Quick Answer: CIPP pipe lining, short for Cured In Place Pipe lining, is a trenchless method used to repair damaged sewer pipes from the inside. A resin soaked liner is inserted into the existing pipe, expanded to fit its shape, and cured in place to create a new pipe within the old one.
For homeowners dealing with recurring sewer backups, root intrusion, or damaged underground pipes, CIPP lining can be an alternative to digging up large sections of a yard, driveway, or basement.
How Does CIPP Pipe Lining Work?
The basic process involves three main steps.
1. The Pipe Is Inspected and Cleaned
A CCTV camera inspection is used to locate damage, blockages, or problem areas inside the sewer line.
The pipe is then mechanically cleaned so the liner has a smooth surface to bond to.
2. A Resin Soaked Liner Is Installed
A flexible felt liner saturated with resin is inserted into the existing sewer pipe.
Air pressure expands the liner against the inside walls of the pipe so it takes on the shape of the existing line.
3. The Liner Is Cured
The resin hardens in place, creating a strong new lining inside the original pipe.
Once curing is complete, another camera inspection can be used to confirm that the liner is properly installed and the sewer line is ready for service.
What Problems Can CIPP Lining Help With?
CIPP lining may be suitable for sewer lines affected by:
- Cracks
- Root intrusion
- Recurring blockages
- Deteriorating pipe walls
- Certain types of structural damage
Because the repair is completed inside the existing line, it can often reduce the need for extensive excavation.
What Are the Benefits of CIPP Pipe Lining?
One of the biggest advantages is reduced disruption.
Traditional sewer replacement may require digging through landscaping, driveways, or finished basement areas to reach the damaged pipe. CIPP lining allows many repairs to be completed without that level of excavation.
Other potential benefits include:
- Faster installation
- Less surface restoration
- Reduced disruption to occupants
- Long term durability
- Resistance to future root intrusion
FlowPros uses CIPP liners designed for sewer pipes ranging from 2 inches to 8 inches in diameter. Their liners carry a 10 year in house warranty and have a minimum expected lifespan of 50 years.
Is CIPP the Same as Replacing a Sewer Line?
No.
Traditional replacement removes or bypasses the damaged sewer pipe and installs a new one. CIPP lining uses the existing pipe as the structure for a new internal liner.
The result is often described as creating a pipe within a pipe.
Not every damaged sewer line is a candidate for lining, which is why a camera inspection is an important first step.
How Long Does CIPP Pipe Lining Take?
Many CIPP lateral lining projects can be completed in a single day.
That can make it significantly less disruptive than traditional excavation, particularly when the sewer line runs beneath landscaping, concrete, or finished areas of a home.
Is CIPP Pipe Lining Right for Your Sewer Line?
That depends on the condition of the existing pipe and the type of damage present.
A professional sewer camera inspection can help determine whether lining is appropriate or whether another repair method, such as point repair, pipe bursting, or excavation, would make more sense.
If you are experiencing repeated sewer backups or know that your sewer line is cracked or affected by roots, an inspection can help identify the cause and determine the most practical repair option.