Understanding the Differences Between Pipe Relining and Pipe Replacement

Posted by Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing on 24 Dec 2025

When it comes to fixing damaged pipes, two popular techniques are pipe relining as well as replacement of pipes. Both approaches aim to restore the function of your pipelines, but they differ in a way that are important to understand.

Key Takeaways

  • Relining pipes is an affordable and swift process for restoring damaged pipelines.
  • CIPP lining is used in the relining of pipes.
  • Epoxy resin is used to line the inner portions of the pipe. It is cured to form a new inner lining in the old pipeline.
  • Relining pipes is efficient, cost-effective and lasts for up to 50 years.
  • Traditional pipe replacement involves digging up sections of land in which pipes are located.
  • A replacement pipe may be needed for severely damaged pipes.
  • A brand-new pipeline installed with pipe replacement has a lengthy duration (75 or 100 years).
  • Pipe replacement is costly and long-lasting.
  • The decision between pipe relining versus pipe replacement depends on the degree of damage caused.

In this post, we’ll look at pipe relining as opposed to. replacing pipes and figure the one that best suits your requirements better.

What is Pipe Relining?

Pipe relining or Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) lining is a modern repair method that provides a cost-effective, rapid solution for the repair of damaged pipelines.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Technicians clean the pipeline with high-pressure water jetting or mechanical cleaning.
  2. Then, they put epoxy resin made of polyester or fiberglass liner inside the existing pipeline.
  3. The liner gets dried to form a brand new inner liner within the old pipeline, which is just as robust as a new one.

Pros of Pipe Relining

  • Time-efficient – It typically takes just 2 to 3 hours to complete the whole procedure, compared to excavating for several days with traditional pipe replacement methods.
  • Cost-effective since no excavation or removal is necessary for pipe relining, it can save almost 50% of the cost you’d be paying for conventional repairs.
  • Durability – The new lining formed by pipe relining can last for 50 years!

Cons of Pipe Relining

  • Not suitable for the most damaged pipes. If there are significant damages such as cracks, collapses, or joints that are not aligned correctly in your sewer line then pipe relining is not a possibility.

What exactly is Pipe Replacement?

Pipe replacement involves digging up portions of the yard/sidewalk/driveway where underground pipes are located. The sections could include damaged pipes, or highly damaged ones caused by negligence or aging.

The following steps comprise most traditional replacements for pipes:

  1. An excavation team digs access to the damaged underground pipe.
  2. The old pipeline is detached and dug out, creating a lot of debris that must be cleared away.
  3. Then, they construct a new pipeline in place of the old one.

Pros and Cons of Pipe Replacement

  • Perfect for severely damaged pipes - When you need to replace pipes that are experiencing significant damage or corrosion, pipe replacement is the ideal solution.
  • Long lifespan – The new pipeline that is installed by pipe replacement has a lengthy lifespan (75 or 100 years) which makes it a great alternative for homeowners seeking the best solution for their home.

Cons of Pipe Replacement

  • Extraction work that is costly for pipe replacement could be lengthy and expensive.
  • It is time-consuming. Pipe replacements can take weeks depending on the scope of work and the depth of excavations that are required.

Which option should you pick?

The decision of either relining or repairing your pipes is mostly based on the extent of damage caused. If your pipes have minor damages like cracks or minor leaks, it is likely that relining is an ideal option as it is less costly as well as quicker than conventional replacements.

If there are major damages like collapses or breaks, then you should consider conventional pipe replacement, though it may be more expensive and takes longer.

Pipe Relining Pipe Replacement
Procedure CIPP lining using epoxy resin Excavating and replacing the old pipeline
Pros Time-efficient- 2 to 3 hours to complete Suitable for severely damaged pipes
Cost-effective – Almost half of traditional costs. New pipeline lasts for 75 to 100 years
Durable – Lasts up to 50 years
Cons Not suitable for severely damaged pipes Costly
Time-consuming
When to choose Minor damages like cracks or minor leaks Severe damages like collapses or breaks

FAQs

What is pipe relining?

Relining of pipes is a procedure that involves creating a new pipe within the existing damaged pipe. It is accomplished by inserting a liner that is flexible into the old pipe and then curing it in place. After it has been cured, the newly formed pipe is free of joints or seams, which increases its structural integrity.

How does the traditional replacement of pipes differ from pipe relining?

Traditional pipe replacement involves digging up and physically taking away old pipes, and then replacing them with brand new ones. In contrast, pipe relining isn’t a requirement for excavation. Instead it’s done by using technology that permits pipe repair without digging up huge areas of land.

Which one is less expensive - pipe relining or traditional replacement?

Pipe relining generally costs less than traditional methods of pipe repair because there aren’t any costs related to excavation or other methods needed for removing and replacing old pipes.

Can all types of pipes be relined?

Not all types of pipes can be relined successfully. The plumber will have to inspect the situation to determine if it’s feasible to line your specific kind of pipes. However, the majority of new pipes may be repaired with this technique.

How long does the pipe relining process take?

The exact time required for the process depends on different factors such as location, environmental conditions and the kind of damage. However, the average Pipe Relining process typically takes about 2 days, depending on how many metres need to be lined..

In conclusion, if you want to avoid invasive excavation work and save money as you restore your pipelines’ functionality Consider utilizing our Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing ‘s quick and efficient pipeline relining service. Contact us today!

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