Orangeburg Pipe Replacement: Why Trenchless Is Your Best Option

Orangeburg pipe, a material made from wood pulp and tar that was widely installed from the 1940s through the early 1970s, was meant to be a short-term solution, and history proved that point. Most Orangeburg pipe systems last about 30 to 50 years before softening, flattening, or cracking under pressure. Orangeburg pipe is no longer approved under modern plumbing codes, which is why replacing or rehabilitating these lines via trenchless sewer repair in Brookhaven, PA has become the practical solution for property owners in the area. 

Why Orangeburg Pipes Fail So Often

Orangeburg pipe absorbs moisture from the surrounding soil. Over time, that moisture causes the pipe walls to blister and collapse inward. Tree roots also push through easily because the material lacks rigidity. When we compare this with modern trenchless pipe replacement methods, the contrast is clear. Instead of removing large sections of ground, trenchless pipe lining solutions focus on restoring the line from within, which keeps the surrounding area intact while addressing the real cause of failure.

What Makes Trenchless Methods Different?

Traditional digging can stretch on for days and disrupt daily routines. With trenchless pipe repair, the process focuses on fixing the damaged section through small access points. Trenchless projects can reduce surface disruption by up to 70% compared to open excavation. That difference matters when the pipe runs under driveways, patios, or mature landscaping that homeowners want to keep.

Restoring Strength From the Inside

Trenchless pipe replacement reinforces the existing pipe by creating a new interior surface that resists corrosion and root intrusion. The materials used today are designed to last for decades. Studies from water and sewer associations report lined pipes achieving service lives of 50 years or more when properly installed, which far exceeds what Orangeburg was ever designed to handle.

How CIPP Technology Solves the Problem

CIPP pipe lining, short for cured-in-place pipe lining, takes this idea further. A resin-saturated liner is inserted and cured to form a seamless pipe within the old one. Because the liner hardens into a single jointless structure, it removes many of the weak points where failures usually start. This approach also improves flow, since the new interior surface is smoother than deteriorated Orangeburg.

Common Questions We Get Asked

How long does trenchless sewer replacement take?

Most trenchless sewer replacement projects are completed within one to two days, depending on pipe length and site conditions.

Is trenchless pipe replacement safe for older homes?

Yes. Trenchless pipe replacement is often preferred for older homes because it avoids disturbing foundations and settled soil.

Can trenchless pipe repair handle root damage?

Trenchless repair can handle root damage, but only after the roots are mechanically removed. The repair process then seals the cracks and joints that allowed the roots to penetrate, creating a root-resistant barrier. Severely collapsed sections may require replacement rather than lining.

Does trenchless pipe lining work for collapsed Orangeburg pipes?

Trenchless pipe lining works best when the pipe retains its basic shape. Fully collapsed sections may need targeted replacement first.

The Advanced Drains Difference

When it is time to deal with Orangeburg pipe problems, we bring more than equipment. We are family-owned, offer 24-hour emergency service, and back sewer replacements with lifetime warranties. Our pricing is fair, we beat competitor estimates by 10 percent, and we provide a free second opinion so you can make informed choices. Contact Advanced Drains and Underground Solutions today.