Although sewer pipes can last for forty to fifty years or more, eventually there comes a time when they will need to be replaced. The difficulty with replacing these pipelines is that they are buried underground, often below a homeowner’s lawn. Traditionally, these pipes need to be dug up by creating an open trench and physically replaced, which can destroy expensive landscaping and also be labor intensive. However, which new technology, there are alternatives for sewer pipe replacement.
Trenchless Versus Open Trench Sewer Replacement
When it comes to sewer pipe replacement, there are now two options: trenchless or open trench. For homeowners who are looking for a fast, economical way to replace old sewer pipes, trenchless methods can be a viable option. Here are the differences:
– Trenchless. Using newer technology, sewer contractors are able to leave the existing pipes underground, rather than digging a trench to remove old sewer pipes. Instead, two holes are dug, one at each end of the sewer line. A bursting tool is pulled through the old pipe, shattering it into pieces as it pulls a new pipe into place behind it.
– Open Trench. The traditional method digs an open trench, removing the old pipe, then replacing it with new pipe, usually PVC, ABS or cast iron. While this can make a mess of the lawn and take more time than trenchless replacement, sometimes it is the only option. If there is not sufficient space between sewer lines and other utilities, it may not be possible to burst the old pipe into the surrounding earth without causing larger problems.
Anyone who is considering replacing their sewer pipes should research all their options. Trenchless sewer line replacement can be less expensive, plus it is quicker and causes less damage to the property. To learn more, hire an experienced sewer line replacement contractor to have your sewer system inspected and find out what options are available to you.
Posted on behalf of Metro Septic and Sewer
