Can You Repair a Damaged Outdoor Drain Without Digging?

If you've noticed water pooling near your outdoor drain, bad odours around the lid, or strange gurgling sounds, it's a good sign that you’re dealing with one of two issues: a bad blockage, or physical damage to the pipe itself.

A blockage can usually be tackled with either drain rods or high-pressure jets, so there’s no digging required. Dealing with physical damage, however, is less simple. It involves the structural integrity of the drain, making it harder to fix than just pushing an obstruction out.

Don’t break out your shovels just yet, however. There’s a way to deal with damaged drains that involves no excavation at all, and it’s a lot more effective than you might think: drain relining!

Greenstar have been Dorset’s go-to specialists in drain repairs and relining for over 30 years. Below, we've taken a look at what drain relining is, how it works, and why it’s an excellent alternative to traditional repair methods.

What is drain relining?

Drain relining is a method used to repair damaged drainage pipes without the need for extensive excavation. Instead of replacing the entire pipe, drain relining involves inserting a new lining into the existing pipe to create a structurally sound and watertight surface. This process is also known as trenchless pipe repair or cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining.

How does drain relining let you repair drains without digging?

While the approach can vary depending on the drain type and the specialist's preferences, drain relining typically involves a set of common steps. Here's a general overview of how it works:

The first step involves a thorough inspection of the drainage system using cameras or other diagnostic tools. This helps identify the location and extent of the damage, whether it’s cracks, leaks, or corrosion.
Before the relining process begins, the affected pipe is typically cleaned to remove any debris, roots, or other obstructions. This makes sure that the new lining will adhere properly to the existing pipe.
Once the pipe is clean, the next step involves preparing the lining material. Drain relining materials are often flexible and impregnated with resin. They come in the form of a tube or liner that can be inserted into the damaged pipe.
The liner is inserted into the damaged pipe manually or with the help of specialised equipment.
The inserted liner is then inflated. This presses the lining material against the interior of the existing pipe. The resin in the lining material is activated and begins to cure or harden, creating a new, durable inner layer within the pipe. The curing process may involve the use of heat or ultraviolet light.
After the lining material has fully cured, a final inspection is conducted to check if the relining process was successful. This may involve another camera inspection to check for proper adhesion and the absence of any defects.
If necessary, any connections, such as lateral pipes or branch lines, are reopened or re-instated. This is typically done by remotely cutting openings in the newly lined pipe.
The rehabilitated pipe is now ready for use. The new lining provides structural support and seals any existing leaks or cracks, extending the lifespan of the drainage system for decades to come.

What are the benefits of drain relining?

Drain relining comes with plenty of money-saving and practical benefits, making it a great choice compared to other drain repair methods. Here's why:

Money-Saving

Relining eliminates the need for extensive digging, which translates to reduced labour and equipment costs. This makes it more cost-effective than traditional methods that involve excavation.

Quick and Straightforward

The relining process is generally quicker than traditional repair methods, as it eliminates the time-consuming excavation process. This can be particularly useful in emergency situations where a quick resolution is essential.

Minimally Disruptive

Since drain relining doesn't require digging, it minimises disruption to the surrounding environment. This saves you from the cost and hassle of restoring your garden back to its original state and makes the process more environmentally friendly overall.

Versatile

Drain relining can be used to repair pipes of various materials, including clay, PVC, cast iron, and more. It’s suitable for many different pipe sizes and configurations.

Improves Water Flow

The relining process smoothens the interior surface of the pipe, preventing future blockages caused by debris accumulation or root intrusion. This can lead to improved flow and reduced chances of clogs.

Get Your Pipes Flowing Again with Greenstar's Drain Relining Services

Say goodbye to drain issues with Greenstar, the South’s leading drainage experts! With over 30 years of experience, we have the knowledge and high-tech equipment to quickly and efficiently reline your pipes without the disruption of digging. Whether it's a small crack or a more serious pipe issue, you can count on our accredited team to get it sorted.

Our drain relining services cover all of Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. You can get a quote online or by calling us on 01202 355 344 today!