Blog>Expert Advice>Everything you need to know about drain relining
Last updated: 8 August 2024
Everything you need to know about drain relining
If you’re experiencing issues with your drainage system, drain relining could be the answer. Here’s all you need to know.
Noticed a foul smell lingering in your home? Slow-flowing water in the sink or bath? Or a bubbling noise coming from your drainage system? These are all potential issues that drain relining could solve.
Here, we’ll explore all you need to know about drain relining – from what it is to how it works and how much it costs.
What is drain relining?
Drain relining is a method of repairing damaged pipes without digging.
Essentially, it involves building a new, tougher pipe inside your existing pipe, which is free from any damage.
As such, it can be a cost-effective way to resolve issues with your drainage system.
How does drain relining work?
Curious as to exactly how drain relining works? Here’s what the process involves, step by step.
1. Inspection
First things first, your drain specialist will use a CCTV camera to thoroughly inspect your drain.
This will reveal any leaks or blockages, as well as their size and location.
2. Cleaning
Next, your specialist will clean the pipes.
They’ll start by removing obstructions, like tree roots, using a robotic cutter. Then, they’ll clear away debris with a high-pressure jet wash.
This will make sure that there aren’t any obstructions during the drain relining process and help create a good bond on the pipe wall.
3. Creating the pipe lining
Your specialist will now decide which relining method is best suited to your situation and the type and amount of pipe lining needed.
For instance, if your pipes are curved, your specialist may decide to use a more flexible liner so it can be manoeuvred more easily.
4. Installation
It’s now time to install the pipe lining!
Usually, your specialist will use a process called inversion.
This involves pouring resin into your pipe lining before inserting it into the damaged pipe.
Your specialist will then inflate a special air bag, known as a bladder, to shape the pipe lining to the walls of your broken pipe and seal it in place.
5. Curing
Next, the resin needs time to harden and solidify.
It can either be left to cure by itself, or your specialist may speed the process up by running hot water through the pipe.
Once it’s completely cured, the bladder can be removed.
You’ll now have a brand new pipe sealed to the inside of your existing pipe, free from any damage.
6. Final inspection
Finally, your specialist will inspect your drainage pipe one last time to make sure that the damaged area has been completely repaired.
This will involve checking for damage with a CCTV camera, as well as checking for leaks with leak detection equipment.
Hopefully, your drainage pipe is now as good as new!
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What are the benefits of drain relining?
As drain relining doesn’t involve digging, it has many advantages compared to other drain repair methods.
These include:
Lower repair costs
Less disruption
Quicker repairs
The CCTV inspections used during the process will also reveal all possible cracks and damage to your pipe – even those that may otherwise have been missed.
This means you can be confident that, after drain relining, you won’t need to invest in further drain repairs anytime soon.
How long does drain relining last?
Drain relining is said to last anywhere between 20-50 years.
So, it’s not just a temporary fix. Instead, it’s a durable and long-term solution to any drain issues you’re experiencing.
Are there any disadvantages?
As you can see, drain relining comes with lots of benefits. But it’s not for everyone.
Here are the downsides:
Not suitable for all types of damage
Requires easy access to the drain
Not suitable for all types of pipes
A drain specialist near you can examine your drainage system and help you decide whether this is the right method of repair.
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How much does drain relining cost?
The average cost of drain relining will depend on lots of different factors, like:
The extent of the damage
The diameter of the pipe
Ease of access
Your location
However, as a rough guide, you’re looking at £70-£130 per linear metre to reline a 100mm-diameter pipe, or £120-£170 per linear metre for a 150mm-diameter pipe.
Head over to our guide on drain repair costs for more ballpark prices.
Signs you may need a drain repair
Wondering whether you need to repair your drainage system?
Generally, you need to look out for any signs that your drainage system isn’t working properly. This might include:
A bad smell lingering in your home
Bubbling sounds coming from plug holes and drains
Water draining slowly from your sink or bath
If you spot any of these signs, it’s best to get a drainage specialist to come and take a look.
Not all issues with your drainage system can necessarily be fixed with drain relining.
However, your specialist will be able to check what kind of repair is best for your needs and carry out the appropriate fix—whether that’s drain relining, patch repair, or even installing replacement pipework.
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Is drain relining worth it?
Yes! If you’re having issues with your drainage system, drain relining can be an excellent solution.
It will give you the chance to resolve the problems you’re experiencing without the need for digging, which basically means a cost-effective and quick repair with minimal disruption.
Better still, drain relining can last for decades. So, it’s a high-quality and long-lasting repair too.
Just bear in mind that not all issues can be resolved with drain relining. Similarly, some types of pipes must be repaired using other methods.
With that in mind, we’d recommend getting in touch with a specialist sooner rather than later, so they can take a look at your drainage system and recommend an appropriate fix.
Find an expert for drain relining near you
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