Important Uses of Culvert in Northern Ontario
Culverts are a critical part of the drainage system for roadways, ditches, and waterways throughout Ontario. However, in Northern Ontario, culverts have an even larger range of uses that are unique to the weather conditions and the land. Harsh winters lead to increased stress on roadways and cause major washouts or sinkholes. Rural living and low population density require creative culvert uses to create access points in hard-to-reach areas. High water levels and high bedrock also create obstacles that are specific to Northern Ontario.
Below are some of the top reasons our customers in Huntsville, North Bay, Sudbury and beyond use culverts.
Winters are harsh in the North. With extreme cold for months on end, deep frost, high bedrock, and large amounts of snowfall unlike what we experience in the GTA. The combination of these challenges leads to significant thawing, water runoff, and road collapses. Just this month the spring thaw caused severe flooding and collapse on Highway 64 between Sturgeon Falls (Hwy 17) and Marten River (Hwy 11) in West Nipissing. West Nipissing also had to declare a state of emergency due to multiple road washouts.
How Culverts Help Repair Emergency Road Collapse:
Culverts play a critical role in emergency road repairs after washouts by acting as the primary solution to restore water flow, stabilize roadbeds, and prevent future failures. Culverts are used to replace collapsed structures and can allow for road reopening within days. By installing larger culverts, roadways are protected from future failures and additional erosion.
Culverts are used in the construction of logging roads due to the high water levels, particularly those that are common in boreal forest environments. Northern Ontario has a huge quantity of rivers, and lakes, where culverts are used for water management, environmental protection, and wildlife protection. Culverts improve water flow under temporary roadways, while maintaining road stability. Culvert for logging roads is also available in 210 kPa, helping to reduce the cost of constructing temporary roads.
Both HDPE Culvert and CSP culvert can be used for vertical installation while setting and securing telephone poles. HDPE is available in 210 kPa pipe stiffness as a cost effective option. Culverts stabilize the area around the pole and are especially important in challenging ground conditions. Providing structural support in soft, sandy, or wet soils, preventing cave-ins and reducing moisture. This is an ideal solution in roadside areas that are prone to flooding and washouts as we continue to see in Northern Ontario.
If you’ve got a unique drainage project, we have the solution for you. Our team is available by phone or email to help make customized recommendations and get your product to site quickly. We also work with homeowners on smaller projects such as driveway culverts or yard drainage, with weekly deliveries available directly to your property.
