Skip to main content

In this article

    How does drain lining work?

    13th May 2022

    Drain relining is one of the ways we can repair damaged drainage pipes. It works by fixing a new pipe, called a lining, into an existing damaged pipe without needing to dig them all up and re-run across your entire drainage system. Bit by bit the lining slowly moves along the existing pipes until it covers the entire damaged area, once the liner is in place, an airbag within the liner is inflated, pushing the liner out to the diameter of the pipe.

    It’s a beneficial way of fixing your damaged drains and ensures long-lasting structural reliability and prevents further deterioration of the drains, as the drain lining usually has a durability of over 50 years.

    Benefits of drain lining 

    • There is no excavation or destruction to any surrounding area.
    • It can be used for horizontal, vertical, and lateral pipes.
    • It’s more cost-effective than pipe replacement by excavation.
    • It stops cracks, erosion, and leaks, whilst preventing and combating root intrusion.
    • It can line all pipes no matter how many bends there are.
    • It increases the capacity of the pipe for flow.
    • You only need to line the area that needs repair, and not necessarily the whole length of the piping.
    • It’s more time-efficient, jobs that would normally take days can be done in hours.

    When To Reline Drainpipes

    • Unpleasant smells in the garden.
    • Hearing the constant sound of running water, even when the taps are turned off.
    • Unexplained wet floors in your house.
    • Vermin, such as rats, being in the garden could be a sign of leaking drainage pipes.
    • Sometimes a higher cost for your water can indicate damaged pipes.
    • Having rust or debris in your water.
    • Unexplained cracks in your walls.
    • Presence of sludge in the bath or shower.
    • Unusual growth in vegetation.

    These are just some of the signs to look out for. If you suspect your drains could be damaged, check out our 9 signs you need to call a drain specialist or contact our drain repair specialists.


    Get in touch

    Contact our friendly and professional team via form, phone or email for any drainage issues you may have.

    From blocked drains to septic tank repairs and replacements, we're here to help. We have over 25 years of experience and offer 24/7 emergency callouts.


    I found this company vie the internet, so had no prior knowledge or reference. The project manager visited on time and I found his ideas and plans very credible. We did a deal and all worked out exactly as the company described, including cost and timing. I have no complaints, and am very satisfied and I would highly recommend this company. for such work.
    - Richard Booth
    Loo's were backing up so contacted Cotswold Drainage at 12 noon on a Saturday via WhatsApp which was listed on their website. They responded within 60 seconds and Adrian was at our house by 3pm, quickly assessed our underground drains layout and unblocked it in less than 15 minutes. To make sure everything was 100%, he got us to flush all loos to ensure water was flowing correctly and finished off with a camera up the drains to check everything was totally clear. A very efficient and thorough service and they even guarantee the work for six months. Highly recommended. Thank you.
    - PhilipC
    Cotswold Drainage are absolutely fantastic! Always prompt, always reliable, and they sort out every issue with impressive speed. Our workplace drains cause more trouble than we’d like, but these guys come to the rescue every single time. Truly outstanding service!”
    - Rachel Coates
    Fast ! Great knowledge and speedy result !
    - Jane Woolliscroft
    This company carried out some rather difficult works inside a treatment plant for me. There was a longer delay than I expected for the parts but they kept me informed at all times. They carried out the work exactly as planned and on time as they agreed, to the exact price quoted. It was terrible weather and the two men working on site still got the job done and were positive and hard working all the way through. I am impressed with Cotswold Drainage and will continue to use them in the future. They are friendly, realistic, not the cheapest quote I'd had, but certainly honest and knowledgeable people. I don't mind paying slightly more for that level of service. It was stress free and good value in the long run. So when you look at multiple quotes, I'd say consider them above others due to their knowledge, honesty and workmanship.
    - John M
    - Rob Pateman
    Reliable, professional and trustworthy. Adrian resolved the issue of a blocked drainage system, identifying the problem and taking the appropriate action to resolve it, leaving the drain free running and all blockages removed.
    - Andy Bassett
      Please let us know your name.
      Please let us know your email address.
      Invalid Input
      Invalid Input
      Please let us know your message.

      Related Articles

      How to Fix a Broken Drainpipe

      5 Ways to help you maintain your drain health in the home

      I’m not sure the blockage is on my property. How can I find out?