What Is A Trenchless Sewer Line?

When you need to put in a new sewer line, there’s no doubt that the work needs to be done. Whether it’s broken fittings or tree roots growing into your lines, restoring proper service is the only way to get your plumbing back into shape. But what about the mess a big trench will make of your yard? Fortunately, there are other options available. Trenchless sewer lines connect your home to the main sewer lines without damaging your landscaping. Here are some details on what a trenchless sewer line is, the benefits and drawbacks and what to expect during installation.

What is a Trenchless Sewer Line?

A trenchless sewer line is a replacement for your existing sewer line. It can be put into place by either pipe bursting or pipe lining technologies.

• In pipe bursting, a machine breaks out the old pipe while laying the new pipe in place behind it. Two access holes are made, one where the sewer line goes into the house and the other where it joins the sewer main. Because it takes out the old pipe, the new pipe is the same diameter as the old one, allowing for the same amount of flow from your home to the sewer main.
• In pipe lining, a flexible pipe is coated with resin and is then blown or pulled through the old pipe. As soon as the new pipe is in place, it’s inflated, with the resin hardening in place and creating a pipe inside a pipe. This method slightly reduces the diameter of the sewer pipe by about 1/4″. It’s not enough of a difference to impact most home’s drainage needs. One access hole is made to allow access to the old pipe, but this method doesn’t work for every situation.

What are the Benefits of Having a Trenchless Sewer Line Installed?

Trenchless sewer line installation is generally less invasive than traditional sewer line replacement. It also leaves you with a lower total repair cost when you figure in driveways or landscaping costs.

What are some Drawbacks of Trenchless Sewer Lines?

For initial outlay, trenchless sewer lines can be more expensive, though that cost is often made up when landscaping repairs come into play. If a thorough estimate has not been performed, you may end up stuck with bills for road repairs for where your line connects with the city street.

How do you Know if Trenchless Sewer Lines are a Viable Option for Your Home?

The best way to determine if this is your best option is by having bids done on the work for both types of replacement line. A thorough bid will include determining whether this solution works in your city, the cost of permits, whether you or the city are responsible for road repairs where you tie into the main sewer and what it would cost to replace the landscaping that is damaged in the process.

Now that you know what to expect, it’s time to take a good look at your situation and decide whether a trenchless sewer line is the route that will work best. With a 98% customer retention rate and over 25 years’ experience in the field, we’d be happy to help you determine the best course of action for your replacement sewer line. Please contact us today for more details.