Brisbane Terracotta Pipe Cracked? Don't Dig! Get Pipe Relining

Have you ever wondered about your home's plumbing system? Odds are, it's something you rarely think about, given the fact that plumbing systems are underground and out of sight. Unless of course when you experience a plumbing problem. Typically, if your home was built before the 1980s, terracotta and clay pipes were the conventional choices for plumbing systems. Although these materials are durable, they become brittle with time, and cracks can appear at the joints, which is a common cause of leaks.

What is the Difference Between Terracotta and Clay Pipes?

Contemporary vitrified clay sewer pipes undergo a 24-hour air-drying process followed by a 50-hour firing in a kiln, resulting in a ceramic-like final product. Known as terracotta, this material boasts enhanced strength and tighter fittings compared to traditional clay plumbing. It's still routinely used in public sewer systems today.

Materials Commonly Used in Pipe Manufacturing

The primary piping materials used in plumbing include copper, PVC, CPVC, and PEX. These materials are renowned for their resilience, lasting performance, and straightforward maintenance, making them ideal choices in the field of plumbing.

Replace Terracotta or Clay Pipes

Just because you are living in an older home that more than likely has terracotta pipes does not mean you must have them replaced. Replacing your terracotta pipes depends on various factors such as age, condition, functionality and cost considerations, and local regulations.

If you're experiencing problems with your drainage or sewer system, or if your pipes are old and showing signs of deterioration, replacement may be a wise decision to prevent future issues and ensure the proper functioning of your plumbing system.

Factors to Consider

Age - Terracotta drainage pipes have been used for sewer systems for centuries, but they can deteriorate over time. If your pipes are very old, they may be nearing the end of their lifespan.
Functionality - If your terracotta pipes are still effectively draining water and sewage without any issues, replacement might not be immediately necessary. However, if they are causing frequent backups or other problems, having your pipes replaced could be a beneficial option.
Cost - Replacement can be expensive, so consider the cost of repairs versus the cost of replacement. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to replace old terracotta pipes with modern materials that offer better durability and longevity.
Local regulations - Check local building codes and regulations regarding sewer and drainage systems. In some areas, there may be requirements or incentives for replacing old terracotta pipes with newer materials that meet modern standards.
Professional assessment - If you're unsure about the condition of your terracotta pipes or whether they need replacement, consider hiring a professional plumber or contractor to inspect them. They can provide expert advice based on the specific circumstances of your property.
Maintenance - Regular maintenance can extend the life of terracotta pipes. This may involve cleaning them periodically to remove debris and roots that can cause blockages.

Pipe Relining and Repair

If you have sprung a leak in your terracotta pipes never fear as there is a way to fix them with no dig pipe relining . Trenchless pipe relining is a fast, innovative solution to this age-old problem presenting a cost-effective pipe repair option for difficult-to-access pipes. In many situations, pipe relining is the preferred method of pipe repair over the traditional excavate-and-replace system.

Traditional Pipe Replacement

There are some situations where pipe relining might not be a suitable or the most cost-effective option and traditional pipe replacement may be the way to go such as:

Sagging pipes - Pipe relining is not recommended for pipes experiencing substantial sagging.
Alignment issues -.Issues concerning pipe alignment typically require excavation and realignment for a successful resolution.
Shallow pipes - if your pipes can be easily located and accessed traditional dig and replace methods may be a more cost-effective option.

Plumbing System Experts

If you have any questions about your plumbing system and need professional advice contact the team at Reline Solutions on 0403 355 550