Trenchless Pipe Repair vs Traditional Pipe Repair – What’s the Difference?

Do you have a pipe leak and aren’t sure which repair solution is right for you? Maybe your pipes are just starting to get old, and you want to address them before they become a problem. Either way, you are faced with the options between traditional pipe repair and trenchless pipe repair. Whether you are a homeowner, property manager, or commercial property owner needing pipe repair services, this guide will help you understand the best options for your specific plumbing issues and what to consider when upgrading or repairing your current systems.

What is Traditional Pipe Repair vs. Trenchless Pipe Repair?

To put it simply, traditional pipe repair involves digging a trench to access the damaged pipe, removing the existing pipe, and installing a new one in its place. 

Alternatively, trenchless pipe repair involves creating a new pipe within the existing damaged pipe. With various methods for creating a new pipe, including pipe bursting, CIPP lining, or slip lining, the flexibility of this option can address various repair problems. 

Cost Comparison Between Traditional Pipe Repair vs. Trenchless Pipe Repair?

When comparing pipe repair options, trenchless pipe repair is often far cheaper than traditional pipe repair, especially for smaller-scale projects. This is primarily because traditional pipe repair requires extensive digging, which raises costs in labor time and machine use. 

While trenchless pipe repair has higher upfront costs for larger-scale projects, we also want to note that digging a giant trench for traditional repair also compromises the space on an environmental level, which will then have to be repaired. Whether that involves repaving a sidewalk, seeding a lawn, or replanting a flower garden, these repairs quickly raise the project’s overall cost – often beyond the upfront costs of trenchless pipe repair. 

4 Factors When Choosing Pipe Repair Method:

#1: Project Requirements

Before any other reason, you must consider the requirements of your project. Here are two prime examples: 

First, you must weigh the severity of the damage. For severe or large-scale projects, traditional excavation methods may be required to complete the project adequately. 

Second, you must determine your access availability. If your problem is located in a tight space, difficult-to-reach area, or in an environmental setting that would be damaged through excavation, trenchless pipe repair may be the only option. 

#2: Environmental Impact

When determining pipe repair solutions, the environmental impact must be considered. It’s unlikely that a pipe repair would be located in a giant dirt field where digging a trench would make no difference. Most commonly, we see pipe repairs in residential or commercial areas, where there are everything from parking lots to sidewalks to structures, as well as green spaces like gardens and expensive landscaping. In all of these cases, digging a trench for traditional pipe repair could result in property damage that will negatively impact the environment and utility of the area. 

In addition, it is important to consider the waste involved in removing an old pipe. Those pipes typically go straight to a landfill, unable to be recycled or reused. Therefore, if you utilize trenchless pipe repair, you can add longevity to the existing pipe and reduce waste. 

#3: Time and Efficiency

Traditional pipe repair is far slower than trenchless pipe repair due to the heavy excavation and labor time involved. Depending on the extent of damage and the length of the pipe needing to be repaired, it can take anywhere from a few days to weeks of work. 

Trenchless pipe repair, on the other hand, can often be completed in a fraction of the time. Plus, it has fewer property damage repair requirements, decreasing time spent on fixing the surrounding area that was damaged during the repair process. Overall, this results in reduced downtime and inconvenience for property owners. 

#4: Durability and Longevity

When it comes to durability and longevity, both traditional pipe repair and trenchless pipe repair result in high-quality work that is designed to last. Depending on your project type, your pipe system will be given a lifespan to keep in mind. Due to the variance of this, it is always best to ask the advice of a professional on your specific project. 

Making the Right Choice – Which Method?

Before deciding about your pipe repair solution, it is vital to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of your specific project. As a quick recap, let’s review the pros and cons of each:

Pros and Cons of Traditional Pipe Repair

Pros:

• Ideal for severe damage
• Applicable in various settings
• Durable, brand new pipe

Cons:

• Higher overall costs due to digging and restoration
• Significant environmental disruption
• Time-consuming with potential for lengthy downtimes
• Access limitations in constrained areas

Pros and Cons of Trenchless Pipe Repair

Pros:

• Cost-effective for small-scale projects
• Minimal environmental impact
• Quick completion time
• Reduced property restoration needs

Cons:

• Higher upfront costs for large projects
• May not suit severe damage needing extensive excavation
  

As you can see, when it comes to choosing traditional pipe repair or trenchless pipe repair, we always recommend trenchless repair if the project allows it. With more tremendous advantages and fewer cons, the project is generally the better solution if available. 

Take Advantage of the Generations Trenchless Difference!

Are you ready to repair or replace your sewer or water lines? If you live in the Tri-Cities, Yakima Valley, Walla Walla, Ellensburg, or other nearby areas, Generation Trenchless may be the right solution for your needs. As a locally owned and operated company, we go the extra mile to exceed our clients’ expectations. We offer both home and business owners a professional team that excels in performing superior workmanship at a competitive price and with warrantied services! 

Not sure how to get started? We are happy to supply you with expert advice on pipe repair. All you have to do is contact Generations Trenchless and Plumbing today to learn more about trenchless and traditional pipe repair methods and find the best solution for your property.