Understanding the Differences Between Pipe Relining and Pipe Replacement

Posted by Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber on 5 Aug 2026

When it comes to fixing damaged pipes, two popular solutions are pipe relining and replacement of pipes. Both methods aim to restore the functionality of your pipelines, but they have marked differences that you should be aware of.

Key Takeaways

  • Pipe relining is a cost-effective and speedy method to repair damaged pipelines.
  • The lining CIPP is employed in the relining of pipes.
  • Epoxy resin is used to line the inside parts of the pipe. The resin cures to creates a new inner lining within the pipeline.
  • Relining pipes is efficient, cost-effective, and will last up to 50 years.
  • The traditional method of replacing pipes is digging up portions of property in which pipes are located.
  • The replacement of pipes is often necessary to repair pipes that are severely damaged.
  • A new pipeline installed through pipe replacement has a lengthy duration (75 up to 100 years).
  • The cost of replacing pipes is high and time-consuming.
  • The choice between pipe relining and replacement will depend on the severity of damage caused.

In this article, we’ll talk about pipe relining in comparison to. replacing pipes and figure out which option will meet your requirements better.

How do you define Pipe Relining?

Pipe relining or Cured In-Place Pipe (CIPP) lining is a state-of-the-art repair process that provides a cost-effective, fast solution for repairing damaged pipelines.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Technicians clean the pipeline using high-pressure water jetting or mechanical cleaning.
  2. They then apply epoxy resin made of polyester or fiberglass liner inside the pipeline.
  3. The liner gets cured and forms a new lining in the pipeline that’s as strong as a brand new one.

Advantages Pipe Relining

  • Time-efficient: It generally takes just 2 to three hours in order to finish the whole procedure compared to excavating many days using traditional pipe replacement methods.
  • Cost-effective since no excavation or removal is needed in the pipe relining process this method can save nearly half of the price you’d spend on traditional repairs.
  • Durability – The new lining formed by pipe relining can last for up to 50 years!

The cons of Pipe Relining

  • Not suitable for the most damaged pipes - If there are serious damages such as cracks or collapses or misaligned joints 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. These sections may include broken pipes, or very damaged ones caused by age or neglect.

The following steps make up the majority of traditional replacements for pipes:

  1. An excavation team digs up access to the damaged underground pipe.
  2. The old pipeline has been removed and dug out producing much debris that must be cleared away.
  3. Then, they install another pipeline in place of the one they had previously installed.

Benefits of Pipe Replacement

  • It is suitable for pipes with severe damage If you have to replace pipes that are suffering from significant corrosion or damage, pipe replacement is the best solution.
  • Long life – The brand new pipeline replaced with pipe has a long lifespan (75 bis 100 years) making it an ideal alternative for homeowners seeking a permanent solution.

Pros and Cons of Pipe Replacement

  • Extraction work that is costly to replace pipes can be long and costly.
  • Long-lasting – Pipe replacements can take weeks depending on the scope of work and the extent of excavation required.

Which one is best for you?

The decision of either relining or repairing your pipes is largely based on the amount of damage caused. If your pipes are suffering from minor issues like cracks, or minor leaks, then replacing them is likely to be a more appropriate choice since it’s less costly as well as quicker than traditional pipe replacements.

But if there are severe injuries, like breaks or collapses it is recommended to consider 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

Common Questions and Answers

What is pipe relining?

Relining a pipe is a procedure that creates a brand new pipe within the existing damaged pipe. This is done by inserting a liner that is flexible into the pipe that was damaged and the process of curing it. Once it is cured, the new pipe is free of joints or seams, which enhances its structural integrity.

What does traditional pipe replacement differ from relining pipe?

Traditional replacement of pipes involves digging up and physically cutting away the old pipe, and then replacing them with brand new ones. Contrary to this, pipe relining doesn’t require excavation; instead it’s done using technology that allows for repairs to pipelines without digging huge areas of land.

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

Relining pipes typically cost less than traditional methods of repair of pipelines because there are no costs associated to excavation or other methods required for the removal and replacement of old pipes.

Can all kinds of pipes be lined?

There are a few types of pipes that can be relined successfully. In the end, your plumber must examine your particular situation to determine whether it’s possible to line your particular type of pipes. However, most current pipes could be lined with this method.

How long will the process of pipe relining take?

The exact time required for the procedure is contingent upon various aspects like the location, the environment and the type of damage. However the typical pipe Relining task usually takes between 2 and 3 days, depending on the number of meters need to be lined..

If you wish to avoid digging work and save your money while restoring your damaged pipelines’ function to its maximum you should consider using our Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s quick and efficient pipeline relining services. Contact us!

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