Cracked, sagging or completely damaged pipes pose a big issue to homes, businesses and the general community. Not too long ago, the only real way to rectify damaged pipes was time-consuming and destructive excavation to replace a small section, or entire line.
Thankfully – there’s a new solution on the block when it comes to repairing pipes that no longer work to their required capacity – pipe relining.
Want to know more about pipe relining and repairing damaged pipes?
Learn more down below with the plumbers from Fremantle Plumbing.
Defining pipe relining
Pipe relining (also commonly known as trenchless or no-dig pipe repair) is the answer you need for damaged, cracked or sagging pipes.
It works by a plumber inserting a specially designed tube directly into the pipes. Once this is done, the plumber will inflate this tubing until it’s nice and snug against the lining of the interior of the pipe.
Why plumbers and clients alike love pipe relining:
- The cheaper and quicker way to repair damaged pipes.
- An excellent, long-term solution that doesn’t disturb your property and isn’t labour-intensive like plumbing excavation.
A resin coats the outside of the tube which will adhere to the existing pipework and once set, a durable seal is provided to your pipes, rectifying any damage or problem areas.
Find out more about what’s involved with pipe relining below.
The step-by-step pipe relining process
First things first, you notice an issue (or multiple issues) with your plumbing and call a plumber. These issues could be anything from water pressure changes, discoloured and foul-smelling water, spongy wet patches in your garden and/or an increase in your water bill.
Your plumber will perform a CCTV camera inspection to provide context to the problem and assessment to see if pipe relining is appropriate.
Relining isn’t suitable for pipes with large holes or completely collapsed pipes.
Cleaning and preparing the pipe(s)
If pipe relining is communicated with you as the best option, your plumber will clean the pipelines to prepare for this service.
How?
- A jet blaster will be used to remove any existing grease, oils, grime or other residue.
- Clean pipes ensure a durable bond between new lining and existing pipes.
We will again inspect with our CCTV plumbing camera to inspect the cleanliness; readiness and how much relining is needed.
Lining is prepared and commenced
The pipes new lining is made from polyester or fibreglass and is expertly measured and prepared by your plumber. An epoxy resin complete with a hardening agent is poured into the lining and distributed evenly. This process is called ‘wetting out.’
From here the relining commences.
The final step
Upon lining insertion, the resin needs time to harden and form its protective coating.
Ultraviolet light as well as a robotic cutter being sent down is the final step, which opens up previously closed junctions where epoxy was pushed in.
Talk to your trusted Perth plumbers at Fremantle Plumbing about the best long-term fix for your damaged pipes.
Need fast and efficient repairs of damaged pipes?
Contact Fremantle Plumbing today for professional, cost and time efficient residential and commercial plumbing solutions.