Pipe Bursting
Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement
Replace your entire sewer line without tearing up your property. Pipeline Solutions Plumbing's pipe bursting technology destroys old pipes while simultaneously installing new ones—all underground with minimal surface disruption.
What Is Pipe Bursting?
Pipe bursting is a trenchless method that breaks apart your existing pipe from the inside while pulling new pipe into place. A bursting head is pulled through the old pipe, fracturing it outward and drawing the new pipe behind it.
How Pipe Bursting Works:
1. Access Pits
Two small pits (typically 4' x 4') are excavated at each end of the pipe section—far smaller than traditional trenching.
2. Bursting Head Insertion
A specialized bursting head is inserted at one end, connected to the new pipe.
3. Pulling Process
Powerful hydraulic equipment pulls the bursting head through the old pipe. As it advances:
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It breaks apart the old pipe
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Displaces fragments into surrounding soil
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Pulls new pipe into place
4. Connection & Backfill
New pipe is connected to existing system, and access pits are backfilled.
5. Testing
System is tested and final connections completed.
Benefits of Pipe Bursting:
Minimal Excavation
Only small access pits at pipe ends—no trenching the entire line.
Fast Installation
Often completed in a single day for residential applications.
Complete Replacement
Brand-new pipe throughout—not a patch or liner.
Increased Capacity
Can install same size or even larger pipe than the original.
Long-Lasting
New HDPE or PVC pipe lasts 50-100+ years.
Property Protection
Preserves landscaping, driveways, patios, and other surface features.
When Pipe Bursting Is Ideal
Perfect For:
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Complete sewer line replacement
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Pipes with extensive damage
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Upgrading to larger diameter
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Replacing old clay or deteriorated pipes
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Situations where excavation is impractical
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Properties with difficult access
May Not Be Suitable For:
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Pipes with extremely sharp bends
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Very deep installations with limited access
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Areas with other underground utilities in close proximity
Pipe Materials We Install:
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
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Extremely durable and flexible
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Excellent for pipe bursting applications
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Resistant to corrosion and chemicals
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Joint-free construction
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50-100+ year lifespan
PVC
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Strong and reliable
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Corrosion-resistant
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Cost-effective
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Proven performance
Diameter Capabilities:
We can burst pipes from 4" to 12" diameter, and can even upsize to larger pipe during the process.
Traditional Replacement vs. Pipe Bursting
Traditional Trenching:
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Trench entire pipe length
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Extensive excavation (often 50+ feet long, 4-6 feet deep)
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Major landscape destruction
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Driveway/hardscape removal and replacement
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Week+ to complete
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High restoration costs
Pipe Bursting:
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Small pits at ends only
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Minimal surface disruption
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Landscaping largely preserved
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No driveway removal
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Often 1-2 days to complete
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Minimal restoration needed
Cost Comparison:
While pipe bursting equipment costs are higher, total project costs often equal traditional methods when you eliminate:
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Extensive excavation
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Landscape destruction
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Driveway/patio removal and replacement
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Extended labor time
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Property restoration
Residential & Commercial Applications:
Pipe bursting works for residential sewer lines, commercial applications, and even municipal systems.
Property Impact:
Your yard remains largely intact, and you can typically return to normal property use within a day or two.
Your Northern Virginia Class A Contractor with Over 25 Years of Experience
Licensed, Bonded, and Insured
Serving
We proudly serve residential and commercial customers throughout Northern Virginia, including:
Alexandria
Arlington
Fredericksburg
Leesburg
Fairfax County
Prince William County
Fauquier County
Loudoun County
Frequently asked questions
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