The traditional means of replacing damaged sewer lines is a major undertaking that requires extensive digging. Pipe bursting is an alternate method that requires very limited digging and is also significantly less time-consuming and less costly. Discuss your best options with our experienced Westmoreland County sewer repair pros at American Sewer Specialist today.
Plumbing Concerns throughout Westmoreland County
Westmoreland County is one of the oldest counties in Pennsylvania, and much of the area’s underground infrastructure, including sewer lines, exhibits serious signs of age. The abrupt change in seasons adds to the problem. In other words, it’s not unusual to face serious sewer line concerns throughout the area, and sometimes, replacement is required.
Pipe Bursting: Trenchless Technology
Pipe bursting allows sewer repair specialists to replace existing sewer lines without digging them up. The process involves pulling a specialized bursting head through the old pipe, which splits and expands in the process. The new pipe follows behind the bursting head and is used to replace the existing pipe.
Only minimal digging is required. The plumbing crew digs a small pit at each end of the pipe that’s being replaced, and these pits guide the process. One pit is used for sending or inserting the bursting pipe, and the new pipe is launched from here. The second pit is used for receiving or pulling the machinery through.
Ideal Conditions for Pipe Bursting
The kinds of conditions that pipe bursting is well-suited for include all the following:
- The old pipe is severely damaged, such as being almost completely collapsed, crushed, or cracked, and a pipe liner won’t suffice.
- The existing pipe is made of a material that fractures under the pressure of the bursting head, such as cast iron, clay, concrete, or asbestos cement.
- A larger diameter pipe is required to effectively handle the property’s needs due to heavier water flow.
- The homeowner is invested in preserving their driveway, sidewalks, large trees, or landscaping that open-trench digging would destroy.
When Pipe Bursting Isn’t the Right Approach
There are certain instances when traditional excavation is required. A prime example is when the soil that the pipe is laid in is loose or shifting. This makes ground expansion much less predictable. Another is when underground pipes take sharp turns that exceed 45 degrees, which means they can’t accommodate pipe being pulled through them.
If the pitch or grade of the pipe that needs to be repaired requires correction, it’s also an issue when it comes to trenchless repairs. The same is true of pipes that run too close to underground utilities, leaving the utilities vulnerable to damage from the trenchless repair process.
Discuss Your Needs with Our Reputable Westmoreland County Sewer Repair Pros
Our knowledgeable Westmoreland County sewer repair professionals at American Sewer Specialist are well prepared to ably handle your sewer line replacement needs as effectively and efficiently as possible. For more information about everything we can do to help you, please don’t wait to contact us online or give us a call at 724-879-8130 today.
