When drains start blocking repeatedly, when toilets gurgle, or when tree roots invade the sewer, most homeowners are faced with a big decision:
Pipe relining or pipe replacement?
Both methods can solve major pipe damage – but they’re not interchangeable. And choosing the wrong one can cost you more in the long run.
Here at S&J Plumbing and Gasfitting, each and every day we’re helping Brisbane households understand whether relining pipes is the best value or whether pipe replacement is the only safe option. In our guide, we’ll explore:
- What matters
- When each method works
- And how to make the smartest long-term choice by asking 5 smart questions.
But before we get into the comparisons, is any of this happening at your place? Spot these symptoms and you’re probably dealing with an issue that needs more than a quick unblock:
- Frequent drain blockages?
- Gurgling toilets or slow-draining sinks?
- Bad sewer odours around the house?
- Water pooling in the yard?
- Sewer overflow during rain?
- Sudden spikes in your water bill?
Seeing one or more of those signs? It’s time to look closely at pipe relining vs replacement – and understand which option best protects your home.
What is pipe relining?
Pipe relining (sometimes called sewer relining, pipe lining, or CIPP relining) is a no-dig repair method that creates a brand-new pipe inside the old one. A specialised liner is inserted, cured and hardened, forming a strong, watertight inner pipe. A simple yet ingenious idea.
It’s fast, clean, durable, and ideal for fixing:
- Cracks
- Wear and tear
- Root intrusion
- Corrosion
- Sections of ageing clay or PVC pipe.
For many Brisbane homes – especially those with established gardens, concrete, or tight access – sewer pipe relining is a cost-effective long-term solution.
Pipe replacement – When digging is still necessary
Sometimes, the existing pipe is simply too damaged to save. Sewer pipe replacement is essential when the pipe is already completely collapsed, or sections have disintegrated or shifted. You may also need a full sewer line replacement if:
- There’s major deformation
- Soil movement has caused large offsets
- The pipe has failed structurally
- The wrong type of pipe was originally installed.
Replacement involves excavation, removal of the old pipe, and installation of a new section that meets Australian standards. It’s more disruptive and messy – but when it’s needed, it’s the only reliable fix.
The smart way to decide – 5 Homeowner questions
Instead of comparing relining and replacement as if one is simply “better,” the real key is understanding which option best fits your property and the condition of your pipes.
Here are the 5 questions we encourage Brisbane homeowners to work through if you’re faced with the conundrum:
1. How severe is the damage inside the pipe?
This is the big one. Relining works brilliantly when the pipe still has its overall shape and structure. Cracks, holes, root invasion and moderate wear are not a problem – relining seals and strengthens everything.
But if the pipe is fully collapsed, heavily deformed, or missing entire sections, relining cannot grip to anything. In these cases, pipe replacement is essential.
And a CCTV inspection is the only reliable way to know which situation you’re facing.
2. What is sitting above the damaged pipe?
The second very important question is: What would digging up this pipe disrupt?
Relining is almost always worth it if the pipe runs beneath a driveway, patio or deck. And where pools, retaining walls, landscaped gardens and established trees are involved – not to mention your actual home! – then pipe relining is always infinitely better if it’s possible.
Replacing a pipe under these areas can mean thousands of dollars – or even more! – in restorative work. In these cases, relining becomes the obvious financial winner.
But when the pipe is in open, accessible soil, replacement may actually be simpler and smarter.
3. How quickly do you need the problem fixed?
Sewer line relining can often be done in a single day – from inspection to completion. There’s almost no mess, no heavy machinery, and minimal interruption. And a pretty low cost.
Replacement, on the other hand, takes longer – sometimes several days or even more – depending on excavation depth, soil conditions, ongoing tradie availability, and reinstating the area afterwards.
If you’re dealing with an urgent sewer overflow, relining is often – and usually – the fastest and most practical choice.
4. Are you planning to stay in the property long term?
Both relining and replacement offer long lifespans when done properly:
- Relining typically provides a 50-year design life
- Replacement pipes can last equally long when installed correctly.
If you’re staying in your home long term, relining can still be a very strong investment because it prevents future root intrusion and actually creates a smoother, more efficient internal pipe.
If you’re renovating or replacing multiple sections of plumbing anyway, replacement may make more sense.
5. What will actually cost more in the long run?
This is where people often underestimate their expenses. Why? Because relining costs more per metre than replacement on paper – but it’s those hidden costs of replacement add up:
- Smashing up and removing concrete
- Re-doing tiling
- Rebuilding landscaping
- Machinery hire
- Labour for excavation
- Longer project duration.
When all of those are factored in, relining is a LOT cheaper for urban Brisbane homes – and avoids unnecessary destruction to your property and disruption to your life.
So … Is pipe relining worth it?
For most homeowners experiencing moderate sewer or stormwater damage, the answer is strong and simple:
YES!
It’s absolutely worth it. Relining offers a strong, fast, and cost-effective solution that avoids excavation and keeps your property intact.
But it’s important to realise that while amazing, relining isn’t magic. When the pipe has structurally failed, when sections are missing, or when extreme deformation has occurred, pipe replacement vs pipe relining stops being a comparison – and replacement becomes the only safe option.
The right choice depends entirely on your pipe’s condition – which is why an accurate CCTV inspection is essential.
Need help deciding? Let us assess your pipes
Here at S&J Plumbing and Gasfitting, our friendly local Brisbane plumbing team provides no-nonsense guidance on pipe relining, sewer pipe replacement, and all other major drainage repairs. We show you the footage, explain the options, and help you choose the most cost-effective long-term fix for your home.
Just need a clear, honest and expert answer? Get in touch and we’ll assess your pipes today – and get started on the fix!