Pipe Relining Process in Australia

Pipe relining has emerged as a preferred method for repairing damaged or blocked pipes across Australia, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional pipe replacement. This innovative technology has gained widespread adoption due to its efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and minimal disruption to property. You’re here because you want to know more about the process, so our Plumbers have taken the time to write an article that explains the pipe relining process as implemented in Australia, from initial assessment through to completion, along with the technologies, costs, and benefits.

Pipe relining, also known as Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) or no-dig pipe repair, is a trenchless technology that repairs damaged pipes without the need for excavation. Instead of replacing pipes by digging trenches, the technology creates a new pipe within the existing damaged pipe using specialised materials and techniques. This approach has revolutionised pipe repair in Australia by offering a solution that preserves landscapes and structures while effectively restoring pipe functionality.

The process involves creating a seamless inner lining within the damaged pipe using epoxy resin that hardens in place. This creates a durable, long-lasting pipe within the original pipe, effectively sealing cracks, holes, and other damages. The technology has been thoroughly tested and refined for Australian conditions, making it suitable for the local pipe systems and compliant with Australian plumbing codes.

Before any relining work begins, technicians conduct a thorough inspection of the damaged pipe using specialised CCTV cameras. This crucial first step allows plumbers to:

• Assess the extent and nature of the damage
• Determine if relining is an appropriate solution
• Identify specific areas requiring attention
• Plan the appropriate relining approach

The inspection helps technicians understand if there are cracks, holes, tree root intrusions, or other types of damage that need to be addressed, and whether pipe relining is viable or if complete pipe replacement is necessary.

Once inspection confirms that relining is suitable, the pipes must be thoroughly cleaned to ensure proper adhesion of the resin. This cleaning process typically involves:

• Using high-pressure water jets (hydro-jetting) to remove grease, oils, and debris
• Employing robotic cutters to remove solid intrusions like tree roots or concrete
• Ensuring the pipe walls are clean enough for the resin to bond effectively

This preparation stage is critical, as improperly cleaned pipes can result in uneven linings in the newly formed pipe, compromising the effectiveness and longevity of the repair.

After cleaning, a secondary inspection is conducted using CCTV cameras to verify that:

• All intrusions have been removed
• The pipe is completely clean and free of debris
• The pipe is properly prepared for relining

This inspection also helps finalise exactly how the pipe will be relined and determine the precise length of lining needed.

Performing a CCTV inspection on a pipe relining.

The preparation of materials is a precise process that involves:

• Measuring and cutting the liner to the required length
• Mixing epoxy resin with a hardening agent
• Impregnating the liner with the resin mixture
• Rolling the liner repeatedly to ensure even distribution of resin throughout the material

In Australia, the Brawoliner system is one of the most widely used solutions, known for its precision and quality in pipe relining applications.

The installation method can vary depending on the specific technology used, but commonly involves:

• Using an inversion drum with compressed air to insert the resin-soaked liner into the damaged pipe
• Positioning the liner to cover all damaged areas
• Inflating the liner to press it against the walls of the existing pipe
• Ensuring the resin bonds properly to the pipe walls

The inversion method is particularly popular in Australia, as it allows for a smooth, seamless installation that conforms perfectly to the existing pipe, including any bends or variations in diameter.

After installation, the resin must cure to harden and form the new pipe lining:

• The curing process may take several hours, depending on the type of resin used
• Some systems use ambient curing, while others may employ heat or UV light to accelerate the process
• The Brawoliner SteamBox technology is one advanced solution used in Australia for efficient curing

During this stage, the resin hardens to form a solid, durable new pipe within the original damaged pipe.

Once the lining has cured:

• Technicians locate and reopen any junctions or branch connections that were covered during the relining process
• Specialised robotic cutters are used to precisely cut out these connections
• This ensures proper flow throughout the pipe system

This step is critical for maintaining the functionality of the entire plumbing network, especially in complex systems with multiple connections.

The process concludes with a final inspection:

• CCTV cameras are again deployed to inspect the newly relined pipe
• Technicians verify that the liner is smooth, free of defects, and properly sealed
• The integrity of the new pipe is confirmed before declaring the job complete

This final quality check ensures that the relining has been successful and that the pipe is now fully functional and free from leaks or other issues.

One of the most significant benefits of pipe relining in Australia is the minimal disruption to landscaping and structures. Traditional pipe replacement typically requires extensive excavation, which can damage:

• Gardens and landscaped areas
• Driveways and pathways
• Structural elements of buildings

The no-dig approach of pipe relining preserves these features, making it particularly valuable in Australia’s established neighborhoods where properties often have significant landscaping investments.

While pipe relining requires specialised equipment and materials, it often proves more economical than traditional replacement methods:

• Eliminates excavation and restoration costs
• Reduces labour time and associated expenses
• Minimises collateral damage to property
• Provides a long-lasting solution that prevents recurring issues

This cost-effectiveness has made pipe relining an attractive option for both residential and commercial property owners in Australia.

Pipe relining typically requires significantly less time than traditional pipe replacement:

• Most residential relining projects can be completed within a day
• Minimal setup and cleanup time compared to excavation methods
• Faster restoration of plumbing services

This efficiency is particularly valuable in commercial settings where downtime must be minimised.

In Sydney, which can serve as a benchmark for Australian urban areas:

• Sewer pipe relining costs typically start at approximately $300–$500 per meter, depending on the service provider.
• The average cost for a residential project ranges between $2,500 and $3,000, making pipe relining worthwhile as a longer-term investment in your plumbing system.

It’s worth noting that some companies offering very low starting prices may add additional costs later, potentially resulting in a higher total than quotes from more established providers. This isn’t how things are done here at North East Plumbing, we provide upfront quotes so you know the total cost before we start.

Several variables influence the final cost of pipe relining:

• Size and diameter of pipes (larger pipes require more materials)
• Length of the section needing relining
• Material of the existing pipe (affecting preparation requirements)

• Number and complexity of bends and junctions
• Accessibility of the pipes and entry points
• Underlying issues such as blockages, corrosion, or tree root intrusions

• Specific relining method and technology employed
• Type of resin and liner materials used
• Need for specialised equipment for challenging installations

Australia has adopted and refined several pipe relining technologies to suit local conditions:

The Brawoliner system has become one of the leading pipe relining solutions in Australia and New Zealand:

• Enables relining and rehabilitation of complete lengths of damaged underground piping without excavation
• Offers superior precision and quality compared to many alternatives
• Includes specialised components designed for Australian pipe systems and conditions

This system is particularly valued for its reliability and quality results in the Australian market.

For smaller, localised damage, patch relining offers a targeted solution:

• Combines Brawoliner resin with an efficient trenchless patching system
• Uses an inflatable “packer” to force resin to the shape of the pipe
• Forms a new pipe shell where hardened
• Serves as an excellent introduction to relining for plumbing companies entering the market

This approach is cost-effective for addressing specific damaged sections without relining entire pipe runs.

One of the most technically challenging aspects of pipe repair is addressing damaged junctions:

• The Brawoliner SteamBox technology combined with Australian research and development allows for effective repair of cracked satellite junctions
• This technology can save significant time and money on complex junction repairs
• Represents an advanced application of relining technology for specialised situations

This capability has expanded the range of repairs that can be addressed without excavation.

Would you like a quote to have pipe relining completed at your home or business? Contact the friendly team at North East Plumbing today who will be glad to help.