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    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.


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    Cotswold Drainage Ltd came out on a Saturday and spent a long time trying to clear a stubborn drain blockage. They then returned early the following week and managed to fix what could have turned into a huge, stressful job — especially impressive as two other companies had been unable to resolve it. The 6-month guarantee is a great reassurance, and the team were friendly, accommodating and genuinely made me feel like nothing was too much trouble. They will absolutely be my go-to company from now on. Highly recommended.
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    We recently had some work done to our pump chamber which was in need of some significant upgrade. Cotswold Drainage did a great job. Their engineers were professional, knowledgeable and kept us updated on progress. The office staff were great too. Very responsive to sending out the quote and planning the work. Overall workmanship and price was spot on. Will be using them again for the annual service. Well done and thank you.
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