Damaged or ageing pipes can cause recurring blockages, leaks, tree root intrusion and unpleasant drainage problems. Traditionally, fixing a severely damaged underground pipe meant excavating gardens, driveways, floors or other structures to access and replace it. Today, pipe relining options can provide a less disruptive alternative in many situations.
But can you actually reline a pipe yourself? And which pipe relining solution is right for your Melbourne property?
The answer depends on the condition, location, material and size of the existing pipe. Professional assessment is important because relining is not suitable for every damaged drain. In Australia, plumbing and drainage work also needs to be done in accordance with applicable requirements, including the relevant provisions of the AS/NZS 3500 series and local regulatory requirements. In this blog, we’ll explore the different pipe relining options available and whether DIY pipe relining is a practical choice for your Melbourne property.
Why Choose Pipe Relining Over Traditional Excavation?
The biggest advantage of trenchless pipe relining is that it can repair a damaged pipe without requiring a long excavation trench.
Traditional pipe repair can involve:
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Excavating gardens, lawns or driveways
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Removing concrete or paving
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Locating and exposing the damaged section
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Replacing the pipe
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Backfilling the excavation
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Repairing landscaping or other structures
With pipe relining, a new lining is installed inside the existing pipe. Once cured or set, the lining creates a new internal pipe surface.
This can reduce disruption, preserve landscaping and potentially shorten the overall repair process. However, trenchless repair isn’t automatically the best solution. A professional needs to determine whether the existing pipe has enough structural integrity to support the selected lining system.
Understanding Your Pipe Relining Solutions
There isn’t one universal relining method. The most appropriate solution depends on the health of pipe, the extent of damage, pipe dimensions, access points and the intended application.
Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) Relining
Cured in place pipe lining, commonly called CIPP relining, is one of the most established trenchless rehabilitation methods.
A flexible liner is impregnated with a suitable resin and inserted into the existing damaged pipe. It is then positioned against the inside wall and cured, creating a hardened lining within the original pipe. The result is effectively a new pipe inside the old one.
CIPP can be useful for pipes affected by cracks, corrosion, minor deformation, leaks and other forms of deterioration where the existing pipe remains suitable for rehabilitation.
However, CIPP isn’t a DIY project. Correct liner sizing, resin selection, installation, curing and quality control all affect the finished result. The pipe also needs to be properly cleaned and inspected before installation.
Spray Lining and Epoxy Coating
Another option is spray lining, where a specialised coating material is applied to the internal surface of the existing pipe.
Depending on the system and application, spray lining can provide a smooth internal surface and help address certain forms of deterioration. It can be particularly useful where access or pipe configuration makes other techniques less suitable.
As with other pipe relining solutions, surface preparation is critical. The pipe needs to be properly cleaned and assessed before the coating is applied. Poor preparation can compromise adhesion and the longevity of the repair.
Sectional Point Repair (Patching)
Not every damaged pipe needs to be relined from end to end.
Where CCTV inspection identifies a localised defect, sectional point repair or patching may be considered. A repair sleeve or patch is positioned over the affected section and cured or secured in place.
This can be a practical option when damage is limited to a specific area rather than being widespread throughout the pipe. The important point is that the repair method should follow the condition of the pipe, not simply the homeowner’s preferred technique.
How We Assess the Health of Your Pipe
One of the major mistakes homeowners can make is choosing a repair method before finding out what is actually happening underground.
A CCTV drain inspection allows a plumber to examine the inside of the pipe and identify issues such as:
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Cracks and fractures
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Tree root intrusion
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Corrosion
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Joint displacement
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Scale and deposits
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Leaks
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Deformation
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Partial collapse
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Blockages
The inspection helps determine whether the existing pipe is a suitable pipe for relining. If the pipe has completely collapsed or cannot provide adequate support, excavation and replacement may be more appropriate.
This is also why no reputable contractor should promise that pipe relining will work without first inspecting the drain.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Pipe Relining Services
Material Durability and Longevity
The expected service life of a relined pipe depends on the particular system, materials, installation quality and operating conditions.
Professionally installed pipe relining solutions can potentially last for decades. However, this should not be treated as a blanket guarantee. The condition of the original pipe, the lining material and installation method all matter.
Cost vs Long-Term Value
The upfront price of pipe for relining may sometimes be higher than a simple local repair. But comparing only the initial quote can be misleading.
With trenchless pipe repair, you may also avoid some of the costs associated with excavation, including:
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Garden restoration
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Concrete or paving replacement
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Soil removal and backfilling
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Access and labour associated with excavation
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Disruption to the property
For this reason, pipe relining can offer better long-term value in suitable situations.
The LCL Plumbing Process: From CCTV to CIPP
At LCL Plumbing & Drainage, the starting point should be understanding the problem rather than immediately choosing a repair product.
The process generally involves:
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CCTV Inspection: The drain is inspected to identify the location and nature of the damage.
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Diagnosis: The condition, configuration and accessibility of the pipe are assessed to determine whether relining is appropriate.
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Cleaning and Preparation: The pipe may need to be thoroughly cleaned to remove roots, deposits and other obstructions before rehabilitation.
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Relining Solution: Depending on the pipe and defect, an appropriate repair method, such as CIPP relining, spray lining or a localised repair, can be considered.
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Installation and Curing: The selected lining system is installed and cured according to the manufacturer’s requirements and applicable specifications.
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Final Inspection: A further CCTV inspection can help verify the condition of the completed repair.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pipe Relining Options
How long does trenchless pipe relining last?
A professionally installed lining can potentially last for decades. Actual longevity depends on the lining system, installation quality, pipe condition and operating environment.
Is pipe relining cheaper than digging?
It can be more cost-effective overall because it may eliminate or reduce excavation and the associated restoration work. However, the right comparison depends on the specific pipe and property.
Can any pipe be relined?
No. Many damaged pipes can potentially be rehabilitated using CIPP relining, spray lining or another trenchless method, but a severely collapsed or structurally unsound pipe may require excavation and replacement.
What is CIPP relining?
CIPP stands for cured-in-place pipe. A resin-saturated liner is installed within an existing damaged pipe and cured to form a new lining within the original pipe.
Can I reline my pipe myself?
For most homeowners, DIY pipe relining isn’t recommended. Professional equipment, CCTV inspection, cleaning, liner preparation, resin handling, installation and curing are required to achieve a reliable result. Incorrect installation can leave you with an expensive repair that still fails.
Get an Expert Assessment for Your Melbourne Property
If you’re searching for pipe relining options because your Melbourne property has recurring drainage problems, don’t assume excavation is your only choice. A professional CCTV inspection can establish what is happening inside the drain and whether pipe relining, pipe repair or replacement is the most appropriate solution.
Book a CCTV drain inspection with LCL Plumbing & Drainage today and get a clearer picture of your drainage system before committing to a repair.
