Need to know more about trenchless sewer repair? Wondering how it’s done, if it’s less expensive, or why people say it’s better?
Failing sewer pipes are a problem in many communities and homeowners are often responsible for the repairs. Other than pipe decay, tree roots can also be a costly problem.
Whether it’s just a short section of pipe that has burst because of tree roots or the entire sewer line leading to the house has decayed, trenchless repair methods are leading the plumbing industry.
Here are some of the common questions and answers about trenchless sewer repair from our pros at Apollo Plumbing & Rooter.
How does trenchless sewer repair work?
This relatively new method of repair is available from local plumbers who have invested in the equipment and training to do it. The equipment allows them to dig a small access hole and exit hole and then repair the pipe as it sits underground.
No trench is needed for trenchless repair:
– Pipelining is also called cured-in-place pipe lining. Two ways. 1. A new resin lining is inserted into the old sewer pipe, inflated, then allowed to cure. 2. Liquid resin is blown into the pipe and allowed to cure.
– Pipe bursting. An expander is fitted onto the end of a new pipe and then forced through the old pipe, bursting it apart as the new pipe goes in.
Both methods can be done underneath streets, driveways, landscapes, and houses.
How can this method save me money if the equipment to do it is obviously expensive?
The main difference in cost is going to come after the sewer repair is done.
If a street has to be demolished to repair the sewer line, the homeowner will have to pay for the excavation, for traffic rerouting during repair, repairs according to city specifications, and the road to be restored afterward.
Likewise, if the foundation of the house has to be excavated or dug under, the driveway needs to be torn up, or landscape is damaged, the after-costs are expensive.
- Traditional cost for repair under street: Up to $25,000
- Traditional trench digging costs anywhere from $50 to $250 per foot
- Trenchless repair cost: Anywhere from $60 to $200 per foot
What are the benefits of trenchless sewer repair?
- Less invasive
- Quicker
- Spot repairs are easier
- Less expensive
Do homeowner’s insurance cover sewer line replacement?
Some homeowner’s insurance policies do cover sewer line repair and some do not. If yours does, it will also depend on what the circumstances are. You will need to call your insurance carrier or just read your policy to find out.
It may be possible to add a sewer and drain endorsement to the policy you already have. Or, there are independent insurance brokers who can find a policy that covers sewer replacement.
Also, check with your utility company as they may offer protection plans. Be sure to look at the policy exclusions before you purchase so you know what they do and do not cover.
