When sewer problems strike, homeowners are often faced with a big question: Should I repair my existing pipe with a trenchless solution like pipe lining, or do I need a full sewer line replacement? The answer depends on the condition of your pipes, the type of damage, and how quickly you act.

If you live in Boise, Eagle, Meridian, Nampa, or anywhere in the Treasure Valley, this guide will help you understand the difference between pipe lining and sewer line replacement—and when each is the right call.

What Is Pipe Lining (CIPP)?

Pipe lining, also known as Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP), is a trenchless sewer repair method that uses a flexible epoxy-saturated liner inserted into your existing pipe. Once cured, the liner forms a new, seamless pipe inside the old one—without needing to dig up your yard.

What Is Sewer Line Replacement?

Sewer line replacement typically involves excavating your property to remove the damaged pipe and install a brand-new line. While sometimes necessary, this traditional method is more invasive, expensive, and time-consuming than trenchless options.

Signs You May Be a Candidate for Pipe Lining

If your sewer line is damaged but structurally intact, pipe lining may be the best solution. Here are signs pipe lining might work for you:

✅ Recurring sewer backups despite snaking or jetting
✅ Sluggish drains in multiple areas of your home
✅ Foul sewage odors near drains or outside
✅ Soft, soggy patches in your yard but no complete collapse
✅ Root intrusion in clay or cast-iron pipes
✅ A video inspection reveals cracks, corrosion, or gaps—but the pipe is still holding its shape

Pipe lining is especially beneficial if you want to avoid digging up driveways, patios, or landscaping, and you want a fast turnaround (usually done in one day).

When a Full Sewer Line Replacement Is Necessary

There are some cases where pipe lining is not possible, and a traditional replacement is the only viable option. These include:

❌ Fully collapsed pipes
❌ Major misalignments or offset joints
❌ Back-pitched pipes (where the slope is incorrect and cannot be fixed internally)
❌ Severely deteriorated or crushed sections
❌ Sections with multiple disconnected parts
❌ Pipes made from materials too unstable to support a liner

If your sewer line is beyond repair, replacement ensures long-term reliability and may also allow you to upgrade to larger or more efficient piping systems.

How to Find Out Which Option You Need

The best way to determine whether you need pipe lining or a full sewer replacement is with a professional video camera inspection. This allows plumbers to:

• View the entire sewer line in real time
  
• Identify the type of damage and severity
  
• Measure the length and diameter of the damaged section
  
• Evaluate flow issues and material type

At Five Star Service Pros, we use high-resolution sewer cameras and provide same-day diagnostics for Boise and surrounding cities. We’ll walk you through your options with no pressure and full transparency.

Cost Comparison: Pipe Lining vs. Sewer Replacement

When weighing the pros and cons of pipe lining (CIPP) versus traditional sewer replacement, homeowners should consider factors like time, disruption, cost, and long-term value. Here’s how the two options compare:

• Average Time to Complete
  Pipe lining can typically be completed in just one day. Traditional sewer replacement usually takes 2 to 5 days, depending on how much excavation is needed.

   

• Property Disruption
  Pipe lining is a trenchless method, requiring minimal digging. It causes very little disruption to landscaping, driveways, or patios. Traditional replacement involves heavy excavation, often damaging yards and hardscapes in the process.

   

• Cost Range
  Pipe lining is often less expensive overall when you factor in labor and restoration. Most projects fall in the $3,000 to $8,000 range.
  Traditional sewer replacement typically costs more, usually $6,000 to $15,000 or more, especially if digging up landscaping or concrete is involved.

   

• Lifespan
  Pipe lining can last 50 years or more, offering long-term durability and corrosion resistance. A full sewer line replacement, depending on the material used, can last 50 to 75 years.

   

• Best For
  Pipe lining is best for structurally sound pipes with cracks, corrosion, or root intrusion — especially when avoiding property damage is a priority. Sewer line replacement is necessary when the pipe has collapsed, shifted, or been severely damaged beyond repair.

   

Boise’s Local Sewer Repair and Pipe Lining Experts: Why Homeowners Choose Us

Five Star Service Pros is Boise’s trusted leader in trenchless sewer repair and replacement. We offer:

✅ Same-day sewer inspections

✅ Trenchless pipe lining with minimal disruption

✅ Full sewer replacement when needed

✅ Honest advice tailored to your home’s needs

✅ Service across Boise, Eagle, Meridian, Garden City, Nampa & Caldwell

Schedule Your Sewer Line Inspection or Repair Today

Don’t guess — know for sure. If you’re seeing signs of sewer trouble, contact Five Star Service Pros for a video inspection and expert recommendation on whether pipe lining or full replacement is right for you

📞 Call (208) 260-1765 to schedule a fall sewer inspection.
💻 Or book online through our contact form