Honest comparison guide

Pipe Relining vs Pipe Replacement

Understanding the difference between pipe relining and pipe replacement helps you make a better decision when a drain or sewer pipe needs repair. This page explains both options, when each is appropriate, and how they compare on cost and disruption.

The direct answer

Pipe relining vs pipe replacement: the key difference

Pipe relining

Pipe relining repairs the existing pipe from the inside by inserting a resin-saturated liner and curing it in place. The result is a new structural pipe within the old one. It is typically done without excavation, accessing the pipe through existing inspection points. It is suitable where the pipe retains its shape and is accessible.

Pipe replacement

Pipe replacement involves excavating to the pipe, removing the old one, and installing a new pipe. It is more disruptive, requires reinstatement of any surface that was excavated, and typically takes longer. It is the right choice when the pipe has collapsed or cannot be relined.

Side by side

How pipe relining and pipe replacement compare

Excavation required
Relining
No, in most cases
Replacement
Yes
Surface reinstatement
Relining
Not typically required
Replacement
Required — driveway, paving, garden
Overall cost
Relining
Lower in most suitable cases
Replacement
Higher when reinstatement included
Completion time
Relining
Usually 1 to 2 days
Replacement
Longer — excavation and reinstatement add time
Disruption
Relining
Minimal — no trenches or ground disturbance
Replacement
Significant during excavation and reinstatement
Suitable pipe condition
Relining
Cracked, root-affected, joint failure, deteriorated
Replacement
Collapsed, severely deformed, or inaccessible
Liner or pipe life
Relining
50 or more years with quality epoxy liner
Replacement
Depends on new pipe material
Root intrusion prevention
Relining
Seamless interior prevents future root entry
Replacement
New joints may eventually allow root entry
Making the right choice

When pipe relining is usually better and when replacement may be needed

Pipe relining is usually better when

  • ✓The pipe is cracked but retains its shape
  • ✓Root intrusion is the main problem
  • ✓Joint failures are the cause of the issue
  • ✓The pipe runs under a driveway, garden or structure
  • ✓Minimising disruption is important
  • ✓The property is strata or has shared infrastructure
  • ✓A long-term structural repair is the goal

Excavation and replacement may be needed when

  • →The pipe has completely collapsed
  • →The pipe is severely deformed or bellied
  • →Access for liner insertion is not available
  • →The pipe needs to be rerouted
  • →The condition prevents relining preparation
  • →Partial excavation is needed to create access
  • →The pipe has failed beyond what relining can address
Long-term thinking

Long-term considerations when choosing between relining and replacement

Root intrusion over timeNew pipe joints in a replaced pipe may eventually allow root entry again. A relined pipe has a seamless interior with no joints, preventing re-entry for the life of the liner.
Property surface impactFor pipes under driveways, pool surrounds, landscaped gardens or structural slabs, the cost and time required to excavate and reinstate can significantly affect the total project cost.
Liner life expectancyA quality epoxy liner installed correctly has a design life of 50 or more years. This is comparable to or better than many new pipe materials when groundwater and root pressure are considered.
Total cost comparisonRelining may have a higher materials cost per metre than simple pipe sections, but the absence of excavation, reinstatement and multiple trades typically makes the total project cost lower when suitable.
FAQ

Pipe relining vs replacement FAQs

Is pipe relining better than pipe replacement?
Pipe relining is usually the better option where the pipe condition is suitable, because it avoids the cost and disruption of excavation, reinstatement and landscape restoration. However, severely collapsed or deformed pipes may require excavation and replacement instead.
Is pipe relining cheaper than replacing pipes?
In most cases where relining is suitable, the total cost is less than traditional excavation and pipe replacement. The comparison depends on specific pipe condition, access, and what surface reinstatement would involve if excavation were used.
When is pipe excavation and replacement still the better option?
Excavation and replacement may be more appropriate when the pipe has completely collapsed, is severely deformed, cannot be accessed for relining, or needs to be rerouted.
How long does pipe relining last compared to new pipe?
A properly installed epoxy liner is designed to last 50 or more years. This is comparable to most new pipe materials used in residential drain and sewer replacement.

Not sure whether relining or replacement is right for your pipe?

We assess the pipe, explain the options clearly, and recommend the most appropriate solution before any work begins.

Request an assessmentLearn about pipe relining