Understanding the Differences Between Pipe Relining and Pipe Replacement

Posted by Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing on 10 Dec 2025

When it comes to fixing damaged pipes methods are pipe relining and pipe replacement. Both methods aim to restore the functionality of your pipelines, but they differ in a way that are important to understand.

Key Takeaways

  • Pipe relining is an economical and speedy method to repair damaged pipelines.
  • The lining of CIPP is utilized in the relining of pipes.
  • Epoxy resin is used to line the inner portions of the pipe. It cures to creates a new inner lining inside the old pipeline.
  • Relining pipe is time-efficient and economical, and can last for up to 50 years.
  • The traditional method of replacing pipes is digging up portions of property in which pipes are situated.
  • Pipe replacement may be necessary to repair pipes that are severely damaged.
  • A new pipe installed via the replacement of a pipe has a long time span (75 or 100 years).
  • Pipe replacement is costly and time-consuming.
  • The choice between pipe relining and replacement depends on the degree of damage that has been caused.

In this article, we’ll talk about pipe relining vs. pipe replacement, and find the one that best suits your needs better.

How do you define Pipe Relining?

Pipe relining, also known as Cured-In-Place pipe (CIPP) Lining is a cutting-edge repair method that provides a cost-effective and fast solution for repairing damaged pipelines.

Here’s how it will work:

  1. Technicians clean the pipeline using high-pressure water jetting or mechanical cleaning.
  2. They then apply epoxy resin made of fiberglass or polyester liner to the pipeline.
  3. The liner cures to form a brand new inner lining within the pipeline that’s as robust as a new one.

Advantages Pipe Relining

  • Time-efficient – It typically takes just 2 to three hours in order to finish the whole procedure, compared to excavating for days in traditional methods of replacing pipes.
  • Cost-effective because no excavation or removal is necessary in pipe relining work, it can save almost half of what you would pay for traditional repairs.
  • Durability – The new liner created through pipe relining can last up to 50 years!

Pros and Cons of Pipe Relining

  • Not suitable for the most damaged pipes. If there are significant damages such as cracks or collapses or joints that are misaligned in your sewer line, then pipe relining is not a possibility.

What is Pipe Replacement?

Pipe replacement involves digging up portions of the yard/sidewalk/driveway where underground pipes are located. These areas could contain broken pipes, or very damaged ones caused by negligence or aging.

The following steps comprise most traditional pipe replacements:

  1. An excavation team digs access to the degraded underground pipe.
  2. The pipeline that was previously in use is detachment and dredged out, producing a lot debris that requires disposing of.
  3. Then, they construct an entirely new pipeline instead of the previous one.

Pros of Pipe Replacement

  • Perfect for severely damaged pipes - When you need to replace pipes that have severe corrosion or damage, pipe replacement is the best solution.
  • Long-lasting – The latest pipeline replaced with pipe has a lengthy lifespan (75 up to 100 years) making it an ideal option for homeowners looking for a permanent solution.

Pros and Cons of Pipe Replacement

  • Extraction work that is costly for the replacement of pipes is costly and time-consuming.
  • Time-consuming – Traditional pipe replacements can take weeks depending on the size of the work and depth of excavations required.

Which one should you choose?

The decision to choose between replacement or relining your pipes is mostly based on the extent of damage caused. If your pipes suffer from minor issues like cracks, or minor leaks, then it is likely that relining is an ideal option as it is less costly as well as quicker than traditional pipe replacements.

If there are major injuries, like breaks or collapses it is recommended to consider traditional pipe replacement although it will cost more 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

Common Questions & Answers

What is the process of relining pipes?

Pipe relining is a process which consists of creating a new pipe inside an existing damaged pipe. It is accomplished by inserting a flexible liner in the old pipe and then the process of curing it. Once it is cured, the new pipe does not have joints or seams, which enhances its structural integrity.

How does traditional pipe replacement differ from relining pipe?

Traditional replacement of pipes involves excavating and physically cutting away the old pipe then replacing them with new ones. The alternative, pipe relining isn’t a requirement for excavation. Instead it’s done using technology that allows for repairs to pipelines without digging vast areas of land.

Which option is less expensive: liner relining or conventional pipe replacement?

Relining pipes typically cost less than traditional methods of pipe repair because there are no costs associated to excavation, or other methods needed for removing and replacing old pipes.

All kinds of pipes can be reflined?

Certain types of pipes are relined in a successful manner. Ultimately, your plumber will have to inspect your particular situation to determine whether it is feasible to line the particular kind of pipes. However, most modern pipes can be relined by this procedure.

How long does the process of relining pipes last?

The exact length of time needed for the process is dependent on various elements like location, environmental conditions and the kind of damage. However the typical pipe Relining job typically takes around 2 days, depending on the number of metres require lining..

If you would like to steer clear of digging work and save your money as you restore your pipelines’ performance to their fullest, consider opting for our Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing ‘s swift and efficient pipeline relining service. Contact us!

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