Have you ever wondered what happens when an underground sewer pipe breaks or needs replacement? Sewer pipe bursting might be the solution you’re looking for.
This method is a trenchless technique used to replace old, damaged pipes without the need for extensive digging.
In fact, according to a report, the trenchless pipe rehabilitation market has the potential to grow up to $6.48 billion by 2030.
Sewer pipe bursting involves pulling a new pipe through the old one, which is simultaneously broken apart. This process keeps your yard intact and lowers costs. Many homeowners and cities choose this method to fix old sewer pipes.
With that in mind, let’s take a detailed look at this method.
What is Sewer Pipe Bursting?
Sewer pipe bursting is a no-dig solution for replacing old, faulty, or small sewer pipes. This method breaks the current pipe and installs a new one at the same time. And the best part about this is all this is done without any major excavation.
Sewer pipe bursting is commonly used because it minimizes surface disruption, making it ideal for urban areas where extensive digging would be impractical or too costly. People use sewer pipe bursting to quickly and efficiently replace deteriorating sewer lines, improve flow capacity, and prevent potential leaks or blockages.
How Sewer Pipe Bursting Works?
Here’s how this method typically works:
- Preparation: The area is inspected using cameras to assess the condition of the existing sewer line and to identify any obstacles. Utility lines are located and marked to avoid accidental damage.
- Access Pits: Small access pits are dug at the beginning and end of the pipe section that needs to be replaced. These pits are much smaller than the trenches required for traditional pipe replacement.
- Bursting Head: A conical-shaped bursting head, slightly larger than the new pipe, is inserted into the existing pipe. This head breaks the old pipe into fragments as it is pushed through.
- Pipe Pulling: The bursting head is attached to the new pipe and has a pulling mechanism. As the bursting head is pulled through the old pipe, it breaks it apart while simultaneously pulling the new pipe into place behind it.
- Completion: Once the new pipe is fully in place, the access pits are backfilled, and the area is restored to its original condition.
Advantages of Using Pipe Bursting Technology
First, it’s ideal for upgrading pipe sizes. This method allows you to either keep the new pipe the same size as the old one or opt for a larger size. For instance, if your current pipe is six inches wide, you can upgrade it to an eight- or ten-inch pipe, depending on local regulations and the depth of the pipes.
Another major advantage is that pipe bursting minimizes environmental disruption. It’s an excellent choice for areas where extensive digging would cause too much damage, such as wetlands, roads, or neighborhoods with pipes running under buildings.
Since this method requires less digging, it causes minimal damage to the surface. This helps maintain the area’s appearance and avoids significant environmental disruption.
Quick Link: How To Prevent Underground Sewer Pipe Emergencies
What Makes Pipe Bursting Unique?
The reason why this technique is unique because of:
- Efficient Installation: Pipe bursting stands out because it requires much less digging and site disruption than traditional methods. This means the installation process is much quicker.
- Dependable Pipe Design: Another unique aspect of pipe bursting is the design of the replacement pipe. The new pipe is a long, fully fused polyethylene pipe with no joints.
Sewer Pipe Bursting vs. Traditional Methods
The reasons why sewer pipe bursting is better than the traditional methods are:
1. Minimal Excavation
Pipe bursting requires much less digging compared to traditional methods. Traditional methods involve extensive excavation, which can damage landscaping, driveways, and sidewalks. With pipe bursting, you only need small access pits, reducing surface disruption and preserving your property’s appearance.
2. Faster Installation
Pipe bursting is much quicker. Traditional methods, like open-cut installation, are time-consuming because they require digging and restoring the site afterward. Pipe bursting can be completed up to 4.5 times faster, bringing services back online sooner and reducing inconvenience.
3. Cost-Effective
Because pipe bursting involves less excavation and quicker installation, it often costs less than traditional methods. You save on labor, restoration, and overall project time, making it a more budget-friendly option.
4. Environmentally Friendly
Pipe bursting is better for the environment. Traditional methods can harm the surrounding area due to extensive digging. Pipe bursting minimizes surface disruption and reduces the impact on the environment, making it an eco-friendly choice.
5. Improved Pipe Quality
With pipe bursting, you get a long, seamless pipe, which reduces the risk of leaks. Traditional methods use shorter pipe segments connected with joints that can fail over time. The fused joints in pipe bursting are as strong as the pipe itself, offering a more reliable solution.
Contact Sewer Pipe Bursting Experts in Lake Norman and Charlotte, NC Metro areas
Are you tired of dealing with frequent sewer line issues and the hassle of extensive digging in your yard? There’s a better solution!
At ALWAYS CLEAR SEWER AND DRAIN, we specialize in sewer pipe bursting. Our team of experts serves the Lake Norman and Charlotte, NC metro areas, providing fast, reliable, and cost-effective sewer line replacement services.
Contact us today to Get a Free Quote and see how we can help you keep your sewer lines in top condition without the hassle of traditional methods.
For emergency services, call us at (704) 818-7495, and we’ll be there in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does pipe bursting cost?
The cost of pipe bursting typically ranges from $100 to $250 per foot, depending on the project’s size, scope, and materials used. Overall expenses usually fall between $5,000 and $25,000. For a precise estimate, you can consult with our experts.
How long does sewer pipe bursting replacement last?
A pipe bursting replacement can last for 50 years or even longer. The new pipes are made with strong materials that can handle harsh conditions with ease. They can resist physical stress and corrosion, making them a reliable choice for long-term use.
Which is costlier, PVC or HDPE?
PVC pipe is generally less expensive than HDPE pipe, making it a more budget-friendly option. Also, PVC is more rigid than HDPE. Because of this, PVC is more suitable for applications requiring high stiffness, such as water mains or sewer lines.