If you are already looking into trenchless sewer repair, you are past the basics. You know digging up your yard is not the best option, and you want a long-term fix that makes sense for your property. The real question now is: which trenchless method is right for your pipe?
Two of the most common methods used are pipe bursting and UV cured-in-place pipe installation, often called CIPP sewer repair. While both are proven effective, the two are used for very different problems.
As plumbers, we do not pick one based on preference. We pick it based on what your pipe actually needs.
What Is Pipe Bursting?
Pipe bursting is a trenchless pipe replacement method where the old pipe is completely broken apart and replaced. A bursting head is pulled through the existing sewer line, and as it moves forward, it fractures the old pipe outward and pulls a brand new pipe into its place.
This method works well when the existing pipe is beyond saving. Rather than lining or patching it, you are removing the problem pipe and putting in a new one. This is commonly used to replace old clay, Orangeburg, or brittle cast iron sewer lines that have collapsed, shifted, or lost their shape.
When to Use Pipe Bursting?
- The sewer pipe has severe bellies or dips that hold standing water
- The pipe is collapsed, cracked through, or badly misaligned
- The original pipe material is outdated or structurally weak
- You want a brand new pipe with a long lifespan
- Minor upsizing of the pipe diameter is needed
What Is UV Cured-In-Place Pipe Lining(CIPP)?
Cured-in-place pipe installation is a trenchless lining method. Instead of removing the old pipe, a resin-saturated liner is inserted inside it. Once it is in place, UV light is used to cure the liner, hardening it into a new pipe within the old one.
CIPP sewer repair is less invasive and often faster than pipe bursting. However, whether you can (or should) use it depends on the condition of the original pipe.
Common types of CIPP methods include:
- UV CIPP – The liner is cured using ultraviolet light. Often chosen for its precise curing and strong structural results.
- Epoxy Pipe Lining – Relies on epoxy-coated liners that cure over time. This is one of the most widely used cured-in-place pipe repair methods.
- Hot Water CIPP – Uses heated water to activate and cure the resin liner inside the pipe.
- Steam-Cured CIPP – Uses steam to speed up the curing process, often used in larger-diameter pipes.
When to Use CIPP?
- The pipe still holds its round shape
- Damage is limited to cracks, leaks, or root intrusion
- There are no major bellies or collapses
- Access points already exist
- You want minimal disruption and fast turnaround
Pipe Bursting vs. UV CIPP: Side-by-Side Comparison
Here is a quick way to compare the two methods:
| Feature | Pipe Bursting | UV CIPP (Cured-In-Place Pipe Installation) |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Brand-new pipe, very long-lasting | Involves inserting a strong liner inside the existing pipe. Durable but relies on original pipe integrity |
| Installation Time | Moderate, may take longer depending on pipe length | Often faster, minimal excavation, quick curing with UV |
| Excavation Required | Two access points are typically needed | Uses existing cleanouts or small access points |
| Pipe Condition Needed | Works even with severely damaged or collapsed pipes | Original pipe must be mostly intact and structurally sound |
| Pipe Diameter Options | Slight increase in pipe size possible | Slightly reduces functional diameter |
| Best For | Collapsed, misaligned, or outdated pipes | Cracks, leaks, root intrusion, minor sagging |
| Cost Range | Generally higher upfront | Often lower upfront, especially for minor repairs |
Not Sure Which Trenchless Method May Save Your Pipes? We Are.
Schedule a Diagnostic Assessment Today
Factors to Consider: How Pros Decide Which Trenchless Method to Use
Choosing between pipe bursting and UV CIPP is all about matching the repair method to the pipe’s condition, the soil around it, and the long-term goals of the homeowner.
As pros, we don’t miraculously know exactly what to do right away either. Instead, we rely on a thorough video inspection and assessment of a few key factors.
Pipe Condition and Material
The first step is looking at the existing pipe. Is it cracked, sagging, or collapsed?
Older clay or cast iron pipes that have shifted or lost their shape usually need pipe bursting. Pipes that are mostly intact, with only small cracks or leaks, are good candidates for CIPP sewer repair.
Material matters too. Some older pipes, like certain types of cast iron, clay, or concrete, can have rough, corroded, or porous surfaces. This prevents the resin from fully adhering to the pipe walls during a CIPP sewer repair.
If the liner does not bond properly, leaks or voids can form, reducing the long-term effectiveness of the trenchless repair method. In these cases, pipe bursting is usually the better option.
Severity and Type of Damage
Minor leaks and root intrusion are perfect for a cured-in-place pipe installation. But if the damage is more severe, such as standing water in a belly, major misalignment, or a partially collapsed pipe, pipe bursting is the safer solution for homeowners
A pro will evaluate exactly how the damage affects flow and structural integrity before recommending a method.
Soil Conditions
In areas with expansive clay soil, pipes are more prone to shifting or sagging over time. If the soil has already caused severe movement, pipe bursting can restore proper alignment.
Budget and Long-Term Goals
Cost is always a consideration, but it’s weighed against durability.
CIPP is usually faster and less expensive upfront, making it attractive for smaller repairs or if minimal disruption is a priority. Pipe bursting is more expensive than pipe lining, but that’s because it installs a brand-new pipe that can last for decades.
Let Us Help You Choose the Best Trenchless Method for Your Pipe Damage
Pipe bursting and pipe lining are both powerful trenchless options. The easiest mistake to make is choosing one before knowing what your pipe actually looks like underground.
If you want a long-term fix that matches your pipe, soil, and budget, start with a proper diagnosis. Schedule a camera inspection today!
