Sewer Pipe Lining · CIPP · Duluth · Superior · Hermantown · Cloquet

Sewer Pipe Lining (CIPP) in Duluth, MN

A new seamless pipe formed inside your existing sewer line, with no trench across your yard. We cure with UV light instead of steam, which is why we line in February the same as we line in July.

Most residential projects run $5,000 to $15,000+. Free camera inspection on service calls.

Call 218-409-6356 See the process
500+ homesServed in the Duluth region
10+ yearsIn the Duluth industry
5 StarGoogle rating · 56 reviews
Contour Inc. CIPP sewer lining crew working in Duluth MN
Cured in place pipe

One continuous pipe, house to main, with no seams.

A fiberglass liner is saturated with epoxy, pulled into your existing sewer, and cured hard in place. When it is finished you have a new pipe inside the old one, formed as a single piece from the house all the way to the city main.

No seams matters more than it sounds. Nearly every sewer failure we dig up started at a joint, whether that is a separated clay tile or a glued PVC coupling that was never seated properly. A liner has none.

Installed year round, including deep winter
Most residential jobs finished in a single day
10 year warranty, 50 year liner service life
Free camera inspection before any quote
Before & after

This is what trenchless looks like.

The top image shows the inside of a deteriorated sewer pipe before CIPP lining. Root intrusion, cracked joints, and debris buildup are visible. The bottom image shows the same pipe after lining. New structural surface, seamless, and fully sealed.

Drag the handle to compare. The yard above this pipe was never touched.

No trench in Duluth, MN

The liner was installed through existing cleanout access. The lawn, driveway, and landscaping were not disturbed.

Completed in one day

Camera inspection, cleaning, liner installation, UV curing, final camera confirmation. Start to finish in a single visit.

50+ year liner life

The new pipe surface is seamless, root-resistant, and corrosion-free. No joints for roots to re-enter.

After CIPP sewer pipe lining Duluth, MN
Before CIPP sewer pipe lining Duluth, MN
Before After
The system we run

Hammerhead equipment, Blue Light UV curing.

HammerHead Trenchless, the lining system Contour Inc. runs

Most lining contractors cure with steam or hot water. We cure with ultraviolet light. It is the same principle as a dental filling: the material goes in soft, the light passes over it, and it hardens on command.

The pull-back speed on the light head is calculated for every job from the pipe diameter, the temperature, and the condition of the light head itself, down to whether a single bulb has burned out. A steam cure has no equivalent to that. You hold temperature for the recommended time and hope it took.

Blue Light UV curing head used by Contour Inc. for CIPP sewer lining

Equipment and materials

Hammerhead, start to finish. Built in Wisconsin outside Madison, so parts and service are a drive away rather than a shipment from overseas.

Curing

Blue Light UV. A light head is drawn back through the pipe on a controlled pull rate, with a camera on the head to confirm placement before the cure begins.

Liner

Fiberglass scrim in 4 inch and 6 inch, saturated with epoxy and pressed through by machine so the resin fully wets the material.

Cleaning

Picote high speed cleaner. Chains first to cut out root intrusion, then a sanding head to take the pipe wall back to clean material.

Contour Inc. trenchless sewer lining in Duluth MN
"We find the problem first, then fix it once."
CIPP Pipe Lining

Twelve minutes to a new pipe.

Blue LED light at 444 to 457 nanometers cures the resin as the head is drawn back. Up to five times faster than steam or hot water, and it does not wait on the weather.

444–457nm Blue LED wavelength
12min To cure 50 feet
Faster than steam
Camera inspection is free on service calls Schedule
Cutaway of a cast iron sewer pipe showing the cured CIPP liner formed inside it
A cured liner inside the original cast iron. One continuous pipe, no joints to separate.
Winter lining

We line in February. Not everyone does.

A steam or hot water cure needs ambient heat to work. In frozen Northland ground that gets hard enough that some lining contractors in this region simply stop for the winter. January through March, the service is not available from them.

A UV cure does not depend on ground temperature the same way. The light supplies the energy. That is the practical reason we can schedule a lining job in the middle of a Duluth winter.

Sewer lines do not wait for spring. Neither should the fix.

Steam and hot water curing, what can go wrong

Too warm
The resin can begin setting before the liner has fully expanded against the pipe wall.
Too cold
The line may need heat held in it for 24 hours or more, and you cannot use the sewer for any of it.
Styrene
Two part systems off-gas as they cure, the same way spray foam does when the A and B sides react.
How it works

Our CIPP lining process

Camera in first. Liner in second. Camera again before we leave.

01

Camera inspection

We run the camera before anything else. It tells us the length, the material, the condition, whether the line has lost its round shape, and whether it can be lined at all. You watch the screen with us. Free on service calls.

02

Clean the pipe

A Picote high speed cleaner goes in. Chains first to cut roots out at the wall, then a sanding head to take the pipe back to clean material. A liner bonded to roots and buildup is a liner that fails, so this is where a lot of the job happens.

03

Measure and saturate

The liner is cut to the length of the run and the epoxy is poured in, then pressed through the fiberglass by machine so the resin fully wets the material with no dry spots.

04

Install and cure

The liner is placed, then the Blue Light head is drawn back through it at a rate calculated for the diameter and conditions. The camera on the head confirms placement before the cure starts.

05

Final camera pass

We run the camera one more time to confirm full coverage, a sound seal, and clear connections. You see the before and the after.

What we find under Duluth homes

Which pipe materials can be lined

Clay, cast iron, concrete, and PVC all line well provided the pipe still holds its basic shape. One material does not.

Clay tile sewer pipe found under Duluth MN homes

Clay tile

1880s to 1960s

Lines well. Roots get in at every joint, and lining removes every joint in the run.

Good candidate
Cast iron sewer pipe found under Duluth MN homes

Cast iron

1920s to 1980

Lines well when the walls still hold shape. Corrodes from the inside, so the camera decides.

Good candidate
Orangeburg sewer pipe found under Duluth MN homes

Orangeburg

1945 to 1972

Deforms as it fails. A liner follows the bad shape, so bursting or replacement is usually the right call.

Usually not
CIPP liner installed in a Duluth MN sewer line
Why it matters here

Most Duluth homes change pipe size partway out.

The common setup around here is 4 inch cast iron leaving the foundation that transitions to 6 inch clay somewhere on the way to the main. That transition is a problem for a standard liner, which inflates to one fixed diameter and stops.

For most residential work we use a flex liner instead. It follows the shape of the pipe it is in, pressing into the actual contour of the line rather than holding one diameter. It handles a size change in a single continuous piece.

There is an honest limit. A narrow section stays narrow after lining, because the liner follows the pipe. If a previous contractor forced a smaller pipe into a larger one, we will tell you straight, and depending on what the camera shows we may recommend pipe bursting instead so you end up with one consistent full size line.

Repair the line

Install a new pipe inside the existing pipe.

When a sewer line still maintains its general shape and alignment, CIPP lining allows us to install a new structural pipe inside the existing one. The result is a seamless, root-resistant pipe designed to provide 50+ years of service while avoiding major excavation and preserving your yard, driveway, landscaping, and hardscapes.

CIPP lining is the right choice when:
The pipe retains its round shape, but has cracks, root intrusion, or moderately separated joints.
The line is clay tile, cast iron, PVC, Orangeburg, or other pipe material that is not collapsed.
The client is taking a proactive approach, and repairing the line before an issue occurs.
What you should know:
CIPP lining creates a new structural pipe inside the existing pipe.
The finished liner is seamless and resistant to roots and joint separation.
Properly installed CIPP liners provide an expected service life of 50+ years.
Common in Duluth, MN: Many older clay tile lines from pre-1950s homes, cast iron, and even Orangeburg sewer lines can be successfully rehabilitated with CIPP lining when the pipe has not collapsed.
Replace the line

New pipe. Minimal excavation whenever possible.

When a sewer line has lost its shape, contains major bellies, or is completely collapsed, replacement becomes the better option. Our first choice is typically pipe bursting because it allows us to install a completely new pipe while minimizing disruption to the yard.

Replacement is the right choice when:
The pipe is fully collapsed and a camera or cable cannot pass through.
A major belly or sag is causing standing water and recurring backups.
The line has severe deformation that cannot support a structural liner.
The pipe route or elevation must be corrected.
Existing defects prevent successful CIPP installation.
How we replace sewer lines:
Pipe Bursting – A new pipe is pulled through the existing line while breaking apart the old pipe underground.
Typically requires excavation only at the city connection, not a trench through your yard.
Preserves most landscaping and causes far less disruption than traditional trenching.
Installs a completely new sewer pipe with a 50+ year life expectancy.
Traditional excavation is only necessary when:
The pipe is completely collapsed and inaccessible.
A major belly requires regrading of the sewer line.
Site conditions prevent pipe bursting.
Common in Duluth, MN: Orangeburg sewer lines in post-war homes built between 1945 and 1965 can deform or collapse and are often addressed with pipe bursting or replacement.
Contour trenchless sewer repair Duluth MN
Digging Less. Solving More. Duluth, MN · Founded 2021
30–40% Skip the trench, landscaping and hassle
No concrete work

Driveways and sidewalks stay completely untouched.

Minimal landscaping

Turf, gardens, irrigation, and trees left intact.

No scheduling timelines

Most trenchless repairs are wrapped in a single day.

Get a free inspection →
Common questions

CIPP Lining FAQs

Not seeing yours? Call and ask. We will tell you if lining is wrong for your line.

Call 218-409-6356

How much does CIPP sewer lining cost in Duluth?

Most residential sewer lining projects run $5,000 to $15,000 or more depending on the length of the run, the pipe material, access, and how much cleaning the line needs before it can be lined. We do not quote lining over the phone. The camera inspection comes first, and it is free on service calls.

Can you line a sewer in winter in Duluth?

Yes. We cure with UV light rather than steam or hot water, so the cure does not depend on ground temperature the way a thermal cure does. Some lining contractors in this region stop lining from roughly January through March because their systems need ambient heat. We line year round.

How long will my sewer be out of service?

Most residential lining jobs are completed in a single day. That is a direct result of the curing method. A steam or hot water cure on a cold day can require heat held in the line for 24 hours or more, and the sewer cannot be used during any of it.

Will lining stop tree roots from coming back?

Yes. Roots enter old pipe at joints and cracks. The finished liner is continuous from one end to the other with no joints to push through. We also cut the existing roots out with chains and sand the pipe wall before the liner goes in, so nothing is left behind it.

What is the warranty on CIPP lining?

We back our lining work with a 10 year warranty. The liner material itself is tested to a 50 year service life.

Can you line a pipe that changes size partway?

In most cases yes, using a flex liner that follows the shape of the existing pipe rather than holding one fixed diameter. That covers the common Duluth setup of 4 inch cast iron transitioning to 6 inch clay. The honest limit is that a restriction stays a restriction after lining, so if the line has been narrowed we may recommend pipe bursting instead.

What kinds of pipe can be lined?

Clay tile, cast iron, concrete, and PVC all line well provided the pipe still holds its basic shape. Orangeburg is the exception, since it deforms as it fails and a liner will follow that bad shape. We have also lined PVC lines where the glued connections failed and digging would have meant tearing up parking lot or roadway.

When is lining not the right fix?

When the pipe has fully collapsed, when there is a significant belly holding water because the line lost its grade, or when the connection at the city main requires excavation regardless. In those cases we move to pipe bursting or a targeted dig. The camera inspection is what tells us which situation you are in.

Where can I get CIPP lining near me?

We install CIPP lining throughout Duluth, Superior, Hermantown, Proctor, Cloquet, Two Harbors, and Esko. Because we cure with UV light rather than steam, we are also able to line year round, which is not true of every lining contractor in this region.

Pricing and common questions

Everything you need to know.

Straight answers on cost, process, and what to expect. No bait-and-switch, no hidden fees.

Pricing

Sewer pipe lining (cured-in-place pipe, or CIPP) typically runs $5,000 to $15,000+. The range depends on the length of pipe being lined and how much prep work the condition of the line requires. Lining is often the most cost-effective solution for cracked or root-infiltrated pipe. We insert a resin liner that cures in place and lasts 50 years, usually in a single day.

Single-day installation in most cases. No major excavation required.

Every job is different. Get an exact number for yours, no commitment required.

Get a free estimate →

Service and Process

What people say

Duluth homeowners who thought their yard was gone.

The thing people say most: they couldn't tell we were ever there.

Contour Inc place picture
5.0
Based on 55 reviews
Bonnie Summers profile picture
Bonnie Summers
4 months ago
Great crew, very professional work, five 🌟 they're there when they say they're going to be there. no excuses, anything goes wrong they fix it. customer service is five star. I would call them to get the job done. I highly recommend them. Had my sewer line replaced. Everything went smoothly. Loved working with this crew/company. They made an ugly situation beautiful once again.
Jill Thunder profile picture
Jill Thunder
4 months ago
Contour was very accommodating with all the home owners insurance issues I had to sort out. They repaired my main sewer pipe (had several cracks in it) with a 50 year warranty liner. Contour's quote was half of ASP as they found a closer access point to the front of the house and inspected all my home pipes determining they were fine and did not need lining. They save people a lot of money by only lining the sq foot of pipes that need it. The crew were very polite and professional. Would definitely recommend and hire them in the future for other services.
Rod Barber profile picture
Rod Barber
5 months ago
Contour Inc. Was able to fix my sewer in a very timely manner so we could sell our house. They dug it up even in February! Very nice to deal with them.
Patrick Heaslip profile picture
Patrick Heaslip
5 months ago
From my initial conversation with Jason to my sewerlining appoint with Troy and his crew, Contour was 5 stars across the board. Everyone I spoke to was professional, knowledgeable, and patient throughout the process. They made it easy in addition to quoting a reasonable price. I would highly recommend anyone in the market for a sewerlining to consider their services.
Adam Osterlund profile picture
Adam Osterlund
7 months ago
Contour came out and was willing to work with us on a solution that would fix a leak in a very difficult water main leak. They worked quickly, professionally, and cleanly.

They were able to complete the work faster than expected, and did a great job. We really appreciate their flexibility and ability to get the job done!
Leah Holliday profile picture
Leah Holliday
7 months ago
I needed my main sewer line lined. Contour was super helpful and was able to make it work within my budget. Very prompt, professional and got the work completed that same day. Highly recommend 5 stars to this company!!
Sara K profile picture
Sara K
1 year ago
Contour is the best! Everyone treats you like an equal human and they are super knowledgeable at what they do. Brian and Co. were kind and honest from the start and very responsive. Everything was done very well and efficiently. They even came back to check on the project and touch up the blacktop they needed to patch in the alley after the job was completed. (Sewer line repair) Really appreciate you! I look forward to working with you again soon, just hopefully on an elective project and not an emergency. ;)
This is a very professional company. Not only did they actually return my request for a quote, they did it rapidly. The inspection was very thorough and was easily done. The quote was very fair, and the installation was amazing! The day of install we made room for their work, and when they left, it was cleaner than when we moved all our stuff! The workers communicated with us during the install, there was never a question about anything. Work was professional, and the out come is a sewar line I won't have to worry about again!

Thanks Contour!
Nadine Uremovich profile picture
Nadine Uremovich
2 years ago
Highly recommended! "Wow!" is the only way to describe Contour. Their crew is honest, knowledgeable, considerate, and dependable. They replaced our sewer and water line in one day. They were meticulous with clean up, too. Great people and a great company!
See what our customers are saying

Financial Assistance for Sewer Line Repair and Replacement in Duluth & Superior

You may not have to pay for all of this.

Duluth, Superior, and the surrounding region run more than 30 programs that help homeowners pay for sewer and water line repair. Grants, cost-share, and zero percent deferred loans that you do not repay monthly.

  • 30+ programs in this region
  • Up to $20,000 in grants and free coverage
  • 0% deferred loan options
Step 1 of 4

Where is your property?

What needs repair?

Do you own the property?

Most programs require owner-occupancy.

Approximate household income?

Used only for income-based eligibility.

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Where we work

Serving Duluth and the Twin Ports.

Based in Duluth at 4958 Rice Lake Rd. We service homes and businesses across Northern Minnesota and Wisconsin. Enter your address to see how quickly we can be there.

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Cities we serve
Duluth, MN ★HQ Hermantown10 min Proctor15 min Superior, WI20 min Cloquet25 min
Esko22 min
Two Harbors30 min
Knife River25 min
Silver Bay55 min
Hibbing1h 15m
Virginia1h 10m
Ashland, WI1h 25m

Travel times are typical and vary with traffic and weather. For service outside this list, please call.

Equipment partners

How we approach every new build

Why we always meet with the foundation crew before a machine moves.

After ten-plus years of combined foundation and excavation work, Josh and Brian kept seeing the same pattern: when a site prep project goes wrong, it traces back to poor communication before the first machine moved.

Drainage, soil conditions, and grade are not details you assess from a plan. A plan is a starting point. The ground is the reality.

We do a pre-job site visit on every new construction project. We walk the lot, talk through drainage, and make sure every contractor coming in after us knows exactly what they are building on.

Talk to us about your project
Contour Inc. excavation team in Duluth MN
10+
Years in foundation
and excavation

Don't tear up your yard until you've talked to us.

A camera inspection takes 30 minutes and tells you exactly what's wrong and what every option costs. Most people are relieved by that conversation.

No commitment · Same-week availability · Serving Duluth and the surrounding region