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Drain and Pipe Lining

Pipe lining is an advanced drain repair technique that installs a new sleeve inside the existing damaged drain, patching the crack or damage from within the drain itself and avoiding the need for excavation. Pipe lining can be completed faster, with less mess and is more cost-effective than traditional drain repair techniques.

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Drain Repair and Pipe Lining Experts

Metro Rod has been developing and improving no-dig pipe lining techniques for over 35 years, so we have various options for providing the most cost-effective and efficient solution.

What is Pipe Lining and Drain Lining?  

Pipe lining or drain lining is an advanced drain repair technique that installs a new sleeve inside the existing damaged drain, patching the crack or damage from within the drain itself and avoiding the need for excavation. 

Expert Drain Lining Services 

When drains become damaged, a fast and effective repair solution can help prevent recurring drainage problems and costly excavation work. Metro Rod delivers specialist drain lining and pipelining services designed to restore damaged pipes quickly, efficiently, and with minimal disruption.  

Many drainage systems across the UK are reaching the end of their intended lifespan and are increasingly susceptible to cracks, leaks, root ingress, and structural deterioration. Drain relining provides a long-lasting rehabilitation solution that strengthens existing pipework without the need for replacement in many cases.

 

Drain Lining Starts with CCTV Drain Surveys 

Before any drain lining work takes place, it is essential to understand the condition of the affected pipe. 

Our high-definition CCTV drain surveys allow engineers to inspect the drainage system internally, identifying the exact location, cause, and extent of any defects. 

This enables us to: 

  • Locate damaged sections of pipe accurately 
  • Identify cracks, fractures, root ingress and joint displacement 
  • Assess the structural condition of the drain 
  • Confirm whether drain lining is a suitable solution 
  • Reduce unnecessary excavation 
  • Minimise repair costs and disruption

Metro Rod Cctv Drain Survey For Drain Repair (1)

 By accurately diagnosing the issue, we can ensure drain lining is applied where it will deliver the greatest long-term benefit.

How Does Drain Lining Work?

Drain Lining Process

1. Inspect

We carry out a CCTV drain survey to inspect and identify the location and extent of the damage, ensuring the best repair approach is drain lining. 

2. Prepare

A specialist liner is saturated with resin and wrapped around an inflatable tube, known as a bladderThe bladder acts as a temporary carrier, helping position the liner and press it firmly against the inside wall of the pipe during installation. This creates the new lining that will repair and reinforce the damaged pipe. 

3. Install

The liner and bladder are inserted into the drain and positioned over the damaged section. The bladder is then inflated, pressing the liner against the pipe wall while the resin cures to form a strong, seamless new pipe within the existing drain. 

Once cured, the bladder is removed and a final CCTV survey is carried out to confirm the repair has been completed successfully. 

The result is a durable, long-lasting drain repair with minimal disruption and no excavation required. 

Engineers preparing a drain lining installation as part of a no-dig drain repair project.

Whatever your requirement, call Metro Rod on 0800 66 88 00 or click to find your local office, and a member of our team will be happy to help you resolve your drainage issue.

Further Reading on Drain Lining and Pipe Lining

What are the Benefits of Drain Lining and Pipe Lining?

Drain Lining is one of the most effective drain rehabilitation methods available. Compared to traditional drain replacement, drain lining can often be completed more quickly, with less disruption and lower overall costs. In many cases, it is also more cost-effective than carrying out multiple localised repairs, particularly where a drain contains several defects along the same pipe run. 

By creating a new structural lining within the existing drain, pipe lining restores the integrity of the pipe, improves performance, and helps protect against future deterioration. This makes it an ideal solution for extending the lifespan of ageing drainage infrastructure while minimising inconvenience to property owners and occupiers. 

  • No excavation required in most cases 
  • Faster completion compared to traditional repairs 
  • Minimal disruption to homes and businesses 
  • Cost-effective alternative to full pipe replacement 
  • Extends the lifespan of the existing drainage system 
  • Creates a durable, long-lasting repair 
  • Helps prevent future root ingress and infiltration 
  • Reduces reinstatement costs 

For many drainage systems, drain lining offers an efficient long-term solution without the inconvenience of extensive groundworks.

What are the Types of Drain Lining Methods?

Not all drainage systems require the same lining solutions. The most suitable drain lining method will depend on factors such as the size of the pipe, the extent of the damage, site access, and the length of the pipe requiring repair.  

Ambient Cured Lining 

Ambient cured lining is commonly used for the full or partial relining of drains and sewers with multiple defects. This repair method is suitable for smaller diameter pipes, making it ideal for domestic properties, retail premises, and smaller commercial sites.  

Once positioned within the drain, the resin-saturated liner is either pulled, pushed, or inverted into place using air or water pressure. The liner then cures naturally at ambient temperatures, removing the need for heat or UV light to complete the installation. 

The result is a seamless, continuous lining that: 

  • Repairs cracks, fractures, and joint defects 
  • Helps prevent water infiltration 
  • Reduces the risk of root ingress 
  • Restores the structural integrity of the pipe 
  • Extends the lifespan of the drainage system 

Ambient cured lining offers an effective repair solution where site access is limited, and excavation would be disruptive or costly. 

Heat Cured Lining 

Heat cured lining is typically used on larger diameter pipes and longer pipes runs, making it particularly suitable for industrial sites, infrastructure projects, and large commercial premises. 

During installation, a resin-impregnated liner is inserted into the pipe using an inversion process. The liner is then expanded against the pipe wall and heated water is circulated through the system to activate and cure the resin. Once cured, the liner forms a strong structural pipe within the existing drainage system. 

Heat cured lining is particularly beneficial where: 

  • Multiple defects exist throughout a pipe run 
  • Larger diameter pipes require rehabilitation 
  • Longer sections of drain need repair 
  • A robust structural lining solution is required 

Choosing the Right Lining Method

Our engineers use CCTV drain surveys to assess the condition of the pipework before recommending the most appropriate drain lining solution. This ensures the chosen method delivers the most effective, durable, and cost-efficient repair for your drainage system. 

Whether using ambient cured lining or heat cured lining, both methods provide a long-lasting, no-dig alternative to traditional excavation and pipe replacement.

Pipe Lining & Drain Relining FAQs

What size of drain can a drain lining repairs cover?

Drain lining can be used for repairs covering a multitude of different sizes. Typically drains and sewers with a diameter between 100mm – 225mm, ambient cured liner (dependant on length) can be used. For larger drains and sewers with a diameter up to 1200mm, heat cured lining provides an excellent solution. This makes lining an incredibly versatile tool to suit a range of different cracks or defects in the pipes.

What are the benefits to drain relining?

There are several core benefits to drain relining as a method of repair. Firstly due to the reduced need for excavation, pipe lining is a less disruptive method of repair. It reduces the need for any trench work and is a quicker, more cost-effective method of drain repair.

When would pipe lining not be an effective solution?

Pipe lining is more economic than a drain repair that requires excavation as it requires far less time to complete and is less disruptive, resulting in a much lower cost. The exact cost of a pipe or drain lining depends on the size and type of damage. Before any work is carried out, our engineers will provide you with a full quote. Contact us on 0800 66 88 00 for a quote.

How much does pipe lining or relining cost?

Pipe lining is more economic than a drain repair that requires excavation as it requires far less time to complete and is less disruptive, resulting in a much lower cost. The exact cost of a pipe or drain lining depends on the size and type of damage. Before any work is carried out, our engineers will provide you with a full quote. Contact us on 0800 66 88 00 for a quote.

Is drain lining a permanent drain repair solution?

Yes. Drain lining is a long-lasting drain repair solution that can restore the structural integrity of damaged pipes for many years. When installed correctly, it helps protect against leaks, root ingress, and further deterioration. 

What are the benefits to drain relining?

There are several core benefits to drain relining as a method of repair. Firstly, due to the reduced need for excavation, pipe lining is a less disruptive method of repair. It reduces the need for any trench work and is a quicker, more cost-effective method of drain repair.

Can drain lining repair cracked drains?

Yes. Drain lining is an effective drain repair solution for cracked pipes, fractured drains, displaced joints, and minor structural defects. It reinforces the existing pipe and helps restore normal flow through the drainage system.

Do you need to dig up my property to repair a drain?

In many cases, no. Drain lining is a no-dig drain repair technique that allows engineers to repair damaged pipes through existing access points. This minimises disruption to gardens, driveways, roads, and commercial premises. 

How long does a drain lining repair take?

The length of a drain repair depends on the extent of the damage and the condition of the pipework. However, drain lining can often be completed much faster than traditional excavation and replacement methods. 

Is drain lining more cost-effective than replacing a drain?

In many situations, yes. Because drain lining avoids extensive excavation and reinstatement work, it is often a more cost-effective drain repair option than fully replacing damaged pipes. 

Can drain lining prevent future drainage problems?

Drain lining helps strengthen damaged pipework and seals cracks where water, roots, and debris may enter the system. While regular maintenance is still important, lining can significantly reduce the risk of future drainage issues. 

What happens if my drain is too damaged for lining?

If a CCTV drain survey shows that a pipe has collapsed or suffered severe structural damage, excavation and replacement may be required. Our engineers will always recommend the most appropriate and cost-effective drain repair solution for the condition of your drainage system. 

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