How Does Pipe Lining Compare to Traditional Pipe Replacement?
Pipe lining and traditional excavation-based replacement both restore pipe function, but they differ significantly in cost, timeline, and disruption. The comparison below outlines the key differences to help you understand which approach suits your situation.
| Factor |
Pipe Lining (CIPP) |
Traditional Excavation |
| Excavation Required |
No (trenchless) |
Yes (full trench) |
| Property Disruption |
Minimal |
Significant (lawn, driveway, landscaping) |
| Typical Timeline |
1 to 2 days |
3 to 7+ days |
| Pipe Materials Suitable |
Clay, cast iron, PVC, Orangeburg |
All materials |
| Best When Pipe Is |
Cracked, root-intruded, corroded but intact |
Collapsed or fully deteriorated |
| Structural Result |
New pipe inside old pipe |
Fully new pipe |
Not sure whether pipe lining or full replacement is the right call? A drain camera inspection from Galaxy Plumbing Inc. provides the diagnosis needed to make that decision accurately.