If you are thinking about pipe repairs, and how to choose the longest-lasting, most durable option, then you likely to think of traditional pipe replacement. However, epoxy pipe lining can be as long-lasting and durable as pipe replacement. Lined pipes can last for 35 to 50 years. And best of all, it takes less time and costs less than installation of new pipes.
Understanding epoxy pipe lining
Epoxy lining is the process of taking a felt liner soaked in epoxy solution and inserting into the existing pipe of drains and sewer lines. It is very simple. The access points are located in the vicinity of the drain, sewer line or creating access. The epoxy resin is then soaked in the liner and cut to length. It is then threaded through the pipe, and then inflated with an inflatable bladder. While the liner cures within the pipe walls, the air bladder is kept in place. The drying process takes around 24 hours but sometimes it can take less.
After the epoxy coating has hardened and cured, the bladder can be removed. A camera inspection is done to verify that the liner adheres to the pipe correctly and has fully cured. If the liner is in good condition, the drain line can be restored to service. The rehabilitated pipe does not allow wastewater to flow down it, so no corrosion of the host pipe will occur.
How we know epoxy lining works
Eric Wood, an English engineer, first created this type of pipe repair and is also known as cured-in place pipe lining. In 1977, the first patent was granted for this technology. Epoxy pipe liners have been used since then to repair gas, water, sewer, and utility pipes. This technique can also be used to repair the plumbing pipes in historic buildings, as well as those of federal, state, and city government buildings.
The goal of pipe lining is to ensure that the pipe performs as it should and has the same structural integrity and water tightness as before. In order to accomplish this goal, the pipe must be prepared before the pipe liner is installed. These preparations include a thorough pipe cleaning and performing a camera inspection before and after the process.
Epoxy pipe lining myths
Pipe lining is a popular method of repairing corroded or leaking pipes. However, there are often misconceptions concerning epoxy pipe relining.
Myth 1: It is impossible to tell if the pipe liner adhered to the host pipe
It is common to believe that it is impossible for a liner to adhere to the pipe. However, this is false. A 360-degree pan digital plumbing camera is used to thread through the pipes in order to verify that the pipe liner has properly cured and is adhering to the host pipe. Only after confirming that the epoxy pipe liners have been properly installed, cured, and are in good condition, is the water service to the home turn back on.
Myth 2: Future leaks cannot be repaired
An epoxy pipe lining will not leak once it is installed. The epoxy pipe liners are made up of single-piece tubes that can be cut to the pipe’s length. They are coated with epoxy resin before being inserted. This acts as industrial glue and hardens when it dries. This ensures that wastewater from your sewer or drain does not reach the pipe. This prevents any future corrosion or deterioration to the host pipe.
It is unlikely that the pipe’s lined section will ever leak again. It is more likely that an unlined section of plumbing pipe begins to leak because of pinholes, corrosion, or deteriorated fittings.
Myth 3: Pipe lining can damage the host pipe
A liner should not be used for extremely corroded pipes. Old pipe that has lots of corrosion should be removed and replaced with new pipe. Sometimes, a plumbing pipe might have a small crack in its pipe wall that is not obvious. These pipes usually burst during cleaning, and not when the pipe liner is being inserted.
A professional plumber can quickly remove and replace the damaged pipe if it is discovered. This only delays the work by a few hours. The pipe lining process can be continued once the damaged pipe is repaired.
The benefits of epoxy resin lining
These are the benefits of epoxy pipe liner and why it is one of the most effective options for water or sewer repair.
- Cost-effective – Pipe relining can be 30-40% lower than traditional excavation and replacement costs. The project also takes less time, so labor costs are lower making it a very affordable alternative.
- Non-invasive – Epoxy pipe lining does involve digging trenches. Most repairs can be done by contractors without creating any holes in floors, walls, or ceilings. Existing access points can be used for the repair.
- Eco-friendly – Epoxy pipe lining does not produce any waste that can’t be recycled or disposed of. The epoxy does not produce any carbon emissions during manufacturing.
- Quick – Pipe lining can be completed in as little as two to three days. A day for cleaning, one for epoxy coating and one for reinstating (if necessary). Traditional methods can take weeks and put your family in a hotel while the work is being performed.
- Durable – Epoxy pipe linings are long-lasting and can last for up to 50 year. The new pipe is strong and resistant to corrosion. When done properly by a certified and trained pipe lining contractor, it’s a long-lasting solution.
Some potential cons with the epoxy piping system
- Pipe Requirements – Epoxy pipe lining will not work if the pipe is collapsed or back-pitched (meaning that the pipe was originally installed incorrectly).
- Downtime – There may be some downtime as the epoxy in the pipe takes up to one full day to cure.
- Some pipes won’t work – Pipe Lining does not work for Orangeburg (tarpaper) pipes. Also, old pipes that are fragile will not work because they will not withstand the hydro-jetting, which is done to clean the pipes before they are lined. Lastly, epoxy pipe lining is not recommended if the pipe diameter is less than 2 inches.
- Permanent – Epoxy is a permanent fix. It’s difficult to make any changes after the repair has been completed.
How much does epoxy pipe lining cost?
The pipe lining process can cost anywhere from $80 to $250 per foot. Price depends on many factors such as pipe condition, navigation ease, cleaning required before lining and accessibility. Prices will vary depending on the length of the pipe being replaced.
