route and makes a smooth connection between the adjoining pieces of the old pipe.
Although it might have sounded like science fiction a few decades ago, replacing pipes underground is completely possible. Video inspection, pipe repair and pipe replacement can all be accomplished without digging a trench or damaging your landscaping. If you’re worried about a backed up drain, a slow leak around your home or commercial building, or slow water flow, it’s time to get a video inspection and look into trenchless technology.