A no-dig way to repair damaged drains
Drain means that in many cases, the pipe can be repaired from the inside without digging at all.
If you are looking into drain relining in Leicester, something has probably been going wrong for a while.
Usually it starts with issues like:
- Blocked drains that keep coming back
• Tree roots inside the pipework
• Cracks or leaks underground
• Signs of structural damage
• Rats entering through damaged drains
Years ago, fixing this meant digging. Driveways lifted, patios broken up, gardens excavated, sometimes even indoor flooring removed.
Drain relining changes that. In many cases, the pipe can be repaired from the inside without digging at all.
What drain relining actually is
Drain relining is a trenchless repair method. Instead of replacing the pipe, a new lining is installed inside the existing one.
A resin-soaked liner is guided into position using CCTV equipment. Once correctly placed, it is inflated so it moulds tightly against the pipe walls and then cured in place.
When it hardens, it forms a new internal pipe.
The result:
- The pipe is sealed and strengthened
• Excavation is usually avoided
• Disruption is minimal
• The repair lasts for decades when installed correctly
For many Leicester properties, it removes the need for major groundworks entirely.
When relining is the right solution
Drain relining is normally recommended after a CCTV drain survey identifies problems such as:
- Cracked or fractured pipes
• Slightly displaced joints
• Root ingress
• Localised structural damage
• Leaking sections
• Entry points for rodents
Older parts of Leicester, including Clarendon Park, Knighton, Aylestone, Highfields and Stoneygate, often still have clay drainage systems. These pipes age well but become vulnerable at the joints, where roots and movement cause gradual damage.
If the pipe still holds its shape, relining is often possible.
If sections have completely collapsed, excavation may still be needed.
The inspection determines the answer, not guesswork.
How drain relining works step by step
- CCTV drain survey
Every relining job begins with a camera inspection.
This shows:
- Where the damage sits
• How severe it is
• Whether relining is suitable
Relining without inspection is simply not good practice.
- Cleaning the pipe
Before installation, the drain is thoroughly cleaned using high-pressure jetting.
This removes:
- Grease and scale
• Root growth
• Debris and deposits
A clean surface is essential so the liner bonds properly.
- Installing the liner
A flexible liner saturated with resin is inserted into the pipe and positioned precisely over the damaged section.
It is inflated so it presses firmly against the internal wall, then left to cure and harden.
Once set, it becomes a smooth internal pipe lining.
- Final inspection
A second CCTV survey confirms:
- Correct installation
• Structural integrity
• Full flow restoration
You can see the finished result on camera.
Why Leicester property owners choose relining
Relining offers several practical advantages:
- No digging in most situations
• Faster repair times
• Less disruption to homes or businesses
• Reduced reinstatement costs
• Sealed joints that stop root entry
• Reinforced ageing pipework
• Long-term structural repair
For many properties, it is the most sensible solution when damage is present but the pipe is still recoverable.
Relining vs excavation
Excavation is still necessary when:
- Pipes have fully collapsed
• Ground movement is severe
• Access for lining equipment is impossible
But digging involves:
- Breaking surfaces and landscaping
• Longer repair times
• Higher labour costs
• Reinstatement work afterwards
Relining avoids most of this when conditions allow. The key is accurate diagnosis first.
How long does drain relining last?
Modern liners are designed to last decades. Once cured, the liner forms a durable inner pipe resistant to:
- Root ingress
• Leaks
• Joint movement
With normal maintenance, it provides long-term reliability rather than a temporary fix.
Why relining often saves money
Repeated drain clearance without structural repair usually leads to:
- Ongoing blockages
• Multiple callout charges
• Gradual worsening damage
Relining addresses the underlying fault once instead of repeatedly treating symptoms.
Fix it properly once, rather than paying for the same problem again.
Frequently asked questions
How much does drain relining cost in Leicester?
Costs depend on pipe size, repair length and damage severity. When suitable, relining is usually cheaper than excavation and reinstatement.
Is relining better than digging up the drain?
If the pipe is structurally repairable, relining avoids excavation and significantly reduces disruption.
How long does relining take?
Most domestic projects are completed within a day, depending on access and repair length.
Can relining fix root damage?
Yes. After roots are removed, the liner seals entry points and prevents regrowth.
Is relining suitable for older clay pipes?
Often yes. Many ageing clay systems are ideal candidates when cracked but still structurally stable.
For all your drainage problems, call The Drain People on 0116 296 8186
