Does it Work? What to Know About Sewer Pipe Relining

Ricky Pattillo • Mar 01, 2022

When something goes wrong in your home or place of business, whether it be your plumbing, air conditioning, or even your internet connection, you understandably want answers and solutions as soon as possible. Issues with your sewer lines come with a particular set of challenges and a sense of urgency. However, it is important to take a moment to research and consider all of the options available to you as hasty decisions can lead to wasted money and the potential for more problems down the road.


One such choice that may be presented to you is having your sewer pipe relined or totally replaced. As these two repair methods are vastly different in terms of materials used, price point, and overall downtime, we feel it is important to explain exactly what pipe relining is and what it entails as compared to complete sewer pipe replacement so that you are able to make an informed decision that is right for your needs.



What is sewer pipe relining? 

Pipe relining was developed as a plumbing repair method in the 1970s, allowing for pipes to be replaced without the need for all of the surrounding ground to be excavated. Though it has been steadily increasing in popularity, this method is still relatively unknown to the general public. You may hear pipe relining referred to as “cured-in-place pipe replacement,” “no-dig repairs,”or “trenchless sewer line repair.”



How does sewer pipe relining work?

Pipe relining repairs typically start with a plumber creating one or two small access holes to reach the damaged pipe. Some will also employ a small camera to inspect the damaged area and ensure that it is a good candidate for this method. The pipe is then repaired from the inside out by feeding a tube covered in resin through and inflating it so that it adheres to the old pipe. This forms a hard protective coat inside the damaged pipe and seals it. Once it has hardened in place, your sewer pipes will be like new!



Pipe Relining Pros and Cons

Many property owners (and plumbers!) prefer pipe relining over a complete sewer line replacement for a variety of reasons. Most notably, pipe relining is much less invasive and time-intensive than traditional repair methods. Additionally, when the work is completed correctly, this can be a long-term solution to the problems you are facing.


All of this combined can add up to make pipe relining a more cost-effective repair method for many situations. However, it is not always possible to reline pipes. This is most often due to extensive or prolonged damage.


Sewer line repair coupon

Pipe Relining vs Replacement

Complete sewer pipe replacement can be a daunting prospect. Not only does it cost more money than relining, but it also requires more materials, labor, and time. To replace a pipe, the entirety of the pipe must be exposed by excavating the surrounding earth to make removal possible. This means a messy, unsightly yard and the added costs associated with having that area of landscaping or pavement redone.



Is sewer pipe relining worth it? 

When comparing sewer pipe relining to pipe replacement, it’s not hard to see why so many people are choosing to reline their pipes whenever possible. As mentioned previously, due to the less destructive nature of this repair method, you can get back to your day-to-day activities with little to no disruption, depending on the severity of the repair. It can also be an effective preventative measure for homes and businesses with dated plumbing as it works to reinforce weak areas before they become larger problems. To top it off, the life expectancy of a relined pipe is extended 20-50 years depending on the materials used to make the repair.



Sewer Pipe Relining Services from Plumb Works

If you are in need of sewer pipe relining services in Atlanta, look no further than the expert team at Plumb Works! We are experienced in a wide variety of sewer pipe repair and replacement situations, meaning that no matter the problem, we can help you fix it as quickly as possible. To find out more about our trenchless sewer repair services or to schedule service, contact us today at 404-524-1825.


31 Oct, 2024
As fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, it’s easy to forget that falling leaves can create significant problems for your storm drains. Both residential and commercial properties are at risk, especially when regular maintenance is neglected. In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of cleaning storm drains, how leaf buildup leads to overflow, and why keeping up with maintenance can prevent expensive repairs. The Problem with Leaf Buildup in Storm Drains Fallen leaves may look harmless, but when they accumulate in storm drains , they create blockages that prevent water from flowing freely. This can cause: Overflowing drains in parking lots Water damage to building foundations and basements Unpleasant smells, especially for commercial properties that haven’t maintained their storm drains in 5+ years Leaf buildup is often forgotten until it’s too late and the water starts overflowing. Regular cleaning is the key to preventing these issues. Why Regular Maintenance is Essential Storm drain maintenance should be conducted at least once a year, or every other year in lower-risk areas. This can include: Camera inspections to check for blockages or damage. Jetting lines to clear out leaves and other debris. Maintenance is especially critical if your home or commercial property sits below street level. Properties at a lower elevation are more susceptible to flooding, and clogged storm drains can make this worse. If your house or business is above street level we recommend you perform storm drain maintenance once every 2 years unless you notice frequent leaf buildup in the storm drain grates on your property. The Dangers of Waiting Too Long All it takes is one large storm for clogged drains to cause a sewer overflow. While overflow often occurs in parking lots, the worst-case scenario involves water backing up into your building’s foundation or basement. This can lead to structural damage, mold, and costly repairs. For commercial properties, water damage can also disrupt business operations and create liability concerns. Property owners who neglect maintenance for five or more years might even notice persistent foul odors, which could indicate significant buildup and the presence of trapped debris or stagnant water. How to Prevent Overflow After a Storm The best way to prevent storm drain overflow is to stay on top of regular maintenance. However, if a storm hits and you suspect your drains may be blocked, it’s important to act quickly: Check for standing water in low-lying areas or parking lots. If you notice an overflow, call a professional to inspect and clear your storm drains immediately. After heavy storms, consider scheduling a post-storm inspection to ensure everything is functioning properly. Protect Your Home and Business With Plumb Works Storm drain cleaning is an easy task to forget, but it’s crucial for avoiding water damage and keeping your property safe. By maintaining your drains yearly or every other year, you can rest easy knowing your property is protected from the dangers of leaf buildup and storm drain overflow. Whether you own a home or a commercial building, regular inspections and maintenance will save you from costly repairs in the future. Don't wait until after the next big storm— schedule your storm drain cleaning with Plumb Works today!
16 Oct, 2024
 We are excited to announce that Plumb Works has been recognized as the 2024 Residential Contractor of the Year, an accolade that speaks to our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service and superior workmanship. This accolade, awarded by Plumbing & Mechanical Magzine, is given to contractors that foster long-standing customer relationships, a strong work ethic, and a deep-rooted commitment to quality service. You can read the full article here . What This Award Means to Us At Plumb Works, delivering quality service to our Atlanta community is at the core of everything we do. Our team works diligently to ensure each customer receives reliable, efficient, and friendly service, whether it’s a small plumbing repair or a large-scale project. Receiving the 2024 Residential Contractor of the Year award is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our plumbers, and we are truly honored by this recognition. Our Commitment to You This accolade is a reminder of why we do what we do. We believe that every home deserves dependable plumbing services that leave you confident in your system's performance. Whether you need routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or a complete overhaul, Plumb Works is ready to help. As we celebrate this recognition, we want to thank all of our loyal customers for your trust and feedback. You inspire us to improve and grow every day. Experience Award-Winning Plumbing Services with Plumb Works If you’re looking for a plumbing company that’s as dedicated to customer satisfaction as we are to solving your plumbing problems, look no further. Call Plumb Works today or fill out a form to schedule your next service and see firsthand why we’ve earned the 2024 Residential Contractor of The Year.
15 Oct, 2024
On October 13, Jerome Sabol, the award-winning master plumber and owner of Plumb Works, made a return visit to “Lenz On Business,” a one-hour business talk program, which airs weekly on WSB Radio. Sabol dispensed his own brand of tricks and treats by sharing plumbing maintenance suggestions with listeners. Sabol began his conversation with host Jon Waterhouse by sharing a little bit of Plumb Works’ history, how the independent company came to be, and its continued growth through the years. With fall in the air, Jerome discussed seasonal considerations listeners should keep in mind, including pre-winter preparations such as winterizing outside faucets, draining down water lines, becoming aware of shut-off valves, checking water heaters , and other considerations. The most common issue during winter months, he said, would be freezing pipes and water lines in outside walls that homeowners aren’t aware of. According to Jerome, heat pump water heaters are a highly efficient option for homeowners looking to reduce energy costs. In fact, Georgia Power is currently offering rebates to those who install these energy-saving systems, making it a great time to upgrade. Federal tax credits for heat pump water heaters , he said, are also available. Jerome also discussed the recent complications caused by Hurricane Helene and some of the challenges area residents faced in its aftermath. He recommended homeowners prepare for future hurricanes by properly maintaining their storm drains , and making sure they’re clear and functional. Additional topics ran the plumbing gamut from the key elements of commercial plumbing to Plumb Works’ annual maintenance plans, which come with a free inspection each year. Sabol closed the show by sharing advice with aspiring plumbing professionals, pointing them in the right direction on how to best set up their careers for success by attending industry expos, participating in apprenticeships, and more. Schedule a Service With Plumb Works If you have questions or would like to schedule a service visit with a Plumb Works professional, visit the schedule service page or call 404-524-1825.
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Jerome Sabol and Josh Czerniak, two key members of the Plumb Works team, joined guest host Belinda Skelton on the July 14 episode of “Lenz On Business,” a one-hour business talk show on 95.5 WSB, Atlanta’s news and talk. One of the city’s leading plumbing companies, Plumb Works has been in business since 1989. The company proudly bears an A-plus rating from the Better Business Bureau. Sabol and Czerniak drew about their knowledge and experience, and chatted about the business and an array of timely issues and practical tips listeners can use. They discussed a range of topics including what listeners can do themselves and what they absolutely need a plumber for. As for the former, Sabol recommended listeners check out the Plumb Works Academy website (PlumbWorksAcademy.com) with its array of how-to videos. Skelton asked the pair about Plumb Works’ annual service contracts and if they’re worth the investment. “It can be very important to have your plumbing system evaluated once a year, and that’s what is included in our service agreement,” Czerniak said. “We’ll walk through your entire home, look under every sink, check your water heater, the temperature of your water, your water pressure, all the ins and outs. It’s like having your vitals done when you go to the doctor.” Other subjects of conversation included the importance of water heater service, summer plumbing renovation dos and dont’s, whole-house water filtration systems, garbage disposals, underground leak detection, and much more. Schedule a Plumbing Service With Plumb Works If you have questions or would like to schedule a service visit with a Plumb Works professional, visit the schedule service page or call 404-524-1825 .
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18 Jun, 2024
This month, the city of Atlanta experienced significant water main breaks, causing widespread disruption and inconvenience. These events not only interrupted water supply but also stirred up a substantial amount of debris within the water system. Such occurrences are not uncommon in urban settings, and they often lead to a host of issues for residents. Although all affected areas have regained full use of their water and plumbing systems, many people are experiencing the side effects. Read on to learn more. The Water Main Breaks Can Cause Dirty Water One of the most common complaints during these incidents is dirty water coming out of household taps. This murky water is a result of sediment and debris being dislodged and carried along with the water flow, contaminating what should be a clean supply. In more severe cases, the debris can even cause clogs within the internal plumbing of homes. This not only affects water quality but also compromises the functionality of household appliances and fixtures. Imagine turning on your tap only to see brownish water flowing out, or finding that your shower head is barely dribbling because the pipes are clogged with debris. These are not just minor inconveniences but significant issues that can affect daily life and potentially lead to costly plumbing repairs. Invest In a Whole House Water Filter After a Water Main Break This is where the importance of a whole-house water filter comes into play. A whole-house water filter is designed to purify the water entering your home, ensuring that all the water flowing through your pipes is clean and free of contaminants. It acts as the first line of defense against the impurities that can enter the water system, especially during events like water main breaks. Installing a whole-house water filter can help mitigate the impact of these unfortunate incidents. By filtering out sediment, rust, and other particulates, these systems ensure that the water you use for drinking, cooking, and bathing is safe and clean. Furthermore, they protect your home’s plumbing from the buildup of debris that can lead to clogs and other damage. What Should You Do if Your Water is Brown Brown water can show up in your taps because of minerals, rust, or sediments in your water supply. It’s usually not harmful, but you should try to fix it quickly. Here are some things you can do: Run the Cold Water Turn on the cold water tap and let it run for at least 20 minutes. If the water is still brown, you can try this a few more times. Check with Your Neighbors Ask your neighbors if they’re also seeing brown water. This will help you figure out if the problem is just with your home or affecting the whole area. Contact Your Water Supplier If the water is still brown after 24 hours or if your neighbors are also having issues, contact your local water supplier. They can check the pipes, find the cause, and might be able to flush out the brown water using a fire hydrant. You can find their contact information on their website or your water bill. Take Other Steps If the brown water is only coming from your hot water tap, try draining and refilling your water heater according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You might also think about installing a water filter system or water softener. If you have well water, consider adding an iron removal system. Schedule a Whole House Water Filter Installation With Plumb Works For residents of cities like Atlanta, where water main breaks can and do occur, having a whole-house water filter is a practical and proactive measure. It provides peace of mind, knowing that no matter what happens to the municipal water supply, the water in your home will remain clean and safe. Moreover, it can save you from the hassle and expense of dealing with dirty water complaints and potential plumbing issues. Contact us today or call us at 404-524-1825 to schedule a whole-house water filtration installation.
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