A Complete Guide for Drain Pipe Lining

What is Drain Pipe Lining?

Drain pipe lining is a specific type of pipe lining used to repair or rehabilitate damaged or deteriorated drain pipes, including those used for sewage and wastewater. Drain pipes can become damaged or deteriorated because of factors such as corrosion, tree root intrusion, soil movement, and wear and tear. The drain pipe lining process involves inserting a flexible liner into the existing drain pipe and curing or hardening the liner. The liner used in drain pipe lining is typically made from epoxy, fibreglass, or Cured-In-Place-Pipe (CIPP). The process of drain pipe lining typically involves several steps. First, the existing drain pipe is inspected to identify any damage or defects. Then, a liner is inserted into the drain pipe, and it is expanded or inflated to fit the shape of the existing pipe. Once the liner is in place, it is cured using heat, light, or a chemical reaction, which hardens it and creates a new, smooth surface inside the drain pipe. Drain pipe lining is often a cost-effective and efficient alternative to traditional drain pipe repair methods, typically involving excavation and replacing the damaged pipe. Drain pipe lining can be completed more quickly than conventional repair methods, minimizing downtime and disruption to surrounding areas. Additionally, drain pipe lining can extend the lifespan of existing drain pipes and reduce the risk of future damage or failure.

Types of Drain Pipe Lining:

Several types of drain pipe lining methods are commonly used for repairing or rehabilitating damaged or deteriorated drain pipes. These include:

Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP): This is a popular and widely used method of drain pipe lining. It involves inserting a flexible liner made of polyester or fibreglass into the existing drain pipe and curing the liner in place using heat, steam, or ultraviolet light.
Pipe Bursting: This method involves inserting a new, larger-diameter pipe into the existing drain pipe and using hydraulic force to break up the old pipe and force it out of the way.
Slip Lining: This method involves inserting a new, smaller-diameter pipe into the existing drain pipe and sealing the space between the two pipes to create a new, smooth surface inside the drain pipe.
Epoxy Coating: This method involves applying a layer of epoxy resin to the interior surface of the existing drain pipe to create a new, smooth surface that is resistant to corrosion and other types of damage.

Each of these drain pipe lining methods has advantages and disadvantages. The best way for a particular situation will depend on factors such as the damage’s extent, the drain pipe’s location, and the surrounding environment.

Why is Drain Pipe Lining Necessary?

Drain pipe lining is necessary in cases where drain pipes have become damaged or deteriorated due to factors such as corrosion, tree root intrusion, soil movement, or wear and tear. Some of the reasons why drain pipe lining is necessary to include:

Cost-Effective: Drain pipe lining can be a cost-effective alternative to excavating and replacing damaged drain pipes. It can save money by avoiding the need for expensive and disruptive excavation work.
Minimal Disruption: Drain pipe lining can be completed with minimal disruption to surrounding areas, reducing the impact on residents or businesses. This can also minimize the time needed to complete the repair work.
Improved Functionality: Drain pipe lining can restore the function of damaged drain pipes and help prevent future blockages or backups. This can help ensure that the drainage system operates effectively and efficiently.
Increased Lifespan: Drain pipe lining can help extend the lifespan of existing drain pipes by providing a new, smooth surface that is resistant to corrosion and other types of damage. This can help avoid the need for future repairs or replacements.

What is Drain Inspection?

Drain inspection examines the condition and function of drain pipes to identify any defects, damage, or blockages that may be affecting their operation. Drain inspections are typically performed using specialized equipment such as CCTV cameras and sewer inspection robots, which allow for a detailed examination of the interior of the drain pipe.

During a drain inspection, a CCTV camera or sewer inspection robot is inserted into the drain pipe, and the operator can view the live footage on a monitor. The camera or robot is moved through the drain pipe to provide a complete inspection of its condition and operation. The footage obtained from the inspection can be used to identify any damage, defects, or blockages that may be present and can help repair or replace the drain pipe.

Drain inspections are typically performed by professional plumbing or drain cleaning companies and are often recommended as a preventative maintenance measure to identify potential issues before they become serious problems. Drain inspections can also be helpful in situations where there is a suspected blockage or another drainage issue, as they can provide a detailed view of the problem and help to identify the most effective solution for resolving it.

How to Know if Your Drain Needs Repairs?

Some of the signs that your drain needs repairs are mentioned below.

Slow Draining: If you notice that water is taking longer than usual to drain from sinks, bathtubs, or other fixtures, it could be a sign that there is a blockage or other issue in the drain pipe.
Foul Odours: If you detect a foul or unpleasant smell from your drains, it could be a sign of a blockage or other issue in the drain pipe, causing stagnant water and bacteria buildup.
Gurgling Sounds: Gurgling sounds are a sign of air trapped in the drain pipe, which may indicate a blockage or other issue.
Water Backups: If you experience water backups in sinks, bathtubs, or other fixtures, it could be a sign of a blockage or other issue in the drain pipe, causing water to back up into the fixture.
Visible Damage: If you notice visible damage to your drain pipes, such as cracks, leaks, or corrosion, it could be a sign that they need to be repaired or replaced.

A professional plumbing or drain cleaning company can perform a drain inspection to determine the cause of the problem and recommend the most appropriate course of action for repairing or rehabilitating the drain pipes.

How Long Does the Drain Pipe Lining Last

The lifespan of drain pipe lining depends on various factors, such as the type of lining material used, the condition of the existing drain pipe, and the level of maintenance and care provided to the drain system. Drain pipe lining is designed to provide a long-lasting and durable solution for repairing damaged or deteriorating drain pipes.

Many drain pipe lining materials, such as epoxy resin, have a lifespan of 50 years or more when properly installed and maintained. However, the actual lifespan of a drain pipe lining can be affected by factors such as the presence of corrosive materials or chemicals in the drain system, exposure to extreme temperatures or pressure, and the level of wear and tear on the lining material over time.

To ensure the longest possible lifespan for a drain pipe lining, it must be installed by a professional plumbing or drain cleaning company with experience in drain lining technology and to follow recommended maintenance and care guidelines. Regular drain inspections, cleaning, and upkeep can help prevent blockages, corrosion, and other issues that can reduce the lifespan of the lining material.