Each case is unique, so there is no general repair technique that applies to any belly in a sewer lateral.
Although we are experts in using the trenchless pipe bursting repair method, we do not always advise trenchless pipe replacement as the best solution for a line belly rehab. Sometimes our team will dig an open trench to access the problem area and then build and fill the ground beneath the sagging sewer line. Once the trench is filled, joints are strengthened and reinforced, remaining space is filled in, and the area is covered with the proper materials and compacted to code.
Under certain circumstances, trenchless Cured-in-Place pipe lining (CIPP) can be a lower cost solution and is an option for some pipe replacement situations – but the CIPP method will not correct bellies in the sewer line. While Pipe Spy does not currently offer this service option, we know that CIPP or “slip lining” can be a challenge in our region, as procurement of the proper permitting for this trenchless method in the San Francisco East Bay is often denied. CIPP is typically only approved in extraordinary cases when there are no other (safer) alternative solutions. Chemicals used to cure CIPP method materials can be toxic and harmful to both the wastewater system and local groundwater. The CIPP technique extends the life of the existing sewer lateral by using the existing pipe for structural integrity. If that integrity is already eroded or compromised, CIPP lining won’t solve the problem. If your sewer repair professional is using this method, be sure to ask questions and check that the proper permits have been issued for the work.