Inversion vs Pull-In-Place CIPP: Which Method for Your Business? | T3 Guide

Deciding between inversion CIPP and pull-in-place pipe lining? Both can provide new superior repairs for your customers compared to digging and replacement, but that doesn’t make them equally beneficial for every project.

So how do you know which to choose? It all comes down to a few key factors, including pipe diameter, pipe run length, and your access points. We’re here to guide you through both trenchless pipe repair methods so you know what’s right for you.

TL;DR

• Pull-in-place: Best for short runs (>60 feet), needs access on both ends, limited to 12" diameter

• Inversion: Best for residential, single access point, longer runs (>60 feet)

• Both methods: Fast curing, minimal excavation, 50+ year lifespan

• Choose based on: pipe diameter, run length, and available access points

What Is Pull-In-Place Pipe Lining?

Pull-in-place (PIP) pipe lining repairs damaged or deteriorated underground pipes without the need for extensive excavation. PIP lining uses existing access points like cleanouts or sewer terminals to insert a resin-impregnated liner to completely rebuild the interior of damaged pipes without the need for open-trench digging.

How PIP Pipe Lining Works

1. Initial inspection: Use CCTV to identify the exact location and nature of the problem, whether it's a crack, leak, or corrosion.

2. Pipe preparation: Clean the pipe using high-pressure water jetting, descaling, or chain knocking to remove debris, scale, and blockages. The goal is to create a smooth and clean surface for the repair material to adhere to.

3. Pipe Lining installation: A flexible liner, typically made of resin-saturated felt or fiberglass, is inserted into the damaged pipe. The liner conforms to the shape of the existing pipe and adheres to its inner surface via air or water pressure.

4. Curing process: Once in place, the resin in the liner is either heat- or UV-cured, creating a durable and structurally sound pipe within a pipe. The curing process takes anywhere from 90 seconds to several hours, depending on the resin used.

5. Final inspection and testing: Video inspection is used again to examine the integrity of the new liner and to verify that the pipe is now free from leaks and blockages.

Benefits:

• Minimal excavation, with two small access points required

• Cost-effective due to reduced timelines and less heavy machinery

• Long-lasting solution, with 50+ years of use possible

• Ideal for spot repairs (5-10 feet) and multi-diameter runs

Drawbacks:

• Extensive damage may not be repairable through PIP pipe repair

• Training is necessary for proper installation

• Must have access to both ends of pipe section

Find the Right Trenchless Tech

We compared the top 5 trenchless tech options to help you decide what’s right for your business. Read our full guide here.

What Is Inversion CIPP?

Inversion CIPP uses a resin-saturated felt or fiberglass liner to repair damaged, corroded, or root-infiltrated pipes. This method starts with a liner that is inserted into the host pipe using air pressure. As the air pressure increases, the liner turns inside out and presses against the host pipe until it cures.

How Inversion CIPP Works

1. Initial inspection: CCTV inspection helps determine location and extent of damage within the host pipe, as well as the length of run.

2. Pipe preparation: Chain knocking and water jetting eliminate debris, creating a smooth interior surface for proper bonding

3. Pipelining installation: The inverted liner is inserted into the host pipe with air pressure through a single access point, then held in place by air pressure or water pressure.

4. Curing process: Installers use ambient temperatures, hot water, steam, or UV light to cure the liner, ranging from minutes to hours to finish.

5. Reinstatement and Inspection: All terminals and connections are reinstated using robotic cutting tools, and a final CCTV inspection is performed to confirm proper installation.

Benefits:

• Almost no excavation or demolition required

• Simple and fast installation

• 50-100 years of additional use

• Ideal for longer runs and pipes with up to 90º bends

Drawbacks:

• Does not work for pipe bellying or extensive collapses

• Higher equipment investment costs

• More difficult for spot repairs

Will CIPP Work?

While it’s more versatile than almost any other repair method, CIPP has its limitations.

Inversion CIPP versus PIP Pipe Lining: What’s Your Best Choice?

The best CIPP repair for your business is the one that serves it best, and that depends on your customer base and goals. Inversion vs. pull-in-place comes down to a few key factors:

Excavation Needs

Both methods of CIPP lining repair offer a nearly dig-free alternative to conventional pipe replacement, but pulled-in-place needs access points on both ends of the damaged section. Inversion CIPP only needs a single access point, making it more convenient in many cases.

Best Choice: Inversion CIPP

Fast Curing and Reinstatement

Depending on the resin used, your curing and reinstatement time can be anywhere from less than a working day to as little as an hour. And since both inversion and pull-in-place lining methods can utilize these same resins, they’re equally matched for fast turnaround times.

Best Choice: Evenly matched

If you’re working with…	PIP Lining	CIPP Lining
Small Diameter Pipes (2” to 12”)	✅	✅
Large Diameter Pipes (greater than 12”)	❌	✅
Minor Damage	✅	✅
Moderate Damage	✅	✅
Pipes That Need Structural Integrity	✅	✅
Significant Time Constraints	✅	✅
The Need for Budget-Friendly Repair	✅	✅
Long Pipe Runs	❌	✅
Single-End Access	❌	✅
Limited Access or High Disruption Potential	✅	✅

Pipe Diameter

Since both methods start with a resin-impregnated felt liner, the smallest diameter you can repair is around 2” to avoid flow restriction issues. But most pull-in-place pipe lining repairs range from 4” to 12” in diameter. Inversion lining, however, has been successfully implemented on diameters up to 84 inches.

Advantage: Inversion CIPP

Pipe Repair Length

Pulled-in-place lining is not as well-suited for long runs of pipe lining repairs as inversion CIPP. In most cases, PIP repair is designed for runs of less than 60 feet, with its most effective application in 5’–10’ spot repairs. Inversion CIPP is better suited for whole-pipe repairs and longer runs, making it a better option for both sewer pipe rehabs and some large municipal contracts.

Advantage: PIP for spot repairs, Inversion for longer runs

An Almost Even Match

There are a few differences between inversion and pull-in-place CIPP repair methods, but the central benefits are the same: lower cost, shorter timelines, less invasive work, and long-lasting repairs. Here’s how to make the final decision:

Pull-in-Place: spot repairs, diameter changes, shorter runs, and two access points available

Inversion CIPP: full-length pipe repairs, larger diameters, and single access point available

Both methods offer relatively portable and low-profile equipment setups, and both require proper training to implement successfully.

Invest the Right Way with Leading Trenchless Technical Training and Equipment

Here’s the good news: no matter which system you choose, you can find quality training for your teams through T3. Our experienced team of professionals brings years of trenchless experience to your business so you can see immediate success for your new technology. We train on any and all equipment, brands, and CIPP methods, ensuring that you’ll get the most out of your training.

Want to book a training session or learn more about starting your own trenchless services? Reach out on our website or give us a call today!