The humble sewage line is out of sight and out of mind for many homeowners. That is until it starts causing issues like backups and unpleasant odors in the home.
Luckily, many options for sewer repair can fix problems like cracks, holes, or collapsed sections in the pipe without having to dig large trenches across the property. Contact Plumber Topeka KS for professional help.
Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP) sewer line lining is an effective way to rehabilitate old, damaged or leaking pipes. This method of sewer repair can be used on small sections of pipe or for entire long runs, depending on design considerations. It is typically performed without the need for excavation. CIPP is also much quicker and more cost-effective than traditional pipe replacement.
CIPP is a relatively new technology. It was first developed in the mid-1980s when English agricultural engineer Eric Wood created a new duct inside an existing air duct on his mushroom farm to address a persistent leak. Since then, the process has become a popular option for repairing aging water and sewer lines, particularly for municipalities seeking to avoid the time-consuming, costly and disruptive excavation required by other methods.
The CIPP procedure involves inserting a soft, resin-soaked liner into the existing pipe, inflating it with air and then heating it to harden. The resulting pipe resembles a new pipe and can last up to 50 years. It also provides a seamless, jointless interior and eliminates infiltration and exfiltration.
Despite the popularity of CIPP, this method is not without its drawbacks. It can be difficult to work safely in tight spaces and requires heavy preparation before a project begins. For example, the existing pipe must be surveyed, cleaned, equipped with a by-pass pump (if necessary), pre-grouted and otherwise prepared before the CIPP liner can be installed. In addition, the cured epoxy resins used for the liners are toxic and can pose health risks to workers and nearby residents.
According to Purdue University researcher Andrew Whelton, CIPP fumes consist of a soup of partially cured plastic, liquified resin and volatile organic compounds. The vapors can be inhaled or ingested and are known to cause a variety of illnesses, including headaches, dizziness, nausea and, in severe cases, death. In fact, the odor from a recent CIPP project in Spooner, Wisconsin, was so pungent that it prompted residents to evacuate their homes.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulates the CIPP industry with regards to worker safety. But it doesn’t actively monitor work sites or require that contractors follow safety protocols to prevent harmful fumes from escaping into the environment. As a result, workers are exposed to potentially dangerous conditions with little protection or awareness.
Pipe Relining
The underground pipes that ferry waste and water to and from your home are susceptible to damage due to ground movement, root infiltration, blockages and more. Repairing these pipes without digging up your yard is possible with a pipe relining service, which essentially creates a brand new pipe inside of the old one.
This process is a more cost-effective, less disruptive solution to traditional sewer line replacement. It can even be used in places where a full sewer pipe replacement would not be feasible.
To start the pipe relining process, our team will conduct a video drain inspection to determine the root cause of your problems. Once the issue is determined, our experts will scour the interior of your pipes using mechanical and hydro-jetting technologies to remove any obstructions that may be causing a reduction in your pipe’s diameter. A remote camera inspection will also be conducted to ensure the pipes are ready for relining.
Once the pipes are clean and free of any obstructions, a flexible, resin-coated liner will be inserted into your damaged pipe. The liner will then be inflated with air or water pressure until it is firmly seated in the pipe. The lining will then be hardened with an epoxy resin, creating a durable, corrosion-resistant pipe within your existing one.
The relining process is quick, typically completed in just a few hours. However, we do ask that you avoid putting any items down the drains during this time to prevent clogs or other issues. After the relining has been installed, our team will test your plumbing to make sure everything is working as it should.
Keep in mind, though, that relining isn’t a permanent solution. If your pipes have sustained extensive or prolonged damage, a full sewer pipe replacement may be necessary. If you’re interested in learning more about our pipe relining services or are experiencing consistent backups and other signs of pipe damage, contact our expert plumbers for more information today. We look forward to assisting you with all your plumbing needs!
Spot Repair
As the name suggests, spot repair is a maintenance technique that addresses specific areas of damage or distress in asphalt pavements. It is a more efficient and economical option than full-depth repairs or overlays. It also extends the lifespan of pavement and improves safety. In addition, addressing localized damages promptly prevents them from spreading and causing more extensive damage to the pavement structure.
It is also important to note that spot sewer repair should only be performed on pipes that are in good condition and not clogged or damaged. If a pipe has significant structural issues, it should be replaced or repaired with an alternative method such as trenchless sewer line replacement.
A high-definition camera inspection can reveal a variety of physical defects in the pipe, including cracks, misalignment, pipe offset, bellying, and root intrusion. Depending on the findings, the contractor will then recommend either spot repair or pipe replacement.
Spot repair is a process that uses a specific putty with excellent filling power, such as PP/1440 light putty. This type of putty is easy to mix and apply, with a short sanding time, resulting in a smooth finish. The process allows repairing multiple parts simultaneously, reducing working time and product consumption.
The use of spot repair techniques makes a so-so car a nice-car again, without the cost and inconvenience of replacing all of the original paint. The process can be done at a body shop, or by the do-it-yourselfer. Whether the goal is to take an old vehicle to Pebble Beach, or just keep it running and looking good for years to come, this is a great way to achieve that goal with minimal effort.
Similarly, a spot repair approach can bring a clogged drain back to normal. It is a non-invasive repair that does not require excavation, and it is much less expensive than an entire pipe replacement. This method is also better for the environment than digging and hauling away old pipe.
Unlike excavation, spot repair can be used on all types of residential and commercial properties. It is not invasive and does not require any digging, which makes it ideal for homes and businesses with shallow drains that are close to the surface. The process is also a lot less expensive than pipe replacement and can save customers thousands of dollars in repair costs.
Excavation and Replacement
While many plumbers prefer the less-invasive trenchless sewer repair methods, sometimes excavation services are necessary. If your sewage line is severely damaged or you’re experiencing repeated backups, these may be signs that it’s time for an overhaul. Your sewer line is an essential part of your home’s plumbing system, and a broken or clogged one can cause serious problems for your entire house.
Sewer lines are typically located underground, making them difficult to access when they need repairs. Fortunately, there are several sewer repair techniques that can be used to minimize the amount of digging required.
Trenchless techniques like reline and CIPP can provide you with a new sewer line without the need for extensive excavation work. However, when these options aren’t available, sewer line replacement and excavation services can be the best solution for addressing severe damage or a persistent clog.
When it comes to traditional excavation, your plumber will use a digging machine to uncover the damaged line and determine how to proceed with the repair or replacement process. Once the work is complete, your plumber will backfill the area and restore the ground surface.
The most common type of excavation for sewer line repair is external excavation, which involves tunneling down to the pipes from an outdoor location. This can be disruptive to landscaping and other exterior features, but it’s often the only way to get a clear picture of what’s happening inside the pipes.
An experienced plumber will know how to dig safely and efficiently, minimizing the impact on your property. Before starting any work, they will also ensure that all utility lines are marked so that they don’t accidentally cut or disturb any wires or hydrants.
Getting your sewer lines repaired or replaced as soon as you notice any issues is important to prevent costly damage and keep your home safe. Luckily, there are now several minimally invasive repair options that can save you both money and hassle. Contact a professional plumber for more information about your options or to schedule an inspection. They can help you find the right option for your situation and advise you on how to protect your home’s plumbing system in the future.