Culvert Installation
Smart Drainage Solutions for Driveways, Roads, and Infrastructure
At TL2 Construction, we understand that managing water flow is one of the most important aspects of site development. That’s why we offer expert culvert design and installation services for residential, commercial, and agricultural properties.
Whether you’re building a driveway over a ditch, improving stormwater flow, or reinforcing roadways, our team delivers durable culvert systems that protect your property from erosion, flooding, and structural damage — all while ensuring compliance with local regulations.
What Is a Culvert?
A culvert is a drainage structure designed to allow water to pass underneath driveways, roads, embankments, or other obstructions. Made from materials like concrete, steel, or plastic, culverts provide a clear, controlled path for surface water and runoff, helping to prevent water accumulation and protect nearby structures.
Culverts are vital in both rural and urban environments, ensuring that stormwater is diverted safely and efficiently while maintaining the integrity of the landscape and infrastructure.
Common Types of Culverts We Install
Pipe Culverts
The most popular type, typically circular and made of concrete, corrugated metal (CMP), or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Used for moderate drainage needs — like under driveways or rural roads.
Box Culverts
Rectangular concrete structures built for high-flow areas, heavy traffic, or commercial infrastructure. They offer superior strength and water capacity.
Arch and Pipe-Arch Culverts
Semi-circular or elliptical in shape, designed for low-clearance situations with high flow. Often used in natural stream crossings or areas with limited vertical space.
Slab Culverts
Flat concrete slabs supported by side walls — best suited for narrow roadways or low-traffic areas.
We’ll help you select the right culvert type based on flow requirements, site conditions, and budget.
Culvert Materials
- Reinforced Concrete: Long lifespan, high load capacity, and minimal maintenance.
- Corrugated Metal: Lightweight and cost-effective, best for low-corrosive environments.
- Plastic (HDPE, PVC): Corrosion-resistant, lightweight, and ideal for residential or agricultural use.
- Aluminum and Steel: Strong and easy to install but may require protective coatings.
Our team selects the best materials to match your specific site and drainage needs.
Design Considerations for Culverts
A successful culvert installation begins with careful design. We evaluate:
- Hydraulic Capacity: The volume of water the culvert must handle.
- Flow Velocity: Prevents clogging and downstream erosion.
- Culvert Slope and Length: Ensures proper water flow by gravity.
- Load Requirements: Especially important for roads and driveways with vehicle traffic.
- Environmental Impact: Wildlife passage, sediment control, and water quality.
We use industry-standard modeling tools and work closely with engineers when needed to ensure precision and code compliance.
Our Culvert Installation Process
01.
Site Preparation
We clear the work area of vegetation and debris, grade the base, and install erosion control measures.
02.
Excavation
We dig the trench to the specified depth and width, ensuring stable side slopes and a level subgrade.
03.
Bedding Preparation
A layer of compacted granular material is added to form a stable, even foundation for the culvert.
04.
Culvert Placement
Using heavy equipment, we lower the culvert into place. For segmented structures, we seal and align joints for a watertight connection.
05.
Backfilling
We use clean, compactable fill material to backfill around and above the culvert, in layers, to prevent shifting or damage.
06.
End Treatments
We install headwalls, wing walls, or concrete aprons to protect the culvert ends from erosion and stabilize water entry and exit points.
Applications: Where Culverts Are Used
- Driveway Culverts
Installed under residential driveways to allow water to pass beneath access roads or ditches. Typically 12″–36″ in diameter and made from plastic or metal. - Municipal Infrastructure
Used in stormwater systems, road crossings, and flood control systems. These are often large-scale, concrete box or pipe culverts with high durability. - Agricultural and Industrial Sites
Deployed to manage irrigation water, protect farm roads, and divert runoff from industrial yards or access roads.
Common Issues and Solutions
- BlockageCause: Leaves, sediment
Solution: Routine cleaning and debris screens - ErosionCause: Fast water flow
Solution: Riprap, aprons, or gabion baskets - CorrosionCause: Harsh environments
Solution: Use corrosion-resistant materials
- Joint SeparationCause: Poor bedding or soil movement
Solution: Repair joints, improve compaction - CollapseCause: Overloading or poor fill
Solution: Reconstruct with proper load-bearing support
Environmental and Regulatory Requirements
- Permits may be required when working near creeks, ditches, or wetlands.
- Stormwater Compliance ensures your culvert doesn’t contribute to flooding or pollution.
- Wildlife-Friendly Designs may be necessary in protected habitats.
We help handle the permitting process and ensure your culvert is built to local codes and environmental standards.
Culvert Installation Costs
- Plastic(HDPE/PVC)$10-30
- Corrugated Metal$20-50
- Reinforced Concrete$30-100
- Box Culvert$250-500
Why Choose TL2 Construction?
When it comes to culvert installation, experience matters. At TL2 Construction, we provide:
- Customized drainage solutions for any site
- Proper culvert sizing and slope alignment
- High-quality materials for long-term durability
- Professional excavation, placement, and grading
- Full compliance with local and state regulations
We build drainage systems that work — and last.
Request Your Culvert Estimate
If your property needs drainage support, let’s get started. Whether it’s a new installation or replacement of a failing system, TL2 Construction is here to help.