Charleston County uses innovative no-dig methods to fix aging stormwater pipes
April 17, 2025
New repair techniques help prevent sinkholes with minimal disruption to neighborhoods
Charleston County Public Works is using innovative “trenchless” technologies to tackle aging stormwater drainage systems across the county. By repairing pipes and structures without digging trenches in streets or yards, crews can avoid disruptive traffic impacts and damage to underground utilities.
In the past six months, crews completed several projects using the following trenchless repair methods:
- Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP): A flexible liner is inserted into a damaged pipe, then hardened with steam to create a new, smooth pipe inside the old one without digging up the ground.
- Foam Injection: Polyurethane foam is injected into cracks or voids in pipes and drainage structures. The foam expands, fills the gaps, and hardens, providing increased structural support while sealing out water.
In addition to reducing wear and tear on surrounding roads and properties, these techniques are safer, faster, and can be more cost-effective than traditional methods.
Recently completed projects include:
- Woodside Manor, Heaton Place, and Plymouth Avenue:
- 2,155 feet of pipe repaired using CIPP.
- 3 structures repaired with Foam Injection.
- Multiple sinkholes filled.
- Capri Isle Neighborhood:
- 540 feet of pipe lined with the CIPP method.
- 7 structures replaced.
- 9 tidal check valves installed to prevent tidal flooding.
- Kingfish Circle:
- 65 feet of pipe lined using CIPP.
- 1 tidal check valve installed in partnership with the City of Folly Beach.
“These innovative methods allow us to make lasting repairs to critical drainage infrastructure without the noise, mess, or long delays that residents often expect from this kind of work,” said Charleston County Project Manager John Primm. “They help us prevent sinkholes, reduce flood risks, and deliver smarter, more efficient improvements that truly strengthen the resilience of our community.”
