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 methods are pipe relining and pipe replacement. Both methods aim to restore the full function of your pipes, however there are distinct differences are important to understand.

Key Takeaways

  • Pipe relining is a cost-effective and quick method of repairing damaged pipelines.
  • Linings made of CIPP are used for pipe relining.
  • Epoxy resin is utilized to line the inner areas of the pipe. This cures to create a new inner lining within the pipeline.
  • Relining pipe is time-efficient and cost-effective, and can last for up to 50 years.
  • Traditional pipe replacement involves excavation of areas on the property where pipes are located.
  • Replacement of pipes may be required for pipes that are badly damaged.
  • A brand-new pipeline installed with pipeline replacement has a longer time span (75 up to 100 years).
  • The cost of replacing pipes is high and lengthy.
  • The choice between pipe relining or pipe replacement is based on the extent of damage that has been caused.

In this article, we’ll discuss pipe relining vs. pipe replacement, and find the one that best suits your needs more.

The term "pipe relining" is used to describe the process of repairing pipes.

Pipe relining or Cured In-Place Pipe (CIPP) Lining is a cutting-edge repair method that provides a cost-effective, fast solution for repairing damaged pipelines.

Here’s how it is done:

  1. Technicians clean the pipeline using high-pressure water jetting or mechanical cleaning.
  2. Then, they apply epoxy resin made from fiberglass or polyester liner in the pipeline.
  3. The liner is cured by forming a new liner within the pipeline that’s as robust as a new one.

Pros of Pipe Relining

  • The process is time-efficient, taking about 2 to 3 hours of time to accomplish the whole process compared with excavating for days for traditional methods of replacing pipes.
  • Cost-effective Since there is no excavation or removal needed in the pipe relining process It can save you nearly half of what you would have to pay for repairs that are traditional.
  • Durability – The new liner created through pipe relining can last up to 50 years!

The cons of Pipe Relining

  • Not suitable for severely damaged pipes. If you have significant damage such as cracks, collapses or joints that aren’t aligned properly in your sewer line then pipe relining could not be possible.

What is Pipe Replacement?

Pipe replacement involves digging up portions of the yard/sidewalk/driveway where underground pipes are located. The sections could include the collapsed pipes as well as extremely corrosion-prone ones, due to lack of maintenance or age.

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 is detached and dug out, creating a lot of debris which needs to be removed.
  3. They then install an entirely new pipeline instead of the old one.

Benefits of Pipe Replacement

  • Ideal for pipes that have been severely damaged - When you need to replace pipes that have severe corrosion or damage, pipe replacement is the ideal solution.
  • Long lifespan – The new pipeline installed through pipe replacement has a long lifespan (75 or 100 years) making it an ideal solution for homeowners who want a permanent solution.

Pros of Pipe Replacement

  • It is expensive – Excavating work required for pipe replacement can be long and costly.
  • Time-consuming – Traditional pipe replacements can take weeks depending on the nature of the project and the depth of excavations needed.

Which option should you pick?

The decision on whether to go with either relining or repairing your pipes is largely based on the extent of damage caused. If your pipes have small damages, like cracks or minor leaks, it is likely that relining is a more appropriate choice since it is less costly and is also faster than replacement of pipes using traditional methods.

If there are major damage such as breaks or collapses, then you should consider traditional pipe replacement although it may be more expensive and take 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 Question

What is pipe relining?

Pipe relining is a process that creates a brand new pipe inside an existing damaged pipe. This is done by inserting a flexible liner inside the old pipe and the process of curing it. Once it is cured, the new pipe is free of joints or seams which improves its structural strength.

What is the difference between traditional pipe replacement and differ from relining pipe?

Traditional replacement of pipes involves digging and physically cutting away the old pipe and then replacing them with brand new ones. The alternative, pipe relining doesn’t require excavation; instead, it’s completed using technology that allows for repair of pipelines without digging large portions of land.

Which option is less expensive: pipe relining or traditional replacement?

Relining pipelines typically costs less than the traditional methods of pipe repair because there are no costs associated to excavation or other methods necessary for removing and replacing old pipes.

All kinds of pipes can be lined?

Some types of pipes can be relined successfully. The plumber should examine the situation to determine if it’s possible to line your specific kind of pipes. But, the majority of contemporary pipes are fixed with this method.

How long will the pipe relining process take?

The exact time required for the process is dependent on various factors such as the location, the environment and type of damage; however the typical Pipe Relining process typically takes about 2 days based on the amount of meters need to be lined..

In the end, if you wish to avoid digging work and save cash while restoring damaged pipelines’ performance to their fullest you should consider using our Sydney Blocked Drain Plumbing ‘s rapid and effective pipeline relining services. Get in touch with us!

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