Is it time to replace your sewer line? If so, you might be worried about major digging — and major damage — on your property.
These days, however, there’s a really convenient method for getting rid of underground pipes and installing new ones. This process is a form of trenchless sewer replacement called pipe bursting. It requires minimal digging and, thankfully, minimal disruption.
How does pipe bursting work? Well, let’s examine this game-changing, time-saving, lawn-protecting process in detail.
Quick Takeaways
Pipe bursting involves dragging a device called a bursting head underground, through the original pipe. As a result, the old pipe breaks apart while a new pipe slides into position.- Pipe bursting is a minimal excavation method.
- It entails digging two small access pits instead of a full trench.
- Pipe bursting is commonly used for damaged sewer lines.
- Property owners usually obtain new pipes made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is exceedingly durable.
What Is Pipe Bursting?
Pipe bursting is a minimally invasive way to replace underground pipes. It involves pulling a machine called a bursting head through the existing pipe, splitting it apart. This device also pushes the pieces of the old pipe to the side.
The bursting head is connected to the new pipe. Therefore, as it moves along, the new pipe easily glides into place.
Pipe bursting is a type of trenchless pipe repair, which is a modern method of underground pipe replacement that doesn’t require large holes. After all, digging a trench can seriously disrupt or even destroy property. Instead, technicians dig comparatively small holes called access points.
In addition, experts frequently employ pipe bursting or pipe relining because both methods can save several days of work compared to traditional repairs.
How Pipe Bursting Works
Typically, pipe bursting involves these steps:
Sewer Camera Inspection
Technicians insert a small, closed-circuit camera into a sewer pipe and pull it all the way through. That way, they can study the entire length of the pipe, see what condition it’s in, and locate any blockages, debris, roots, corrosion, or other damage.
Access Pit Installation
Next, plumbers dig two relatively small pits. One is the sending pit, into which the bursting head and the new pipe will go. On the opposite end is the receiving pit, where the bursting head will emerge from the ground.
Bursting Head Process
The next step is to run a pulling cable from the sending pit to the receiving pit. The bursting head, which is attached to the new pipe, is connected to the pulling cable, and it’s lowered into the sending pit.
A pulling machine, which is positioned by the receiving pit, pulls the cable. The cable, in turn, pulls the bursting head. And, as the bursting head travels underground, it fractures the old pipe, pushing the broken pieces to the side as it goes. (Those pieces will stay in the ground.)
Pulling the New Pipe Into Place
Below the ground, the new pipe trails the bursting head. Thus, once the pulling machine removes the bursting head from the ground, the new pipe will be in the same space that the old pipe occupied.
When Do Plumbers Recommend Pipe Bursting?
In these situations, a professional would probably advise a homeowner to replace their sewer line via pipe bursting:
- The sewer line is severely damaged or collapsed.
- The pipe is bellied: One section dips beneath the rest, creating a U-shape that obstructs flowing water.
- Sewage blockages are recurring.
- Tree root intrusion is extensive.
- The sewer line is made of outmoded materials like clay or cast iron.
Benefits of Pipe Bursting for Sewer Line Repair
Pipe bursting is extremely helpful to homeowners as it offers:
- Minimal yard damage
- A faster, safer, cost-effective installation
- Less disruption to driveways and landscaping
- A long-lasting replacement pipe
- Improved water and sewage flow throughout a home
How Long Does Pipe Bursting Last?
A replacement pipe made of HDPE provides long-term durability. In fact, it could last 50 to 100 years — maybe even longer!
By contrast, a metal pipe only lasts 20 to 50 years since it will corrode.
Signs Your Sewer Line May Need Pipe Bursting
Compromised sewer lines often present these problems:
- Frequent sewer clogs and backups
- Multiple sinks, toilets, and tubs that drain slowly
- Outdoor sewage odors
- Yard sinkholes or unexplained wet spots
- A repeated need for sewer repair
- Foundation cracks
- Insects or rodents invading a home or yard
- Spikes in your water bill
- Bubbling or gurgling noises coming from drains or toilets
If any of these issues are plaguing your property, it’s wise to call a professional right away. Otherwise, they’ll probably get worse — and more costly to repair.
Professional Pipe Bursting and Sewer Line Repair in Clearwater, FL
Maybe your sewer pipe has been giving you headaches lately. If so, Clearwater Benjamin Franklin Plumbing can supply you with first-rate sewer line repair services.
We serve the entire city of Clearwater, FL, along with all surrounding areas. And our punctual plumbers are licensed, trained, highly skilled, efficient, and effective.
In short, if you’re dealing with sewage backups and blockages, a professional inspection and evaluation will tell you exactly what the problem is and what should be done. If pipe bursting is the best course of action, you’ll soon have a reliable sewer line to last you a very long time.