Pipe Relining Made Simple: A Step-by-Step Guide

Blocked, cracked, or damaged pipes can be a nightmare for homeowners and businesses alike. Traditionally, fixing a broken pipe meant costly excavation and disruption. Thanks to modern technology, pipe relining has become a faster, more affordable, and less invasive solution. This guide explains the pipe relining process step by step, so you know exactly what to expect.

What is Pipe Relining?

Pipe relining is a trenchless technology used to repair damaged pipes without digging them up. Instead of replacing the entire pipe, a resin-coated liner is inserted into the existing pipe, creating a durable new pipe within the old one. This process can be applied to stormwater pipes, sewer pipes, and even residential plumbing.

Benefits of pipe relining include:

• Minimal disruption to your property
• Cost-effective compared to traditional excavation
• Long-lasting and durable repairs
• Environmentally friendly
• Fast installation, often completed in a day

Step-by-Step Pipe Relining Process

Here’s how the process usually works in Australia:

Step 1: Pipe Inspection and Assessment

Before any work begins, plumbers perform a CCTV inspection of your pipes. This step identifies:

• Cracks or leaks
• Blockages
• Collapsed or misaligned sections
• Overall pipe condition

The inspection ensures that pipe relining is the right solution and helps plan the correct approach.

Step 2: Cleaning the Pipe

Once the inspection is complete, the next step is high-pressure water jetting or mechanical cleaning. This removes:

• Tree roots
• Grease build-up
• Dirt and debris

A clean pipe is essential for the liner to adhere properly and form a smooth new pipe interior.

Step 3: Measuring and Preparing the Liner

The plumber measures the length of the damaged section and prepares a resin-coated liner. The liner is flexible and can navigate bends and narrow pipes.

Types of resin commonly used include:

• Epoxy resin
• Polyester resin
• Vinyl ester resin

These resins harden to create a strong, waterproof pipe within the existing one.

Step 4: Inserting the Liner

The liner is carefully inserted into the damaged pipe using either air pressure or water inversion. It expands to fit snugly against the pipe walls.

This step requires precision to ensure complete coverage and proper alignment.

Step 5: Curing the Liner

After insertion, the resin is cured using hot water, steam, or UV light depending on the type of resin used. Curing usually takes a few hours and creates a hard, durable new pipe inside the old one.

Step 6: Final Inspection

Once cured, a final CCTV inspection confirms that the relined pipe is:

• Fully sealed
• Smooth inside for optimal flow
• Free from defects

After this, your pipe is ready for use, often immediately.

When is Pipe Relining the Best Option?

Pipe relining is ideal if your pipes:

• Are aging or corroded
• Have frequent blockages
• Are difficult to access
• Would require expensive excavation to replace

It’s also a smart choice for environmentally conscious homeowners, as it reduces soil disruption and waste.

Cost of Pipe Relining in Australia

The cost depends on:

• Pipe length and diameter
• Type of damage
• Location and accessibility

On average, pipe relining costs between AUD 200–500 per metre, which is often cheaper than full pipe replacement.

Conclusion

The pipe relining process is a modern, efficient solution for damaged pipes. With minimal disruption, long-lasting results, and a cost-effective approach, it’s quickly becoming the preferred choice for Australian homeowners and businesses alike.

If you’re dealing with blocked or damaged pipes, contacting a professional pipe relining service is the fastest way to restore your plumbing without the hassle of digging.