When a drain pipe fails out of nowhere, many homeowners start to panic. They also have so many questions about fixing it. The biggest tends to be: how long? Digging equipment, closed-off yards and the uncertainty of what’s actually happening underground will leave you wanting answers.
Basically, it depends on the repair method, extent of the damage and what your yard or foundation access looks like. Real timelines are variable. At Mr. Trenchless, we don’t want Calgary homeowners to be surprised with how long our crews are working. That’s why we’re going to discuss how long a drain pipe replacement takes in this new guide.
What Determines the Timeline?
Every drain pipe repair is different. The following factors impact how long a job can take:
- The Repair Method: Trenchless methods such as pipe bursting are usually faster than full excavation since they don’t require large-scale digging. Full excavation takes longer because it opens up more ground.
- The Extent of the Damage: A short, isolated section of failed pipe is simpler to repair compared to a collapsed, badly bellied or compromised full length.
- Access and Location: A pipe running under an open backyard is more accessible than one running under a driveway, mature landscaping or close to a foundation.
- What the Camera Inspection Reveals: A job that looks straightforward on the surface might have trouble lurking beneath the surface. Sometimes, the work might be more involved than the pipe’s condition shows.
- Weather and Ground Conditions: Calgary experiences freeze-thaw cycles and has clay-heavy soils. In turn, this affects how quickly a site can be dug, prepped and backfilled, especially in the winter months.
Timelines are variable. At Mr. Trenchless, we will give you an estimate at the beginning of the job and keep you updated throughout the process.
How Long Do Different Repairs Take?
Every job is different. Depending on the repair, you might find yourself waiting more or less time. Here are some of the most common repairs we make and their timelines:
Pipe Bursting: Typically 1 Day
Pipe bursting is a quick way to replace a failing underground pipe. It’s simple. A new pipe is pulled through the old one, breaking the old pipe outward along the way without the need for a long open trench. Most residential projects take as little as a day from setup to backfill.
Hydrovac Excavation: Typically 1 Day
Hydrovac excavation exposes a section of pipe for inspection or a targeted repair instead of full replacement. It’s precise and doesn’t disturb the surrounding area like traditional digging does. Most hydrovac jobs are done in a day.
Full Excavation and Replacement: Typically 1-3 Days
In some cases, full excavation is the only option. It happens when a pipe has failed extensively so the material is beyond saving or site conditions rule out trenchless methods. A typical full excavation and replacement runs one to three days depending on the length of pipe being replaced, depth, and the restoration (backfill, compaction, site cleanup) needed afterward.
Weeping Tile Replacement: Typically 2-5 Days
Weeping tile replacement is a more involved job. It involves excavating some or all of the home’s perimeter, removing the failed system and installing new drainage. Timelines vary. It usually comes down to the size of the home and how much of the perimeter needs addressing.
What Can Extend a Timeline?
Some jobs are straightforward at first glance, but this isn’t always the case. Here’s what can drag a project out longer than has to:
- Unexpected Damage Found After Excavation Begins: Sometimes, there’s a longer section of failed pipe than the initial inspection showed.
- Underground Utilities That Need to be Worked Around: This slows down excavation in tight or congested areas.
- Weather Delays: In the dead of Calgary’s winter, frozen ground can affect both digging and backfill.
- Permitting Requirements: These can vary depending on the scope and location of the work.
When you hire a reputable contractor, you’ll be made aware of these possibilities upfront. They shouldn’t be mid-project surprises.
What Should You Expect on Repair Day?
For most residential jobs, there’s a similar process. Here’s a breakdown:
- A camera inspection or site assessment confirms the scope of work.
- The crew preps the site.
- The repair or excavation is carried out.
- The area is backfilled and restored before the crew leaves.
With same-day jobs such as pipe bursting, homeowners can expect the work to start and finish within one visit.
How Does Mr. Trenchless Approach Timelines?
At Mr. Trenchless, we provide a realistic timeline based on your situation, not just a generic quote. Our team takes care of the diagnosis, excavation and repair under one roof. There’s no time lost coordinating between separate contractors or waiting for a second crew to show up.
Have a drain pipe that needs a repair? Contact us to schedule an inspection.
