Traditional vs. Trenchless Sewer Line Repair and Replacement

When you think of repairing or replacing a sewer line, you might think of a big mess: sidewalks torn up, yards full of dirt piles, and so on. For years, that was the norm, and the only way to get the job done — but Roto-Rooter never stops seeking out the latest plumbing technologies, and now we offer trenchless pipe repair options that can get your sewer back in shape faster and with minimal disruption to your property.

How does trenchless sewer repair work, and why has it become the new gold standard for sewer line service? We’ll dig up some facts on this exciting plumbing technology.

Traditional Sewer Line Repair

The traditional method of repairing or replacing a sewer line requires digging up the pipe using heavy machinery. This method’s drawbacks aren’t hard to see:

• It requires a lot of excavation, which can mean pulling up landscaping, sidewalks, driveways, patios, and more.
• It’s expensive, time-consuming, and requires a lot of workers and potentially dangerous open trenches.
• It’s often loud, messy, and otherwise disruptive to your daily lifestyle.
• It can take years before your lawn looks normal again.

While Roto-Rooter’s sewer line pros are skilled at minimizing the mess associated with traditional sewer line replacement, some of these downsides are unavoidable and simply come with the territory. So we’ve always been on the lookout for a better way to do it. Now, we’re proud to offer trenchless sewer line repair and replacement services. 

What is Trenchless Sewer Line Repair?

Trenchless sewer line repair is just what it sounds like. It’s a technique for repairing and replacing sewer lines without digging them up. That might sound impossible at first glance, so how does trenchless sewer line repair work?

There are two main techniques used for trenchless sewer line repair: pipe relining and pipe bursting. Both require only small access holes at both ends of the pipe, rather than a full-scale trench. Let’s take a quick look at each method: 

• Pipe relining involves running an inflatable tube resembling neoprene or wetsuit material. It’s coated in epoxy resin and is pushed through the old sewer pipe. The plumber and his team inflate the tube with compressed air so that it sticks to the walls of the original pipe as it cures in place. It may take several hours to harden with ambient air, but the process can be expedited by introducing hot air or hot water into the pipeline. The newest systems cure immediately with the introduction of blue light. No matter which way the epoxy resin cures, the end result is a brand-new pipe that’s only slightly smaller in diameter than the original one, while offering more resistance to root intrusion. The pipe sleeve can even span gaps in the old pipe. Roto-Rooter pipe relining is a great choice for replacing a sewer pipe that’s cracked, punctured, or otherwise structurally compromised

• Pipe bursting starts by pulling a hydraulic-powered breaker tool through the old underground pipeline, breaking apart the old sewer pipe as the new pipe lays in its place. The result is a strong new and seamless HDPE sewer pipe to replace the old one. Pipe bursting can be the perfect answer when you need to perform a full replacement of an outdated pipe with a new and modern sewer line. 

To learn more about these methods, see our infographic on pipe bursting and our guide to pipe lining. 

Common Questions About Trenchless Sewer Line Repair

Is trenchless sewer line repair cheaper?

• Trenchless repair can be less expensive since it’s typically much faster and requires fewer materials. However, every job is different, so the best move is to schedule a free consultation with Roto-Rooter’s plumbing professionals. Trenchless pipe really saves you money if your existing pipeline runs beneath landscaping, sidewalks, driveways, or trees, because there is no collateral damage requiring costly replacement of these features as there would be using traditional excavation methods.

What are the common problems with trenchless sewer line repair?

• The only major downside of trenchless repair is that it’s not always possible. Some circumstances may require an old-school trench repair, including severely damaged pipes or challenging ground conditions. Other potential problems with trenchless pipe repair include the need to avoid buried gas and electric lines, are just as present in traditional methods.

How long does trenchless sewer line repair last?

• Generally, both trenchless sewer replacement methods come with a warranty for up to 5 years, and you can expect the new pipe to provide decades of trouble-free service. 

Trenchless Sewer Line Repair and Replacement from Roto-Rooter

We’d say our methods are groundbreaking — but the point is we barely have to break any ground at all. If you’re looking for the most efficient trenchless sewer repair or replacement near you, Roto-Rooter has you covered. Call 800-768-6911 to talk to your local Roto-Rooter team 24/7, or schedule your service online at your convenience.