How Zoom Drain Gulf Coast Turned Trenchless Technology into Revenue in Under 6 Months
When Reilly Terrell entered the plumbing industry, it wasn’t from the traditional path. Before launching Zoom Drain Gulf Coast, he owned and managed residential rental properties – giving him a firsthand look at the challenges property owners face when dealing with failing plumbing systems. “I was constantly dealing with plumbers, drain cleaners, and recurring issues,” Reilly explains. “It felt like there had to be a better solution.” That perspective would shape how he built his business and why he chose to invest in pipe lining — and ultimately achieve meaningful pipe lining business growth.
The Breaking Point: Trenchless Pipe Lining vs. Traditional Excavation
Like many contractors, Reilly’s business started with traditional services – repairs, installs, and sewer replacements. But one project changed everything.
A large commercial sewer replacement required 150 feet of excavation, jackhammering through a busy retail space serving restaurants and shops. “It was massively disruptive for the landlord and all the tenants,” he says. “That’s when it really hit me – there has to be a better way than this.” He began seriously exploring trenchless solutions.
A Costly Lesson That Led to Pipe Lining Control and Contractor Growth
Reilly’s first experience with pipe lining didn’t go as planned. After landing a residential lining job, his team subcontracted the work. The result? A failed installation that had to be completely redone. “Luckily, we had a good relationship with the customer,” Reilly says. “But that’s when I realized – we need to control this ourselves.” Shortly after, he made the decision to become a NuFlow Certified Contractor.
Hands-On Pipe Lining Training That Accelerated Business Growth
From day one, the experience was different. NuFlow provided on-site, hands-on training, starting in the shop and quickly moving into real jobs – including fixing the failed liner from the subcontractor. “The trainer was right there with us – walking us through everything,” Reilly says. “Then we went straight into another job. After that first week, we were off and running.” That immediate, real-world experience made all the difference.
Fast ROI and a New Revenue Stream
With jobs already lined up and the right support in place, the investment in NuFlow paid off quickly. Zoom Drain Gulf Coast recovered their full investment in less than six months – including equipment and materials, demonstrating how effective pipe lining business growth can be when paired with the right training and support.
Today, pipe lining makes up approximately 20% of their business. The company operates three service trucks and a dedicated lining trailer. They’ve expanded from residential into assisted living and more commercial projects.
Winning More Jobs with Pipe Lining Services and Trenchless Solutions
Reilly didn’t just add a service – he built a brand around it. Their fully wrapped lining trailer is strategically positioned on every job site, turning each project into a marketing opportunity. “It’s like a rolling billboard,” he says. “We’ve landed jobs just from people seeing us while we’re working.” Paired with camera inspections and a clear, educational approach, pipe lining has become a powerful sales tool. “When you show customers exactly what’s happening inside their pipes and present a real solution, it clicks. These problems aren’t going away on their own – but with pipe lining, you can fix them for good.”
Support That Builds Confidence
Even as his team gained experience, NuFlow’s 24/7 support remained a key advantage. From job planning to real-time troubleshooting, help from NuFlow’s lining experts is always just a phone call away. “I’ve called from a roof in the middle of a job, and they walked me through it,” Reilly says. “Every challenge becomes a learning opportunity.” His team continues to attend training, constantly improving efficiency and execution.
A Better Solution for Customers – and a Smarter Business Model
Reilly’s background as a property owner gives him a unique edge in sales. “I empathize with customers because I’ve been in their shoes,” he explains. “No one wants to spend the money – but tearing up your home or business isn’t realistic either.”
Pipe lining allows his team to offer minimal disruption, long term solutions, and a better customer experience. And it positions his business for the future. “Pipe lining is only going to keep growing.”
Scaling a Plumbing Business Through Pipe Lining and Trenchless Services
Reilly is quick to credit his team as a driving force behind the company’s success. “They’re a huge part of what we’ve built – I couldn’t do it without them,” he says. It’s that same confidence in his people, paired with the right tools and support, that shapes his advice to other contractors.
His message is simple: do it.
“If you’re already in the sewer and drain business, I don’t understand why you wouldn’t add pipe lining,” Reilly says. “With the training, support, and materials available, your team can go out and deliver real solutions from day one.” And when it comes to choosing a partner, his perspective is clear: “As far as I can tell, NuFlow is the best option. I love it.”
His only regret? “I just wish I had done it sooner.”
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FAQ: Pipe Lining for Contractors & Business Growth
Q: What is pipe lining and how does it work?
A: Pipe lining is a trenchless method of repairing damaged pipes from the inside using a resin-saturated liner that cures in place, creating a new, durable pipe within the existing one.
Q: How can pipe lining help grow a plumbing business?
A: Pipe lining adds a high-value service that reduces disruption for customers, increases job size, and creates new revenue opportunities, especially in commercial and multi-unit properties.
Q: How quickly can contractors see a return on investment with pipe lining?
A: As shown in this case, contractors can achieve ROI in under six months when supported by proper training, equipment, and a pipeline of jobs.
Q: Why is training important for pipe lining services?
A: Proper training ensures installations are done correctly, reducing the risk of failure, improving customer satisfaction, and protecting a contractor’s reputation.
Q: What types of projects benefit most from trenchless pipe lining?
A: Pipe lining is ideal for residential homes, commercial buildings, assisted living facilities, and any property where excavation would be disruptive or costly.
Q: How does pipe lining help contractors win more jobs?
A: By offering a less invasive solution, using camera inspections to educate customers, and presenting a long-term fix, contractors can differentiate themselves and close more sales.
Q: What kind of support do contractors receive after training?
A: Contractors gain access to ongoing training, real-time jobsite support, and technical expertise to help them successfully complete projects and continue improving their skills.
Q: Is pipe lining a long-term solution?
A: Yes. When installed correctly, pipe lining provides a durable, long-lasting solution that can extend the life of a plumbing system for decades.