General Plumbing

The Ins And Outs Of Pipe Relining

Plumbing systems can incur a lot of wear and tear over time. As more water and waste flush through the pipes, the structure can begin to deteriorate. Not only does the constant water flow cause damage, so does all those items that shouldn’t be flushed or sent down the sink. When damaged pipes are in hard-to-reach places, buried beneath the lawn or intertwined in the house foundations, pipe relining is an option for repair.

What exactly is pipe relining?

Pipe relining is approaching the repair from a different angle. It involves curing the pipes with a resin, from the inside. The goal is to repair the cracks and damage by creating a new, stronger pipe inside the existing one. The resin dries and hardens over time, giving the pipe structure more integrity and helping with water flow. Pipe relining is a stark contrast to the traditional method of digging and replacing. The less invasive method means that there is little or no disturbance to gardens and land. For this reason, it can be considered a more cost-effective method of repair.

How is it done?

There are a few steps involved in the process of relining a pipe. Different plumbers have their own tailored methods. Regardless of the method, the key element in the process is the epoxy resin inserted into the existing pipe.

The first step in the process is using CCTV camera footage to determine the exact location and severity of the damage. A small camera attached to the end of a fibre optic coil is sent down the pipe to obtain imaging. The use of CCTV inspection cameras makes it easy to understand how big the job will be and what will be involved in the repair process

The next step is to ensure the pipe is clear and free of as much debris as possible before the resin is put in place. High pressured water is blasted through the pipe to remove any grease or grime. This is a crucial step as any resin would not bond properly to the pipe walls if there were residue in the way. After the pipe has been cleared of any muck and debris it is important to do another CCTV check to ensure that the pipe is ready to be relined.

The pipe is then relined using an inflatable material sock and epoxy resin. The sock is threaded through the existing pipe and ballooned out until it is pressed firmly against the existing one. When the new pipe material in place it is then a matter of waiting for the chemicals to set and adhere to the existing structure.

Is it the right option for you?

There are some advantages and disadvantages when it comes to pipe relining. It’s important to weigh up the pros and cons and decide on the right option for your home. Pipe relining can be an inexpensive alternative to other methods of repair or replacement. There is no digging or dismantling of structures on the property and is a relatively quick procedure. A pipe can be relined and in working order within one working day. One of the only disadvantages to pipe relining is that sometimes it cannot be performed. When pipes are extensively damaged with large internal cracks and gaps a reline is not a solution. If you’re unsure if pipe relining is the right option for your plumbing problem, give Newcastle Plumbing Kings a call. We will be able to determine the best course of action and get your pipes back in perfect working order.

Newcastle Plumbing Kings are your local experts in repairing blocked drains, hot water system maintenance and pipe relining. Get in touch with us today!

Most Common Plumbing Emergencies

We offer a 24/7 hour emergency plumbing service in Newcastle, Maitland and Lake Macquarie so we see our fair share of plumbing emergencies. We often see emergency situations with blocked drains, broken pipes and hot water.

1. Broken Water Pipe

broken water pipe is one of the most common and damaging mishaps you can have at home. Pipe cracks and fractures can suddenly rupture and burst, leading to severe damage.

How to fix it:

  • Shut off the water supply. You risk running up your water bill or damaging your entire home. Shut off the water supply as you figure out your next steps!
  • Turn off the electric main. Water may reach sockets, plugs, and switches. Soon enough, it’ll be a deadly health hazard.
  • Drain the pipes. Allow all the pipes to drain out. Let it run until all the water comes out.
  • See if you can fix it yourself. Copper pipes benefit from cutting out damaged parts, incorporating a replacement, and then soldering the pieces together. Plastic pipes repeat the first step, but incorporate couplings, slip fixes, and solvent cement.
  • Call a professional. If you’re unsure, call a local plumber to help you out!

You can also resort to temporary fixes. Tape – electrical, duct, or silicone – can secure your pipe until it can be properly repaired or replaced. Hose clamps and gaskets are also effective.

2. Blocked Sewer Line

A clogged sewer line results in a chain of inconveniences. Your home may suffer from slow drainage, bad odours and back-up waste. A clogged sewer line can result in severe pipe damage and further blockage.

How to fix it:

  • Turn off the water. This prevents the situation from worsening. It can end up flooding into your home.
  • Look into pressure. If you can get your hands on a high-powered jet or find a service that offers it, take the chance! In the same vein, turning off the water can release pressure as you drain out the line.
  • Use tools to mechanically unclog the line. Rods, augers, and other tools can help clear out any blockages.
  • Use chemicals. Biological products can go a long way in unclogging your drain. Always use caution when handling chemicals!
  • Look into preventive methods. Once your sewer line is successfully unclogged, fix up pipes and avoid flushing debris in your bathroom.

3. Clogged Toilet & Sink

A simultaneous clog in your bathroom is sadly common. However, a clogged toilet and sink is straightforward enough in its solutions.

How to fix it:

  • Use boiling hot water. For minor clogs, heating up water and adding dish soap or baking soda and vinegar might work. If the toilet and sink is still clogged, resort to the next methods.
  • Plunge. For toilets, use a bell-shaped plunger. A flat-bottom plunger will be more apt for clogged sinks.
  • Snake. A plumbing snake (not a real snake…) also works well in unclogging your toilets and sinks. Turn the auger handle until you feel resistance and then everything should be unclogged.

4. Water Heater Leak

You may start noticing puddles of water surrounding your water heater. When this happens, a leak in your water heater is usually to blame.

How to fix it:

  • Try to identify where the leak is coming from first.
  • Close the water supply. Turn off both the water and electric supply to aid you in identifying and fixing the causes of the leaks.
  • Check the drain. The drain may be the culprit. Tighten up a loose drain or replace a defective one.
  • Replace faulty valves. Alternatively, looking into the valves may uncover issues in pressure and temperature. Work on regulators or consider replacing them completely.
  • Invest in maintenance. Regular check-ups and monitoring can prevent a water heater leak! Call in a professional every now and then.