Understanding the Differences Between Pipe Relining and Pipe Replacement

Posted by Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing on 20 Nov 2025

In the case of fixing damaged pipes techniques are pipe relining as well as pipe replacement. Both approaches aim to restore the full function of your pipelines, but they have marked differences that you should be aware of.

Key Takeaways

  • Relining pipes is an affordable and quick method of repairing damaged pipelines.
  • The lining of CIPP is utilized in pipe relining.
  • Epoxy resin is utilized to line the inner parts of the pipe which cures to creates a new inner lining for the pipeline.
  • Relining pipelines is time-efficient, cost-effective, and can last for up to 50 years.
  • The traditional method of replacing pipes is digging up sections of land where pipes are located.
  • A replacement pipe may be needed to repair pipes that are severely damaged.
  • A new pipeline installed through pipe replacement has a long time span (75 or 100 years).
  • Replacement of pipes can be costly and laborious.
  • The choice between pipe relining or pipe replacement depends on the degree of damage.

In this article, we’ll discuss pipe relining as opposed to. replacing pipes and figure out which one suits your requirements better.

Is Pipe Relining a thing?

Pipe relining or Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) Lining is a cutting-edge repair method that provides a cost-effective, swift solution for restoring damaged pipelines.

Here’s how it will work:

  1. A technician cleans the pipeline with high-pressure water jetting or mechanical cleaning.
  2. Then, they place epoxy resin made of fiberglass or polyester liner to the pipeline.
  3. The liner gets dried to form a brand new inner lining inside the old pipeline that’s as durable as a new one.

Advantages Pipe Relining

  • Time-efficient: It generally takes about 2 to 3 hours of time to accomplish the whole process, as opposed to digging for several days with traditional pipe replacement techniques.
  • Cost-effective Since there is no excavation or removal needed in the pipe relining process this method can save nearly half of what you would spend on traditional repairs.
  • Durability – The lining that is created by pipe relining may last for up to 50 years!

Pros and Cons of Pipe Relining

  • Not suitable for very damaged pipes. If there are major damages such as cracks, collapses, or misaligned joints in your sewer line then pipe relining might not be feasible.

What is Pipe Replacement?

Pipe replacement involves digging up portions of the yard/sidewalk/driveway where underground pipes are located. These sections may include collapsed pipes or extremely damaged ones due to the effects of time or neglect.

The steps below are the most traditional replacements for pipes:

  1. A team of excavation workers digs access to the degraded underground pipe.
  2. The old pipeline has been removed and dredged out, producing a lot debris that needs to be disposed of.
  3. They then install another pipeline in place of the one they had previously installed.

Pros of Pipe Replacement

  • Ideal for pipes that have been severely damaged - When you need to replace pipes that have severe corrosion or damage, pipe replacement is the ideal solution.
  • Long-lasting – The latest pipeline installed through pipe replacement has a long lifespan (75 or 100 years) making it an ideal choice for homeowners in search of an option that is long-lasting.

Pros and Cons of Pipe Replacement

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

Which one is best for you?

The decision of relining or replacing your pipes mostly is contingent on the degree of damage caused. If your pipes are suffering from minor issues like cracks, or leaks of a minor size, replacing them is likely to be the better option since it’s less costly as well as quicker than traditional pipe replacements.

However, if you have severe damage, such as collapses or broken pipes the best option is an alternative to replacing your pipe, although it may be more expensive and will 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 and Answers

What is pipe relining?

Relining of pipes is a process that involves creating a new pipe in the damaged pipe. This is done by inserting a liner that is flexible into the old pipe and then making it a permanent fixture. Once cured, the new pipe does not have joints or seams, which increases its structural integrity.

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

Traditional pipe replacement involves digging and physically removing old pipes, before replacing them with new ones. The alternative, pipe relining doesn’t require excavation; instead it’s carried out by utilizing technology that allows repair of pipelines without digging large portions of land.

Which is more cost-effective - the pipe relining method or traditional pipe replacement?

Relining pipelines typically costs less than traditional methods for pipe repair because there is no cost related to excavation, or other methods that are required to remove and replace old pipes.

Can all kinds of pipes be changed?

Not all types of pipes can be successfully relined. The plumber will need to examine the situation to determine if it’s feasible to line your specific kind of pipes. But, the majority of modern pipes can be relined using this technique.

How long does the process of pipe relining take?

The exact length of time needed for the procedure varies based on variables like location, environment and the type of damage. However the typical pipe Relining process typically takes about 2 days, depending on how many meters require lining..

In conclusion, if wish to avoid digging work and save your money in the process of restoring your damaged pipelines’ function to its maximum you should consider using our Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing ‘s fast and effective pipe relining services. Get in touch with us!

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