Understanding the Differences Between Pipe Relining and Pipe Replacement

Posted by Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney on 19 Feb 2026

When it comes to fixing damaged pipes, the two most common options are pipe relining or replacement of pipes. Both methods aim to bring back the original function of your pipelines, but they have marked differences that are important to understand.

Key Takeaways

  • Pipe relining is an economical and quick method of repairing damaged pipelines.
  • CIPP lining is used in the relining of pipes.
  • Epoxy resin is utilized to line the inner parts of the pipe. The resin cures to creates a new inner lining in the pipeline.
  • Relining pipe is time-efficient and cost-effective, and can last for up to 50 years.
  • Traditional pipe replacement involves digging up areas of the property where pipes are.
  • Replacement of pipes may be required to repair pipes that are severely damaged.
  • A new pipeline installed through pipe replacement has a long life span (75 or 100 years).
  • Replacement of pipes is expensive and laborious.
  • The decision between pipe relining or pipe replacement depends on the degree of damage caused.

In this post, we’ll look at pipe relining in comparison to. pipe replacement. Find out which one suits your requirements better.

What is Pipe Relining?

Pipe relining or Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) Lining is a modern repair method that provides a cost-effective, rapid solution for the repair of damaged pipelines.

Here’s how it is done:

  1. A technician cleans the pipeline with high-pressure water jetting or mechanical cleaning.
  2. Then, they place epoxy resin made of polyester or fiberglass liner inside the pipeline.
  3. The liner is cured and forms a new liner within the old pipeline that’s as strong as a brand new one.

The advantages of Pipe Relining

  • Time-efficient – It usually takes just 2 to three hours for the whole procedure compared to excavating days in traditional pipe replacement methods.
  • Cost-effective because no excavation or removal is needed in the pipe relining process It can save you nearly 50% of the cost you’d have to pay for repairs that are traditional.
  • Durability – The new liner made by pipe relining could last for 50 years!

Pros and Cons of Pipe Relining

  • Not recommended for extremely damaged pipes - If there are major damages such as cracks or collapses or joints that are misaligned within your sewer line then pipe relining may not be possible.

What is Pipe Replacement?

Pipe replacement involves digging up portions of the yard/sidewalk/driveway where underground pipes are located. The areas may contain broken pipes, or very corroded ones either from age or neglect.

The steps below are the most traditional replacements for pipes:

  1. An excavation crew digs access to the degraded underground pipe.
  2. The old pipeline is detached and dredged out, producing a lot debris that must be cleared away.
  3. Then, they install a new pipeline in place of the one they had previously installed.

Benefits of Pipe Replacement

  • It is suitable for pipes with severe damage - When you need to replace pipes that are suffering from severe corrosion or damage, pipe replacement is the most effective option.
  • Long-lasting – The latest pipeline installed through pipe replacement has a long lifespan (75 or 100 years) making it an ideal alternative for homeowners seeking the best solution for their home.

Pros and Cons of Pipe Replacement

  • It is expensive – Excavating work required for pipe replacement could be long and costly.
  • The process is time-consuming. Traditional pipe replacements can take weeks depending on the nature of the project and the depth of excavations that are required.

Which one should you select?

The decision to choose between relining or replacing your pipes is mostly based on the amount of damage caused. If your pipes suffer from minor damages like cracks or leaks that are minor, relining would probably be a more appropriate choice since it’s less costly and is also faster than traditional replacements.

If there are major damage, such as collapses or broken pipes, then you should consider conventional pipe replacement, though it will cost more and take longer.

Pipe Relining Pipe Replacement
Procedure CIPP lining using epoxy resin Excavating and replacing the old pipeline
Pros Time-efficient- 2 to 3 hours to complete Suitable for severely damaged pipes
Cost-effective – Almost half of traditional costs. New pipeline lasts for 75 to 100 years
Durable – Lasts up to 50 years
Cons Not suitable for severely damaged pipes Costly
Time-consuming
When to choose Minor damages like cracks or minor leaks Severe damages like collapses or breaks

FAQs

What is pipe relining?

Relining a pipe is a process which consists of creating a new pipe inside an existing damaged pipe. This is done by inserting a liner that is flexible into the old pipe and the process of curing it. Once it is cured, the new pipe is free of joints or seams that improve the structural integrity of the pipe.

What does traditional pipe replacement differ from relining pipe?

Traditional pipe replacement involves digging up and physically removing old pipes, before replacing them with new ones. In contrast, pipe relining does not require excavation. Instead it’s accomplished by using technology that permits repair of pipelines without digging large areas of land.

Which one is less expensive - the pipe relining method or traditional pipe replacement?

Pipe relining typically costs less than traditional methods for pipe repair because there are no expenses related to excavation, or other methods necessary for removing and replacing old pipes.

Can all kinds of pipes be lined?

Certain types of pipes are relined in a successful manner. Your plumber must examine your particular situation to determine whether it’s possible to line your specific type of pipes. However, most current pipes could be relined with this procedure.

How long will the process of relining pipes take?

The exact duration of the process is dependent on various variables like the location, the environment, and type of damage. However the typical Pipe Relining job typically takes around 2 days, depending on how many meters require lining..

In conclusion, if wish to avoid digging work and save your money while restoring damaged pipelines’ performance to their fullest, consider opting for our Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney ‘s quick and efficient pipe relining solutions. Contact us today!

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