CIPP vs Pipe Bursting

When it comes to fixing a problematic pipe, trenchless plumbing technology offers a hassle-free solution. With this technology, you don’t have to worry about digging up large areas of your property and disturbing your landscaping, or even going under an object that you don’t want to dig up. The best part is that trenchless technology allows you to repair most common pipe issues and even replace an entire pipe without any excavation. There are two popular trenchless solutions available: pipe bursting and cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining. But how do you decide which one is best for your situation? Let’s explore the details of each method to help you make an informed decision.

How CIPP Lining Works
If you are experiencing issues with gaps, cracks, or other faults in your pipe, you may want to consider using CIPP lining. This method involves reinforcing your existing pipe by feeding an epoxy-coated liner into it and curing it to the walls of the pipe using an inflatable bladder. It’s essentially like having a brand-new pipe installed inside the old one.

One of the benefits of CIPP lining is that the old pipe can provide an additional layer of protection for the new lining. Additionally, for minor issues like small gaps and cracks, CIPP lining may be a more affordable and less invasive solution than pipe bursting.

However, it’s important to note that buildup in the pipe walls can further reduce the diameter of the new lining, which means that the pipe needs to be cleaned of such buildup prior to lining it.

How Pipe Bursting Works
Pipe bursting is a trenchless method of replacing old and damaged pipes. This process involves using a steel bursting head that is inserted into the pipeline at one end and a chain that is run from the head to a designated exit point. The bursting head is then used to fracture the old pipe, which is destroyed and replaced with a completely new pipe.

One of the main advantages of pipe bursting is that it allows for the replacement of the old pipe without losing the internal diameter of the pipes. This means that the new pipe being dragged into place by the bursting head will be the same size as the original pipe, resulting in less risk of restricting water flow in the pipe after the operation is finished.

Moreover, the replacement process is not affected by the condition of the old pipe, except in cases where the pipe is completely collapsed and filled in, blocking the path of the chain dragging the bursting head. In such cases, the replacement process may be a bit more challenging, but in most cases, damage to the pipe wall will not affect the replacement process.

In summary, pipe bursting is an effective and efficient method of replacing old and damaged pipes, allowing for a more complete pipe replacement.

Which is Better?
When it comes to fixing problems in your pipes, there are two main solutions: CIPP lining and pipe bursting. CIPP lining is a cost-effective method that can address simple issues by patching up any holes or quirks in the pipe. However, if you’re looking for a more comprehensive fix, pipe bursting provides an entirely new line.

Choosing the right solution can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the options. That’s why it’s best to consult with experienced trenchless plumbing experts who can assess your situation and provide an estimate. The good news is that many trenchless plumbing repairs can be performed the same day, so you won’t have to wait long to get your pipes fixed.