Understanding the Differences Between Pipe Relining and Pipe Replacement

Posted by Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber on 28 Dec 2025

In the case of fixing damaged pipes options are pipe relining or pipe replacement. Both methods aim to bring back the original function of your pipelines, but there are distinct differences must be aware of.

Key Takeaways

  • Pipe relining is an economical and swift process for restoring damaged pipelines.
  • The lining of CIPP is utilized in pipe relining.
  • Epoxy resin is utilized to line the inner parts of the pipe which cures to create a new inner lining inside the pipe.
  • Relining pipe is time-efficient and cost-effective, and will last up to 50 years.
  • Traditional pipe replacement involves digging up areas of the property in which pipes are located.
  • Pipe replacement may be necessary for severely damaged pipes.
  • A brand-new pipeline installed with the replacement of a pipe has a long time span (75 to 100 years).
  • Replacement of pipes is expensive and lengthy.
  • The choice between pipe relining and pipe replacement depends on the degree of damage.

In this article, we’ll discuss pipe relining in comparison to. pipe replacement. Find the one that best suits your requirements more.

What is Pipe Relining?

Pipe relining or Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) Lining is a state of the art repair procedure that offers a cost-effective and swift solution for restoring damaged pipelines.

Here’s how it will work:

  1. Technicians clean the pipeline using high-pressure water jetting or mechanical cleaning.
  2. Then, they put epoxy resin made of fiberglass or polyester liner in the existing pipeline.
  3. The liner gets cured by forming a new lining in the pipeline that’s as durable as a new one.

Pros of Pipe Relining

  • Time-efficient: It generally takes only 2 to 3 hours to complete the entire procedure, compared to excavating for several days with traditional methods of replacing pipes.
  • Cost-effective - Because no excavation or removal is required in pipe relining this method can save nearly half of the amount you have to pay for repairs that are traditional.
  • Durability – The lining formed by pipe relining can last for 50 years!

Con’s of Pipe Relining

  • Not suitable for very damaged pipes - If you have significant damage such as cracks, collapses, or misaligned joints in your sewer line, then pipe relining may 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 due to the effects of time or neglect.

The following steps make up the majority of traditional pipe replacements:

  1. A team of excavation workers digs access to the deteriorated underground pipe.
  2. The old pipeline is detached and dug out producing much debris that needs to be disposed of.
  3. Then, they put in a new pipeline in place of the old one.

Pros of Pipe Replacement

  • Suitable for severely damaged pipes In the event that you need to replace pipes that are suffering from significant damage or corrosion, pipe replacement is the best solution.
  • Longer life span – The new pipeline installed through pipe replacement has a long lifespan (75 to 100 years) making it an ideal solution for homeowners who want the best solution for their home.

Cons of Pipe Replacement

  • Extraction work that is costly to replace pipes can be lengthy and expensive.
  • It is time-consuming. Pipe replacements could take several weeks, based on the size of the work and depth of excavations required.

Which one is best for you?

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

However, if there are serious damage such as breaks or collapses the best option is replacing the pipe with a traditional method, even 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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process of relining pipes?

Pipe relining is a procedure that creates a brand new pipe in the damaged pipe. This is done by inserting a flexible liner into the old pipe and then placing it into place. Once it is cured, the new pipe is free of joints or seams that improve the structural integrity of the pipe.

What does traditional pipe replacement differ from pipe relining?

Traditional pipe replacement involves digging up and physically taking away old pipes then replacing them with new ones. In contrast, pipe relining isn’t a requirement for excavation. Instead it’s carried out with the help of technology, which allows pipeline repair without digging up large areas of land.

Which is more cost-effective - pipe relining or traditional replacement?

Relining pipelines typically costs less than the traditional methods of repair to pipelines since there aren’t any costs related to excavation or other methods that are required to remove and replace old pipes.

Can all kinds of pipes be reflined?

Not all types of pipes are relined in a successful manner. In the end, your plumber must examine the situation to determine if it’s possible to line your particular type of pipes. But, the majority of new pipes may be repaired using this procedure.

How long will the pipe relining process take?

The exact duration of the process depends on different factors such as the location, the environment and type of damage. However, the average pipe Relining task usually takes between 2 and 3 days based on the amount of meters need to be lined..

In conclusion, if you would like to steer clear of digging work and save your money while restoring damaged pipelines’ performance to their fullest Consider utilizing our Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s quick and efficient pipe relining services. Contact us!

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