Tips for Creating Culverts and Waterways
A culvert can be an important part of a construction project when you need a way to ensure water can get over physical obstacles in Boulder and Jefferson County (Colorado). You want to understand the different types of culverts so that you can choose the best one for the space that you are working with.
Common Materials Used to Create a Culvert
When you are building a culvert in Boulder and Jefferson County, it is important that you utilize durable and proper materials. Concrete is the most common material and the material that most prefer to use. However, some builders will use steel, aluminum, plastic and high-density polyethylene to build culverts.
Picking the Right Location
For the most part, usage and economy will dictate the right place for a culvert. For example, putting them under a railway or roadway is considered to be an economical choice. They should be able to flow easily by being built in an area with the right gradient.
Types of Culverts
Now that you have some basic information concerning location and the materials used, it is time to consider the different types of culverts that you might use. It is very important that you use the right type to ensure proper water flow. The following are the types of culverts that you might consider:
Pipe culvert: This could be either multiple or single. They are rounded in shape and tend to be very common. These are a good option when you are building a culvert for a larger flow of water.
Pipe arch culvert: This type might be either multiple or single. The flow of water this type is being used for must be stable and it will work for larger water flows.
Box culvert: This type can be either multiple or single. This type is almost always made from concrete and it can be reinforced. It is most often used to help dispose of rain water. They are not ideal for larger water flows.
Arch culvert: This type uses an artificial floor. This is commonly used when passages are narrow.
Bridge culvert: This is ideal for rivers or canals when you need a culvert and a bridge over the waterway.
You can see that there are several different types of culverts that you can choose from in Boulder and Jefferson County. Consider where and why you are building the culvert to make sure that you choose the right one. After making your choice, it is imperative to construct it properly to ensure the correct function.