Commercial Services Case Studies: Locust Road Bridge Slab Repair in Decorah, Iowa

Challenge

Winneshiek County Highway department experienced voids and settling in both abutments of one of their most trafficked bridges. This resulted in a sharp ramp when driving onto the bridge. This caused deflection in the abutment, and cracking through the 18 inch thick slab. 

Solution

American Waterworks solved the problem by drilling penny sized holes though the slab, and injecting a two part high density polyurethane foam to fill the voids and lift the slab one inch. The injection holes were drilled to allow complete coverage of Polylevel foam under the slab. The installation process took a total of 8 hours to complete. Traffic was reduced to one lane at a time, and American Waterworks was able to lift slabs while traffic continued to flow. 

Project Summary

Installing Contractor: American Waterworks

Certified Inspector: Tom Webbles

Project Manager: Burt Weekes