No-Dig Sewer Solutions That Save Your Yard, Time & Money
Thompson Trenchless & Hydro Jetting has been Southeast Michigan’s premier trenchless sewer repair specialist for over 30 years. We serve homeowners and businesses throughout Wyandotte, Monroe, and surrounding Wayne County and Monroe County communities with advanced no-dig sewer solutions that preserve your property while delivering lasting results.
Our trenchless sewer repair technology allows us to fix broken, cracked, or deteriorating sewer lines without the destructive excavation required by traditional methods. Whether you need CIPP pipe lining, pipe bursting, or complete sewer line replacement, our licensed master drain plumbers deliver quality workmanship with minimal disruption to your daily life.
Trenchless sewer repair is an innovative, minimally invasive technology that repairs or replaces damaged underground sewer pipes without the need for extensive excavation across your property. Unlike traditional sewer repair that requires digging massive trenches through your yard, driveway, or landscaping, trenchless methods access your pipes through small entry points—typically existing cleanouts or one or two strategically placed access holes measuring just 3 feet by 3 feet.
This revolutionary approach has transformed the drain plumbing industry since its introduction in the 1970s and has become the preferred method for sewer repair among homeowners, businesses, and municipalities. At Thompson Trenchless, we’ve specialized in trenchless technology for over three decades, completing thousands of successful repairs throughout the Downriver area and Monroe County.
The term “trenchless” encompasses several proven repair methods, each designed for specific pipe conditions and damage types:
Trenchless technology works effectively for residential homes, commercial properties, and even municipal sewer systems. It’s particularly valuable for repairs under buildings, driveways, mature trees, or any location where traditional excavation would be costly, impractical, or impossible.
Not sure if trenchless is right for your property? Schedule a free video camera inspection to assess your sewer line condition and receive expert recommendations.
A resin-saturated liner is inserted into your existing pipe and cured in place, creating a new pipe within the old one
Simultaneously breaks apart the old pipe while pulling new pipe into place
Inserts a smaller diameter pipe inside the existing pipe for cost-effective rehabilitation
Fixes the connection between your home and the main sewer line
The trenchless sewer repair process follows a systematic, proven methodology that ensures accurate diagnosis, thorough preparation, and long-lasting results. Here’s exactly what you can expect when you choose Thompson Trenchless for your sewer repair needs:
Every trenchless repair begins with a comprehensive video camera inspection of your entire sewer line. We insert a high-definition, waterproof camera system through your existing cleanout, allowing it to travel the complete length of your pipe from your home to the municipal connection or septic tank.
This critical diagnostic step provides us with detailed information about:
You’ll receive a complete video recording of your sewer line inspection, allowing you to see exactly what we see and understand the recommended repairs. This transparency ensures you make informed decisions about your property.
Before any repair work begins, we thoroughly clean your sewer line using professional-grade hydro jetting equipment. High-pressure water jets (up to 4,000 PSI) remove all debris, scale buildup, grease, mineral deposits, and tree roots that could interfere with the repair process.
For CIPP lining applications, the pipe interior must be completely clean and relatively smooth to ensure optimal liner adhesion and proper curing. If significant root intrusion exists, we may also use specialized mechanical cutting tools to remove protruding roots before hydro jetting.
This cleaning phase is essential—skipping it or performing inadequate cleaning is the primary cause of premature trenchless repair failure. At Thompson Trenchless, we never cut corners on preparation.
Based on your pipe’s specific condition and our professional assessment, we implement the most effective trenchless repair method:
CIPP Pipe Lining (Most Common)
We insert a flexible, resin-saturated liner into your existing pipe through an access point. The liner is positioned precisely using air or water pressure, then cured in place using hot water, steam, or UV light. The curing process transforms the soft liner into a hard, durable pipe that bonds to your existing pipe walls, creating a seamless, jointless new pipe with a 50-100 year lifespan.
CIPP lining is ideal for pipes with cracks, leaks, root intrusion, or corrosion where the structural integrity is still relatively intact. It works on all pipe materials including cast iron, clay, PVC, and concrete.
Pipe Bursting (Complete Replacement)
For severely damaged, collapsed, or undersized pipes, pipe bursting offers complete pipe replacement without excavation. A bursting head is pulled through your existing pipe, simultaneously breaking apart the old pipe and pulling new HDPE (high-density polyethylene) pipe into place.
This method is particularly effective for Orangeburg pipes or severely deteriorated pipes that can’t support lining. It can even upsize your sewer line diameter for improved flow capacity.
Slip Lining (Cost-Effective Solution)
Slip lining involves inserting a slightly smaller diameter pipe inside your existing pipe, then sealing the space between with grout. While it reduces pipe diameter slightly, it’s a cost-effective option for certain applications and provides excellent longevity.
Upon completion, we perform another comprehensive video camera inspection to verify repair quality, ensure proper liner adhesion or pipe placement, and confirm complete resolution of the original problem. You receive documentation of this post-repair inspection along with our written warranty.
Thompson Trenchless provides industry-leading warranties: 50 years on CIPP lining, 25 years on pipe bursting, and lifetime workmanship guarantees on all repairs. We also offer follow-up support and are available 24/7 for any questions or concerns.
Thompson Trenchless specializes in all major trenchless repair technologies, allowing us to recommend the optimal solution for your specific pipe condition, budget, and property requirements. Here’s a detailed overview of each method:
CIPP lining is the most popular and versatile trenchless repair method, accounting for approximately 70% of all trenchless sewer repairs. This proven technology has been used successfully for over 40 years and is the preferred method of municipalities, commercial properties, and homeowners worldwide.
How CIPP Works:
A flexible liner (typically made of felt or fiberglass) is saturated with epoxy resin, inserted into your pipe, inflated to conform to the pipe walls, and cured using hot water (180-212°F), steam, or UV light. The curing process typically takes 2-6 hours depending on pipe diameter and length. Once cured, the result is a smooth, seamless pipe-within-a-pipe that’s stronger than the original.
Best Applications:
Advantages:
50-100 year lifespan, completely seamless with no joints, resistant to root intrusion and corrosion, maintains full pipe diameter, suitable for bends and curves, can be installed through small access points.
Warranty:
Thompson Trenchless provides a 50-year manufacturer warranty plus lifetime workmanship guarantee on all CIPP installations.
Pipe bursting is the trenchless method of choice when complete pipe replacement is necessary—particularly for collapsed pipes, severely deteriorated pipes, or when upsizing is desired for improved flow capacity.
How Pipe Bursting Works:
A cone-shaped bursting head is pulled through your existing pipe using a hydraulic or pneumatic pulling machine. As it travels, the head breaks apart the old pipe (bursting it outward into the surrounding soil) while simultaneously pulling new HDPE pipe into place behind it. The new pipe is the same diameter or larger than the original.
Best Applications:
Advantages:
Complete pipe replacement, can upsize pipe diameter, ideal for worst-case scenarios, new pipe is highly durable HDPE with 100+ year lifespan, no reduction in flow capacity.
Considerations:
Requires two access points (entry and exit), slightly more expensive than CIPP, not suitable for pipes with active service connections that can’t be temporarily disconnected.
Slip lining is a cost-effective trenchless method that inserts a new, slightly smaller diameter pipe inside your existing pipe. While it results in some diameter reduction, it’s an excellent option for certain applications and budgets.
How Slip Lining Works:
A new pipe (usually HDPE or PVC) is inserted into the existing pipe through access points. The annular space between the old and new pipes is then filled with grout to provide structural support and prevent infiltration.
Best Applications:
Advantages:
Lower cost than other methods, quick installation, long lifespan, effective for straight pipe runs.
Considerations:
Reduces pipe diameter (typically 10-15%), limited effectiveness in pipes with significant bends, requires grouting for proper installation.
Lateral line repair addresses problems in the sewer connection between your home and the main municipal line—often called the “lateral” or “service line.” This section is typically the homeowner’s responsibility and frequently experiences different types of damage than main lines.
Common Lateral Problems:
Our Solution:
We use specialized lateral lining equipment to install CIPP liners specifically designed for lateral connections, including the critical junction where your lateral meets the main sewer. This creates a watertight seal and prevents future root intrusion or separation.
Choosing trenchless sewer repair over traditional excavation offers significant advantages that save you time, money, and stress. Here’s why thousands of homeowners in Wyandotte, Monroe, and throughout Southeast Michigan have chosen Thompson Trenchless:
The most obvious benefit is the elimination of extensive digging. Traditional sewer repair requires excavating a trench 3-4 feet wide and up to 10 feet deep across the entire length of your sewer line—potentially 50-100 feet or more. This means tearing up your yard, driveway, sidewalks, landscaping, and any other obstacles in the way.
Trenchless repair accesses your pipes through existing cleanouts or 1-2 small access holes (approximately 3×3 feet). Your property remains intact, your landscaping undisturbed, and your daily life largely uninterrupted.
The cost and disruption of restoring your property after traditional excavation often exceeds the repair cost itself. Consider what’s at risk:
Trenchless repair preserves all of this. For homeowners with beautiful yards or historic properties in downtown Wyandotte or Monroe, this benefit alone makes trenchless repair the only sensible choice.
Traditional sewer repair typically requires 3-5 days minimum—sometimes up to 2 weeks for complex jobs. The process involves:
Trenchless repair is completed in 1-2 days for most residential properties:
You’re back to normal life quickly, without weeks of construction disruption, equipment in your yard, or loss of sewer access.
While trenchless repair may sometimes have a higher upfront cost for materials and specialized equipment, it’s typically 30-50% less expensive overall when you account for:
When you factor in the true total cost of traditional excavation plus restoration, trenchless repair delivers better value with superior results. Learn more about pricing in our comprehensive cost guide.
Traditional sewer excavation creates significant disruptions:
Trenchless repair minimizes all of this. Most homeowners continue normal routines with minimal inconvenience. You might not even need to take time off work.
Trenchless technology is significantly more environmentally responsible than traditional excavation:
For environmentally conscious homeowners, trenchless repair aligns with sustainable practices while delivering superior results.
The longevity of trenchless repairs often exceeds traditional pipe replacement:
CIPP liners are seamless with no joints—the weak points where leaks and root intrusion typically occur. The epoxy resin used in modern CIPP applications is stronger than the original pipe and highly resistant to corrosion, chemicals, and root penetration.
Thompson Trenchless backs our work with industry-leading warranties because we’re confident in the durability of trenchless technology. Read more about how long pipe lining lasts.
Trenchless repair excels in situations where traditional excavation is impractical or impossible:
For properties in Monroe’s historic districts or Wyandotte’s established neighborhoods, trenchless repair often provides the only viable solution that preserves property character and value.
Trenchless sewer repair effectively addresses virtually all common sewer line problems. Here’s how our no-dig technology resolves the issues that cause sewer backups, slow drains, and property damage:
Cracks develop in sewer pipes from ground settlement, freeze-thaw cycles, soil pressure, and age-related deterioration. Even small cracks allow wastewater to leak into surrounding soil, leading to sinkholes, foundation issues, and contamination. Cracks also permit groundwater infiltration, overwhelming your sewer system during heavy rains.
Trenchless Solution
CIPP lining seals all cracks and fractures, creating a new, seamless pipe interior. The epoxy resin bonds directly to the existing pipe, providing structural reinforcement while eliminating all leak paths. For severely broken pipes, pipe bursting completely replaces the damaged section with new, durable HDPE pipe.
Tree roots naturally seek moisture and nutrients, making sewer pipes an attractive target. Roots enter through pipe joints, cracks, or porous pipe materials, then grow rapidly inside the pipe. As roots expand, they crack pipes further, create blockages, and can eventually cause complete pipe failure.
Trenchless Solution
We first remove existing roots using hydro jetting or mechanical cutting through our specialized root removal service. Then CIPP lining creates a seamless, jointless interior that prevents future root intrusion. With no joints or cracks for roots to penetrate, the problem is permanently resolved. Learn more about preventing root intrusion.
Cast iron pipes corrode from the inside out due to hydrogen sulfide gases produced by sewage decomposition. This process, called “tuberculation,” creates rough, flaky interior surfaces that reduce flow capacity and eventually lead to pinhole leaks and complete deterioration. Clay pipes deteriorate from age, soil acidity, and ground movement.
Corrosion is particularly prevalent in homes built before 1980 throughout Southeast Michigan. Many Wyandotte and Monroe homes still have original cast iron or clay sewer lines installed 60-100+ years ago.
Trenchless Solution
CIPP lining for cast iron pipes and clay pipe repair creates a smooth, corrosion-resistant epoxy interior that completely isolates the deteriorated pipe from sewage. This stops further corrosion, restores flow capacity, and extends pipe life by 50-100 years. The new liner is impervious to chemicals, acids, and gases that cause corrosion.
Pipe bellying occurs when sections of sewer line sag or dip due to ground settlement, soil erosion beneath the pipe, or poor original installation. These low spots collect water and solid waste, creating persistent slow drains and frequent backups. Bellying often develops gradually over years as soil conditions change.
Trenchless Solution
For minor to moderate bellying (up to 20% pipe deflection), CIPP lining can bridge the sagging section, creating a smooth interior pathway that prevents waste accumulation. The flexible liner conforms to the existing pipe shape while providing structural reinforcement. Severe bellying may require pipe bursting to replace the affected section with proper grade.
Offset joints occur when pipe sections separate or misalign, creating a protruding edge inside the pipe. This causes chronic blockages as waste catches on the offset, and roots quickly exploit the gap. Offsets commonly develop at connection points between different pipe materials or where ground settlement has shifted pipes.
Trenchless Solution
CIPP lining bridges offset joints, creating a smooth, continuous interior surface. The liner fills the gap at the offset while maintaining structural integrity, eliminating the catch point that causes blockages and preventing root intrusion at the vulnerable separation.
Channeling occurs when corrosion or erosion creates grooves or channels in the pipe bottom. Water flows through these channels while solid waste accumulates on either side, leading to reduced capacity and frequent backups. This is particularly common in older cast iron pipes with advanced deterioration.
Trenchless Solution
CIPP lining restores the full circular pipe profile, eliminating channels and creating a uniformly smooth interior. This restores full flow capacity and prevents waste accumulation that causes blockages.
Leaking sewer pipes contaminate surrounding soil and groundwater, create sinkholes and soft spots in your yard, attract rodents and insects, and waste water. Leaks often go undetected until significant damage has occurred. They typically develop at pipe joints, cracks, or corroded sections.
Trenchless Solution
CIPP lining creates a completely watertight seal throughout the entire pipe length. The seamless epoxy liner eliminates all leak paths, whether from joints, cracks, or corrosion. Post-repair testing verifies complete seal integrity.
Pipes experiencing partial collapse (up to 30-40% deflection) can sometimes be repaired with trenchless methods depending on severity and cause. Collapse typically results from extreme ground pressure, heavy vehicle traffic above the pipe, or severely deteriorated pipe material that has lost structural integrity.
Trenchless Solution
For pipes with partial collapse but still maintaining some opening, pipe bursting can replace the collapsed section with new, stronger HDPE pipe. Severely collapsed pipes (complete closure) may require traditional excavation to remove the obstruction before trenchless repair can proceed.
Get a free video camera inspection and expert diagnosis from Thompson Trenchless. We’ll show you exactly what’s wrong and recommend the best repair solution for your property and budget.
Trenchless sewer repair is remarkably versatile and suitable for most sewer line problems, but it’s not always the best choice for every situation. Here’s how to determine if trenchless technology is right for your property:
Trenchless repair is the perfect solution when:
The following pipe conditions are excellent candidates for trenchless repair:
Most residential sewer problems fall into these categories, making trenchless repair suitable for approximately 85-90% of all sewer repair needs.
In some situations, traditional excavation remains necessary or more practical:
Even in these situations, partial trenchless solutions combined with limited excavation often provide better results than complete traditional excavation.
The only way to definitively determine if trenchless repair is right for your property is through a professional video camera inspection. Thompson Trenchless offers free estimates that include:
We’ll never recommend trenchless repair if it’s not the best solution for your specific situation. Our goal is to provide you with the most effective, longest-lasting repair that fits your needs and budget.
Cast iron was the standard for sewer pipes from the 1950s through 1980s. While durable initially, cast iron eventually corrodes from the inside out due to hydrogen sulfide gas produced by sewage decomposition.
Common Issues
Interior corrosion (tuberculation), rough surfaces reducing flow, pinhole leaks, complete deterioration in advanced stages, rust scale buildup.
Trenchless Solution
CIPP lining is ideal for cast iron pipes. The epoxy liner creates a smooth, corrosion-resistant interior that stops further deterioration and restores full flow capacity. The liner bonds directly to the iron, providing structural reinforcement while isolating the pipe from corrosive gases. This extends the life of your cast iron system by 50-100 years.
Considerations
Severely corroded cast iron that has lost significant wall thickness may require pipe bursting for complete replacement rather than lining.
Learn more about cast iron pipe repair solutions.
Clay pipes were extremely common from the 1880s through 1960s and are still found in many older Wyandotte and Monroe homes. Clay is naturally resistant to corrosion but vulnerable to root intrusion and cracking.
Common Issues
Root infiltration through joints, cracks from ground settlement, separated joints, brittle material prone to breakage, offset connections
Trenchless Solution
CIPP lining works exceptionally well for clay pipes, sealing all joints and cracks while preventing future root intrusion. The seamless liner creates a watertight barrier that clay pipes naturally lack. For severely damaged or collapsed clay pipes, pipe bursting replaces the entire section with durable HDPE.
Considerations
Clay pipes often have very porous joints where roots have extensively penetrated. Thorough cleaning with hydro jetting is essential before lining.
Read our complete guide to clay pipe replacement options.
Orangeburg pipe (also called “fiber pipe”) was used from the 1940s through 1970s. Made of wood pulp and coal tar, it was inexpensive but notoriously unreliable, with a typical lifespan of only 30-50 years.
Common Issues
Delamination and collapse, soft spots and deformation, oval-shaped pipe from soil pressure, complete deterioration, bellying and sagging
Trenchless Solution
Due to Orangeburg’s soft, deteriorating nature, pipe bursting is typically the best trenchless option. CIPP lining can work in early-stage deterioration if the pipe still holds its shape, but pipe bursting provides the most reliable long-term solution by completely replacing the problematic material.
Considerations
Many Orangeburg pipes are beyond the point where lining is feasible. Video inspection will determine if the pipe can support lining or if complete replacement is necessary.
Discover your options for Orangeburg pipe replacement.
Modern PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) pipes are highly durable and corrosion-resistant, but they’re not immune to problems.
Common Issues
Joint failures and separations, offset connections from ground settlement, cracks from improper installation or ground movement, root intrusion through failed joints
Trenchless Solution
CIPP lining effectively repairs PVC and ABS pipes by sealing failed joints and cracks. Since these materials don’t corrode, problems are typically limited to specific joint failures rather than overall deterioration. Trenchless repair extends the life of these already-durable systems.
Considerations
Modern PVC systems often require only targeted repairs at specific joint failures rather than full-length lining.
Concrete sewer pipes are more common in municipal systems but occasionally found in older residential installations, particularly in properties with long sewer runs.
Common Issues
Joint separations, interior roughness causing blockages, cracks from ground pressure, deterioration from acidic soils or sewage
Trenchless Solution
CIPP lining creates a smooth interior surface that eliminates the rough texture of concrete while sealing all joints and cracks. The epoxy liner resists acid attack that deteriorates concrete.
Considerations
Large diameter concrete pipes may require specialized equipment and techniques.
Understanding the key differences between trenchless and traditional excavation helps you make an informed decision about your sewer repair. Here’s a comprehensive comparison:
Traditional Method:
Trenchless Method:
Traditional Method:
Trenchless Method:
Time savings: 70-80% faster completion with trenchless repair
Traditional Method Direct Costs:
Traditional Method Restoration Costs (Often Overlooked):
Traditional Total Cost: $13,000-$40,000
Trenchless Method Total Cost:
Trenchless Total Cost: $8,000-$18,500
Average savings with trenchless: $4,500-$21,500 (35-55% less expensive when including all costs)
Read our detailed trenchless sewer repair cost guide for more information.
Traditional Method:
Trenchless Method:
Traditional Method:
Trenchless Method:
The choice is clear: trenchless repair provides faster completion, less disruption, lower total cost, and longer-lasting results.
When you choose Thompson Trenchless for your sewer repair, you’re choosing a company with over 30 years of specialized experience and a proven process designed for your complete satisfaction:
Your journey begins with a no-obligation consultation:
We never use high-pressure sales tactics. Our goal is to educate you so you can make the best decision for your property and budget.
We perform a thorough diagnostic inspection:
This transparency ensures you understand exactly what’s wrong and why we recommend specific repair methods.
You receive detailed information about all solutions:
We provide multiple options when available so you can choose the solution that best fits your needs.
Our licensed master drain plumbers execute the repair:
You’re welcome to observe the process and ask questions at any time.
We verify repair quality before considering the job complete:
We don’t consider a job finished until you’re completely satisfied.
Your investment is protected:
Thompson Trenchless stands behind every job we complete. Your satisfaction and peace of mind are our priorities.
Thompson Trenchless invests continuously in the latest equipment and technology to ensure superior results for our customers:
We utilize industry-leading CIPP equipment including:
Our CIPP systems can handle pipes from 3 inches to 48 inches in diameter, accommodating residential, commercial, and municipal applications.
Our video inspection technology provides unmatched diagnostic capability:
We can inspect pipes from 2 inches to 36 inches in diameter.
Our cleaning equipment ensures optimal preparation:
Proper cleaning is critical for trenchless repair success, and we never compromise on this step.
For complete pipe replacement, we use advanced bursting equipment:
Our pipe bursting systems work effectively on cast iron, clay, concrete, and PVC pipes.
(313) 488-3834
and all Wayne and Monroe County communities.
24/7 Emergency Response:
Sewer emergencies don’t wait for business hours. Thompson Trenchless offers 24/7 emergency service throughout our service area for:
Call us anytime, day or night, weekends and holidays. We’ll dispatch an experienced technician promptly to assess your situation and provide emergency solutions.
Response Times:
Don’t let a sewer emergency damage your property or disrupt your life. Contact Thompson Trenchless immediately for fast, professional emergency service.
Understanding the cost of trenchless sewer repair helps you budget appropriately and compare options effectively. Here’s transparent pricing information:
CIPP Pipe Lining
Pipe Bursting
Slip Lining
Important Note: These are average ranges. Your actual cost depends on multiple factors specific to your property. Thompson Trenchless provides free, accurate estimates based on video inspection of your specific situation.
Several variables influence the final cost of your trenchless repair:
Pipe Length:
Longer pipe runs require more materials and labor time. Most residential sewer lines run 50-150 feet from home to municipal connection.
Pipe Diameter:
Larger diameter pipes require larger liners and more specialized equipment, increasing cost. Residential sewers are typically 4-6 inches in diameter.
Pipe Depth:
Deeper pipes require more extensive access excavation and longer camera/cleaning equipment.
Pipe Condition:
Severely deteriorated pipes may require more preparation, additional cleaning, or alternative repair methods.
Access Points:
Properties with existing cleanouts cost less than those requiring new access point creation.
Obstacles:
Tree roots, heavy debris, or significant blockages require additional cleaning time and effort.
Pipe Material:
Some materials (like severely corroded cast iron) require special preparation or may necessitate pipe bursting rather than lining.
Location:
Properties in difficult-to-access locations or with limited working space may require specialized equipment.
Permits:
Some jurisdictions require permits for sewer work, adding $50-$500 to total cost.
Complete Traditional Excavation
Trenchless Repair
Savings with trenchless: $5,500-$22,500 (30-55% less expensive)
When you factor in all costs—not just the pipe work itself—trenchless repair provides significantly better value while delivering superior long-term results.
Beyond the immediate cost comparison, trenchless repair delivers long-term financial benefits:
Extended Lifespan:
CIPP lining lasts 50-100 years vs. 50-70 for traditional PVC. Longer lifespan means you likely won’t need another repair in your lifetime
No Joint Failures:
Seamless liner eliminates the weak points where leaks develop. Saves thousands on future joint repair costs
Root Prevention:
Prevents costly root removal and repeated cleanings. Saves $200-$500 annually on professional drain cleaning
Energy Efficiency:
Smooth interior improves flow, reducing pump work for sewage pumps. Minor but measurable utility savings
Property Value:
Modern, warrantied sewer system increases property value. Attractive selling point for future buyers
Peace of Mind:
50-year warranty eliminates worry about future failures. Predictable, worry-free sewer system for decades
Thompson Trenchless offers flexible financing options to make trenchless repair affordable:
Don’t let upfront cost prevent you from getting the permanent solution your property needs. We’ll work with you to find a payment plan that fits your budget.
When you’re investing in a major sewer repair, choosing the right company matters. Here’s why thousands of Southeast Michigan homeowners trust Thompson Trenchless:
Thompson Trenchless has been Southeast Michigan’s trenchless sewer repair specialist since founder Tim Thompson pioneered the technology in our area over three decades ago. While other companies may offer trenchless as one of many services, it’s our primary focus and expertise.
What This Experience Means for You:
Experience matters when you’re trusting someone with a major home repair investment.
Thompson Trenchless maintains all required professional credentials:
We carry proper licensing and insurance so you never have to worry about liability or quality concerns.
Our commitment to excellence includes continuous investment in training and technology:
We invest in our team and equipment so you receive the highest quality service.
Thompson Trenchless stands behind our work with industry-leading warranties:
We’re confident in our work because we use premium materials and follow exacting installation standards.
Don’t just take our word for it. Our customers consistently rate us 5 stars for:
Read our customer testimonials to see why homeowners throughout Wyandotte, Monroe, and Southeast Michigan trust Thompson Trenchless for their sewer repair needs.
Recent Customer Feedback:
Sewer emergencies require immediate response. Thompson Trenchless provides:
whaWhen you have a sewer emergency, we’re here to help immediately.
We believe you deserve clear, honest information to make informed decisions:
We earn your business through expertise, quality, and honest dealing—not high-pressure sales tactics.
Trenchless sewer repairs using CIPP lining typically last 50-100 years with proper installation. The cured-in-place pipe creates a seamless, jointless pipe within your existing line that resists root intrusion, corrosion, and cracking. Thompson Trenchless provides a comprehensive 50-year warranty on all CIPP installations, giving you peace of mind for decades to come.
Pipe bursting installations with HDPE pipe can last 100+ years. Traditional pipe replacement typically lasts 50-70 years, making trenchless methods equal or superior in longevity.
While trenchless sewer repair may have a slightly higher upfront material cost, it’s typically 30-50% less expensive overall when you factor in all costs. Traditional excavation requires landscaping restoration, driveway or sidewalk replacement, additional labor time, and often temporary relocation. Trenchless methods eliminate these costs, making them more cost-effective in the long run.
Total cost comparison:
Learn more in our complete cost guide.
Most sewer pipes can be repaired using trenchless technology, including cast iron, clay, PVC, concrete, and Orangeburg pipes. However, pipes that have completely collapsed or have severe structural damage may require traditional excavation. A professional video camera inspection by Thompson Trenchless will determine the best repair approach for your specific situation.
Approximately 85-90% of residential sewer repairs can be successfully completed with trenchless methods.
Most residential trenchless sewer repairs are completed within 1-2 days, compared to 3-5 days or more for traditional excavation methods. The exact timeline depends on pipe length, extent of damage, and chosen repair method.
Typical timeline:
CIPP lining typically requires 4-8 hours for curing time. Thompson Trenchless works efficiently to minimize disruption to your daily routine.
No extensive excavation is required for trenchless sewer repair. We typically access your pipes through existing cleanouts or by digging one or two small access points (approximately 3 feet by 3 feet). Your landscaping, driveway, sidewalks, and other hardscaping remain intact. This is the primary advantage of choosing trenchless technology over traditional dig-and-replace methods.
In contrast, traditional sewer repair requires a continuous trench 3-4 feet wide along the entire pipe length—often 50-150 feet through your property.
Yes, trenchless sewer repair can be performed year-round in Michigan, including during winter months. Since the work is done underground through minimal access points, freezing temperatures have little impact on the process. The CIPP curing process uses hot water or steam, which actually works well in cold conditions.
Thompson Trenchless offers emergency trenchless repairs 24/7, regardless of weather. We’re here when you need us, even in the harshest Michigan winters.
Thompson Trenchless provides comprehensive warranties on all trenchless sewer repairs:
All warranties are provided in writing and are transferable to new property owners. We stand behind every job with written warranty documentation and are available for any post-repair questions or concerns.
Yes, trenchless CIPP lining creates a seamless, jointless pipe interior that prevents future tree root intrusion. Unlike traditional pipes with joints where roots can penetrate, the cured epoxy liner has no seams or connections.
Our process:
With no joints or cracks for roots to penetrate, the problem is permanently resolved. This is one of the most significant benefits of trenchless repair for properties with mature trees.
Trenchless repair is ideal for historic and older homes in Wyandotte and Monroe because it preserves your property’s integrity. There’s no risk of foundation damage from extensive excavation, no disruption to mature landscaping or trees, and no structural concerns from digging near your home.
Many historic homes have cast iron or clay pipes that are perfect candidates for CIPP lining, extending their life by 50-100 years while maintaining the home’s historic character. The minimal invasiveness of trenchless repair makes it the preferred method for preserving historic properties.
Common signs that indicate potential sewer line problems include:
The only way to definitively assess your sewer line condition is with a professional video camera inspection. Thompson Trenchless offers free estimates including video inspection to determine if trenchless repair is right for your situation.
Even if you’re not experiencing problems, we recommend sewer camera inspections every 3-5 years for homes over 25 years old as preventive maintenance.
Don’t let sewer problems disrupt your life or damage your property. Thompson Trenchless is ready to provide the expert trenchless sewer repair solutions you need with the professionalism and quality you deserve.
