What is the no dig sewer line repair?
The no dig sewer line repair is also referred to as trenchless sewer line repair that allows the replacement and repair of sewer pipes without the need to dig the ground around them. If there is any digging that will be done, it will simply be an access hole where the pipes can be pulled from. Other techniques do not require any hole since manholes can be used as an access point. There are two no dig sewer line repair techniques that are becoming rather popular with homeowners: CIPP and pipe bursting.
CIPP technique as no dig sewer line repair
CIPP is cured-in-place pipe, a technique that creates a pipe within a pipe with minimal change to its diameter. Not only will the new pipe cure the problem; it often improves the performance of the sewer system. A liner is constructed from a tubular layer of non-woven polyester felt that has been impregnated with epoxy or polyurethane resin during a process called wet-out. The felt adds its mechanical strength to the resin’s properties. After the wet-out is completed, the CIPP liner is positioned into the host pipe and winched in place. Once the liner is in the proper position within the host pipe, it is inflated through air pressure so that the liner will press against the walls of the host pipe. After the liner is fully inflated, curing of the thermosetting resin is done through steam or hot water. After curing has been completed, the liner will be allowed to cool down slowly to avoid shrinkage.
The CIPP liner is designed to be independent from the host pipe. The typical worry is on the reduction of the sewer pipe’s diameter but this is offset by the increased flow characteristic of the liner’s surface material. CIPP can remedy most sewer problems particularly root intrusion.
Pipe bursting as no dig sewer line repair
Pipe bursting is another method of no dig sewer line repair that involves pulling a new sewer pipe to replace an old damaged pipe. The old pipe is burst into pieces while the new pipe takes its place. However, this method requires two access holes to be dug on either side of the lateral. Pipe bursting is usually the better choice when the lateral joints have collapsed. CIPP technique is not an option when there is a collapse unless a localized pipe repair is performed. On the other hand, both techniques are equally durable and they are guaranteed to last from 10 to 50 years.