The Complete Guide to Drain Relining

No one likes having problems with their drains, and the thought of going through a long and costly drain replacement process is even less appealing. Luckily, there are plenty of quicker and more budget-friendly solutions to consider before resorting to a replacement. One of your best options? Drain relining!

At Greenstar, we’ve been tackling drain and pipe problems for decades. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about drain relining, including what the process involves and whether it’s an option worth considering.

What is drain relining?

Drain relining is a method used to repair damaged underground pipes without the need for extensive excavation. It involves inserting a resin-saturated liner into the damaged pipe and then curing it in place, effectively creating a new pipe within the old one.

Drain lining is a cost-effective and less disruptive alternative to traditional pipe repair methods, making it ideal for damaged pipes of all shapes and sizes.

How does drain relining work?

Drain relining is a relatively quick and simple process. Here’s a basic overview of how it works:

Firstly, the damaged drainpipe is inspected with specialised cameras and equipment to identify the location and extent of the damage. This helps determine if drain relining is a suitable solution.
Before the relining process begins, the inside of the pipe is cleaned using high-pressure water or mechanical cleaning tools to remove debris, scale, and other obstructions that might hinder the relining process.
A flexible resin-saturated liner made of materials like fibreglass or felt is then inserted into the damaged pipe. This liner is usually impregnated with epoxy resin, which will harden and create a new, durable inner layer within the existing pipe.
Depending on the specific method used, the liner is either inverted using air pressure or pulled into place using a winch. As the liner is positioned within the damaged pipe, it conforms to the shape of the existing pipe.
Once the liner is in place, it’s cured or hardened. This is typically done using heat, UV light, or steam, depending on the type of resin used. Curing bonds the liner to the inside of the existing pipe, creating a strong, seamless, and corrosion-resistant new pipe within the old one.
After the curing process is complete, another inspection is performed to make sure the relined pipe is free from defects and functioning properly.

How long does drain relining last?

Generally speaking, a well-installed drain relining can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years or more. This makes it an excellent long-term solution for drain damage or deterioration.

However, the exact lifespan does depend on a few different factors, including:

Condition of the existing pipe
Materials used
Quality of the installation
Conditions the relined drain is subjected to
Amount of maintenance carried out

If you’re looking to learn more, your best bet is to reach out to a professional team like Greenstar. We can take a closer look at your specific situation and provide a more accurate estimate, taking into account the factors we mentioned earlier.

Is drain relining worth it?

If your drain is a good fit, you’ll find that relining comes with plenty of advantages. Here are some reasons to consider it:

Unlike traditional pipe replacement, drain relining does not require digging up the entire pipe, reducing disruption to landscapes, driveways, and structures. This is especially beneficial for pipes that are difficult to access.
Drain relining tends to be more cost-effective than traditional methods of drain repair, such as excavation and replacement. It often requires less labour and materials, reducing overall costs.
Drain relining typically takes less time to complete than excavation and replacement, allowing you to restore normal drainage quickly.
The cured-in-place liner is resistant to corrosion and has a long lifespan, so you won’t have to pay to have it relined again for a very long time…

Just keep in mind that drain relining is most suitable for pipes with minor to moderate damage, such as cracks, leaks, or root intrusion. If your pipes are severely damaged, it may be more cost-effective to replace them entirely.

Talk to the Drain Relining Specialists at Greenstar

At Greenstar, we know the hassle that comes with dealing with damaged pipes and poor drainage. That’s why we make it our mission to get your pipes back in top shape as soon as possible, all while providing high-quality customer service and competitive quotes.

Our accredited team have been working with damaged and broken pipes for over three decades. No matter the pipe problem you’re dealing with, we’ve got the tools and know-how to carefully assess the damage and offer a quick, effective, and budget-friendly solution.

We take pride in our professional and responsive approach, which has earned us the respect of countless property owners throughout the years. But don’t just take our word for it — read through our testimonials to see how our services have helped others in the past!

Our drain relining services cover all of Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. To get started, get a quote online or call us on 01202 355 344 today!