Trenchless Sewer Repairs: Are They Worth It?

When your sewer line backs up or collapses, you’re suddenly faced with one very expensive and messy question: How should you repair it?

Traditionally, that answer meant tearing up your yard, breaking through driveways, and disrupting your life for days—sometimes weeks. But now, trenchless sewer repairs offer a modern alternative that promises less mess, faster completion, and long-term durability.

If you’re facing sewer issues, don’t wait. Contact Plumbing Point Inc today to schedule a trenchless inspection and find out how we can restore your plumbing without destroying your property.

But are trenchless sewer repairs really worth it?

Let’s dive deep into what makes this method so attractive—and what you need to consider before making a decision.

What Are Trenchless Sewer Repairs?

Trenchless sewer repair is a method of fixing or replacing sewer lines without digging a trench through your property. Instead of excavating long, messy pathways to access pipes, trenchless techniques use existing entry and exit points to do the job underground.

There are two primary forms of trenchless technology:

• Pipe Lining (Cured-in-Place Pipe or CIPP)
• Pipe Bursting

Both are less invasive and significantly faster than traditional repair methods, making them ideal for residential and commercial properties alike.

Comparing Traditional Dig-and-Replace vs. Trenchless Methods

Feature	Traditional Repairs	Trenchless Repairs
Yard Damage	High – Requires full excavation	Minimal – Uses access points only
Time Required	5–10 days	1–2 days
Cost	$3,000–$20,000 depending on scope	$4,000–$15,000 (may save on restoration costs)
Property Disruption	High	Low
Longevity	30–50 years	50+ years

In many cases, trenchless sewer repairs are not only more efficient—they are also more economical when you factor in landscaping and concrete replacement costs.

Types of Trenchless Sewer Repair Techniques

Pipe Bursting Explained

This method breaks the old pipe apart while pulling a new one through the same path. It’s great for replacing entire lines and works well if the old pipe has collapsed or lost its shape.

Pipe Lining (CIPP) Process

This involves inserting a flexible liner coated in resin into the damaged pipe. The liner is then inflated and cured in place, creating a “pipe within a pipe” that seals cracks and holes.

Bonus: The new pipe is seamless, reducing the chance of future leaks and root invasions.

How Trenchless Sewer Repairs Minimize Yard and Property Damage

One of the biggest advantages of trenchless repairs is preserving your property’s appearance.

Imagine avoiding:

• Torn-up landscaping
• Jackhammered driveways
• Damaged patios
• Weeks of restoration

With trenchless repairs, technicians typically access the sewer line through a couple of small holes near the home and street—no backhoes required.

Faster Completion Times Compared to Traditional Methods

Because there’s little to no digging, trenchless methods dramatically cut down the time it takes to fix your sewer. Many repairs are completed in just one day, with minimal disruption to water service.

This is especially critical for:

• Families with only one bathroom
• Businesses that rely on plumbing uptime
• Property owners looking to avoid prolonged downtime

Are Trenchless Sewer Repairs Cost-Effective?

Trenchless sewer repairs may appear slightly more expensive at first glance, but when you factor in the hidden costs of traditional repairs—like landscape restoration, concrete replacement, and longer labor—trenchless options can actually be more economical.

Trenchless repair average cost:

• Residential: $4,000–$8,000
• Commercial: $7,000–$15,000+

Compare this with the total cost of a dig-and-replace repair, and the value becomes clear.

Eco-Friendly Advantages of Trenchless Solutions

• Less excavation = less soil disruption
• Reduced fuel use from heavy machinery
• Minimal debris and landfill waste
• Longer-lasting materials reduce future repairs

Trenchless is a greener, more sustainable solution for the eco-conscious homeowner.

How Long Do Trenchless Sewer Repairs Last?

Done properly, trenchless methods offer incredible durability:

• Pipe Lining (CIPP): 50+ years lifespan
• Pipe Bursting (HDPE pipes): 50–100 years lifespan

Materials are often resistant to corrosion, tree roots, and ground shifting—common causes of sewer failures.

When Are Trenchless Sewer Repairs the Right Choice?

Trenchless methods are ideal when:

• Your sewer line runs under a driveway or patio
• You want to preserve your landscaping
• Your line has cracks, holes, or is partially collapsed
• You need a quick turnaround

However, they may not work if:

• The pipe is heavily back-pitched
• There’s no access to a cleanout
• There’s complete pipe collapse in certain sections

Signs Your Sewer Line May Need Repair

Not sure if your sewer line is damaged? Here are common signs that may indicate it’s time to call a pro:

• Frequent drain clogs or backups
• Foul odors around your yard or basement
• Slow drains throughout the home
• Patches of unusually green or soggy grass
• Gurgling noises in toilet or sinks

If these symptoms appear, a trenchless sewer repair might be the best next step.

Using Sewer Cameras to Diagnose Before Going Trenchless

Before any work begins, a video inspection camera is used to inspect the inside of your sewer line. This helps plumbers:

• Pinpoint the exact location of damage
• Determine if trenchless is viable
• Provide accurate estimates

At Plumbing Point Inc, this is standard practice—ensuring you get a smart, cost-effective solution.

Why Homeowners Prefer Trenchless Sewer Solutions

Homeowners choose trenchless for peace of mind. Here’s why:

• Preserves curb appeal
• Avoids neighbor complaints about noise/digging
• Less time without plumbing
• Cleaner, more controlled job site
• No big surprises with restoration costs

It’s especially appealing in older neighborhoods with established landscaping and tight lot sizes.

Trenchless Repairs for Commercial Properties

Commercial clients benefit from trenchless sewer repairs too. For businesses like restaurants, office parks, and rental properties, downtime is costly. Trenchless solutions:

• Minimize customer disruption
• Reduce revenue loss
• Keep parking lots and walkways intact

Plumbing Point Inc offers commercial-grade trenchless solutions with flexible scheduling for minimal interference with business operations.

When Trenchless Sewer Repair Might Not Be an Option

Though trenchless technology is advanced, it’s not always applicable. Limitations include:

• Severely collapsed pipes that can’t be lined or burst
• Significant offset joints or bellies in the pipe
• Limited access points or complex layouts

A reputable plumbing contractor will advise if traditional methods are more appropriate based on video inspection findings.

What to Expect During a Trenchless Sewer Repair

Here’s a brief look at what the process looks like:

1. Inspection – A camera is inserted to diagnose the issue.
2. Cleaning – The existing pipe is flushed and cleared.
3. Repair or Replacement – Pipe lining or bursting is performed.
4. Curing (for CIPP) – The new liner hardens over a few hours.
5. Final Inspection – Video confirms the success of the repair.

In most cases, this can be done within 24–48 hours.

Why You Need a Licensed Plumbing Contractor for Trenchless Jobs

Trenchless work requires:

• Specialized equipment
• Expert-level training
• Detailed municipal permits
• Accurate grade and slope calculations

Never trust a low-cost handyman for sewer work. Instead, call Plumbing Point Inc—licensed, bonded, insured, and trusted for trenchless sewer repairs across California.

How to Maintain Your Sewer Line After Trenchless Repair

Protect your investment by:

• Avoiding grease and non-flushables
• Scheduling periodic video inspections
• Installing a backflow preventer
• Watching for trees with aggressive roots nearby

Even a perfectly repaired pipe can fail if misused.

Common Pitfalls if Done Incorrectly

Unqualified trenchless work can lead to:

• Misaligned pipes
• Leaks at the connection points
• Liner shrinkage or folding
• Future blockages

Hire a contractor who guarantees their work and uses high-quality materials.

Finding Trenchless Sewer Repair Experts Near You

Looking for trenchless sewer repair in California? Plumbing Point Inc is a leading provider with:

• State-of-the-art trenchless tools
• Decades of combined experience
• 5-star local reviews
• Same-day emergency services

Search “trenchless sewer repairs near me” and choose a name trusted by homeowners and businesses across the region.

FAQs On Trenchless Sewer Repairs

Summary: Are Trenchless Sewer Repairs Worth It?

Absolutely—trenchless sewer repairs are worth it for most homeowners and businesses. The combination of minimal property disruption, faster completion times, long-lasting results, and potential cost savings makes this method the clear choice for modern plumbing repair.