How to repair pipes under a house?

Pipe lining is a revolutionary technique that offers a sustainable alternative to repairing damaged pipes without requiring their complete replacement. This method involves inserting a polymer resin liner inside existing pipes. This intervention strengthens the pipes, repairs cracks and leaks, while protecting against corrosion. Suitable for various drainage networks, including wastewater, sewage and rainwater, pipe lining is a versatile solution.

This article aims to guide you on how to identify the causes of pipe problems, introduce no-excavation repair methods, and examine the factors to consider before choosing a repair technique. You will learn about the benefits of pipe lining, a trenchless rehabilitation method that is fast, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.

Identify the cause of the pipeline problem

The first essential step before opting for a non-excavation pipe repair is to precisely identify the origin of the problem. The cause and severity of the damage directly influence the choice of the most suitable repair technique. To do this, several key steps must be followed:

Camera inspection

Camera inspection, a fast and non-destructive method, involves the use of a waterproof camera maneuvered through the pipe using a flexible cable. This technique provides a detailed view of the inside of the pipe, allowing damage to be precisely located and its causes identified. It allows the problem to be accurately diagnosed without the need for excavation work.

Leak and blockage detection

Leak and blockage detection uses special tools, such as acoustic detectors, tracer gases or dyes, to identify sections of the pipeline that are leaking or blocked. This step is crucial to assess the severity of the problem and properly plan the repair.

Assessment of the extent of damage

Damage assessment is based on data collected from camera inspection and leak and blockage detection. This analysis helps determine the nature and severity of the damage, whether it is cracks, infiltrated roots, failed joints, corrosion or collapse of the pipe. This allows the most appropriate repair technique to be selected, taking into account the specific characteristics of the pipe concerned, such as its diameter, length and configuration.

Methods to repair a pipeline without excavation

Identifying the problem with a pipe is the first step, followed closely by choosing the appropriate repair method. To repair a pipe without digging, there are several options. These options are not only quick and economical, but also environmentally friendly since they avoid damaging the surrounding infrastructure.

Below, discover the main methods of no-excavation pipe repair:

Pipe lining

Lining is a commonly used approach to repairing a pipeline without excavation. It involves inserting a polymer resin sleeve inside the damaged pipeline. This sleeve conforms to the shape of the original pipe and hardens within hours, creating a new pipeline inside the old one. This method can correct problems such as cracks, leaks, intrusive roots and defective joints. It also strengthens the structure of the pipeline, improves its watertightness and protects it against corrosion. Lining is suitable for all types of drainage networks.

Spot Repair

This method consists of locally repairing the pipe by placing a fiberglass sleeve impregnated with epoxy resin on the damaged area. This sleeve attaches to the pipe and repairs it in a durable manner. Ideal for minor damage, such as cracks or holes, spot repair avoids the complete replacement of the pipe, which considerably reduces costs and intervention times.

High pressure cleaning and scraping

These techniques aim to repair a pipe without digging by removing blockages and deposits that hinder the flow and quality of water. Jetting uses a mechanical tool to remove accumulations, while high-pressure cleaning uses a powerful water jet of up to 400 bars to dislodge debris. These methods therefore help to restore the capacity of the pipe, prevent blockages and bad odours, and thus extend the life of the pipe.

Important Considerations Before Choosing a Repair Method

Identifying the cause of the pipe problem and evaluating non-excavation repair options is crucial. Before deciding, there are some essential criteria to consider in order to find the most appropriate solution. Here are the major considerations to take into account:

Cost and available budget

Cost varies considerably depending on the diameter, length, shape, condition of the pipe, and the repair method selected. No-excavation repairs tend to be less expensive compared to traditional approaches, saving on excavation, demolition, rehabilitation, and debris management costs.

Prices can range from 100 to 500 euros per linear meter, varying depending on the technique used. It is essential to weigh up the offers of several providers to find the one that aligns with your budget and meets your expectations.

Durability and warranty of repairs

The longevity of a no-excavation repair depends on the quality of the materials, the expertise of the technician in charge and regular maintenance. Processes such as lining reinforce the solidity of the pipeline, increase its watertightness and protect it from corrosion.

A pipeline repaired using these methods can last up to 50 years. It is therefore essential to find out about the guarantees provided by the service provider and to scrupulously follow the maintenance recommendations.

Impact on property and daily life

No-excavation repairs have minimal impact on property and daily life, avoiding the inconvenience of excavation work. Fast, discreet and environmentally friendly, these techniques do not damage the surrounding environment such as walls, sidewalks or trees and do not generate noise, dust or debris.

They do not stop the use of the pipeline during the works, do not deteriorate the quality of the water and exclude complex administrative procedures. Ideal under a dwelling, they allow repairs to be carried out without disturbing the comfort of the residents.

Conclusion

Through this article, you have acquired the knowledge necessary to repair a pipe located under a house without requiring digging work. We have explored together how to diagnose the origin of a pipe problem, the different techniques allowing a repair without excavation, and the important criteria to consider before selecting a specific method. You have also been introduced to pipe lining, an innovative, sustainable, economical and environmentally friendly solution. This technique consists of renovating damaged pipes without having to completely replace them.

If a pipe under your home needs repair, it is advisable to call on a qualified and experienced professional. An expert will be able to offer you sound advice and determine the most appropriate solution for your situation. Do not underestimate the importance of acting quickly when faced with a pipe problem to preserve your comfort and safety.

Don’t delay in contacting a pipe lining specialist to benefit from their expertise now!