Sewer Reroute vs. Pipe Relining

The short answer

Relining rehabilitates the inside of an existing pipe and generally keeps its route. A reroute replaces or installs piping along a different path. If the problem is a damaged section in an otherwise suitable line, a liner may be considered. If the route, slope, access or layout is the problem, rerouting or replacement may be a better fit.

Neither option is right for every property. A camera inspection and a clear description of the symptoms help establish what is actually wrong before comparing proposals.

What pipe relining can do

Pipe relining is a trenchless rehabilitation method that creates a new lining inside an existing pipe. It may reduce the need to expose the full line, but the existing path remains. It does not correct a poor route or slope, and some liner methods reduce the pipe’s internal diameter. The host pipe and installation conditions must suit the selected method.

The U.S. EPA’s trenchless sewer rehabilitation fact sheet describes site and pipe conditions that can limit whether lining is suitable.

When a reroute may be considered

A reroute changes the pipe path. A plumber may consider it when the current alignment is damaged, inaccessible, poorly configured or conflicts with planned construction. The design must connect to the existing system and account for slope, access, other utilities and the property’s layout.

Rerouting often involves excavation and restoration where the new line is installed. The amount of digging depends on the route and site conditions; ask the contractor to explain the proposed path and what restoration is included.

Compare the options using the inspection findings

• Pipe condition: What damage, roots, offsets or breaks were actually observed, and where?
• Alignment and slope: Is the existing route usable, or does it need to change?
• Access: Where would equipment enter, and would either option require pits or open excavation?
• Capacity: Could a liner’s reduced inside diameter affect the line’s performance?
• Scope: Does the written proposal include permits, connections, testing and surface restoration?

There is no reliable universal price or lifespan comparison without the pipe material, length, depth, condition, access and exact work scope. Ask for a written explanation of why the recommended repair fits the inspection results.