Pipe bursting is a trenchless technique for replacing old, broken pipes with entirely new sections when other methods cannot repair them. This advanced service from Almco Plumbing allows you to replace pipes without extensive excavation, preserving your landscaping, driveway, and other property features. The process requires only two access points, making pipe bursting a faster, cleaner, and more cost-effective alternative to traditional pipe replacement. In just a few working days, the customer receives a new sewer line that will last for decades.
Below is a detailed description of pipe bursting, including a step-by-step explanation of the process, the pros and cons of the technology, and approximate pricing for the service.
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What is Pipe Bursting?
Pipe bursting is a way to replace old, damaged sewer pipes with new ones without extensive excavation. The process uses a bursting head that destroys the existing pipe while simultaneously pulling the new pipe into place. This method replaces corroded or damaged pipe that cannot be repaired by trenchless methods such as CIPP or epoxy pipe lining.
The process is generally as follows: a bursting head is inserted into one end of the old pipe, and a new pipe is pulled through. The old pipe collapses, leaving pieces in the ground as the burst head passes. The new pipe then takes its place, replacing the sewer line.
Can pipe bursting be considered a trenchless sewer repair technique? Without a doubt, yes. However it is different from other trenchless repair methods such as epoxy lining or pipe relining. For example, pipe relining involves the installation of a new lining inside the old pipe, while pipe bursting results in a complete replacement of the old pipe with a new pipe.
Compared to conventional trench repair methods, pipe bursting is more efficient and less disruptive to the landscape and homeowner’s property. It does not require trenching, which reduces the risk of damaging other underground utilities. Additionally, Almco Plumbing’ professionals spend less time bursting pipes than they would if they had to replace the sewer system using traditional methods. This makes pipe bursting a highly attractive service to San Diego property owners who need to make repairs without delay.
When Should You Use Pipe Bursting?
Pipes destroyed by corrosion or severely damaged beyond repair are the most common cases where Almco Plumbing recommends customers install new sewer lines using trenchless technology.
Below are some other situations where this trenchless technology may be the best, and sometimes the only, solution.
- Constant Leaks & Cracks. Frequent leaks and constant cracking indicate severe pipe deterioration. In these cases the entire pipe must be replaced. With pipe bursting, the entire pipe is replaced at once.
- Upgrading to a Larger Diameter Pipe. When there is a need to increase the capacity of an existing sewer line, pipe bursting allows for an easy upgrade from 3” to 4” diameter pipe with minimal inconvenience to the surrounding community.
- Tree Roots. Roots can grow inside the pipe if the pipe has a crack. Sewer water overflows and plant roots or tree roots grow inside the pipe and then break the pipe. Pipe bursting can replace old broken pipe with brand new plastic pipe CDR-17 with 100% guarantee roots never get back inside the pipe.
- Environmentally Sensitive Areas. Minimal soil excavation with pipe bursting technology is well suited for sites near rivers, wetlands, or protected areas. It is also preferred in locations where extensive excavation of the ground surface could cause erosion.
- Cost Savings for Large Projects. For large sewer replacement projects, pipe bursting can be more cost effective because it significantly reduces the amount of excavation and shortens the project schedule.
Pipe Bursting Technology Step by Step
Pipe Bursting is a high-quality, trenchless method of sewer line replacement near San Diego that allows homeowners to get a completely new sewer system without extensive excavation. Below is a step-by-step description of the entire pipe bursting process, from the moment you find the problem to the final inspection of the quality of the work.

Every trenchless repair begins with a thorough inspection of the existing sewer line using a high-resolution camera. This assessment allows you to evaluate the condition of the pipe and determine if this technology is the right solution for your particular case.

Almco Plumbing technicians dig small access holes at the beginning and end of the section of pipe to be replaced. These entry and exit points allow the necessary equipment to be installed without digging a trench along the entire length of the problematic sewer section.

A bursting head is now inserted into the beginning of the old pipe at the entry point, and the new pipe is inserted as a continuation of the old pipe. As we move forward, the bursting head destroys the old pipe to make room for the new pipe, which is gently pulled into place.

Once the new pipe is fully retracted and in place, a final inspection is made with the camera to make sure everything is positioned correctly. The final touch is to verify that the system is working properly, leaving the customer with a reliable and durable new sewer line.
This trenchless method offers San Diego area homeowners a fast, efficient and minimally invasive way to replace sewer lines.