Trenchless Sewer Line Repair vs. Traditional Excavation: Which Method is Right for You?

There is more than one way to fix a faulty sewer line, and depending on your circumstances, you may have the luxury of choosing a less disruptive or more cost-effective method. Technological advances have left us with two prominent sewer repair methods: trenchless sewer repair and traditional excavation.

Each method thrives in certain situations and can fix a variety of problems. At AQUALIS, we can help you understand which method is right for you. 

What is Trenchless Sewer Repair?

Trenchless sewer repair is an attractive choice because it removes lengthy excavation from the sewer repair process. Trenchless sewer line replacement and repair do not require pipes to be dug up, removing the disruptions and headaches that come with traditional excavation. But how does trenchless sewer repair work?

There are several trenchless sewer repair methods, and many of them are used together. Let’s take a closer look at these methods.

Cured in Place Pipelining (CIPP)

In CIPP, a liner is inserted into a broken pipe and cured into place. The liner then hardens, effectively becoming the new pipe. Before CIPP is performed, all debris must be removed from the existing pipe. This type of no-dig pipe repair requires the original pipe to be intact. 

Slip Lining

Slip lining is a form of trenchless sewer line replacement best suited for highly damaged pipes. These damaged pipes normally need to be large in diameter with some extra room for sizing down because an entirely new pipe is slid into the existing pipe.

The new pipe isn’t malleable, and its shape cannot be changed, making it less versatile than other forms of trenchless sewer repair. For example, slip lining cannot be used on a pipeline with several bends and lateral connections. 

Spin Casting

Spin casting is great for reinforcing older sewers and stormwater infrastructure. It is used in conjunction with other trenchless sewer repair methods and can create strong casts in oddly shaped pipes. Before addressing a repair, CCTV is used to evaluate the extent of damage.

The repair involves a rotating machine that sprays cementitious material around the length of the pipe. The cast’s thickness can be adjusted for desired thickness and evenness. Spin casting is great for increasing a pipeline’s lifespan, but again, it must be used with other methods during larger repairs. 

Pipe Bursting

Pipe bursting is a common solution for complete trenchless sewer line replacement. A new pipe is pulled through a severely damaged pipe, destroying the old pipe in the process. Just like that, the old, damaged pipe is removed, and a new one stands in its place. 

What is Traditional Excavation?

Traditional excavation is sometimes called “open trench sewer repair,” instantly differentiating it from trenchless sewer repair. Traditional excavation is more disruptive than its alternative, requiring the area around a sewer line to be dug up. This method calls for heavy digging equipment, careful removal of pipes and refilling of trenches. 

Traditional excavation is sometimes the only feasible sewer repair option, but it can be disruptive to a property and take longer than trenchless sewer line replacement. 

Trenchless Sewer Repair vs. Traditional Repair: Pros & Cons

Trenchless sewer repair and traditional excavation have different strengths and weaknesses, with one method often excelling over the other on a case-by-case basis. But when should you choose one over the other? Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Advantages of Trenchless Sewer Repair

• Less disruption on your property, no digging. 
• Lower reliance on heavy-duty equipment and vehicles.
• Projects are usually completed faster.
• Lower cost of labor.
• Properties on the sewer line can quickly resume plumbing usage.

Disadvantages of Trenchless Sewer Repair

• Less feasible to fix severe damages.
• Specialized equipment and technicians can be costly.
• Trenchless sewer repair experts can be tough to find.

Advantages of Traditional Excavation

• Optimal for repairing severe sewer line damage.
• Can be less disruptive when the pipe is easy to access.

Disadvantages of Traditional Excavation

• Finding the source of an issue often requires extensive digging.
• Time-consuming and labor-intensive.
• Requires heavy-duty equipment and vehicles.
• Usually highly disruptive.
• High cleanup and labor costs.
• Can leave affected properties without water for days.

Trenchless vs. Traditional: Which is Right for You?

AQUALIS is your trusted stormwater repair and rehabilitation provider, offering tailored solutions to keep your systems safe, cost-effective and government-compliant. Trenchless sewer repair vs. traditional excavation is a question with many answers, but our experts can help you navigate its many gray areas. 

We can inspect your site, determine the project’s scale and costs and advise your next actions. Our plans are thorough, calculated and focused on creating the best possible outcomes. We work with you every step of the way, noting your preferences and shaping our work around them.

Expert Guidance for Sewer Repair & Replacement Decisions with AQUALIS

Sewer replacement and repair can be a hassle, but with AQUALIS experts by your side, your project will be a huge step toward safer, more cost-effective drainage. We build systems that last, securing your property for decades to come. We can also provide a maintenance plan to ensure a low-stress, low-cost future that benefits both your property and the environment. 

Effective water systems start with effective partnerships between property owners and water management experts. Take the first step by scheduling a consultation with AQUALIS today.

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