Pipe Relining vs. Full Replacement: Which One Pays Off?

For many, the thought of replacing pipes is enough to make their stomach turn. Who wants their yard, landscaping, or flooring ripped apart just to access a buried pipe? The good news is that traditional replacement isn’t the only option anymore. Pipe relining offers a less invasive solution.

Still, a replacement could be the smarter choice in some cases. In this brief article brought to you by Texas Rooter, we break down both methods so you can decide which is right for your situation. If you'd rather consult a trained plumber, then call or message Texas Rooter to get in touch.

The Traditional Way: Pipe Replacement

A pipe replacement is exactly as it probably sounds: digging up the old pipe and putting in a brand-new one. This is the way plumbers have handled broken or corroded pipes for decades, and in some cases, it’s still the best option.

The tried-and-true method is preferred with one driving motivator: peace of mind. Getting down and dirty is a lot of work, but you can bet the result is long-lasting. You’re starting fresh with entirely new pipes that can last several decades.

With that said, it’s invasive. Crews may need to dig trenches through your yard or even cut into floors and walls to reach problem areas. Landscaping, driveways, or patios might be damaged in the process. To most people, those are all added costs.

In short, a pipe replacement is reliable but comes at a cost - or few. It works for severely damaged systems that relining can’t fix.

The Newer Method: Pipe Relining

Pipe relining, on the other hand, is a modern solution for fixing without breaking. Instead of removing the old pipe, a plumber inserts a flexible tube into the damaged plumbing. Once in place, the tube is inflated to 'hug' the walls of the pipe's interior.

Here's the key: the tube's exterior is coated with resin that now sticks to the piping. Once the resin hardens, you've practically got a 'new pipe within a pipe.'

The benefits are obvious: it's minimally invasive, faster to complete, and involves fewer materials. Factor in the fact that your yard stays in tact, and you've got a cost-effective solution.

Still, this solution is not for everyone. It may not be suitable if the pipe is completely collapsed or severely misaligned. A plumber's expert opinion is crucial here.

Comparing the Two

The main difference between the two methods boils down to disruption and scope. Replacement means starting over, which can be necessary if the damage is extreme. Relining, meanwhile, is better for when the structure of the pipe is still intact but needs some reinforcement.

Think of it this way: if your favorite old house has a solid frame but worn-out walls, then you renovate instead of demolishing. Pipe relining in Hurst, TX works on the same principle - it reinforces what’s already there.

Many Times, Repair Will Do

We've got even better news: A lot of the time, your issue can be resolved with a repair.

The uniformed plumbers at Texas Rooter come out with your complaint in mind, but they are not there to make the symptoms go away. We will also use diagnostic tools and equipment to investigate the plumbing system at the root. What you thought was a sewer line issue could just be a clogged drain, for instance.

Once we evaluate the condition of the area in question, we'll give you our expert opinion on how to move forward. The choice is ultimately yours, and we're prepared to handle most plumbing repair service the first time around.