Pipe bursting replaces a sewer lateral by pulling a bursting head through the old pipe from one access pit to another. The head splits the old pipe outward and drags a new HDPE pipe in behind it, so you end up with a new pipe along the same path with little surface damage.
It works for pipe that is too damaged to line, including badly cracked clay and cast iron, and it can keep or upsize the diameter. It needs two access points and can be limited by nearby utilities, tight bends or pipes too close to a foundation. Listings here are companies whose name, website or listed services point to this work, plus companies carrying our Trenchless badge. A listing is not a guarantee that a company offers a specific method, so confirm it on the call and ask to see the camera inspection first.
Neither in every case. Lining keeps the old pipe as a host and suits pipe that is still structurally sound; bursting gives you a brand-new pipe and suits pipe that is too far gone to line. A camera inspection and a site visit decide it.
Will pipe bursting damage nearby lines?
It can if other utilities run close to the sewer. A careful contractor locates utilities first (call 811 before digging) and tells you the risk.