If you own an older home, chances are that you might need to invest in a sewer line replacement or repair in the near future. This is especially true for homes built during the 1950s, as sewer lines more than 40 years old are well past the end of their useful lifespans.

If you’re new to the world of sewer line technologies, you might be overwhelmed by the amount of information available regarding this subject.

There are a number of different methods currently in use for sewer line installation and repair. Here are three of the most common forms of sewer line repair that you can expect to see today:

Pipe bursting

Pipe bursting is a method of sewer line replacement that involves running a thick cable through the existing sewer line via two small access holes. The cable is attached to a spear-shaped bursting head that bursts the existing pipe as it’s run through. As this bursting head is pulled through the pipe, the new piping is simultaneously pulled through for a seamless pipe replacement. Because pipe bursting requires only two holes to be dug in the ground, it’s considered a form of trenchless sewer replacement.

Cured in place pipe (CIPP) relining

Cured in place pipe is a technology that allows a sewer line that’s still in good condition to undergo efficient repairs or reinforcements. A PVC-infused liner is sent through the sewer line to seal all of the pipe’s cracks and voids, and the liner dries in place to ensure no new cracks or leaks emerge.

Moling

Unlike pipe bursting, the moling process is used to install new sewer lines — not replace old ones. The moling tool enters the ground via one access hole, then is pneumatically driven through the soil on the proposed path of the pipeline. Once this is done, it’s incredibly simple to install a new sewer pipe without needing to dig an entire trench.

Have any other questions for us about sewer replacement or sewer line repair? Feel free to ask by leaving a comment.