Introduction to Pipe Relining
Pipe relining is a cost-effective and time-saving process used to repair damaged or broken pipes without the need for full pipe replacement. It involves creating a new pipe by coating the inside of the existing pipe with an epoxy resin. Once cured, this resin forms a smooth, seamless and long-lasting lining.
The pipe relining process is minimally invasive and causes little disruption to your property compared to digging up and replacing pipes. It also restores water flow and pressure by smoothing out cracks, blockages and corrosion damage. Overall, pipe relining offers a durable solution that can extend the life of your pipes by decades.
During the pipe relining process, our team will thoroughly clean out your pipes before applying the resin coating. We use industry leading techniques and materials to ensure a long-lasting repair that stands the test of time. Pipe relining can be used on many pipe types if the existing pipes are not severely damaged or collapsed.
What Materials Can Be Relined?
Pipe relining can be used to repair a variety of common pipe materials, provided the pipes are in reasonable condition and not severely corroded or collapsed.
Some of the most common materials that can be successfully relined include:
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) - One of the most widely used modern pipe materials. PVC can often be relined if in fair condition.
- CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) - A pipe material similar to PVC that can also typically be relined.
- PEX (Crosslinked Polyethylene) - A flexible plastic pipe material gaining popularity in modern homes. Short PEX pipe sections can usually be relined.
- Copper - Copper pipes with light to moderate corrosion can be repaired via relining.
- Concrete and Clay - Older concrete and clay pipes can also be relined in many cases.
- Cast Iron - One of the most common materials for older drainage systems. Cast iron pipes are ideal candidates for relining if not severely damaged.
In general, the smoother and more uniform the original pipe surface, the better the long term results from relining. Pipe relining contractors can assess the condition of your pipes with CCTV drainage inspections and recommend if relining is viable.
The Pipe Relining Process
The pipe relining process involves coating the inside of your existing pipes with a thin epoxy resin which then cures and hardens. This forms a smooth, seamless new pipe wall inside the old pipe.
Our team will use CCTV inspections to assess the condition of your pipes and determine if they are suitable for relining. We then thoroughly clean out the pipes to prepare the surface.
We saturate the interior of the pipes with a liquid epoxy resin. This resin soaks into any cracks and defects to create a uniform coating. Once the coating has cured, it forms a durable, leak-proof barrier.
By essentially creating a new pipe inside the old one, pipe relining can restore flow capacity and water pressure without the need for major demolition or property damage. The thin resin layer bonds firmly to the old pipe walls providing added structural integrity.
The whole relining process usually takes just one to two days with minimal impact on your home or business. When cured, the epoxy resin lining is resistant to corrosion and can extend the life of your pipes for decades.
Pros and Cons of Relined vs New Pipes
When determining whether to reline or fully replace your pipes, there are pros and cons to weigh for each option:
Pros of Relined Pipes
How Long Do Relined Pipes Last?
Relined pipes can provide decades of additional service life if properly installed and maintained. With high quality epoxy resins and proper surface preparation, most experts agree that relined pipes can easily last 50 years or longer under normal conditions.
Some of the factors that affect longevity include:
- The condition of the original pipes - Relining works best on pipes that are structurally sound with limited corrosion and obstructions. Pipes that are severely deteriorated may not be ideal candidates.
- Quality of installation - Proper cleaning, resin selection, curing times and application are key for long-lasting results.
- Ongoing maintenance - Periodic inspections, drain cleaning, tree root removal and addressing leaks or other damage as needed will maximise lifespan.
- Pipe material and size - Larger pipes and smooth materials like PVC provide the best surfaces for long-lasting adhesion and curing.
- Water characteristics - Relined pipes may need more frequent maintenance in areas with acidic or corrosive water conditions.
With periodic inspections and proper care, quality relined pipes can continue providing reliable service for most homeowners for the rest of their occupancy. This durable solution prevents the expense and mess of full pipe replacements.
Factors Affecting Relined Pipe Durability
p>There are several key factors that can influence how long a relined pipe will last before needing repair or replacement:
Condition of Original PipeThe condition of the original pipe is crucial. Relining works best on pipes that are structurally intact with only moderate wear and corrosion. Severely damaged, fragmented or collapsed pipes are often poor candidates for relining.
Pipe SizeSmaller pipes like those under 3 inches in diameter pose challenges for effective cleaning and resin application during relining. Larger diameter pipes provide more surface area for the resin to adhere.
Pipe MaterialThe original pipe material affects suitability for relining. PVC, fibreglass, copper and cast iron pipes tend to offer the best surfaces for long-lasting epoxy resin application. Concrete or terracotta pipes are more porous.
Installation QualityProper pipe cleaning, resin selection, curing times and application techniques are vital for durable relining. Hiring experienced professionals ensures quality installation.
Ongoing Maintenance p>p>p>
Maintenance Tips for Relined Pipes
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When to Choose Pipe Replacement Over Relining
In some cases, full pipe replacement may be the better option over relining. Here are some of the key factors that indicate replacement should be considered:
Severely Damaged Pipes
If pipes are extensively corroded, collapsed, have significant leaks or large sections of damage, relining may not be feasible or the best long-term solution. Replacement may be required.
Problematic Pipe Materials
Certain pipe materials like clay, concrete and galvanised steel are prone to cracking and have porous surfaces that don’t properly bond with epoxy resins. Replacement is often better.
Improper Original Installation
Pipes that were originally installed improperly at too shallow a depth or with inadequate slope may continue having drainage issues if simply relined. Replacement allows for correcting issues.
Dramatic Change in Pipe Size
If there is a need to significantly increase pipe capacity due to usage changes, replacement may be the only option as relining can only match the original pipe size.
An experienced plumber like Picnic Point Plumbing can assess your pipes and recommend if replacement or relining is the most appropriate fix for your situation after considering all the factors involved.
Conclusion
Pipe relining can offer a cost-effective and minimally invasive alternative to full pipe replacement in many situations. When existing pipes are in reasonable condition and not severely damaged, the epoxy resin used in the relining process can extend their lifespan for decades.
With proper cleaning, coating application and curing, quality relined pipes have been shown to last upwards of 50 years. Ongoing maintenance like CCTV inspections, drain cleaning and leak repairs can help maintain and maximise durability.
However, for severely deteriorated, collapsed or improperly installed pipes, replacement may still be the better long-term option. An experienced plumber can assess your individual situation and pipes to provide professional recommendations.
For any plumbing project big or small, Picnic Point Plumbing offers reliable expertise and quality workmanship. Contact us today to learn more about your pipe relining or replacement options. Our team is always happy to answer your questions and provide straightforward guidance.
