Nobody wants to deal with a broken sewer line. The repair can be a long process, your options can get confusing, and the idea of the cost is enough to cause a headache. If the drains in your building clog easily, if water has appeared in the basement, or if you’ve noticed a sudden spike in the water or sewage bills, you might have a broken sewer line. If so, you have two main options: traditional repair or trenchless repair. Trenchless repair has become a popular option in recent years, but what about the cost? Here are some things to consider when thinking about trenchless sewer repair cost vs. the alternative.
Traditional vs. Trenchless
What is the difference between the two methods? Traditionally, to fix or replace a sewer pipe, one would need to excavate the ground to reach the damage. Trenchless repairs involve either a) reaching the damage through a manhole or other entrance point or b) digging one or two small holes. These repair specialists usually use CIPP or epoxy coating to line the inside of the damaged pipes.
Trenchless Sewer Repair Cost
The only way to know for sure what any repair will cost is to get a quote from a professional. No matter the repair method, much of the cost will depend on the type and amount of damage. On average though, methods like CIPP can cost around $60 to $200 per foot. One article from Angie’s List says that trenchless sewer repair cost can be roughly 30% to 50% higher than the traditional method. However, that doesn’t mean that you won’t save money with trenchless repairs.
Non-Trenchless Hidden Costs
If you choose the excavation method, you may pay a bit less for the actual repair process, but the cost won’t end with the sewer line. After you have your sewer line fixed, you’ll have to pay for the damage caused by the excavation. Depending on the broken pipe’s location, you might need to fix landscaping, driveways, sidewalks, streets, or parts of your building after having the sewer repaired. This cost can add up to over $20,000.
Other Considerations
Excavation comes with several non-monetary costs as well. For example, sometimes traffic has to be rerouted to accommodate street digging. The extra time can cause inconvenience and lost focus. Occasionally, you might need to remove a tree. It’s important to keep convenience, aesthetic, and sustainability in mind.
For More Information
In the end, the benefits of trenchless pipe repair far outway any of those with traditional pipe repair. Once again, the best way to find out how much your sewer repair will cost is to talk to a professional and get a quote. If you’re considering the trenchless option and want to know more about trenchless sewer repair costs, please contact us to discuss your repair needs.