Can You Reline Cast Iron Pipes?

Introduction to Cast Iron Pipes and Common Issues

Cast iron plumbing, commonly installed in homes built before the 1970s, can become problematic as it ages. Cast iron drains, despite their initial robustness, are prone to rust and corrosion within their 50-100 year lifespan. Eventually, degradation and buildup in the cast iron sewer pipe can cause major plumbing issues.

Here at Cherrybrook Plumbing, we are experts at dealing with ageing and damaged iron sewer pipes. Our experience highlights that old cast iron drain pipes can cause issues such as pipe bursting, slow drains, and sewer gas odours.

Over time, root intrusions will force their way into your cast iron pipes, and rust corrosion will inevitably restrict water flow through the plumbing systems. Relining sewer systems with our cast iron pipe relining service offers a structural repair that obviates the full replacement of old drain pipes in your home. Our services ensure your interior cast iron sewer pipe is coated for smoother water flow.

What is Pipe Relining and How It Works

Iron pipe lining is a modern trenchless pipe lining method of repairing damaged drain pipes without having to dig them up for replacement. A structural liner is put in place, pipe is transformed, and hardened to create an entirely seamless pipe within.

The cured place pipe technique is central to our approach, involving the insertion of a resin-coated liner into the damaged section through a chosen access point. The liner then expands to fit the dimensions of what your pipe made of iron once was, creating a cured place where the resin is hardened by UV light or steam. The result is a smooth, jointless, corrosion-resistant new pipe.

Compared to traditional iron sewer replacement methods, trenchless drain relining causes minimal property damage and guards against root intrusion as no digging or demolition is required. The structural integrity and flow capacity of an old pipe in the ageing main sewer line can easily be restored for a fraction of replacement costs. We can efficiently address any drain repair issues with tree roots and related problems such as cracks, breaks or corrosion.

Pipe relining offers Sydney homeowners a long-term, cost-effective solution to renew their sewer systems without the mess of traditional pipe replacement. With warranties confirming the relined sewer lines can last up to 50 years, our service becomes an affordable solution whether you need to repair or replace cast infrastructure.

When to Consider Relining Your Pipes

There are a few telltale signs that your damaged cast iron pipes may be in need of relining. If you notice any of the following, it’s a good idea to contact Cherrybrook Plumbing to assess if your pipes need relining:

• Damaged pipe resulting in slow or backed up drains
• Gurgling sounds from pipes
• Musty or sewer smells, especially after running water
• Low water flow or pressure
• Frequent clogs that keep recurring
• Visible rust or corrosion on fixtures
• Previous pipe repairs haven’t solved issues

These problems indicate the cast iron pipes in your house have likely rusted or corroded internally over the years. Even small cracks or holes can start to accumulate mineral deposits and debris, gradually blocking water flow and potentially damage your system. More extensive corrosion can lead to leaks, floods and even collapse.

The great news is modern techniques can repair or replace your old pipes from the inside out. The structural epoxy liner seals cracks and smoothes the inside pipe surface for improved drainage. With our 50year warranty, pipe relining is a smart, long-term investment to replace cast iron or repair deteriorated pipes.

Identifying if Your Pipes Need to be Relined

If you suspect your iron drain pipe may require relining, Cherrybrook Plumbing has inspection services to assess the extent of damage and determine if pipe relining is recommended.

We start by scheduling a video inspection to understand the damaged area of the pipe under your sewer using a special camera. From an access point like your cleanout, we feed the waterproof camera through your pipes to precisely pinpoint where pipe issues were evident, with signs of distress such as:

• Corrosion and rust buildup
• Cracks or holes
• Blockages from mineral deposits or roots
• Joint misalignments allowing debris to accumulate

Our wealth of experience with Cherrybrook’s ageing cast iron pipes enables us to offer pipe relining solutions that effectively restore structural integrity. We’ll help you address cracked broken pipes, get your bearings on the process, lay out costs, and detail the warranty to foster an informed decision.

In some cases, our expertise allows us to restore damaged pipes through pipe relining from the inside out without the need for excavation. Book a pipe inspection with Cherrybrook Plumbing, and we’ll deliver a dependable solution to your plumbing issues.

The Process and Methods of Pipe Relining

The pipe relining process involves several key steps, tailored to your home’s specific needs.

1. An initial CCTV pipe inspection employs a specialized camera to investigate your cast iron pipe’s interior, remove debris and evaluate its condition. This video inspection maps damage, identifies problem areas under the concrete slab and determines if relining is suitable.
2. Pipe cleaning - We thoroughly clean out the sewer line with high-pressure water jets. All rust, scales and debris is cleared out in preparation.
3. Resin liner insertion - A structural liner coated with epoxy resin is inserted through the pipe access point. The liner expands, bonding to form a smooth new inner pipe surface.
4. Curing and hardening - CIPP liners are cured in place with UV light or steam, while epoxy resins require a secondary line insertion before hardening occurs.
5. Final CCTV inspection - We re-inspect the pipe using cameras and issue our 50 year warranty on the structural integrity.

The exact methods used depend on pipe material, accessibility under slab, environmental factors and the severity of damage. Relining iron pipes requires assessing corrosion levels and customising the iron pipe relining process accordingly.

Our skilled plumbing team has revitalized vast stretches of cast iron piping without resorting to the disruption of excavating for pipe replacement. Contact us to explore your options.

Advantages of Pipe Relining Over Replacement

Pipe relining offers many benefits compared to fully replacing your old pipes:

• Less disturbance to the pipe drain area outside house - there’s no requirement to dig trenches or jackhammer through concrete, safeguarding your landscaping.
• Faster completion - Pipe relining can usually be completed in one to two days.
• Cost savings - In terms of expenditure, homeowners are keen to know how much does pipe relining save on iron drain pipes when compared to full pipe replacement, with typical savings ranging from 30-50%.
• Longevity - The seamless epoxy lining can ensure your pipe becomes stronger and more durable, with warranties up to 50 years.
• Increased flow - The smooth new pipe lining can improve drainage capacity.
• Custom fit - Liners mould precisely to your pipes’ shape and dimensions.
• Versatility - Pipe relining works for all common drain pipe materials like cast iron, concrete, and clay pipes.

In most homes we service in the Cherrybrook area, Pipe relining enables us to restore your decaying sewer system without costly and messy excavation to dig up pipes. Get in touch to determine if trenchless pipe rehabilitation is suitable for your property.

Factors Affecting Costs of Pipe Relining

When considering pipe relining, there are several key factors that influence the overall costs:

• Type and extent of pipe damage - More corrosion, cracks and blockages require extra cleaning and preparation.
• Length and diameter of pipes - Longer pipe sections and wider diameters increase material and labour expenses.
• Pipe accessibility - Ease of access impacts time and effort required.
• Environmental factors - Consider soil type, root intrusions and groundwater flow.
• Public area works - Council permits, traffic control and reinstatements add expenses.

As a guide, pipe relining commonly costs an equivalent of around $80-150 per linear foot depending on pipe size. Exact pricing is provided after our video inspection determines the specific situation. Rest assured, there are no hidden charges - you pay only for the work quoted.

Leveraging over two decades of knowledge, we would offer transparent, competitive pricing for trenchless drain repairs in the Cherrybrook vicinity. We work closely with clients to tailor solutions to budget. Contact our team today for an obligation-free quote.

What to Expect During and After Pipe Relining

The pipe relining process is minimally disruptive for homeowners. During installation, you may experience brief water outages as pipes are cleared and the liner inserted. However, service typically continues as normal.

Once our team finishes relining the sewer lateral, you’ll notice improved water flow and drainage. The structurally sound, smooth epoxy liner prevents future blockages and safeguards against root intrusions or cracks, ensuring pipe integrity.

After relining, your plumbing system is restored without having dug up pipes or jackhammered floors. The new pipe-within-pipe is actually stronger than new PVC pipes. Expected to last 50 years or more, it’s a long-term solution offering you peace mind.

Our Cherrybrook plumbers take care of the entire process start to finish. We can answer your queries about what might unfold during relining and the outcomes thereafter. Contact us today to learn more and schedule your pipe assessment.

How Long Pipe Relining Lasts

When installed by experienced plumbers, pipe relining can last well over 50 years. The seamless epoxy material is even stronger than new PVC pipes, restoring your plumbing system for decades to come.

Unlike traditional pipe replacement, relined pipes have no joints or gaps where future pipe problems can occur. The liner precisely conforms to the shape of your damaged pipes, providing protection against further corrosion or cracking.

We offer long-term warranties because we are confident in pipe relining’s durability. The material and installation quality makes the biggest difference for longevity. Our Cherrybrook team has rehabbed thousands of metres of old pipes, giving them an extended lifeline.

While specific pipe lifespans depend on environmental factors, the life expectancy for relined drains is 50+ years. This long-term infrastructure investment adds value and peace of mind. If problems ever occur down the track, the warranty also protects you.

In homes across Sydney, property owners are realising pipe relining enables restoring all cast iron pipes no longer for a fraction of replacement costs. Contact our team to explore the lasting solution pipe relining can offer your home.

Our long track record in sewer pipe relining stands as a testament to any advice we provide, reflecting our commitment to a professional, high-quality service. We offer transparent, competitive pricing, typically 30-50% lower than traditional pipe replacement costs. Our structural epoxy liner, precisely fitted within your pipes, enhances flow capacity and prevents blockages or corrosion for 50+ years.

Reach out to our Cherrybrook team by email or phone, or book an appointment to discuss your pipe relining requirements. We are equipped to evaluate your pipes and provide solutions that cater to your specific needs and budget.