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When it comes to repairing sewer systems, municipalities and contractors face a critical question: is grouting the right fix—or is it time to reline or replace the pipe entirely? Chemical grouting has long been valued as a cost-effective, minimally disruptive solution for stopping infiltration and stabilizing pipes.

But it’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. The effectiveness of sewer grouting depends on the condition of the pipe, the extent of the damage, and the long-term goals of the repair strategy.

Read our full blog to learn more.

What Is Sewer Grouting?

Grouting is the process of injecting a multi-component resin through a joint or pipe and into its voids to stop infiltration and exfiltration. Grouting in sewers stabilizes the surrounding soil and pipe, seals any open space between the host pipe and any liner, and prepares the pipe for future structural rehabilitation.

Benefits of Grouting In Sewer System Repair

Here are some of the most important benefits of pipeline grouting:

1. ROI - Grouting is significantly less expensive than relining a pipe or replacing a pipe segment. Many municipalities who proactively grout for repairs even report significant ROI based on the long-term savings through the reduction of flow to their treatment plant.

2. Versatility - Chemical grout is versatile enough to stop infiltration and exfiltration in a variety of locations, including manholes, pipe joints, lateral connections, and more. 

3. Durability - When properly completed, grouting provides a secure, long-term solution that increases pipe stability and stability in the surrounding soil—while also reducing overall system wear and tear. 

Grouting Case Study 

Miami Dade County has run a dedicated grouting strategy for more than a decade, and they repeatedly see an ROI for their efforts. For every dollar they spend on grouting, they save $2.50. 

Over more than 10 years, they’ve prevented more than 128 million gallons of additional flow from entering the treatment plant, which has significantly reduced wear and tear on their facilities.

To Grout Or Not to Grout?

In general, grouting is the ideal decision when there are a small handful of reasonable leaks or cracks. A new liner or replacement pipe, however, are better solutions in instances of extensive damage or outdated materials. 

Here’s a closer look:

When to Grout

Grouting is a go-to solution in the following circumstances:

1. You’ve identified leaks or cracks at the joints of the pipeline or in another area.
2. You’ve found evidence of infiltration and/or exfiltration. 
3. You’re under budget constraints that hamper the ability to install a new liner or pipeline. 
4. You have limited access to the problem area.

When Not To Grout

A different strategy—such as a liner or replacement pipeline—may be appropriate under the following circumstances:

1. You’ve found severe structural damage or failure. 
2. You’ve found extensive defects in a single pipe, which could hamper the overall effectiveness of grout. 
3. You’ve found outdated or even dangerous materials, such as Orangeburg or transite, and an immediate replacement could count as both preventive maintenance and a boost to community safety. 
4. The pipe has recently suffered from repeat failures and may benefit from additional support or intervention. 

Find Sewer Grouting Equipment

At CUES, we offer a variety of high-performance sewer grout and pipeline rehab equipment, including: 

• Compact Collapsible Packers - These collapsible but rugged and lightweight packers save time, labor, and money over conventional packers.
• Low Void Packers - These low-volume, chemical injection, multi-grout packers are compatible with acrylamides, urethane and other common chemical grouting materials.
• Chemical Sealing Systems - These truck-mounted systems offer additional power and transportability to stop leaks and defend against infiltration. 
• Easy Grout Control Systems - Our Easy Grout graphical user interface (GUI) streamlines training with intuitive controls.

To learn more, contact us! Our team is available to ensure you access the best solutions to your most urgent problems.