Plumbing issues are arguably the most dreaded concern for any property owner. Therefore, the importance of timely plumbing work goes beyond saying. No matter whether you own a commercial property or a residential one, it is of prime significance that you conduct regular inspections and get the issues fixed at the earliest. Unattended plumbing problems will eventually affect the construction, resulting in various risks and a potential price drop for the property. But more importantly, faulty pipelines and clogged drainage systems will bring in a myriad of health concerns. However, plumbing inspection and maintenance is rather a specialized job and you should always rely on a reputable plumbing service provider who uses efficient plumbing service software for the task.

 

Like any other maintenance services, pipe inspection and maintenance have also evolved with the advent of modern technology. What was once a time-consuming and arduous process could now be carried out in minimum time and with the assurance of maximum efficiency. Instead of digging up your whole backyard and leaving the property to be fixed and repaired all over again, expert plumbers can do the job using high-end cameras and robotic technology. And this is pipe relining for you. You can say that it is the cutting-edge solution for damaged plumbing and sewer lines. Not only is this process significantly less time-consuming, but it is also more cost-effective compared to the traditional technique. So, the next time you feel like your drainage and pipes need a thorough inspection, you should definitely consider pipe relining.

 

Not sure what pipe relining is and how could it benefit you? Read through the blog and find all your answers right here.

 

What is Pipe Relining?

Pipe relining, also known as Cured-In-Place Pipelining (CIPP), is a specialized plumbing technique that fixes broken or leaky pipes from within, without having to dig up the structure. Essentially, the process results in creating a brand-new pipeline inside the existing damaged pipeline and thus, fixes the cracks. The sectioned relined sets perfectly against the rest of the structure and prevents leakage as well as further breakage. A special kind of epoxy resin is used for the process, which molds into the shape of your existing pipeline and develops into a new, stronger structure.

 

How Does Pipe Relining Work?

Pipe relining is a specialized plumbing job and the technique may vary from one service provider to another. There are plumbing services that develop their own epoxy resin composite and customize the installation process. However, the process involves a standardized methodology, which is explained below:

 

Inspection

The process starts with a thorough inspection and measurement of the damaged pipeline, just as it is done in traditional plumbing field service management works. The difference, however, is that pipe relining relies on advanced technology for this purpose. In this process, a high-end closed-circuit camera, known as the drain camera, went down the pipeline. It traverses through the pipe and checks for damages, leakages, and blockades, sending real-time footage of the findings. Thus, it helps diagnose the issue with your damaged pipeline. At the same time, it also measures the area that requires mending.

 

Cleaning

Once the camera detects any blockage, then a robotic arm consisting of a cutter is descended into the pipeline. It cuts through the solid obstacles blocking the line, such as tree roots. This robotic cutter is remote-controlled and operated by expert technicians. Once the obstacle is removed, the pipeline is further cleaned using a high-power hydro-jetting procedure. In this process, the high force of the water jet is used to clean out years of debris, scales, etc., and prepare the pipe for placing the inner lining.

 

Custom Inner Lining and Bladder

Once the pipeline is cleared and measured, plumbing technicians create a custom felt liner and an inflatable bladder to match the specifications of the existing pipe, including its joints and bends. Then, they are inserted into the pipe and pulled into the right position. Again, the CCTV camera ensures that the liner is placed correctly and covers the damaged area properly.

 

Filling the Liner

This is the most important part of pipe relining. The special epoxy resin prepared for the job is thereafter injected into the lining and around the bladder only to be left for a while. Once the epoxy dries and holds its shape, it becomes a secondary pipe within the existing pipeline. As soon as the bladder is removed, it starts acting as a pipeline on its own with the old structure still remaining on the exterior.

 

Final Inspection

To ensure the cracks are completely mended and the job is done properly, a final inspection is conducted again using the CCTV camera. Thus, you get a fully functional pipeline within just a few hours, which will last for many years to come.

 

Advantages of Pipe Relining

As it is evident from the process, pipe relining is far more effective than traditional pipeline repair. It comes with a plethora of advantages. Such as:

 

i) Hassle-Free. Traditionally, you will need your entire pipeline structure dug up to get the pipe extracted before the plumbers perform any inspection or maintenance tasks on them. And once the repair is done, you would need to put everything back in its place and cover up the surface, which requires additional maintenance. Besides, the traditional method does not only take up more time, effort, and money, but it also poses a serious risk of property damage. Considering pipe relining doesn’t need any digging, it mitigates those risks.

 

ii) Less Expensive: The cost of pipe relining is comparatively more affordable than traditional plumbing maintenance. Not just because you will have to cover up the ground, traditional repairing requires heavier machinery, more manpower, and more effort in clearing the structures that were dismantled.

 

iii) Less Time-Consuming: As it is evident, pipe relining takes far less time. You can get it done within the day, depending on the expertise and professionalism of your plumbing service agency.

 

iii) Longevity: Pipe relining is done with a specially developed epoxy resin that is built to last. It is highly durable compared to usual pipeline materials (e.g., PVC) and withstands wear and tear. At the same time, it reduces the chance of future damages, saving you more money.

 

iv) Environment-Friendly: With the growing concern for sustainability, pipe relining is a more environmentally friendly option for you. Leaking pipes are a potential environmental hazard. Not only does pipe relining prevent that, but it also uses eco-friendly material. Besides, the fact that it eliminates the digging results in lower energy consumption, generating a lesser carbon footprint compared to the traditional process.

 

What are the Signs That Indicates Pipe Relining is Needed?

Any time you feel like your plumbing system or sewer lines are compromised, you can call a plumbing professional and ask whether you need a pipe relining. Or else, if you encounter any of these symptoms, be sure it is time.

●      Water leakage

●      Sewage smell

●      Unusual noises from the pipeline

●      Clogged drains

●      Dampness in walls

●      Sewage seeping up from the ground

The signs, however, could result from a variety of problems. Therefore, it is important to consult a plumbing expert and take measures as soon as possible, before it turns into a costly affair.

 

Conclusion

Pipe relining, as it is clear from the discussion, is the most simple yet effective solution for damaged pipes and drains. However, it requires the expertise of the highest degree. So, before you hire a plumbing service agency, make sure they are a perfect fit for the job. Check out how much experience they have in pipe relining, enquire whether they use all the latest tools and the best software for plumbing business, make sure they deliver service on time, and most importantly, find out whether their services are within your budget. But again, don't compromise quality for a better discount, for plumbing is as important to your property as the vascular system is to our body.

 

Author Bio

My world is made up of codes. It is the central element that drives my universe. I am a self-taught, process-driven programmer with a creative bent of mind. Since I was an engineering student, I dreamt of creating something unique. To satiate my creative appetite, I took to coding. Blessed with abundant support and generous scholarships from my employers, I simultaneously worked full-time and pursued my dream. My passion and high productivity helped me in my journey as well. Finally, I created Field Promax to follow my drive of coding and streamlining processes; and do more of what I know best—coding.

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