What Is Pipe Relining, And Is It Worth Relining My Pipes?

Simply put, Pipe Relining creates a pipe within the existing pipe. At Proximity Plumbing, we use a two-part epoxy that’s pulled through the pipe and expanded to leave a hard fibreglass shell that can’t be penetrated by roots. These new pipe lining systems are up to 4 times stronger than a new PVC pipe and are perfect for sewer pipe repair.

Pipe relining is the best solution for repairing difficult and damaged pipes. Known as a “no dig” solution and considerably less impactful than any other pipe repair options. It’s quiet, quick and clean, which is why it’s becoming the go-to service for our eastern suburbs clients who are looking for a long term solution that won’t disrupt the home or garden.

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Here Are A Few Factors That Generally Impact The Cost Involved In Pipe Relining

1. The Size Of The Pipe

We have the capability to reline small to very large  pipes, as  you can imagine this heavily affects the end cost.

2. The Length Of The Pipe

Like most things, the more you need, the more you pay. A job with only 2 meters of pipe relining is going to cost a lot less than a job with 20 meters! From our CCTV inspection and measurements gained from the inspection, we’ll be able to know just how much piping you’ll need.

3. The Ease Of Access To The Pipe

Whilst pipe relining has the advantage of “no digging or excavation required” in some instances, we will need to dig a small hole. If this is needed, it can affect the price of the job. Especially if we need to dig and install new piping to access the pipes we’re trying to reline.

4. The Existing Condition Of The Pipe

The condition of the existing pipe plays a role in the price of the job. If it is completely full of tree roots or silt and will require many hours of clearing with a high-pressure water jetter, then this may affect the price.

Same thing if the drain is very damaged as usually there will be some additional work required to prepare the pipe before relining.

5.    The Location Of The Site

Unfortunately, pipe relining equipment is generally very big and heavy. So if getting the equipment to your location is tricky (and some residences in the eastern suburbs are) then we’ll need more manpower to help us get it to your site. difficult it will take additional time and will likely require more staff to help carry it there

 The Method We Choose To Reline The Pipe

There are 3 main methods for storm water and sewer relining. Inversion, patch and drag in. Here are the methods in detail and what can affect the sewer relining cost:

Inversion – This is by far the best option if you never want to have a blocked drain again. This technique is generally used when more than 3 continuous meters require drain relining. The liner and resin is inserted into the drain by means of an Inversion Drum, this is very high quality and expensive piece of equipment that guarantees the best possible end result. The resin is on the outside, so it bonds to your existing pipe sealing all the cracks and joints ensuring tree roots have no chance of re-entering the pipe.

Patch Relining –  Sectional patch pipe relining is best used when there are only 1 or a few spots that need repairing and the rest of the pipeline is in good working order or the property owner would only like to repair the worst affected areas. The pipe relining cost is based on a per patch basis, not per meter. The resin is also on the outside which bonds to the existing pipe.

Drag in – This is an option if the job is not possible with an inversion drum (very uncommon) or if the reline needs to start further down the line where there is no access. However, it does come with risks and generally lower life expectancies. The main issue is that the resin is on the inside of the liner, meaning that it will not bond properly to the existing pipe and seal all of the old cracks and joints that tree roots gain access through.

It has a layer of plastic up against the old pipe which gives tree roots an opportunity to work their way in between the two pipes and cause problems down the track if the incorrect liner or installation technique is used (very common). The other disadvantage is that you need 2 access points which may result in the additional excavation which will add to the sewer lining cost.

 7.    The Number Of “Junctions” Which Need To Be Relined

The number of junctions (branch lines) within the relined section of pipe, will increase the price. It’s another reason why it’s so important to have your CCTV pipe inspection before deciding to reline – your plumber will be able to see just how many junctions he or she is dealing with. Junctions are important because if a junction is “tree root affected” BY LAW a junction patch must be installed. This is because without it the tree roots will gain access to the drain again!

8.   The Quality Of The Pipe Relining Materials

Like all industries, there are high and low-quality products on the market, so this obviously affects the trenchless sewer repair cost. Because we have been pipe relining for many years, we have been lucky enough to test 100’s or products from all over the world. From this extensive test and measure process, we have found the most superior products available and only use them on our jobs.

Our materials are purchased from RSM Lining Supplies, which is one of the most recognised and reputable suppliers in the world. They are a company from The UK but also based in Australia, USA and Canada.  All of their products are made in Germany, France, the UK, or the USA and are 100% Australian Watermark approved.

9.    The Risk Involved

Pipe relining is a job that can come with very high risk, when a mistake is made (this is another reason to check up on the plumber you’re engaging to take on the job – see below for more info). The main risk factor is that in pipe relining, there are no second chances, there is one chance at installing the new pipe correctly. So, you better know that the team you have on the job are experts at pipe relining.

10. The Decision Of Every Plumbing Company On What They Charge

This is generally what will create the biggest differentiation in the price. The reason being is that some companies are expensive, cheap, or quoting to do different work. So, it’s very important to properly compare quotes and ask as many questions as possible.

Your best ally in a cost conversation is information. Ask the company as many questions as possible about the time involved, labour costs, hourly costs (if any) possible issues with access to the site, materials used, quality of materials, etc. Get them to take you through why the costs vary (from one company to another). Also, a good idea to shop around and get a few quotes so you can feel comfortable.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF PIPE RELINING?

• No digging or excavation required.
• Faster and more affordable than open construction.
• 4 x stronger than a standard PVC pipe
• Our piping has a 50-year life expectancy.
• Works for sewer pipe repair as well as storm water, earthenware, copper asbestos, PVC and cast-iron pipes.
• Guaranteed for 35 years
• Keeps out all tree roots.
• Reduced impact on the environment.

11.   The Length Of The Guarantee

Like any product in which you invest, you can gain a guarantee for your relined pipes. Usually the length of the guarantee depends on the quality of the materials used. The common guarantee time is 25 – 35 years.

Does Pipe Relining Cost Less Than Replacement?

Pipe relining is generally more expensive than replacement. The investment into pipe relining is significant due to the extensive equipment, the materials and the intensive training required to do the job. Pipe relining is not taught at TAFE. Each relining business must train their own staff. It can take up to 12 months for a qualified plumber to run a pipe relining job autonomously. This significantly adds to the cost of doing business.

Restoration Costs

That being said, pipe relining is less expensive if you take into account the costs of property restoration: The replacement of pipes requires excavation. With excavation comes cost because whatever is above ground needs to be put back. This could be paving, landscaping, retaining walls, bathroom tiles. Not only can this be expensive, but it is also time consuming having to coordinate the tradesmen to do the work.

The Cost Of Pipe Relining Vs Pipe Replacement

There are many factors that come into the cost of both relining and repairing. There’s rarely going to be a simple price point for either of these services. If your damaged pipes are underneath building foundations, it means you’ll need to do a full excavation job to reach these pipes. Not only will the excavation be costly, but you’ll have to repair everything that needs to be removed in the process including concreting, tiling and more. When it comes to pipe relining the costs are also dependent on a lot of factors, including access, type and size of the pipe and the amount of damage. Often the costs of pipe relining are considered higher than pipe repair. But when you think about everything that comes along with pipe repair – excavating, re-building, re-landscaping, not to mention how long all this takes. So, you’ll also need to take into account that down time and what that will cost your business during the excavation process.

What Affects Pipe Relining Sydney Costs?

The cost for relining your pipes is completely dependent on many variables of your property. So, without our free inspection and obligation free solution plan, it’s hard to put a price on the job.

If you’re asking, “Is Pipe Relining Worth It?” it’s important to factor the costs of digging vs the cost of completing pipe relining. On average, pipe relining costs will vary between $450 – $1000 per metre. You’re probably wondering why the cost of this procedure varies and this is a very common but good question As far as the costs go, there isn’t a definitive answer. The price will depend on a variety of factors, including:

• Size Of The Pipe
• Location Of The Pipe
• Accessibility Of The Pipe
• The Condition Of The Pipe
• The Diameter Of The Pipe (Smaller Diameter Pipes Are More Expensive)

Why Choose Proximity Plumbing For Pipe Relining?

When we reline your pipes, we completely seal the pipe, so there are no leaks, no roots, no problem. But the real kicker is the materials that we use; epoxy liner is considerably stronger than the commonly used PVC pipes and due to it being seamless, there are no opportunities for roots to exploit weaknesses such as joins and seals. Meaning your new relined plumbing is unlikely to cause you any problems for a good-long-while.

Why Choose Proximity Plumbing To Inspect Your Pipes?

Proximity Plumbing has a proven track record of growth and success through word of mouth and quality of service. We proudly boast over 250 5 star reviews on Google!

We are a family-run, Eastern Suburbs business – and we’re true locals, we live, breath and love the east. So, we know eastern suburbs pipework like no other company.

Above anything else we value world-class customer service, and we aim to serve our local community whilst improving the standards and reputation of our industry.