Underground Utility Vaults

The underground utility construction industry has come to rely on the proven performance and versatility of precast concrete utility structures. Standard vault designs are readily available, while custom vaults can be designed with the assistance of your local precast concrete manufacturer.

Precast concrete underground utility structures are a perfect example of value-added engineering. Utility equipment and accessory items such as racks, ladders, hatches, frames, covers or climate control units can all be preinstalled saving a considerable amount of time and money on your next underground utility project.

Strength

Precast concrete gradually strengthens over time. Other products, such as fiberglass and steel, can deteriorate and lose strength, especially in the presence of ground water.

Quality

Because precast concrete products are made in a controlled environment, they exhibit high quality and uniformity.

Ease of Installation

Precast concrete is desirable due to the relative ease of installation. Precast concrete underground utility structures can be easily installed and immediately backfilled — there is no need to wait for concrete or mortar to cure. The structural capacity of other materials is also often dependent on the design and quality of backfill material.

Noncombustible

Precast concrete utility structures are noncombustible and can withstand high temperatures.

Resistant

With a specific gravity of 2.40, precast concrete structures resist buoyant forces better than other materials.

Additional labor-intensive and time-consuming on-site preparation is necessary for anchoring structures made of more buoyant materials.

Customizable

Precast concrete is the material of choice for underground utility structures. Precast is modular and can fit any design situation. It is produced in a quality controlled environment and can be installed immediately upon arrival at the job site.

Reduced Weather Dependency

Precast concrete increases job efficiency because weather will not delay production. In addition, weather conditions at the job site will not significantly affect the schedule.

Conversely, forming and placing cast-in-place concrete can result in significant delays due to poor weather.

Reduced Construction Time

Precast concrete offers rapid installation compared to cast in place structures. This reduces excavation costs, lowers jobsite labor and eliminates many of the safety concerns of open excavation and working below grade with traditional concrete framing systems.