How lining works

Cured-in-place pipe lining, often called CIPP, uses a flexible tube soaked in resin. After the old line has been cleared and cleaned, the tube is pulled or inverted into it, pressed against the old pipe walls, and cured until it hardens. The result is a continuous pipe inside the original, without the joints that roots used to get through.

Because the work happens through access points such as a cleanout or a small pit, it can avoid trenching across a lawn, driveway or landscaping. That is the main reason homeowners ask about it.

Typical lining sequence

  1. Camera assessment.The line is filmed to confirm it is a candidate and to measure its length and any transitions.
  2. Clearing and cleaning.Roots are cut out and the pipe is usually jetted so the liner bonds to clean walls.
  3. Liner installation.The resin-saturated liner is placed and held against the old pipe while it cures.
  4. Reopening connections.Any branch connections are reopened from inside the pipe where needed.
  5. Final camera check.The new liner is filmed to confirm it is smooth and continuous. Ask for a copy.

Is your line a candidate?

A licensed plumber makes this call from the footage. These are the usual factors.

  • IfThe pipe holds its shape with roots at many jointsThenLining is often worth discussing.
  • IfThere is a collapsed sectionThenThat part usually has to be dug and replaced; lining may cover the rest.
  • IfA belly holds standing waterThenA liner follows the old pipe's path, so it will not fix a sag.
  • IfThe line has severe offsetsThenAsk whether the liner can get past them; excavation may be needed.

Lining vs digging

Trenchless lining

  • Less disruption to yard and hardscape
  • Seals joints along the lined length
  • Needs a structurally sound host pipe
  • Slightly reduces inside diameter

Dig and replace

  • Works on collapsed or sagging pipe
  • Replaces the pipe with new material
  • Requires excavation and restoration
  • Can correct slope problems

Questions to ask about lining

  1. Which part of my line will be lined, and which part will not?
  2. Does anything need to be dug and replaced first?
  3. What does the liner do at the connection to the city main?
  4. Will I get before and after camera footage?
  5. Is a permit needed, and will you obtain it?
  6. What is the full scope and price, in writing?

Common questions

Can roots get through a liner?

A properly installed liner has no joints along its length, which removes the usual entry points. The ends and connections should be checked on the final camera footage.

Does lining work on clay pipe?

It can, if the clay is still holding its shape. Broken or collapsed clay sections usually need to be replaced first.

How do I know the liner was installed well?

Ask for the final camera footage. It should show a smooth, continuous lining without wrinkles blocking flow.

General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.