What is Epoxy Pipe Lining & When to Use It
When it comes to maintaining pipelines, keeping them efficient, durable, and safe is always the top priority. Issues such as tuberculation, corrosion, and leaks can reduce pipeline performance and eventually lead to costly failures. Many property managers and facility operators assume replacement is the only solution — but full repiping is expensive, disruptive, and time-consuming.
Epoxy pipe lining, also known as epoxy pipe coating or internal pipe coating, offers a reliable, long-lasting alternative. By applying an epoxy layer to the inside of your pipeline, you can extend its lifespan, improve flow, and prevent future damage — all without the cost and downtime of replacement.
Keep reading to learn about internal pipe coating, when it use it and the pros and cons of epoxy pipe lining.
What is Epoxy Pipe Lining?
Epoxy pipe lining is a trenchless rehabilitation method that involves coating the interior of pipelines with a liquid epoxy resin that hardens to form a protective barrier. This barrier prevents corrosion, reduces tuberculation buildup, and restores the pipe’s original flow capacity.
Epoxy coatings are widely used across different industries, including water lines, fire suppression systems, wastewater and sewer lines, and industrial feed pipes. Once cured, the epoxy coating can last up to 30–50 years, helping operators avoid repeated cleaning or early replacement.
What is Epoxy Pipe Coating: What to Know
When Do I Need Epoxy Pipe Coating?
Pipelines face different challenges depending on what they transport — water, gas, wastewater, or other substances — and what they’re made from. Common situations where epoxy pipe coating is needed include:
Tuberculation in cast iron fire lines: Low flow during annual fire suppression tests often indicates scale buildup. After cleaning, epoxy lining ensures the issue doesn’t return.
Corrosion in metallic pipes: Leaks and breaks caused by corrosion can be sealed and prevented with an epoxy barrier.
Aging infrastructure: Older pipelines with recurring issues benefit from lining instead of repeated spot repairs.
Signs that your system may need pipe lining services include: reduced water pressure, discolored water, frequent leaks, or the need for frequent descaling.
What Pipes Can Be Lined?
To ensure that a pipeline receives the proper solution, the pipeline must be evaluated. At American Pipeline Solutions, we perform a visual inspection of a pipeline to determine the pipeline issue. This inspection is necessary to determine the appropriate cleaning solution for the pipeline, which must be done before lining the pipeline.
Before applying epoxy, pipelines must undergo a visual inspection and cleaning to ensure proper adhesion. At American Pipeline Solutions, we evaluate your pipe to determine the best preparation and coating method.
Pipelines and systems that can be lined include:
Pipeline materials:
Cast iron
Ductile iron
Copper
Steel
HDPE
PVC* (PVC requires sanding before lining to ensure epoxy bonds properly)
Pipeline systems:
Water lines
Fire lines
Wastewater and sewer lines
Clarifier drains
Feed pipes
Drain lines
This is not a complete list — if you have a pipeline not listed above, our team can assess whether internal epoxy coating is an option.
How the Epoxy Pipe Lining Process Works
The epoxy lining process involves several precise steps to ensure a long-lasting and reliable result:
Inspection – Our team performs a pipeline inspection to identify scale, corrosion, or leaks.
Cleaning – Using methods such as pigging, rotary heads, or Picote mechanical equipment, we remove buildup and prepare the pipe interior.
Drying – Moisture must be eliminated to allow epoxy to adhere properly.
Epoxy Application – The liquid epoxy is evenly applied to the interior pipe walls.
Curing – Once cured, the epoxy forms a durable, corrosion-resistant barrier.
Final Testing – Pressure testing and inspection confirm that the coating is properly applied and the pipeline is ready for service.
This process is faster, cleaner, and more cost-effective than traditional pipe replacement.
Epoxy Pipe Lining vs. Pipe Replacement
When deciding between epoxy lining vs. repiping, consider the following:
Cost: Epoxy lining is usually more affordable than replacement, especially when factoring in downtime and labor.
Time: Pipe coating can often be completed in days, while repiping may take weeks.
Disruption: Repiping may require excavation or structural modifications. Epoxy is a trenchless solution.
Prevention: Replacement removes existing corrosion but doesn’t prevent future problems. Epoxy creates a barrier that resists corrosion and tuberculation for decades.
In short, epoxy pipe lining helps you save money, reduce downtime, and improve long-term pipeline performance.
How Much Does Epoxy Pipe Lining Cost?
One of the most common questions we hear is: how much does epoxy pipe lining cost?
The cost depends on several factors:
Pipe diameter and length
Pipe material (cast iron, steel, copper, etc.)
Level of corrosion or buildup
Accessibility of the pipeline
Whether additional cleaning or preparation is required
While exact costs vary, epoxy lining is typically 30–40% less expensive than full repiping and offers long-term savings by extending pipeline life up to 50 years.
For an accurate estimate, American Pipeline Solutions provides pipeline inspections and customized quotes based on your specific system.
Pros and Cons of Epoxy Pipe Lining
Advantages:
Extends pipeline lifespan by decades
Prevents corrosion, leaks, and tuberculation
Reduces downtime compared to repiping
Cost-effective long-term solution
Safe and compliant for potable water and fire suppression systems
Limitations:
Not suitable for collapsed or severely damaged pipes
Requires thorough cleaning and preparation
May not be applicable to all pipeline materials without modification (e.g., PVC)
Protect Your Pipeline with Epoxy Coating
Pipeline replacement isn’t always necessary. With epoxy pipe lining services, you can restore flow, prevent future damage, and extend the life of your infrastructure without the cost and hassle of repiping.
Contact American Pipeline Solutions today to schedule a pipeline inspection and find out if epoxy coating is the right solution for your system.
Looking to protect your pipeline systems?
Contact American Pipeline Solutions to learn how epoxy pipe lining can help.
