Why Pipe Bursting Is a Convenient Way to Replace Your Damaged Sewer Line

If your sewer line is backing up in your yard or home, the first thing you'll probably try is a drain snake to chop up roots and paper clogs. If that doesn't work, it could be a sign the pipe has broken or collapsed, and the broken pieces are clogging the line. If your pipe is broken, the only way to fix it is to replace the line. Pipe bursting is one method for doing this, and it has advantages over the usual method of digging up the pipe to replace it. Here is a quick look at how pipe bursting works and why you should consider it.

Why You Should Start With a Video Inspection

The contractor needs to see inside the pipe before determining if pipe bursting will work in your situation. If your pipe is very deep or makes sharp turns, you may need to use another method for replacing the pipe. To do a video inspection, the contractor passes a camera through the pipe all the way to the obstruction. The camera sends back a live feed so the contractor can verify the pipe is damaged and needs to be replaced. The camera also has a beacon which helps the contractor pinpoint the exact location of the line.

How Pipe Bursting Works

Pipe bursting can be done on just about any type of pipe including clay sewer lines. The contractor needs to dig a hole at each end of the sewer line. Then, the bursting head and new line is fed in one end and pulled out of the other using heavy equipment. The bursting head has a cone shape that is small on one end and large on the other. The small end fits inside the sewer pipe and as the head is pulled through the line with force, the large end busts apart the pipe. A new pipe is attached to the head so it is pulled inside the old pipe as it is being broken apart. The end result is an entirely new sewer line with no cracks or holes that allow tree roots to do further damage.

Why Pipe Bursting Is a Good Option

Traditionally, damaged sewer lines were replaced by digging a long trench in your yard so the old pipe could be dug up and a new pipe installed in the trench. The problem with this method is that it is very disruptive to your yard. It not only tears up your grass, but it could also damage expensive landscaping plants and even outbuildings. No trench is needed with the pipe bursting method, so you won't have the extra expense of replacing sod and plants. The contractor just digs two holes in your yard to complete the process. Another advantage of the pipe bursting method is you can install a drain of the same size or even a larger size. The other form of trenchless sewer line replacement involves pulling a liner through the pipe which makes the pipe smaller. A smaller pipe could potentially be easier to clog.

If you have to replace your sewer line, you should consider hiring a contractor like Sullivan Septic that does pipe bursting so you can save your lawn. Plus pipe bursting is a quick procedure when compared to digging a trench and replacing the line manually. Quick repairs are important when your sewer is out of order because you won't be able to use your plumbing until the new line is in place.


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