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 options are pipe relining or pipe replacement. Both of these methods are designed to restore the full function of your pipelines, but they have marked differences that must be aware of.

Key Takeaways

  • Pipe relining is an economical and swift process for restoring damaged pipelines.
  • CIPP lining is used in pipe relining.
  • Epoxy resin is utilized to line the inner portions of the pipe. It cures to creates a new inner lining within the pipeline.
  • Pipe relining is time-efficient, economical, and can last up to 50 years.
  • Traditional pipe replacement involves digging up portions of property in which pipes are located.
  • A replacement pipe may be needed for pipes that are badly damaged.
  • A brand new pipeline that is installed by pipe replacement has a lengthy life span (75 or 100 years).
  • Replacement of pipes is expensive and laborious.
  • The choice between pipe relining or pipe replacement depends on the degree of damage that has been caused.

In this post, we’ll look at pipe relining as opposed to. pipe replacement, and find out which one suits your needs better.

Is Pipe Relining a thing?

Relining pipes or Cured-In Place Pipe (CIPP) Lining is a cutting-edge repair method that provides a cost-effective, swift solution for restoring damaged pipelines.

Here’s how it is done:

  1. A technician cleans the pipeline with high-pressure jetting or mechanical cleaning.
  2. Then, they apply epoxy resin made of fiberglass or polyester liner in the existing pipeline.
  3. The liner is cured by forming a new lining inside the old pipeline that’s just as strong as a brand new one.

Pros of Pipe Relining

  • Time-efficient – It typically takes between 2 and 3 hours of time to accomplish the entire procedure, compared to excavating for several days with traditional pipe replacement methods.
  • Cost-effective because there is no excavation or removal needed in the pipe relining process this method can save nearly half of the amount you spend on traditional repairs.
  • Durability – The lining that is created by pipe relining may last up to 50 years!

Con’s of Pipe Relining

  • Not recommended for extremely damaged pipes - If you have significant damage such as cracks, collapses, or misaligned joints in your sewer line, then pipe relining is not a possibility.

What is Pipe Replacement?

Pipe replacement involves digging up portions of the yard/sidewalk/driveway where underground pipes are located. These areas could contain collapsed pipes or extremely corrosion-prone ones, due to negligence or aging.

The following steps are typical of traditional pipe replacements:

  1. A team of excavation workers digs access to the degraded underground pipe.
  2. The old pipeline has been removed and dug up, generating a lot of debris which needs to be removed.
  3. Then, they construct another pipeline in place of the previous one.

Benefits of Pipe Replacement

  • Ideal for pipes that have been severely damaged If you have to replace pipes that have severe corrosion or damage, pipe replacement is the ideal solution.
  • Long life – The brand new pipeline replaced with pipe has a lengthy lifespan (75 or 100 years) making it an ideal alternative for homeowners seeking the best solution for their home.

Pros of Pipe Replacement

  • Extraction work that is costly for the replacement of pipes is costly and time-consuming.
  • Long-lasting – Pipe replacements can take weeks depending on the nature of the project and the depth of excavations that are required.

Which one should you select?

The decision to choose between relining or replacing your pipes mostly is contingent on the extent of damage caused. If your pipes suffer from minor damages like cracks or leaks of a minor size, it is likely that relining is a more appropriate choice since it’s less expensive and also quicker than traditional replacements.

But if there are severe damages like collapses or breaks the best option is traditional pipe replacement although it could be more costly 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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process of relining pipes?

Relining of pipes is a procedure which involves the creation of a new pipe inside an existing damaged pipe. It is accomplished by inserting a flexible liner in the pipe that was damaged and placing it into place. After it has been cured, the newly formed pipe does not have joints or seams, which enhances its structural strength.

What does traditional pipe replacement differ from pipe relining?

Traditional pipe replacement involves excavating and physically dismantling old pipes, before replacing them with new ones. The alternative, pipe relining doesn’t require excavation; instead it’s done by utilizing technology that allows repairs to pipelines without digging large areas of land.

Which one is less expensive - liner relining or conventional pipe replacement?

Relining pipelines typically costs less than traditional methods for pipe repair because there aren’t any costs related to excavation, or other methods needed for removing and replacing old pipes.

Can all kinds of pipes be reflined?

Not all types of pipes are relined in a successful manner. Ultimately, your plumber should examine your particular situation to determine whether it’s feasible to line the particular kind of pipes. However, most contemporary pipes are lined by this method.

How long will the process of pipe relining take?

The precise time needed for the process depends on different aspects like location, environmental conditions, and type of damage. However, the average Pipe Relining job typically takes around 2 days, depending on how many metres require lining..

In conclusion, if want to avoid invasive excavation work and save your money as you restore your pipelines’ function to its maximum take a look at our Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing ‘s swift and efficient pipe relining solutions. Contact us!

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