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, two popular methods are pipe relining and pipe replacement. Both approaches aim to restore the function of your pipelines, but they differ in a way that you should be aware of.

Key Takeaways

  • Relining pipes is an affordable and speedy method to repair damaged pipelines.
  • The lining CIPP is employed in pipe relining.
  • Epoxy resin is used to line the inner portions of the pipe. It is cured to form a new inner lining inside the pipe.
  • Pipe relining is time-efficient, cost-effective, and will last up to 50 years.
  • Traditional pipe replacement involves digging up sections of land in which pipes are located.
  • Pipe replacement may be necessary for severely damaged pipes.
  • A brand new pipeline that is installed by pipe replacement has a long lifespan (75 up to 100 years).
  • Replacement of pipes can be costly and lengthy.
  • The decision between pipe relining or pipe replacement depends on the degree of damage that has been caused.

In this article, we’ll go over pipe relining as opposed to. pipe replacement. Find out which option will meet your needs better.

How do you define Pipe Relining?

Relining pipes or Cured-In Place Pipe (CIPP) Lining is a cutting-edge repair method that provides a cost-effective, quick solution to repair damaged pipelines.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Technicians clean the pipeline with high-pressure jetting or mechanical cleaning.
  2. Then, they put epoxy resin made of fiberglass or polyester liner to the existing pipeline.
  3. The liner cures and forms a new lining within the old pipeline that’s just as long-lasting as the new one.

Advantages Pipe Relining

  • Time-efficient: It generally takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete the whole process, as opposed to digging for days in traditional pipe replacement techniques.
  • Cost-effective since there is no excavation or removal required in pipe relining It can save you 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!

Cons of Pipe Relining

  • Not suitable for very damaged pipes - If there are significant damages such as cracks, collapses or joints that are misaligned within 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 collapsed pipes or extremely corrosion-prone ones, due to the effects of time or neglect.

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

  1. A team of excavation workers digs access to the deteriorated underground pipe.
  2. The old pipeline is detached and dredged out, producing a lot 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 If you have to replace pipes that have significant corrosion or damage, pipe replacement is the ideal solution.
  • Long life – The brand new pipeline, which is replaced by pipe has a lengthy lifespan (75 bis 100 years) making it an ideal alternative for homeowners seeking a permanent solution.

Cons of Pipe Replacement

  • It is expensive – Excavating work required to replace pipes can be time-consuming and expensive.
  • The process is time-consuming. Traditional pipe replacements can take a few weeks based on the nature of the project and depth of excavations required.

Which one is best for you?

The decision on whether to go with relining or replacing your pipes mostly depends on the level of damage caused. If your pipes suffer minor damages like cracks or leaks that are minor, replacing them is likely to be the better option since it’s less costly and faster than conventional replacements.

However, if there are serious damages like collapses or breaks and breaks, you must consider traditional pipe replacement although it will cost more and will 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 a pipe is a procedure which involves the creation of a new pipe inside an existing damaged pipe. It is accomplished by inserting a flexible liner in the existing pipe, and then making it a permanent fixture. Once it is cured, the new pipe has no joints or seams which improves its structural integrity.

How does traditional pipe replacement differ from relining pipe?

Traditional pipe replacement involves physically cutting away the old pipe after which they are replaced with new ones. However, pipe relining isn’t a requirement for excavation. Instead it’s done using technology that allows for repair of pipelines without digging vast areas of land.

Which one is less expensive - liner relining or conventional pipe replacement?

Relining pipes typically cost less than the traditional methods of pipe repair because 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 changed?

Certain types of pipes are relined in a successful manner. Ultimately, your plumber should examine the situation to determine if it’s possible to line the particular kind of pipes. But, the majority of current pipes could be lined using this method.

How long does the pipe relining process take?

The precise time needed for the process depends on different elements like location, environment and type of damage. However the typical pipe Relining job typically takes around 2 days, depending on the number of meters require lining..

If you would like to steer clear of digging work and save cash while restoring your damaged pipelines’ function to its maximum, consider opting for our Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains ‘s quick and efficient pipe relining services. Contact us today!

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