Underground Plumbing Made Easy With Trenchless Solutions
Traditional underground pipe repair used to mean weeks of delays, large crews, and extensive excavation. Today, however, MCM Plumbing offers efficient trenchless pipe installation and repair services that are faster, cleaner, and far less disruptive to your home or business.
Whether you’re dealing with a broken sewer line, need a new utility connection, or want to upgrade aging infrastructure, our trenchless methods deliver long-lasting results with minimal surface damage.
- Residential & commercial trenchless plumbing services
- Licensed C-36 Plumbing, C-34 Pipeline & A-General Engineering Contractor
- Specializing in no-dig technology: HDD, thrust boring, pipe bursting, and piercing tools
How the Process Works
Trenchless installation and repair rely on small access points, usually just two: one at the beginning and one at the end of the pipe route. Using guided equipment, we replace or install new pipes underground—without digging a trench. This approach protects surface features such as landscaping, concrete, asphalt, and patios.
It’s not only faster, but also significantly reduces the need for restoration, saving you money long-term.
For a technical overview, you can read this guide from Trenchless Technology Magazine.
Technologies We Use
Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD)
Ideal for long runs under roads or driveways, this method uses a guided bore head to pull in pipe along a curved or straight path. It’s widely used for electrical conduit, sewer lines, and water mains.
Pipe Thrust Boring
For straight shots under sidewalks, curbs, or slabs under 80 feet, thrust boring is an accurate and cost-effective option. We often use it for short utility runs in tight urban environments. 
Pneumatic Piercing Tools
Sometimes called “missiles,” these tools use air-powered force to install smaller-diameter pipes beneath surfaces like lawns or walkways. It’s a popular choice for quick water or gas line installations. 
Pipe Bursting
When an existing line needs replacement, we use pipe bursting to fracture the old pipe and pull in a new, seamless HDPE pipe. This is especially valuable for deteriorated sewer or drain lines.
- Up to 40% more cost-effective than trenching
- Installs high-durability HDPE with fused joints
- Requires only minimal surface access
When Trenchless Plumbing Is the Right Fit
Not every job requires digging. In fact, most underground pipe repairs can now be handled without disturbing the surface at all. Trenchless methods are ideal when:
- You want to preserve landscaping or concrete
- Work needs to happen under roads or sidewalks
- You’re replacing sewer laterals or main water lines
- Minimizing downtime is critical
If you’re unsure whether trenchless applies to your project, our licensed team will evaluate your site and offer the best solution. We also assist with planning, permits, and coordination with utility companies.
Why Work With MCM Plumbing?
With nearly a decade of experience in Central California, MCM Plumbing is one of the few contractors in the region licensed across three key classifications: C-36 Plumbing, C-34 Pipeline, and A-General Engineering. This means you’re getting a team that understands both utility infrastructure and building code compliance.
From Merced to Modesto and beyond, we’ve completed projects for schools, shopping centers, municipalities, and homeowners.
Additionally, we use advanced location and mapping equipment to ensure accuracy and compliance throughout the job.
Learn More About Trenchless Installation
If you’re researching options or want to dig deeper into the technology, we recommend reading NASSCO’s industry resources or visiting California Plumbing Code guidelines for more on legal standards.
You can also find detailed case studies about pipe bursting and HDD on Plumbing & Mechanical Magazine.
Call MCM Plumbing to schedule a free consultation or site review.
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