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.


    Luke and his colleague were efficient, friendly and very professional. They arrived on time, kept me well informed and were just brilliant all round. I'd previously used a well known, national company and the contrast was remarkable. The previous company provided me with very little information, they refused to guarantee their work because a manhole was covered with a slab and once the blockage was cleared they left. Cotswold Drainage guaranteed their work and cleared the underlying problem, rather than the symptom. An all round excellent company to deal with.
    - L Lynass
    A great, straightforward service, thank you! Customer service is excellent - there was a problem with the date we originally booked, but it was quickly resolved by Richard, and he was very apologetic. The engineer who came out was Adrian. He was on time, called ahead of arrival as requested, and was very polite. Did a great job. Thanks guys!
    - Zoe - The Wild Oven
    Turned up when they said they would. Quickly diagnosed the issue. Have used before and can't fault them.
    - Pete English
    Good service and quality of work
    - Bill Baker
    Excellent service, turned up on the day and on time, polite and professional team
    - Mark Stevens
    I was impressed not only by the speed and professionalism of the work done to install a new septic tank, but by the considerate friendliness of those who carried it out and of those conducting correspondence about the job.
    - Robin Gilbert
    From the telephonist to the operative, Cotswold Drainage was helpful, flexible, and professional in its work. It arrived on time and went out of its way to show excellent camera footage of the drains.
    - Geoffrey
      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?