How Long Does Trenchless Pipe Replacement Take

Homeowners often ask: How long does trenchless pipe replacement take? If you’re researching timelines for trenchless jobs, you’re in the right place. A trusted hydro jetting company that also offers trenchless sewer line repair can often complete the job in just a day or two, quickly resolving issues like leaking pipes, broken sewer lines, and other common drain problems — all without the mess of traditional digging.

How Long Does Trenchless Pipe Replacement Take – Typical Timelines

Lets dive in to answering the question: How long the pipe replacement takes?

Pre‑Work Inspection & Cleaning

• Firstly, a video inspection takes place with a sewer camera which takes a few hours and allows assessment of the pipe.
• Secondly, hydro-jetting or mechanical tools are used to remove roots, grease and buildup from within your pipes. The time taken depends on the severity of the problem.

Pipe Lining (CIPP method)

• Once the pipe is cleaned, for the CIPP method the resin‑soaked felt liner is inserted and inflated.
• The time taken to cure may be between 1hr up to 24hrs depending on the method used to cure (steam, UV).
• The entire liner process takes up to 4-6 hours, usually completed in a day.

Pipe Bursting (Full Replacement)

If the full replacement is required timeline changes as in:

• A few hours to a half day is required for inspection and planning.
• Two access holes are dug.
• Usually it takes 4-6 hours to pull the bursting head and new HDE pipe through the existing line.
• Additional hours are then needed for backfill and site cleanup
• Total timeline adds up to about 1 to 2 days

Larger or Complex Jobs

• For longer runs, difficult soil at sites, multiple bends or under-slab sections may stretch over a time period of several days or weeks
• Weeks can be taken by municipal or multi-home projects, but individual residential sections usually wrap up quickly

Factors That Influence Duration:

• Pipe length & diameter: Longer or larger pipes increase time.
• Condition of pipe: Collapsed, offset, or root‑intruded lines require more prep.
• Soil type & weather: Rocky or wet soil slows access; rain delays work.
• Access constraints: Tight yards, under slab, or driveway entry add complexity.
• Permitting and inspections: City jobs or HOA rules can add delays.
• Contractor experience & equipment: Skilled crews move faster and minimize renovation

Seasonal Factors affecting Impact Trenchless Pipe Replacement Timelines

While Trenchless pipe replacement is effective throughout the year, seasons in which the project is scheduled affects how quickly it is completed. In winter, when the climate is cold, it slows down the pipe liner curation and the ground is more difficult to access due to freezing conditions. Similarly, heavy rainfall brought in during spring leads to waterlogged soil which can delay preparation and thus, overall project time is increased. In contrast, late summer and early fall are typically the best time to schedule trenchless pipe restoration.

Conclusion

The answer to how long does trenchless pipe replacement take depends on various factors like pipe length, soil condition, weather etc, but most of the jobs are done within one to two days, for moderately sized sewer lines using pipe lining or bursting.

From inspection to cleanup- start to finish- it is unlikely to require more than a week for more jobs. However, larger or complex tasks may take longer. Furthermore, the Trenchless method still remains far less invasive and disruptive than traditional excavation.

FAQS:

1. How long does trenchless pipe replacement actually take from start to finish?

For most homeowners, trenchless pipe replacement takes anywhere from a few hours to two days, depending on the size and condition of the existing line. In many straightforward residential jobs, everything — from inspection to cleanup — can be wrapped up in a single day.

2. Can trenchless pipe replacement be done in bad weather?

It depends on the type of weather and the method being used. Light rain or mild cold typically won’t stop the process, especially if indoor access points are available. However, freezing temperatures can delay things due to issues like frozen ground, slower resin curing, or unsafe work conditions. Likewise, heavy rain can saturate the soil, making it unstable or messy to work in.

3. Will I need to leave my house during the replacement process?

More often than not you can stay in your home during the treatment. The water may be temporarily shut off for a few hours but in comparison to traditional it is far less invasive since no major digging is required thus, no need to vacant the property. In case any temporary disruptions are expected your plumber will be sure to inform you before hand—if any at all.

4. Is trenchless pipe replacement more expensive because it’s faster?

Not necessarily. While the upfront cost of trenchless methods can sometimes be slightly higher than traditional digging (due to specialized equipment and technology), the overall value is often better. That’s because you don’t have to pay to restore your lawn, driveway, or landscaping afterward — which can easily cost thousands. Trenchless allows for time saving as it finishes faster, which allows for less disruption to