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.


    Excellent service. Punctual, professional and helpful. Thank you!
    - Susanne Cox
    Cotswold Drainage Ltd were extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and fast. They came around to take a look at my drainage issue and diagnosed the problems very efficiently. Then they fitted a new sump pump. Definitely recommend!
    - Paul Brindle
    We had an absolutely fantastic service from Cotswolds Drainage. They replaced a cesspool and septic tank, replacing them with a new sewage treatment works and drainage field, also installing soakaways for rainwater running off the roof. The estimating, planning, organisation, installation and clearing-up were painless and all went seamlessly. All of the installation teams were efficient, reliable and easy to work with and they were very careful about looking out for our dog. The financial estimates were clear and accurate, with no surprises. And they liaised with Building Regs as necessary. We’d thoroughly recommend Cotswolds Drainage.
    - G Lougher
    - NEIL SMITH
    Brilliant from start to finish. It was quick and easy to get a price, they were able to get to us within a day of accepting the quote. The gentleman who came out was friendly and answered all my questions. Would not hesitate to use them again.
    - Carrie Marshall-Couling
    - robert poole
      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?