Before a CIPP liner is installed into a drainpipe a great deal of preparation needs to take place beforehand. The pre-lining inspection process is one of the first steps that determines the fate of the rest of the project and some may consider it to be the most critical stage in the entire process. A miscalculation in identifying the plumbing problem can put the entire job in jeopardy. Make sure to look for these three things before you start the pipe lining installation.
Does the pipe have: offset joints, holes or is collapsed?
During the inspection specifically look at the integrity of the pipe’s internal structure. Knowing the pipe material can be extremely helpful because different materials have certain failure tendencies – this may help you anticipate what to look for. In general, always look for any offset joints, holes on the bottom of the pipe or partially collapsed sections. Depending on the severity of the collapsed pipe, sectional lining may or may not be an option.
Are there any connections?
Investigating pipe several feet underground or hidden under concrete slab can be hard to visualize. Digging through several feet of earth or through a concrete slab are not always a feasible option for your clients. In these cases, identifying connections in drains can be especially tricky. Sometimes seeing connections can be easier after cleaning the pipe and then inspecting it a second time. Make sure to consciously look for drains that may connect in the approximate area of the repair.
Are there Tee or Wye fittings in the line?
Be sure to identify if there is a Tee or Wye fitting anywhere in your line – especially if it’s somewhere in the section(s) of the liner. A Tee fitting comes in perpendicular to a main line in a “T” but a Wye fitting comes in at a 45-degree angle to the pipe. There are a few rare fittings that may come in at a 22-degree angle. If you move forward with the lining process both Tee and Wye fittings will need to be reinstated.
There are a number of things a technician needs to look and account for before a CIPP liner is installed into a failing pipe line. Be sure to identify these three pipe characteristics before you build and install a liner. The pre-lining inspection process may take some time depending on how long this line is, however correctly identifying problem areas, connections, and fitting types can help mitigate potential problems down the road during the pipe lining process.