Trenchless Repair and Replacement

Raymark uses trenchless technology to repair and replace sewer lines. In fact, Raymark was the first company in Seattle to use this technology on residential side sewers. We are the experts in trenchless capabilities.

Traditional Method

The traditional method to repair a sewer line usually involves several steps:

• First, excavate 3’ to 12’ down and dig a trench to expose the pipe.
• Next, support the dirt walls so they will not collapse onto a worker, or onto the exposed pipe.
• And finally, begin work on the sewer pipe (and hope it does not rain).

Further complications might include a sewer line running underneath a driveway, or under a structure built after the sewer line was first installed. As a result, digging up the line disrupted the homeowner’s gardens, structures, and outdoor activities.

New Technology

Now, with this new specialized trenchless technology, only a small amount of digging is required. And usually, one or two access holes are needed. As a result, driveways, rockeries, and the Accessory Dwelling Unit built over the existing sewer line are protected.

Types of Trenchless

There are three types of trenchless technology for sewers: pipe bursting, pipelining, and directional boring.

1. 1. Pipe bursting means a new pipe is pulled into the damaged pipe via a cable. Then the old pipe fractures and bursts the old pipe outward.
      • Pipe bursting is possible if the existing pipe has collapsed, and there is sufficient room to drag a cable through the old pipe.
   2. In pipelining, a resin-coated tube is pulled into the damaged pipe and then inflated. The resin soon hardens, creating a pipe within a pipe that is joint-less and corrosion-resistant.
      • This method slightly reduces the diameter of the pipe but does not compromise the efficiency of the pipe.
      • Pipelining may not be possible if the existing pipe has collapsed.
   3. Directional boring is used when the existing line cannot be salvaged and a new sewer line is needed. It is also used where a sewer line does not exist.

All three trenchless types are more durable than traditional methods.  Equally important, trenchless costs vary based on the soil type, the materials used, and the depth and length of the sewer line.

Steps

• Our specialists begin the trenchless process with a video inspection of your sewer line. We note the condition of the line and any immediate concerns including breaks, bellies, collapses, or clogs.  Let us know if backups regularly occur and the history of your line.
• The video technician sends the scope to our Sewer estimator. The estimator provides a quote to repair the problem and in most cases can offer multiple options. In addition, we address any questions the homeowner may have.
• We schedule the work on a date convenient to you. Then, our experienced and efficient utility crew performs the work.
• After the work is complete, our goal is to leave the site better than we found it.

Call Raymark

Call the experienced professionals at Raymark at 206-430-1954. Our experts will give you an estimate to repair or replace your sewer line, and answer your questions about trenchless methods. Visit our Sewer Repair and Replacement page for more information.

Trenchless technology is also available for water lines.  See our Water Lines page for more information.

Schedule your Raymark appointment today by calling 206-430-1954 or complete our Contact form.