It’s a sight that you hate to see: your neighbor’s petunia garden has just been dug up by a backhoe after a damaged sewer line left them with severe water damage. When a cracked or leaking sewer line leaves you with limited options, don’t fret just yet.
A damaged sewer line is an inevitable issue for many homeowners, especially those living in older homes. If your pipes burst and you’re looking to bypass the backhoe, ask your local plumbing contractors about trenchless plumbing options. Trenchless plumbing technology has allowed homeowners an alternative solution that doesn’t dig up their prize-winning gardens or tear apart their garage.
Despite being around for over a decade, almost 80% of respondents to an Angie’s List poll stated they hadn’t heard of “no dig” sewer technology. If you’re one of these four in five folks who hasn’t heard yet, you’re probably wondering about a few things. Here are a few things you probably want to know about no dig technology:
What is trenchless plumbing?
Trenchless pipe repair is a method of repairing pipes, drains and sewer lines without digging a trench — I.E. the traditional method of pipe repair.
How does it work?
While stationed at two manholes facing each other, plumbing contractors use CIPP (cured in place pipe) technology to curate your existing pipes. Designed for a long time service life, CIPP systems are a long-lasting solution for cracked or broken pipes. Using a microscopic camera, contractors place CIPP material into a damaged pipe and then inflate it to fit the size of the pipe. It is then cured and acts as an epoxy pipe lining.
Is it as effective as digging a trench?
Yes. While the technology may be different, the end-result is the same. Your pipes will be fixed without leaving a huge hole in your yard.
Is it more expensive than the conventional way of digging a trench?
While the upfront cost of a trenchless plumbing repair may be a bit steeper than alternatives, the end-all will leave you with more money in your pocket. By avoiding a trench, you won’t have to pay to fill the trench and rework your yard. Better yet, you won’t run the risk of having to dig up your driveway or garage to reach the sewer lines so you won’t have to pay to have them repaired. With no-dig technology, you’re paying only for the service and won’t have any surprises.