When people are faced with a broken pipe beneath their yard, their first thought is,’
“Is this going to destroy my entire lawn?”
It’s a common worry. The thought of your yard being torn up or your driveway dug through is enough to make anyone hesitate. After all, nobody wants their yard torn apart to fix a broken pipe. That’s why pipe bursting has become such a popular option. This trenchless repair method replaces damaged pipes without the mess of traditional excavation. Instead of digging up your entire lawn, driveway, or garden, this method replaces old pipes with new ones by breaking apart the damaged section underground while pulling in a replacement pipe.
Curious about how pipe bursting works and why so many people are choosing it? We’ll dive into the details, break down the process, and share expert advice from Clarke and Rush Mechanical to help you decide if this method is right for your property.
How Does Pipe Bursting Work?
Step-by-Step Process of the Pipe Bursting Method
Benefits of Trenchless Pipe Bursting
Replacing damaged pipes used to mean tearing up your yard, driveway, or even parts of your home. Well, not anymore with pipe bursting. Here’s how it works:
- Prepare the Site
Small entry points are excavated at both ends of the compromised pipe. These entry and exit points give space for the equipment needed to break and replace the pipe. - Insert the Bursting Head
A bursting head, or cone-shaped tool, is fed into the old pipe to break the existing pipe apart and create space for the new one. - Break the Old Pipe
Using hydraulic systems, the bursting head is pulled through the old pipe, fragmenting it into the surrounding soil. This process creates a clear path for the new pipe. - Pull the New Pipe into Place
As the old pipe is broken apart, a new high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe is simultaneously pulled into position. This new pipe is durable, resistant to corrosion, and built to last for decades. - Reconnect and Restore
Once the new pipe is in place, it’s connected to the existing system, and the entry and exit points are restored.
Cheaper Repairs Without Extensive Digging
Traditional sewer repairs often require heavy excavation which can drive up expenses for labor and restoring landscaping. With sewer pipe bursting, you avoid most of these expenses. The method reduces labor hours and there’s no need to fix a torn-up yard or driveway afterward.
Property Preservation
One of the biggest advantages of the pipe bursting method is how it preserves your property. Your lawn, garden, sidewalks, and driveways remain largely untouched during the whole process.
Durable and Long-Lasting Solutions
The pipes used in trenchless pipe bursting are made to last. Materials like HDPE resist corrosion, tree roots, and other common issues, giving you peace of mind that your new sewer line will hold up for 50 years or more.
Environmentally Friendly Repair Method
With trenchless pipe bursting, there’s far less material waste, and the method reduces the environmental footprint of your repair.
When Should You Consider Pipe Bursting?
Common Situations Requiring Pipe Bursting
Pipe bursting is ideal for several scenarios including:
- Pipes that are old, corroded, or nearing the end of their lifespan.
- Damage caused by tree roots, cracking, or misalignment.
- Sewer lines that are too small to handle your home’s needs and need upgrading.
- Repairs that would otherwise require digging up landscaping or paved surfaces.
Signs You Might Need a Pipe Replacement
Not sure if it’s time for a replacement? Here are some clues to keep an eye on:
- Frequent clogs or slow drains that keep coming back.
- Foul odors from drains or around your yard.
- Wet patches in your yard or basement that could indicate leaks.
- Higher water bills without any clear reason.
How to Determine If Pipe Bursting is Right for Your Property
Here’s what professionals consider when recommending trenchless pipe bursting:
- Pipe location: Pipes beneath lawns, driveways, or sidewalks are great candidates since the process avoids major digging.
- Material type: Older clay, cast iron, or other non-plastic pipes are often suitable for bursting.
- Condition of the pipe: The method works best for pipes that are damaged but still structurally intact enough for the bursting head to pass through.
- Surrounding utilities: Proximity to gas or water lines may require additional planning.
The Downsides of Pipe Bursting
Soil and Site Conditions
Not all soil types are compatible with pipe bursting. Loose or unstable soil can make it harder to keep the pipe in place, and densely packed soil may slow the process.
Not Ideal for All Types of Repairs
While pipe bursting is great for replacing entire sections of pipe, it’s not the best solution for spot repairs or completely collapsed pipes. In those cases, methods like pipe relining or traditional excavation may be required.
Is Pipe Bursting the Future of Pipe Repairs?
Pipe bursting is revolutionizing the way damaged pipes are repaired. It’s a smarter way to fix pipes without turning your yard into a construction zone. It’s efficient, doesn’t cause any mess, and gives you a durable replacement pipe that can last for decades.
If you’ve got a pipe problem you’ve been putting off in fear of too much digging, now’s the time to explore your options. Call us at (916) 609-2667, visit our office at 4411 Auburn Blvd, Sacramento, CA, 95841, or check out clarke-rush.com to see how we can help.
