Understanding the Differences Between Pipe Relining and Pipe Replacement

Name: Blocked Drain Adelaide
Brand: Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber
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Posted by Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber on 5 Aug 2026

Recovering from Blocked Drains: How to Choose between Pipe Relining and Replacement

When it comes to fixing damaged pipes, the two most common methods are pipe relining and replacement of pipes. Both solutions aim to bring back the original function of your pipelines, but they differ in a way that are important to understand.

Key Takeaways

Relining pipes is an affordable and quick method of repairing damaged pipelines.
The lining CIPP is employed in pipe relining.
Epoxy resin is used to line the inner parts of the pipe. The resin is cured to form a new inner lining inside the pipe.
Pipe relining is time-efficient, economical, and can last for up to 50 years.
Traditional pipe replacement involves excavation of areas on the property where pipes are.
Replacement of pipes may be required for severely damaged pipes.
A new pipeline installed through pipe replacement has a long duration (75 up to 100 years).
The cost of replacing pipes is high and time-consuming.
The choice between pipe relining versus pipe replacement will depend on the severity of damage that has been caused.

In this post, we’ll look at pipe relining in comparison to. pipe replacement. Find out which one suits your requirements 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 modern repair method which offers a low-cost and swift solution for restoring damaged pipelines.

Here’s how it will work:

A technician cleans the pipeline with high-pressure jetting or mechanical cleaning.
They then apply epoxy resin made from polyester or fiberglass liner inside the pipeline.
The liner is cured by forming a new lining inside the pipeline that’s as long-lasting as the new one.

Pros of Pipe Relining

Time-efficient – It usually takes between 2 and three hours in order to finish the entire procedure, compared to excavating for days in traditional methods of replacing pipes.
Cost-effective Since there is no excavation or removal necessary for pipe relining this method can save nearly half of the amount you spend on traditional repairs.
Durability – The new lining created through pipe relining can last up to 50 years!

Con’s of Pipe Relining

Not suitable for severely damaged pipes. If there are significant damages such as cracks or collapses or joints that aren’t aligned properly within 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 damaged ones due to age or neglect.

The following steps comprise most traditional replacements for pipes:

A team of excavation workers digs access to the deteriorated underground pipe.
The pipeline was ripped off and dug out, creating a lot of debris that needs to be disposed of.
Then, they install another pipeline in place of the previous one.

Pros of Pipe Replacement

Suitable for severely damaged pipes - When you need to replace pipes with severe corrosion or damage, pipe replacement is the best solution.
Long life – The brand new pipeline, which is replaced by pipe is long-lasting (75 up to 100 years) which makes it a great choice for homeowners in search of a permanent solution.

Pros and Cons of Pipe Replacement

It is expensive – Excavating work required for pipe replacement can be costly and time-consuming.
Time-consuming – Traditional pipe replacements could take several weeks, based on the size of the work and the depth of excavations that are required.

Which one should you select?

The decision to choose between replacement or relining your pipes is largely based on the degree of damage caused. If your pipes have minor damages like cracks or leaks of a minor size, the relining process is probably the best option, as it’s less expensive as well as quicker than traditional replacements.

If there are major damages like collapses or breaks it is recommended to consider conventional pipe replacement, though it might cost more 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

FAQ

What is pipe relining?

Pipe relining is a process which consists of creating a new pipe in the damaged pipe. This is done by inserting a flexible liner inside the existing pipe, and then curing it in place. Once cured, the new pipe is free of joints or seams that improve its structural integrity.

What does traditional pipe replacement differ from relining pipe?

Traditional replacement of pipes involves{ excavating and| digging and|| digging up and} physically cutting away the old pipe after which they are replaced with new ones. The alternative, pipe relining does not require excavation. Instead it’s accomplished with the help of technology, which allows repairs to pipelines without digging large areas of land.

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

Pipe relining generally costs less than traditional methods for repair to pipelines since there is no cost related to excavation, or other methods required for the removal and replacement of old pipes.

All kinds of pipes can be changed?

Some types of pipes can be successfully relined. The plumber will have to inspect the situation to determine if it’s feasible to line the particular kind of pipes. However, most modern pipes can be relined using this technique.

How long will the process of relining pipes take?

The exact time required for the procedure is contingent upon various aspects like the location, the environment, and type of damage. However, the average Pipe Relining job typically takes around 2 days, depending on the number of metres need to be lined..

If you are looking to stay clear of invasive excavation work and save your money as you restore your pipelines’ performance to their fullest, consider opting for our Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s quick and efficient pipeline relining service. Get in touch with us!