By: Angus W. Stocking, L.S.
Akron-based Perrin Asphalt Co. is a family-owned asphalt and concrete paving firm that has been in business for more than 50 years. The firm always has viewed quality as one of the key factors that sets them apart from other paving companies, so they were concerned when they noticed typical parking lot repaving projects tending to leave large dips around catch basins. “After a paving lift, catch basins tended to end up below grade and that was a quality issue for us,” explained President Chuck Perrin. “Edges would be exposed and degraded more quickly. So, we started looking for a better way.”
That better way turned out to be catch basin risers from American Highway Products. They fit existing utility rims securely, providing a new seat for the original grate that leaves the grate exactly on grade—no dips or potholes, and no exposed asphalt or concrete that will crumble quickly. They are a fast, convenient way to adjust utility grates, saving $200 to $400 in labor and material costs, compared to traditional methods. Because they install in 10 minutes or less, lane closure times also are potentially reduced.
Also, they are sturdy. “We’ve been installing at least a hundred annually for at least 15 years,” Perrin said. “And I’ve never seen one fail, not even from rust.” Perrin added, “Usually, customers don’t even know we install these risers. It’s something we do on our own so that our paving projects look better and last longer.”
