The manhole may be overlooked by the layman, but for infrastructure owners, public works organizations, and municipalities, the reality is that manholes are an important access point for underground utilities. These structures face many challenges, such as the presence of groundwater, soil movement, and more. Let’s dive into some of the structural problems faced by manholes and how Stabil Solutions can address them with polyurethane injection manhole rehabilitation.
Manhole Damage
Manholes can become damaged for a variety of reasons and the issue may be visible both on the inside and above the structure.
- Cracks: Over time, the asphalt or concrete surrounding a manhole cover can crack due to soil movement, loss of support, poor drainage, or water intrusion. Cracking can also occur inside the structure. In concrete manholes, cracks may develop in the walls or at the joints, while brick-lined manholes may experience cracking and deterioration within the mortar.
- Joint Separation: Gaps can develop where sections of the manhole connect. These openings can allow water to enter the structure, accelerating deterioration and potentially contributing to other issues such as soil loss.
- Inflow and Infiltration: Inflow and infiltration, commonly referred to as I&I, occur when groundwater or stormwater enters the manhole unintentionally. Excess water can increase wear on the structure, worsen existing defects, and contribute to long-term deterioration.
- Soil Loss and Void Development: Water intrusion can wash away the supporting soils surrounding a manhole. As soil is lost, the structure may shift or settle, leading to cracks and joint separation. If left unaddressed, continued soil loss can result in voids that further compromise the manhole’s stability.
Manhole Rehabilitation with Polyurethane Injection
For structures experiencing any of the above problems, manhole rehab with polyurethane injection is an excellent solution that does not require excavation or massive disruption to the nearby areas. Here is how the process works:
- Stabil Solutions inspects the manhole and the surrounding areas and creates a strategic injection plan.
- Holes are drilled into the asphalt or concrete surrounding the manhole cover. Injection points are strategically located and drilled based on the manhole’s condition, surrounding soil conditions, and rehabilitation objectives. Through the holes, rods may be driven, depending on the depth of injection required.
- Polyurethane is injected through the holes or rods in its liquid form. The polyurethane reacts underground, where it expands to hold loose soils in place, fill voids, and seal cracks and seams around the manhole.
- A final inspection is conducted to ensure that the manhole rehabilitation process is complete.
Why Stabil Solutions?
Damaged manholes can lead to water intrusion, soil loss, and costly repairs if left unaddressed. Addressing these issues early can help extend the service life of the structure and prevent more extensive deterioration. At Stabil Solutions, we are a fully licensed and insured, family-owned and operated company working to restore concrete structures throughout Maryland and Delaware. If your manholes are showing signs of damage, contact our team today to learn how we can help protect and restore your infrastructure.