Understanding the Differences Between Pipe Relining and Pipe Replacement

Posted by Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney on 31 Dec 2025

In the case of fixing damaged pipes, the two most common solutions are pipe relining and replacement of pipes. Both methods aim to bring back the original function of your pipes, however there are some distinct differences you need to know.

Key Takeaways

  • Pipe relining is a cost-effective and speedy method to repair damaged pipelines.
  • Linings made of CIPP are used for pipe relining.
  • Epoxy resin is used to line the internal parts of the pipe. The resin cures to creates a new inner lining inside the pipe.
  • Pipe relining is time-efficient, cost-effective, and will last up to 50 years.
  • The traditional method of replacing pipes is digging up portions of property where pipes are.
  • The replacement of pipes is often necessary for pipes that are badly damaged.
  • A brand new pipeline that is installed by pipe replacement has a lengthy duration (75 -100 years).
  • The cost of replacing pipes is high and time-consuming.
  • The decision between pipe relining versus pipe replacement depends on the degree of damage.

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

Is Pipe Relining a thing?

Pipe relining or Cured In-Place Pipe (CIPP) lining is a state-of-the-art repair process which offers a low-cost and quick solution to repair damaged pipelines.

Here’s how it works:

  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 to the existing pipeline.
  3. The liner gets cured by forming a new liner within the old pipeline that’s just as robust as a new one.

The advantages of Pipe Relining

  • Time-efficient – It usually takes between 2 and three hours in order to finish the entire process, as opposed to digging for many days using traditional pipe replacement techniques.
  • Cost-effective - Because there is no excavation or removal necessary in pipe relining work This can help you save more than half of what you would pay for traditional repairs.
  • Durability – The new lining made by pipe relining could last up to 50 years!

Con’s of Pipe Relining

  • Not suitable for very damaged pipes - If there are major damages such as cracks or collapses or joints that aren’t aligned properly within your sewer line then pipe relining might not be feasible.

What exactly is Pipe Replacement?

Pipe replacement involves digging up portions of the yard/sidewalk/driveway where underground pipes are located. The areas may contain broken pipes, or very corroded ones either from the effects of time or neglect.

The following steps comprise most traditional pipe replacements:

  1. A team of excavation workers digs access to the decayed underground pipe.
  2. The pipeline that was previously in use is detachment and dug out, creating a lot of debris that must be cleared away.
  3. They then install another pipeline in place of the one they had previously installed.

Pros and Cons of Pipe Replacement

  • Perfect for severely damaged pipes - When you need to replace pipes with significant damage or corrosion, pipe replacement is the most effective option.
  • Longer life span – The new pipeline installed through pipe replacement has a long lifespan (75 or 100 years) making it an ideal solution for homeowners who want an ongoing solution.

Pros of Pipe Replacement

  • Extraction work that is costly for pipe replacement could be long and costly.
  • The process is time-consuming. Traditional pipe replacements can take weeks depending on the extent of work and the extent of excavation required.

Which one is best for you?

The decision on whether to go with relining or replacing your pipes mostly depends on the extent of damage caused. If your pipes suffer minor damage, such as cracks or leaks that are minor, the relining process is probably a more appropriate choice since it’s less costly as well as quicker than conventional replacements.

But if there are severe damage such as breaks or collapses it is recommended to consider an alternative to replacing your pipe, although it may be more expensive 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 pipe relining?

Relining of pipes is a process that involves creating a new pipe inside an existing damaged pipe. It is accomplished by inserting a flexible liner in the existing pipe, and then the process of curing it. Once it is cured, the new pipe has no joints or seams that improve its structural integrity.

How does the traditional replacement of pipes differ from pipe relining?

Traditional pipe replacement involves digging and physically taking away old pipes then replacing them with new ones. However, pipe relining doesn’t require excavation; instead, it’s completed using technology that allows for repairs to pipelines without digging large portions of land.

Which option is less expensive: the pipe relining method or traditional pipe replacement?

Pipe relining generally costs less than the traditional methods of pipe repair because there are no costs associated to excavation, or other methods needed for removing and replacing old pipes.

Can all types of pipes be changed?

Some types of pipes can be successfully relined. Your plumber will have to inspect your situation to determine if it’s possible to line your specific kind of pipes. However, the majority of contemporary pipes are lined by this procedure.

How long will the pipe relining process take?

The exact time required for the process is dependent on various factors such as the location, the environment, and type of damage. However the average Pipe Relining job typically takes around 2 days based on the amount of meters need to be lined..

In conclusion, if want to avoid invasive excavation work and save cash while restoring damaged pipelines’ function to its maximum you should consider using our Blocked Drains Plumbing Sydney ‘s rapid and effective pipeline relining service. Get in touch with us!

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