If you’re dealing with a damaged drainpipe, either as a homeowner, landowner or business, a traditional excavation to carry out the repair can be quite an invasive, major procedure involving open trenching to directly access, repair or replace the damaged underground drainpipe. It’s also a potentially messy, expensive and time-consuming business which uses heavy equipment, and so would generally be a last resort, only to be used when other methods are not practical.
Happily, there is another, smarter option, particularly for cracks and fractures, small holes or joint displacements or points where tree or plant roots have intruded.
What is patch lining?
Patch lining is a repair method which doesn’t need trenching, making it possible to fix localised damage to the drainage system without having to dig up the garden, driveway or floor. This solution, as well as not requiring excavation, suits residential and commercial systems alike and solves problems with drains in a way that’s both cost-effective and long-lasting.
At the same time, the curing or hardening process is usually very swift, typically taking no longer than a few hours to complete. Plus the reduced waste thanks to the lack of excavation is environmentally friendly, too.
How does patch lining work?
Patch lining forms a strong, durable seal which stops leaks and erosion, extending the lifespan of the drainage pipe:
- In the first instance, the pipe usually inspected via a CCTV drain survey to identify precisely the problem that needs solving.
- A resin-soaked fibreglass patch is wrapped around an inflatable ‘packer’ or bladder.
- The packer is inserted into the pipe and guided to the repair site, again with a camera.
- The packer is then inflated and pressed firmly against the pipe wall where it is left to cure so that the resin hardens, allowing it to bond securely with the walls of the pipe.
- Once the curing process is complete, and the resin solid, the packer is deflated and taken out, leaving a watertight seal which restores and ensures the integrity of the pipe.
So if you notice any indications of potential drainage problems, from slow draining to unpleasant smells to unusual ground movement, don’t hang around. A patch liner could well be the perfect simple fix – you may not need to do anything else to resolve the issue in a way that’s effective, quick and affordable.
Talk to us at Clear Drains 4 U
At Clear Drains 4 U, we’re right up your street as your local, friendly drainage company covering Essex and Mersea. Colchester-based and family-run, we’ve been in business for well over two decades, covering commercial, domestic and emergency jobs.
What’s more, we don’t charge for callouts. You’ll just be quoted a set fee – including a year-long guarantee of our work. Clear Drains 4 U offers a wide range of services for drains and gutters, from cleaning and unblocking to installations, drain repairs and more. If your query is urgent, give us a call on 01206 763353. Otherwise, drop us a message or email matt@cleardrains4u.co.uk and we’ll come straight back to you.
