At the end of a cul-de-sac in Houma, La., in Terrebonne Parish, a corrugated metal pipe ran along the back of two residential properties. Like so many of these pipes across the country, it was deteriorating and in desperate need of replacement.
Because of the location of the pipe, there were several obstacles to take into consideration. The 48-in. CMP was approximately 516-ft-long and about 10 ft underground. The outlet of the pipe was located on the north end of the properties, which exited into a canal. The pipe extended through a wooden bulkhead on the north end as well. The catch basin connected two other drainage lines as well.
All along the length of the pipe, there was also landscaping to contend with. There were 13 Crepe Myrtle trees, 46 Viburnum bushes, three large cypress trees and other landscaping planted near or on top of the drainage line. It was imperative to preserve as much of the landscaping as possible while finding a solution to replace the crumbling culvert.
Snap-Tite was a great choice for rehabilitating the line. The system is made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe. The patented male/female machining at each end of the HDPE allows the pipe ends to be ‘snapped’ together, piece-by-piece, and pushed into the full length of the existing pipe. To join Snap-Tite in the field, often only a come-along and chains are needed.
To fill any annular space between the old culverts and the new Snap-Tite pipe liner grout was pumped in through tubes situated in the space above and below the corrugated metal pipe. The result is a solid pipe that will last for decades to come. It was installed without any disturbance to the property or the landscaping.
Gravity Drainage Superintendent for Terrebonne Parish Consolidated government Rory Sons had worked with Snap-Tite to complete three similar projects previously. The contractor on the job was Tommy Boudreaux from Norris & Boudreaux General Contractors located in Schriever, La. He worked with Snap-Tite products before and knew he could rely on them to complete the job again. He reached out to Snap-Tite representative Scott Brignac to see if sliplining the corrugated metal pipe behind the residences in Houma would be a possibility.
Using HDPE pipe, Snap-Tite offers flexibility for insertion into misaligned concrete or rusted and deteriorating corrugated metal pipe. It is a safe method for installers and does not disturb the surrounding environment. Every bush and tree was left intact upon completion of the installation. The product is tough, but lightweight and the Snap-Tite joint makes a solid water-tight mechanical connection that can be pushed or pulled. Due to the system’s installation flexibility and cost-effectiveness, it continues to provide successful results for many projects throughout the U.S. and internationally.
