Pipe Relining vs. Traditional Replacement: Which Is Right for You?
Pipe Relining: The Modern Alternative to Pipe Replacement
If your drainage pipes are cracked, broken, or corroded, you have two main options:
- Traditional replacement — Dig up the yard, remove old pipes, install new ones.
- Pipe relining — No-dig solution; lines existing pipes from inside
Pipe relining is faster, cheaper, and less disruptive. Here’s how it works and when it’s the right choice.
What Is Pipe Relining?
Pipe relining (also called “trenchless repair”) involves:
- Cleaning your existing pipes (CCTV + hydro jetting)
- Threading a flexible, epoxy-coated liner into the damaged pipe
- Inflating the liner to fit snugly against the pipe walls
- Curing the epoxy (sets hard like a new pipe inside the old one)
Result: A new pipe wall inside your old pipe, without excavation.
Pipe Relining vs. Traditional Replacement
|
Factor |
Pipe Relining |
Traditional Replacement |
|
Digging |
None |
Yes (extensive) |
|
Yard damage |
Minimal |
Major disruption |
|
Time |
4–8 hours |
1–4 days |
|
Cost |
Lower |
Higher |
|
Warranty |
25 years |
7 years |
|
Mess |
Minimal |
Extensive |
|
Suitable for |
Most pipes (except severely collapsed) |
All situations |
When Pipe Relining Works Best
When You Need Traditional Replacement
- Severely collapsed pipes
- Multiple sections needing repair
- Pipes already fully replaced (no room for liner)
- Extremely old or fragile pipes
The Pipe Relining Process
Step 1: CCTV Inspection
We assess your pipes and identify damage location, extent, and type.
Step 2: Hydro Jetting
High-pressure water cleans debris, roots, and buildup from inside the pipe.
Step 3: Liner Preparation
We measure your pipe and prepare a custom epoxy-coated liner.
Step 4: Installation
The liner is carefully threaded into place using water pressure or manual insertion.
Step 5: Curing
Epoxy sets (usually 24 hours). Your pipe is now restored—stronger than before.
Step 6: Final Inspection
CCTV confirms the liner is properly seated and fully cured.
Cost Comparison: Real Example
Scenario: 20-metre damaged drain with tree root intrusion in your yard
Traditional Replacement
- Excavation & labour: $3,000–5,000
- New pipes & fittings: $1,500–2,500
- Landscaping restoration: $2,000–3,000
Total: $6,500–10,500
Time: 7–10 days
Pipe Relining
- CCTV inspection: $250–400
- Hydro jetting: $300–500
- Relining labour & materials: $2,000–3,500
Total: $2,550–4,400
Time: 2–3 days
Savings: $4,000–6,000 | Time saved: 5–7 days | Yard intact: Priceless
Why Homeowners Choose Relining
- Cost savings — 50–70% cheaper than excavation
- No yard damage — Keep your garden, driveway, landscaping intact
- Speed — Done in days, not weeks
- Longevity — New liner lasts 50+ years
- Warranty — Full warranty on relining work
- Less disruption — Minimal mess, no heavy machinery on your property
Is Your Pipe a Candidate for Relining?
The best way to find out: Get a CCTV inspection
We’ll assess your pipes and recommend the most cost-effective solution:
- Relining if suitable
- Targeted replacement if necessary
- Hybrid approach if part of the system needs each
Pipe Relining in Melbourne
Jet Plus Plumbing handles pipe relining across Melbourne—from Glen Iris to Dandenong. We use industry-leading equipment and materials.
Service areas: Glen Iris, Malvern, Armadale, Toorak, Caulfield, Hawthorn, Kew, Balwyn, Mount Waverley, Glen Waverley, Ashburton, Burwood, Chadstone, Carnegie, Berwick, Narre Warren, Dandenong, and surrounding suburbs.
Ready to Learn More?
Damaged pipes? Let’s assess your situation with a CCTV inspection and recommend the best solution.
Phone: 0421 725 624
Email: info@jetplusplumbing.com.au
Available: Monday–Friday 7 AM–5 PM; 24/7 emergency service
Jet Plus Plumbing Pty Ltd | ABN 97 660 015 789 | Licensed Plumber | Fully Insured | Pipe Relining Specialists | Serving Melbourne Since 2017
