Sewer and Drain
Sewer Pipe Lining: When to Make the Call
May 23, 2025
A damaged sewer line can lead to costly repairs, unpleasant odors, and health hazards. Fortunately, sewer pipe lining offers a trenchless, cost-effective solution to restore your pipes without extensive excavation. While many homeowners want to put off this service as long as possible, waiting could lead to needing a full sewer replacement. So, how do you know when it’s time for sewer pipe lining?
What Is Sewer Pipe Lining?
Sewer pipe lining — also called slip lining or cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining — is a trenchless repair method that restores damaged pipes by inserting a flexible liner coated with epoxy resin. Once in place, the liner is inflated and cured, creating a new pipe within the old pipe. This process is the most affordable way to restore a sewer system, eliminating the need for digging up your yard, driveway, or landscaping. The full process includes:
- Inspection: A camera inspection is performed to assess the condition of the existing pipe to see if it qualifies for pipe lining service.
- Cleaning: The pipe is cleared of debris, roots, and buildup using hydro jetting or mechanical cleaning.
- Liner Installation: A flexible liner coated with epoxy resin is inserted into the damaged pipe.
- Curing Process: The liner is inflated and cured using heat or UV light, forming a sturdy new pipe.
- Final Inspection: A follow-up camera inspection ensures the repair was successful.
Signs You Need Sewer Pipe Lining
Your sewer system should be “out of sight, out of mind” at all times. If you notice any of the following signs, it is time to call a professional:
- Frequent Drain Backups: If multiple drains in your home are backing up, it could indicate a problem in the main sewer line. Pipe lining can restore proper flow without major disruption.
- Slow Draining Fixtures: Persistent slow drainage in sinks, tubs, or toilets may signal pipe deterioration or buildup inside the line. Drain cleaning service can help address buildup, but pipe lining service may be required if your pipes are deteriorating.
- Foul Odors: A strong sewage smell inside or outside your home could mean your sewer pipe has cracks or leaks.
- Visible Water Pooling in Your Yard: If you notice unexplained wet spots or sinkholes in your yard, it may be due to a leaking underground pipe.
- Tree Root Intrusion: Tree roots naturally seek moisture and can invade sewer pipes, causing blockages and structural damage. Pipe lining can seal the pipe and deter future root intrusion.
- Aging or Corroded Pipes: Older homes with cast iron or clay pipes may experience corrosion or deterioration over time. Pipe lining reinforces the existing pipe, extending its lifespan.
Pipe Lining: When to Make the Call
If you are putting off your pipe lining service, it is essential you don’t test your luck. Sewer pipe lining is a cost-effective, durable, and minimally invasive solution for repairing damaged sewer lines. However, if you wait too long, your pipes will become too damaged to support the epoxy lining. Instead, you will require trenchless or open-trench sewer replacement, which are more invasive and costly.
A professional can help you understand the extent of your pipe damage and the best timeline for you. Generally speaking, the sooner you get your pipe lining service, the better. Sturdier pipes offer a strong foundation for the epoxy adhesion, leading to longer-lasting results.
Benefits of Sewer Pipe Lining
Sewer pipe lining offers several advantages over traditional pipe replacement methods:
1. Minimal Disruption
Unlike traditional open-trench replacement, pipe lining does not require digging up your yard, driveway, or landscaping. The process is completed through small access points, preserving your property.
2. Cost-Effective Solution
Replacing an entire sewer line can be expensive due to material, labor, and restoration costs. Pipe lining is a more affordable alternative that eliminates the need for extensive excavation or more costly materials.
3. Lasting Results
The epoxy lining used in sewer pipe lining is highly durable, lasting 10-30+ years with proper maintenance.
4. Environmentally Friendly
Since pipe lining does not require digging, it reduces waste and minimizes environmental impact.
5. Faster Repair Time
Traditional sewer replacement can take days or even weeks. Pipe lining is often completed within a day, restoring your plumbing system quickly.
Choosing the Right Professional for Sewer Pipe Lining
Selecting a qualified plumbing professional is essential to ensure a successful sewer pipe lining repair. Here’s what to look for:
- Experience and Certification: Choose a company with expertise in trenchless sewer repair and proper certifications.
- Advanced Equipment: Ensure the contractor uses high-quality materials and modern technology for inspection and installation.
- Customer Reviews and Reputation: Check online reviews and testimonials to gauge customer satisfaction.
Choose Bonney’s Pipe Lining Service In Sacramento
When your sewer starts giving you problems, the specialists at Bonney are here for you. We know the ins and outs of trenchless repairs, giving you the support you need to protect your home. You can explore our coupons or contact our experts to get started today!