Understanding the Differences Between Pipe Relining and Pipe Replacement

Name: Blocked Drain Melbourne
Brand: Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing
Rating: 5 (3 reviews)

Posted by Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing on 6 Sep 2026

Recovering from Blocked Drains: How to Choose between Pipe Relining and Replacement

When it comes to fixing damaged pipes, two common methods are pipe relining and replacement of pipes. Both solutions aim to restore the functionality of your pipes, however they differ in a way that must be aware of.

Key Takeaways

Pipe relining is an economical and quick method of repairing damaged pipelines.
CIPP lining is used in the relining of pipes.
Epoxy resin is used to line the inner parts of the pipe. The resin cures to create a new inner lining in the pipeline.
Relining pipe is time-efficient and cost-effective and lasts up to 50 years.
Traditional pipe replacement involves digging up sections of land in which pipes are situated.
The replacement of pipes is often necessary in the case of pipes that have been severely damaged.
A brand-new pipeline installed with the replacement of a pipe has a long time span (75 or 100 years).
Pipe replacement is costly and laborious.
The choice between pipe relining and replacement depends on the degree of damage.

In this article, we’ll talk about pipe relining vs. replacing pipes and figure out which one suits your requirements more.

Is Pipe Relining a thing?

Pipe relining, also known as Cured-In-Place pipe (CIPP) Lining is a state of the art repair procedure that offers a cost-effective and quick solution to repair damaged pipelines.

Here’s how it will work:

A technician cleans the pipeline using high-pressure water jetting or mechanical cleaning.
They then apply epoxy resin made of fiberglass or polyester liner in the existing pipeline.
The liner cures by forming a new liner within the pipeline that’s as durable as a new one.

The advantages of Pipe Relining

Time-efficient – It typically takes just 2 to three hours in order to finish the whole procedure, compared to excavating for several days with traditional pipe replacement methods.
Cost-effective - Because no excavation or removal is required in pipe relining It can save you nearly half of the amount you be paying for conventional repairs.
Durability – The new liner formed by pipe relining can last for 50 years!

Cons of Pipe Relining

Not suitable for severely damaged pipes - If there are serious damages such as cracks, collapses, or joints that are not aligned correctly in your sewer line, then pipe relining could not be possible.

What exactly is Pipe Replacement?

Pipe replacement involves digging up portions of the yard/sidewalk/driveway where underground pipes are located. The areas may contain the collapsed pipes as well as extremely corroded ones either from lack of maintenance or age.

The following steps make up the majority of traditional pipe replacements:

An excavation team digs up access to the degraded underground pipe.
The old pipeline has been removed and dug up, generating a lot of debris that needs to be disposed of.
Then, they put in a new pipeline in place of the old one.

Pros of Pipe Replacement

Ideal for pipes that have been severely damaged - When you need to replace pipes that are suffering from severe corrosion or damage, pipe replacement is the ideal solution.
Long-lasting – The latest pipeline replaced with pipe has a long life (75 up to 100 years) making it an ideal solution for homeowners who want an ongoing solution.

Pros and Cons of Pipe Replacement

Costly – Excavation work requred for pipe replacement can be long and costly.
It is time-consuming. Pipe replacements may take weeks depending on the scope of work and depth of excavations required.

Which one should you choose?

The decision on whether to go with replacement or relining your pipes mostly depends on the level of damage caused. If your pipes suffer minor damages like cracks or leaks of a minor size, replacing them is likely to be the better option since it’s less costly and faster than conventional replacements.

However, if there are serious damage such as breaks or collapses it is recommended to consider replacing the pipe with a traditional method, even though it may be more expensive and takes 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 and Answers

What is the process of relining pipes?

Relining pipes is a process that involves creating a new pipe in the damaged pipe. It is accomplished by inserting a flexible liner in the existing pipe, and then the process of curing it. After it has been cured, the newly formed pipe has no joints or seams that improve its structural strength.

How does the traditional replacement of pipes differ from relining pipe?

Traditional pipe replacement involves{ excavating and| digging and|| digging up and} physically taking away old pipes, then replacing them with new ones. The alternative, pipe relining doesn’t require excavation. Instead it’s carried out by using technology that permits pipeline repair without digging up large areas of land.

Which method is cheaper - pipe relining or traditional replacement?

Pipe relining generally costs less than the traditional methods of pipe repair because there are no expenses related to excavation or other methods required for the removal and replacement of old pipes.

All kinds of pipes can be lined?

Not all types of pipes can be successfully relined. Ultimately, your plumber will have to inspect your particular situation to determine whether it is feasible to line your specific kind of pipes. However, most current pipes could be fixed using this procedure.

How long does the process of relining pipes take?

The exact time required for the process is dependent on various variables like location, environment and type of damage; however, the average Pipe Relining job usually takes 2-3 days, depending on the number of metres need to be lined..

If you wish to avoid digging work and save your money as you restore your pipelines’ full function, consider opting for our Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing ‘s quick and efficient pipe relining services. Get in touch with us!