Pipe relining vs pipe replacement — which is right for your home?

If your plumber has told you that you need pipe work done — whether from tree roots, cracked pipes, or age — you may have been offered pipe relining as an alternative to full replacement. Here's a clear explanation of both options so you can make an informed decision.

What is pipe relining?

Pipe relining (also called CIPP — cured-in-place pipe lining) involves inserting a flexible resin-impregnated liner into the damaged pipe through an existing access point. The liner is inflated to press against the interior of the old pipe, then cured (hardened) in place using hot water or UV light. The result is a new pipe inside the old pipe — without any digging.

What is pipe replacement?

Traditional pipe replacement involves excavating the ground to expose the damaged section of pipe, removing it, and installing new pipe in its place. In some cases this requires cutting into concrete driveways, floors, or garden beds.

Cost comparison

Job type	Pipe relining	Pipe replacement
Simple section (1–3m)	$500–$1,500	$800–$2,000
Under driveway or slab	$1,500–$4,000	$3,000–$8,000+
Full drain line (10m+)	$3,000–$8,000	$5,000–$15,000+
Reinstatement (restore surface)	Minimal to none	$1,000–$5,000 extra

Pipe relining typically costs more per metre than replacement pipe alone — but when you factor in excavation, concrete cutting, and reinstatement costs, relining usually works out cheaper for pipes under concrete, driveways, or established gardens.

When relining is the better choice

• The pipe runs under a concrete slab, driveway, or tiled area

• Tree roots have infiltrated the pipe but haven't caused structural collapse

• The pipe is in a hard-to-reach location (under a house, beneath a garden)

• You want to minimise disruption to your property and landscaping

• The pipe structure is intact but cracked, pitted, or root-damaged

When replacement is the better choice

• The pipe has fully collapsed and a liner can't be inserted

• The pipe has major joint displacement or severe misalignment

• The pipe is made of a material unsuitable for relining (some older pitch fibre pipes)

• The pipe is easily accessible with no concrete or structures above it

• A large section needs replacing and relining costs don't offer savings

CCTV inspection first: The only way to know which option is right is a CCTV drain inspection. This shows the exact condition and location of the damage, and allows your plumber to give you an accurate quote for both options. At Flow Now Plumbing we always inspect before recommending.

Lifespan — does relining last as long?

Quality pipe relining carries a lifespan of 50+ years when installed correctly, with most reputable installers offering a 25–35 year structural guarantee. This is comparable to — and in some cases longer than — replacement pipe. The key is using a quality lining system and having it installed by an experienced plumber.

The short answer

For pipes under concrete, driveways, or established gardens in Melbourne, relining is almost always the smarter choice — less disruption, comparable cost, and a long lifespan. For accessible pipes or fully collapsed sections, replacement may be the only or more cost-effective option. Get a CCTV inspection first and ask for quotes on both.