When an underground pipe leaks, cracks, or deteriorates, many property owners assume the only solution is excavation and full pipe replacement. Digging through soil, flooring, or concrete can disrupt business operations, damage landscaping, and increase repair expenses. In many cases, however, complete replacement is not the only option. Pipe relining offers a trenchless repair method that restores underground pipes internally and extends their lifespan.
TX Hydrojet provides pipe relining as part of its underground pipe repair services for both residential and commercial properties. Relining is a practical solution when pipes are damaged but still structurally intact. It strengthens the interior of the line without removing the original pipe, helping restore performance while reducing disruption.
Understanding Pipe Relining
Pipe relining is a trenchless repair technique used to restore damaged underground pipes from within. Rather than excavating large sections of soil or concrete, a flexible liner coated with epoxy resin is inserted into the existing pipe. Once cured, this liner forms a new, seamless interior surface.
Relining is effective for:
- Sewer lines
- Drain lines
- Underground water lines (when structurally suitable)
- Clay, cast iron, PVC, or concrete piping
- Areas where excavation would be disruptive, such as beneath buildings, driveways, or landscaped surfaces
This method reinforces the pipe, seals leaks, and improves durability without extensive digging.
Common Pipe Problems Relining Can Address
Underground pipes frequently develop issues due to age, shifting soil, environmental exposure, and normal wear. Pipe relining can resolve:
- Cracks and fractures
- Aging or corroded pipe walls
- Separation at joints
- Root infiltration
- Internal scaling or buildup
- Minor structural deformities
Relining is most effective when the pipe has not fully collapsed. TX Hydrojet performs a camera inspection to evaluate whether relining is appropriate or if replacement is needed.
How TX Hydrojet Performs Pipe Relining
TX Hydrojet’s Houston plumbers use a trenchless repair process designed to restore underground pipes with minimal property impact. The following steps ensure precision and reliability:
1. Inspection and Evaluation
Technicians begin with a high-resolution camera inspection to identify cracks, corrosion, blockages, and structural defects. This step also confirms whether the pipe is suitable for relining.
2. Cleaning and Preparation
Hydro-jetting equipment clears debris, sediment, and roots from inside the pipe. Proper cleaning ensures the liner adheres firmly to the interior surface.
3. Liner Installation
A resin-coated liner is inserted into the pipe and positioned over the damaged section. Air pressure or inversion methods help the liner fit tightly against the existing walls.
4. Curing
The resin cures using hot water, steam, or ambient conditions, depending on the liner type. Once hardened, the liner forms a strong, seamless interior.
5. Final Camera Inspection
After curing, TX Hydrojet reinspects the pipe to verify proper adhesion, alignment, and flow restoration.
This process restores structural integrity without major excavation or long downtime.
Benefits of Pipe Relining
Pipe relining offers several advantages when compared with traditional excavation-based replacement:
1. Minimal Disruption
Because relining is performed through existing access points, there is limited disturbance to floors, foundations, landscaping, and paved areas.
2. Faster Turnaround
Most relining projects are completed in a day, depending on pipe length and condition.
3. Long-Term Durability
A cured liner creates a strong, corrosion-resistant interior surface designed to last for decades.
4. Cost Efficiency
Relining reduces restoration expenses often associated with excavation, such as replacing concrete, repairing soil compaction, or restoring landscaping.
5. Improved Flow
The smooth epoxy lining can enhance water flow by reducing friction and buildup inside the pipe.
When Pipe Relining Is Recommended
Pipe relining is well-suited for situations where:
- Pipes are leaking or cracked, but still hold their structure
- Root intrusion has caused damage
- Corrosion has weakened the pipe wall
- Hard-to-reach pipes are located under buildings, driveways, or mature landscaping
- Excavation would disrupt business operations
- Long-term structural reinforcement is needed
However, pipes that have fully collapsed or are severely misshapen typically require replacement. TX Hydrojet evaluates each situation and recommends the most appropriate solution.
Pipe Relining vs. Pipe Replacement
Below is a comparison of trenchless relining and conventional excavation:
| Pipe Relining | Pipe Replacement | |
| Excavation Required | No | Yes |
| Project Duration | Usually 1 day | Several days or more |
| Property Disruption | Minimal | High |
| Restoration Costs | Low | High (concrete, flooring, landscaping) |
| Long-Term Durability | 40–50 years when installed correctly | 50+ years |
| Ideal For | Pipes with cracks or corrosion but still intact | Collapsed or severely damaged lines |
How Long Does Pipe Relining Last
A properly installed liner is engineered to last several decades. The epoxy material resists corrosion, root intrusion, and internal wear. Routine plumbing maintenance, such as annual inspections and periodic drain cleaning, helps maintain performance over time.
Preventing Future Underground Pipe Problems
After relining or repair, ongoing maintenance helps prevent future failures. TX Hydrojet recommends:
- Regular inspections to assess pipe condition
- Hydro-jet drain cleaning to remove buildup before it causes pressure issues
- Monitoring water pressure to prevent strain on pipe joints
- Addressing small leaks promptly to avoid structural deterioration
- Scheduling preventive maintenance for commercial or high-use systems
Proactive care reduces the likelihood of clogs, leaks, and emergency repairs.
TX Hydrojet’s Underground Pipe Repair and Relining Services
TX Hydrojet provides comprehensive underground pipe repair solutions, including:
- Leak detection using advanced electronic and camera-based systems
- Pipe relining for structurally intact but damaged lines
- Trenchless pipe replacement when relining is not feasible
- Pipe bursting and relining techniques for long-term solutions
- Hydro-jetting for cleaning and preparation
- Preventive maintenance plans for homes and businesses
Technicians follow safety standards, use modern equipment, and provide detailed diagnostics before beginning any repair.
Final Thoughts
Pipe relining offers an effective way to restore underground pipes without excavation. By reinforcing the interior of the pipe, relining resolves leaks, cracks, corrosion, and structural wear while minimizing disruption to your property.
TX Hydrojet’s licensed technicians use specialized equipment to inspect, clean, reline, or replace underground piping based on the condition of your system. With the combination of trenchless technology and detailed diagnostics, property owners can restore plumbing performance while preserving existing surfaces and infrastructure.
Pipe Relining FAQs
What is pipe relining?
Pipe relining is a trenchless method used to repair underground pipes by installing a new epoxy-coated liner inside the existing line. It restores structural strength without excavation and helps extend the lifespan of aging or damaged pipes. This approach is often preferred when the surrounding property cannot be disturbed.
How do I know if pipe relining is suitable for my plumbing issue?
A camera inspection is the most reliable way to determine whether a pipe can be relined. If the pipe is cracked, leaking, or corroded but still intact, relining is often a practical solution. Severely collapsed or misshapen pipes usually require replacement instead.
How long does pipe relining take?
Most residential relining projects are completed within a day, depending on the length of the pipe and the severity of the damage. Preparation and curing time vary based on the liner type and environmental conditions. Commercial systems may require additional time if the affected area is extensive.
How long does a relined pipe last?
A properly cured liner is designed to last several decades. The epoxy material resists corrosion, root intrusion, and internal wear more effectively than many older pipe materials. Routine inspections help maintain long-term performance.
Does pipe relining improve drainage flow?
Yes. The cured liner forms a smooth interior surface that reduces friction and helps prevent future buildup. This can improve flow in older pipes that previously had scaling or rough interior walls.
Will pipe relining work for pipes under concrete or landscaping?
Relining is especially useful for areas where excavation would damage concrete slabs, driveways, or established landscaping. Because technicians access the pipe through existing entry points, surface disruption is minimal. This feature makes relining ideal for commercial properties where downtime must be limited.
What types of pipe materials can be relined?
Cast iron, PVC, clay, and concrete pipes can all be relined if they are structurally sound. The liner bonds to the interior surface, creating a continuous and durable new flow path. An inspection helps confirm whether the existing pipe material is suitable for this method.
What happens if the pipe is too damaged for relining?
If the inspection shows that the pipe has collapsed or lost its shape, trenchless replacement or pipe bursting may be recommended instead. These methods allow technicians to replace the line without large-scale excavation. TX Hydrojet evaluates the full condition of the pipe before suggesting an approach.
