Investigate route and pipe
Material, size, depth, length, bends, fittings, grade, utilities, and connections are documented.
Done Right Since 1950 ✦
Pipe Bursting Candidacy
Pipe bursting replaces an existing buried pipe by fracturing or displacing it while pulling a new pipe through the same general path. Candidacy depends on pipe material, diameter, route, depth, utilities, fittings, access pits, surrounding soil, connections, and whether the existing alignment and grade should be retained.
Warning Signs & Reasons to Schedule Service
- The existing line needs full replacement but a continuous trench would be highly disruptive.
- The pipe route is reasonably straight and accessible at both ends.
- The host material can be burst or displaced by the selected system.
- Grade and alignment are acceptable to follow.
- Utilities and structures can be safely cleared from the bursting path.
What the Process Usually Includes
Design pit and equipment access
Launch and receiving pits, pulling direction, machine location, spoil, and restoration are planned.
Select bursting system and new pipe
Head size, pulling equipment, pipe material, joints, and diameter are matched to the project.
Burst, connect, and verify
The new pipe is pulled, endpoints and branches are connected, and grade, flow, or camera condition is checked.
Advice for Common Situations
Utility clearance is critical
Bursting displaces soil and fragments outward, so nearby utilities must be considered carefully.
It follows the existing path
Pipe bursting does not correct a poor route or belly unless additional excavation changes alignment.
Access pits are still excavations
Surface restoration and equipment access should be clearly scoped.
Not every material bursts the same way
Ductile, reinforced, heavily repaired, or unusual pipes may require another method.
Pipe Bursting Candidacy FAQs
Can pipe bursting increase pipe size?
Sometimes upsizing is possible, but soil displacement, utilities, depth, equipment, and local requirements limit it.
Does pipe bursting leave old pipe underground?
The host pipe is fractured or displaced around the new pipe rather than removed along the full route.
How many pits are needed?
At least launch and receiving access are typical, with additional excavations possible for connections, bends, or site constraints.
Can a sewer belly be fixed with pipe bursting?
Not by following the same sagging route; correcting grade generally requires excavation or route modification.