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Trenchless sewer repair

Sewer Repair Without Tearing Up the Yard

Pipe lining and pipe bursting replace a failing sewer line through small access points, sparing driveways, mature trees and landscaping where the line allows it.

  • Pipe lining (CIPP)
  • Pipe bursting
  • Less digging
  • Camera verified

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Tell us what is going on. We call you back to talk it through and set up a visit. For water running right now, call (734) 228-7852.

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Pipe lining

Cured-in-Place Pipe Lining

After the line is cleaned and inspected, a flexible liner soaked in resin is pulled or inverted into the old pipe and cured in place. It hardens into a smooth, jointless pipe inside the old one, sealing cracks and the joints roots get through.

  • Little or no excavation
  • Seals joints against roots
  • Works through bends in many lines
  • Slightly smaller inside diameter than the original pipe
Gloved hands joining pipe fittings

Pipe bursting

Pipe Bursting

A bursting head is pulled through the old pipe from one access pit to another. It splits the old pipe outward and pulls a new pipe in behind it, usually the same size or larger.

  • A brand-new pipe, not a liner
  • Two small pits instead of a full trench
  • Can upsize the line
  • Needs room for the pits and a reasonably straight run
New sewer pipe in a trench

Trenchless vs. traditional

Comparing Sewer Repair Methods

Trenchless (lining or bursting)Open trench
DiggingSmall access pits, or none for some liningA trench along the length of the line
Yard and drivewayMostly left in placeRemoved and restored
Collapsed or badly sagging pipeUsually not suitableCan fix it
SpeedOften finished fasterDepends on length and depth
PriceHigher for the pipe work; lower for restorationLower for the pipe work; higher for restoration

See all sewer repair options

FAQ

Trenchless Sewer Questions

Is trenchless sewer repair always cheaper?

Not always. The pipe work itself often costs more than a trench, but you save on replacing driveways, walks, trees and landscaping. For a short, shallow line under open lawn, digging can cost less. Comparing both prices for your line is the best way to know.

When can’t trenchless be used?

When a section has fully collapsed, when there is a deep belly that would stay in the new pipe, when the line has severe offsets, or when there is no room for access pits. A camera inspection shows which applies.

How long does a pipe liner last?

Cured-in-place liners are designed for a long service life, often quoted at several decades. As with any pipe, results depend on preparation and installation.

Does trenchless repair need a permit?

Usually, yes, just like a traditional replacement. The permit and inspection are part of the job.

Can trenchless fix roots in my sewer line?

Yes. Roots are cut and cleaned out first; the liner or new pipe then has no open joints for them to grow back into.

Also helpful

Related Plumbing Services

Problems in one part of the plumbing often point to another. These services go hand in hand.

24/7 in Ann Arbor & Washtenaw County

Is Your Line a Trenchless Candidate?

Call (734) 228-7852. A camera inspection answers it.

Request service

Tell Us What’s Going On

Send a few details and we will call you back to talk it through and set up a visit. We answer 24/7: for water running or sewage backing up right now, call (734) 228-7852.

  • 24/7 emergency service, nights, weekends and holidays
  • $99 diagnostic fee, applied to the repair
  • Financing: 25 months same as cash, on approved credit
  • The price explained before work starts
  • Service areaAnn Arbor & Washtenaw County
  • LicensingMichigan plumbing license #A111705

Request a Plumber

Tell us what is going on. We call you back to talk it through and set up a visit. For water running right now, call (734) 228-7852.

No obligation. By sending, you agree we may call, text or e-mail you about this request. Calls may be recorded. Privacy Policy