If you’ve only just recently heard about trenchless plumbing services, it’s most likely because you’ve never needed it until now. This is a specialty service reserved for very specific plumbing problems concerning your sewer and main water lines—it’s not for your everyday plumbing issues.
That being said, we’re happy to answer some of the most common questions about this service.
1. Why Trenchless Instead of Other Methods?
As the name “trenchless” implies, the alternative method is to create actual trenches in your yard. That was the normal method of repairing and replacing underground pipe for decades. But now, using the right tools, plumbers can take a more strategic approach to assessing and fixing the damage.
Typically it starts with video pipe inspection. A small camera is fed through the pipe and used to find the exact cause of the problem. They can measure the distances with this tool, as well, to see exactly where to dig to find the afflicted sections of pipe.
Then, the plumber only needs to dig two holes—one for each side of the section that needs service. This significantly minimizes the damage to your yard, as well as the time and effort spent on the job.
2. When is Trenchless Needed?
Essentially, trenchless is only going to be needed for those cases where manual repair methods will cost far more, in terms of both money and time.
An expert of trenchless replacement in Santa Barbara can inspect your underground lines and find just how big the problem is. If, for example, it’s found that only a small portion of the pipe is leaking or cracked, it might make more sense just to dig it out and replace it.
On the other hand, a definite need for trenchless services comes when long lengths of your sewer or main water line—if not the entire line—is compromised by leaks or corrosion. Trenchless replacement can make short work of this problem that would otherwise make your yard look like the sight of an archaeological dig.
If your sewer and main water lines are several decades old, it might not be surprising to discover that they’re in need of a full trenchless replacement.
3. Can’t I Just Do It Myself?
Trenchless repair and replacement requires some pricey equipment, as well as the proper training and expertise to use the equipment properly.
Considering that you’d only use this equipment about once—maybe twice—in your life, that cost just wouldn’t be worth it.
Plus, you don’t want anyone less than an expert to perform trenchless services for you. It’s better to put your trust into a plumber who is well-versed in this equipment and has plenty of experience using it.
If you get your sewer or main water line fixed properly the first time, you can rest easy knowing you won’t have to worry about it for decades. On the other hand, a shoddy job by an amateur might need servicing again within a few years.
For the answers to all of your questions about trenchless services, contact Husted Plumbing today. Family owned and operated since 1935.