repiping vs epoxy lining

As problems start to show up in your pipes, it can be hard to decide whether pipelining or repiping (repiping vs epoxy lining) is the better choice.

So, we made this guide to help you figure out which option is best for your home and your situation. We will also help you figure out which solution is best and help you better understand and tell the two apart.

Repiping: What is it?

While most people find pipelining to be a fantastic solution, there are some situations where repiping is the only choice. Repiping is the process of replacing corroded, outdated pipes with tough, new pipes.

Due of its longevity and other qualities, copper is typically utilized for new pipes. The majority of old pipes that need to be repiped were constructed in the 1970s using galvanized metals.

The following are indications that your pipes may need to be replaced:

• how old is your plumbing?
• pipes that leak continuously
• Water has corrosion or bad odors.
• Lower water pressure
• There are polybutylene pipes.

Your home will have cleaner, better-tasting water if new copper pipes are used to replace the corroded and rusted galvanized metal pipes. Higher water pressure is another guarantee of repiping.

Repiping vs. Epoxy Lining

Pipe relining is an alternative to repiping services. To stop leaks and corrosion inside the line, this procedure coats pipes’ interiors with epoxy lining. Between the inside of the pipe and the substance flowing through it, the epoxy creates a barrier. For pipes composed of non-galvanized metals, this repair process works better.

Epoxy lining options can be less expensive and less invasive than repiping.

Pros and Cons of Epoxy Lining/Coating

Every homeowner’s go-to option is quickly evolving to include epoxy coating. And for good cause. Epoxy has plenty of advantages without breaking the bank. Let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages of the epoxy approach to gain a better knowledge of the overall procedure.

• Advantages of Epoxy Coating

Cost-effective: Epoxy coating can be up to 50% less expensive than repiping.

No displacement: During the pipe repair, you won’t need to relocate. Your water service is typically restored within a few hours with little disruption or noise. Trenchless lining eliminates the need for significant digging while still providing new pipes.

Safe and environmentally friendly: You don’t have to be concerned about leaching or pollutants in your water. When the epoxy coating has dried, it produces clean, safe drinking water that is better for the environment.

Durable: Compared to conventional pipe materials, the application will endure longer. Epoxy, according to testing engineers, lasts about 100 years.

If you ever decide to sell your home, knowing that the pipe restoration makes the house leak-resistant for many years to come may assist boost the value of your house.

• Issues with Epoxy Coating

Delamination-prone: This describes an epoxy material that occasionally, but extremely rarely, fails due to layer breakage.
Once the epoxy coating has been put, it is a permanent solution. You must repipe if you change your mind.

Pipe diameter reduction: The pipe’s diameter will be slightly decreased when the coating has had time to cure. Water pressure or flow may be impacted by this.

Repiping: Pros and Cons

Even though it’s not as common, repiping is still a good choice. It’s a more traditional choice that a lot of people who own homes or buildings consider.

Let’s look at the pros and cons so you can decide if it’s the best choice for your property.

• Pros of Repiping

Better water pressure and plumbing system: With brand new pipes and connections, you won’t have to worry about leaks, and there won’t be any buildup in the pipes, so the water pressure will be better.

No more old pipe materials. Pipes in older buildings often have a lot of corrosion, which can cause problems with the water supply and pinhole leaks. With a total repipe, you get a brand-new system that is up-to-date.

Similar to epoxy coating, knowing there probably won’t be any plumbing problems for a while may make your home worth more if you decide to sell it.

• Negatives of Repiping

Invasive:  The process takes much longer and does more damage because it requires more work. So, you might have to stay somewhere else until the work is done. It causes a lot more trouble than epoxy lining or coating, and your water might not be turned back on the same day.

More expensive:  Overall, repiping will cost more, and you’ll also have to pay for the cleanup. You’ll need to paint, fix your landscaping, and pay for any repairs to walls, floors, or other structures that were broken.

You might have to upgrade, fix, or replace something sooner than you’d like: Even though many new pipe materials last more than 50 years, they are not as strong or long-lasting as an epoxy coating.

This might make you want to call someone sooner than you want to.

Epoxy pipe lining’s duration and timing in comparison to repiping

Time
Sandblasting the existing pipes, applying the material, and let it cure all take a few hours throughout the epoxy painting procedure. People can stay on-site during the entire project.

On the other hand, repiping can take days or even weeks. In the end, everything depends on the size of the project and how much destruction is necessary. As a result, residents are temporarily relocated.

Longevity

The plumbing system should last 40 to 75 years, depending on the material of the replacement pipes. How effectively the system is maintained, how frequently it is inspected, and how promptly any essential repairs are made all play a significant role in this.

Epoxy, on the other hand, is thought to be far more durable and resistant to harsh materials. Unlike other pipe materials, like copper, they are less prone to corrosion.