Understanding the Differences Between Pipe Relining and Pipe Replacement

Posted by Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains on 10 Dec 2025

In the case of fixing damaged pipes solutions are pipe relining and replacement of pipes. Both methods aim to restore the functionality of your pipelines, but they have marked differences that must be aware of.

Key Takeaways

  • Relining pipes is an affordable and swift process for restoring damaged pipelines.
  • CIPP lining is used in pipe relining.
  • Epoxy resin is utilized to line the inner parts of the pipe which is cured to form a new inner lining in the old pipeline.
  • Relining pipe is time-efficient and economical, and can last up to 50 years.
  • The traditional method of replacing pipes is digging up sections of land where pipes are.
  • The replacement of pipes is often necessary to repair pipes that are severely damaged.
  • A brand-new pipeline installed with pipe replacement has a lengthy life span (75 -100 years).
  • The cost of replacing pipes is high and long-lasting.
  • The choice between pipe relining versus pipe replacement is based on the extent of damage.

In this article, we’ll go over pipe relining and. pipe replacement, and find out which one suits your needs better.

The term "pipe relining" is used to describe the process of repairing pipes.

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

Here’s how it will work:

  1. Technicians clean the pipeline with high-pressure jetting or mechanical cleaning.
  2. Then, they apply epoxy resin made of fiberglass or polyester inside the existing pipeline.
  3. The liner gets cured, creating a new inner lining within the pipeline that’s as durable as a new one.

Pros of Pipe Relining

  • Time-efficient – It usually takes only 2 to 3 hours to complete the entire process compared with excavating for many days using traditional pipe replacement methods.
  • Cost-effective because there is no excavation or removal necessary for pipe relining, it can save almost half of the amount you spend on traditional repairs.
  • Durability – The new lining created through pipe relining can last up to 50 years!

Pros and Cons of Pipe Relining

  • Not suitable for the most damaged pipes. If you have significant damage such as cracks or collapses or joints that aren’t aligned properly 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. The areas may contain damaged pipes, or highly damaged ones caused by age or neglect.

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

  1. An excavation team digs access to the decayed underground pipe.
  2. The old pipeline is detached and dug out, creating a lot of debris that needs to be disposed of.
  3. They then install an entirely new pipeline instead of the previous one.

Pros of Pipe Replacement

  • Ideal for pipes that have been severely damaged Ideal for severely damaged pipes – If you must replace pipes that are suffering from significant corrosion or damage, pipe replacement is the best option.
  • Long lifespan – The new pipeline installed through pipe replacement has a long lifespan (75 or 100 years) making it an ideal alternative for homeowners seeking an option that is long-lasting.

Pros of Pipe Replacement

  • The work of excavation required to replace pipes can be lengthy and expensive.
  • The process is time-consuming. Traditional pipe replacements may take weeks depending on the scope of work and the depth of excavations that are required.

Which option should you pick?

The choice between either relining or repairing your pipes is mostly based on the level of damage caused. If your pipes suffer from minor damage, such as cracks or minor leaks, then the relining process is probably an ideal option as it is less costly and faster than traditional replacements.

However, if you have severe damage such as breaks or collapses and breaks, you must consider replacing the pipe with a traditional method, even though it will cost more and may 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

FAQs

What is pipe relining?

Relining of pipes is a procedure that involves creating a new pipe within the existing damaged pipe. This is done by inserting a liner that is flexible into the existing pipe, and then the process of curing it. Once it is cured, the new pipe has no joints or seams, which increases its structural integrity.

What is the difference between traditional pipe replacement and differ from pipe relining?

Traditional replacement of pipes involves digging and physically taking away old pipes, after which they are replaced with new ones. However, pipe relining isn’t a requirement for excavation. Instead, it’s completed by using technology that permits pipeline repair without digging up huge areas of land.

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

Relining pipes typically cost less than traditional methods of repair to pipelines since there is no cost related to excavation or other procedures that are required to remove and replace old pipes.

All kinds of pipes can be reflined?

There are a few types of pipes that are relined effectively. Your plumber must examine the situation to determine if it’s feasible to line your specific kind of pipes. However, the majority of current pipes could be fixed by this technique.

How long will the pipe relining process take?

The exact duration of the procedure is contingent upon various elements like the location, the environment, and type of damage; however the average pipe Relining job typically takes around 2 days, depending on how many metres need to be lined..

In the end, if you are looking to stay clear of invasive excavation work and save money while restoring your damaged pipelines’ functionality, consider opting for our Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains ‘s swift and efficient pipeline relining services. Get in touch with us!

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