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Many municipalities and private landowners use dams to divert the flow of water to other areas or contain it for later use. Dam failure can be devastating to a property or a city’s economy and infrastructure. Because of this, a dam repair professional should routinely assess the condition of the structure. To know what red flags to be aware of, below are some of the most common causes of dam failure.  

3 Issues That Cause Dam Failure

1. Extended Rainfall

Hurricanes and other extreme weather conditions can cause bouts of prolonged, heavy rainfall. The excess water can push against the dam, which creates pressure inside the structure. This pressure can cause extreme cracking or result in the entire structure collapsing. This can also happen when a dam is flooded and can no longer hold all of the water entering it.

2. Inadequate Building Materials

Harrison-Ohio-dam-repairHow the dam is constructed could lead to its eventual failure. The steel, rock, concrete, and additional construction materials must meet industry standards. Ongoing dam repairs and maintenance are also required to prolong the life of the structure. If the current materials are ill-suited or too damaged to provide the proper reinforcement, the barrier could buckle from the strain of water pushing against it. 

3. Design Flaws

When designing a dam, contractors and architects should account for the specific weather conditions in the area and the expected inflow levels. If the spillway can’t control the release of water downstream, it could flood during a storm. If the reservoirs are too small, water could also overflow during heavy rainfall. 

 

If you need dam repairs to prevent area flooding and other issues, contact T. Luckey Sons. Based in Harrison, OH, and serving clients worldwide, these OSHA- and EEO-certified technicians have over 40 years of experience providing soil stabilization, undersealing, foundation repair, and additional solutions to keep clients’ investments intact. To discuss your needs, call (513) 353-2345. Visit these dam repair providers online to learn more about their past projects, including restoration work on the White House. Catch up on their latest updates on Twitter

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