How Much Does a Manhole Cover Cost?

Last Updated on January 26, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Manhole covers are an essential yet often overlooked part of urban infrastructure, providing access to underground utility systems. But how much do these heavy metal discs that dot city streets actually cost? This article will examine the various factors that influence manhole cover pricing.

Manhole covers come in a range of shapes, sizes, and materials to suit different applications. Their primary purpose is to provide safe and secure access to municipal and public utility systems located beneath roadways, while withstanding traffic loads. Access to sewer systems, telecommunications lines, electrical networks, and water mains are all enabled through properly installed and maintained manhole covers.

How Much Does a Manhole Cover Cost?

The average cost for a standard 24-inch diameter cast iron manhole cover costs between $150 and $400. However, prices can reach beyond $1,000 for custom oversized models rated for heavy loads.

Major cities spend millions annually on manhole cover procurement and maintenance for infrastructure.

As a quick reference, here are price ranges for common manhole cover types and sizes:

• 12-inch diameter cast iron cover – $150 to $200
• 24-inch diameter cast iron cover – $200 to $400
• 32-inch diameter cast iron cover – $300 to $500
• 24-inch diameter composite cover – $150 to $250
• 24-inch concrete cover – $100 to $200
• Custom cast iron covers – Up to $1,000+

On Amazon, prices for manhole covers vary based on the size, material, and design. Some examples include NATOTELA Grey 20x20in FRP Solid Manhole Cover and Frame for $109.99, and Allegro Industries 9401-20 Elevador de tapa de registro Deluxe, 6, plateado for $185.

Manhole Covers Direct sells Round Manhole Covers and Frames Base Flange Frame for $332.30.

Trench Drain Supply has in its portfolio EJ Extended Catalog: 22-3/4″ lid Dia. BF 34″ Diameter / 9″ Frame Height for $940.00.

Of course, costs vary between suppliers and project requirements. But these figures give a general idea of typical manhole cover costs. Major metropolises like New York and Los Angeles spend millions per year on covers to maintain their vast underground infrastructure.

Factors that impact the cost of a manhole cover

Materials

The most common materials used in manhole cover construction are cast iron, concrete, and a cast iron/concrete composite. Cast iron offers durability and compressive strength and is the most expensive option. Concrete is cheaper but more prone to cracking under heavy loads. Composite covers provide a balance of strength and cost-efficiency.

Size/Dimensions

Manhole covers are typically available in standard sizes, ranging from 12 inches to 36 inches in diameter. Larger covers cost more due to higher material and production costs. Custom non-standard sizes can also be more expensive.

Load Rating

Covers are designed and tested to meet certain load ratings dictated by their intended application and location. Heavy-duty high-capacity covers that can withstand greater loads from vehicle traffic are more costly than standard lighter-duty covers.

You might also like our articles on the cost of connecting to a public sewer, epoxy pipe lining, or private utility locating.

Design

Basic manhole covers with simple circular designs are the most affordable. Covers incorporating custom patterns, shapes or logos require additional fabrication costs that increase the price.

Quantity

As with most manufactured goods, buying manhole covers in bulk brings down the per unit price through volume discounts. Individual covers purchased in ones or twos are more expensive overall.

Additional Features

Specialized features like security locks, access hatches, and ventilation slots add to the base cost. Non-slip coatings and materials to reduce noise from traffic also increase pricing.

Installation

Professionally installing a manhole cover costs around $350 on average. The labor, equipment, and site preparation required drive up the total project cost compared to just the cover price itself.

Materials Used in Manhole Covers

The material used to construct a manhole cover greatly affects its durability, longevity, and price. Here are the advantages and costs of common manhole cover materials:

• Cast Iron – Long-lasting with high compressive strength. The most expensive option, the typical cost range of $200 to $500 per cover.
• Ductile Iron – Similar benefits as cast iron but with increased impact resistance. Costs around $350 to $550 per cover.
• Reinforced Concrete – Cheaper and more prone to cracking. Costs range from $100 to $250 per cover.
• Composite – Combined iron and concrete provide a good balance of strength and price. Around $150 to $300 per cover.

Cast iron continues to be the preferred choice for its corrosion resistance, durability, and load capacity. However, concrete and composite alternatives provide more budget-friendly options.

Installation and Maintenance Costs

Beyond just the manhole cover price itself, additional expenses stem from professional installation and ongoing maintenance needs, including:

• Installation – Labor, equipment, and site preparation add $300 to $400 on average to install a new manhole cover. Proper alignment and seating are crucial.
• Replacement – Eventually covers need replacement, at a cost similar to initial installation. Frequency depends on material, traffic loads, and weathering.
• Repairs – Cracked or broken covers require repairs averaging $200 to $300 to restore integrity.
• Cleaning – Covers should be cleared of accumulated debris and corrosion regularly to allow access. Expect $100 to $150 per cleaning.
• Inspection – Periodic inspections help spot damage before failure. Budget $50 to $100 per cover inspected.

Proper installation and maintenance practices maximize manhole cover lifespan and safety. These ancillary costs should be factored into long-term infrastructure planning budgets.

Purchasing Manhole Covers

Manhole covers are sold through metal fabricators, foundries, plumbing and construction suppliers, and directly from municipal departments. Here are some tips for purchasing:

• Review material and design load specifications to match project needs.
• Order well in advance for fabrication time, especially for large orders.
• Compare pricing between vendors to find competitive quotes.
• Inquire about bulk discounts for large orders to reduce per cover costs.
• Ask suppliers about installation options or equipment rentals if needed.
• Purchase some extra spare covers for future replacement needs.
• Monitor industry standards and future procurement contract opportunities.

With some prudent planning, buyers can secure quality, cost-effective manhole covers suited to their specific application.

Importance of Quality and Safety Standards

All manhole covers should adhere to local construction and safety standards to ensure long-term performance and hazard prevention. Quality and safety aspects include:

• Load testing – Validates the rated design capacity to carry vehicle loads without failure.
• Material standards – Meets requirements for material grade, thickness, and structural integrity.
• Safety factors – Built to withstand loads exceeding the expected threshold.
• Secure fit – Correct sizing and proper installation prevents dislodging.
• Slip resistance – Reduces risk of slipping and injuries for pedestrians and access.
• Clear identification – Indicates location and utilities accessed through color-coding.
• Ventilation – Perforations or vents prevent dangerous gas buildup belowground.

While more expensive, purchasing covers certified to established quality standards helps manage long-term infrastructure costs and liability risks.

Customization and Special Features

Beyond basic circular covers, options for specialty designs, patterns, and functional enhancements exist at added cost:

• Logos and patterns – Custom branded covers display company logos or decorative elements.
• Security features – Locks and removable access hatches secure restricted utility access.
• Materials – Stainless steel and composite polymers offer increased corrosion resistance.
• Accessories – Ladders, lift handles, and other accessories aid access and safety.
• Shape options – square or rectangular covers suit certain spaces better than round.
• Ventilation – Perforated covers allow gases to vent for improved air quality.
• Noise reduction – Rubber cushioned covers dampen traffic noise.
• Non-slip – Covers coated with grit or anti-skid materials prevent slipping.

While costing substantially more, customizable and enhanced covers deliver specialized functionality tailored to the application.

Conclusion

From municipal sewer access to secured telecommunication networks, manhole covers provide reliable access to critical underground infrastructure. While basic cast iron covers start around $150, pricing can exceed $1,000 for specialty covers meeting exact load, dimensional, and performance requirements.

Material, size, design, and features all influence cost. Additional expenses stem from professional installation, maintenance, and replacement needs over time. With some strategic planning and budgeting, municipalities and utilities can keep their underground access points covered with these utilitarian street fixtures.

FAQ

Why are manhole covers round?

Manhole covers are typically round for two reasons:

1. A circular shape prevents the cover from falling through the opening, as no diagonal dimension of a circular cover is wider than the manhole frame.
2. Round covers are easier to move and install due to uniform shape and lack of orientation. Square covers would need precise positioning.

The circular shape provides an efficient, functional, and safety design for these heavy access points.

Why is it called a manhole cover?

Early sanitary and storm sewer systems were constructed with access tunnels large enough for a man to enter for maintenance. The circular access plates covering these “man-holes” thus became known as manhole covers.

Even as technology evolved to use smaller pipes not traversable by people, the “manhole cover” term stuck as the standard name for these circular street plates. The size and nomenclature persist today even for modern infrastructure systems.

Are you allowed to cover a manhole?

In most areas, it is illegal to cover over or obstruct access to a manhole cover. Manhole covers need to remain visible and accessible for a few reasons:

• Utility workers need to be able to locate and open covers to maintain underground infrastructure. Covering a manhole could delay emergency repairs.
• Blocked manhole covers can present a safety hazard for both vehicles and pedestrians unaware of the covered hole.
• Intentionally covering a manhole violates regulations in many municipalities. There are potential fines for obstructing street infrastructure.

How do I find out where my manhole cover is?

If you don’t know the location of the manhole cover providing access to your property’s sewer/septic system, here are some tips to locate it:

• Check areas where utility pipes connect to municipal lines, often near the street or sidewalk on your property.
• Look for a steel lid flush with the ground. Buried lids may be obscured by grass or debris.
• Use a metal detector to scan along your outdoor utility route lines.
• Refer to municipal GIS maps of wastewater infrastructure, if publicly available.
• Hire a professional utility line locator service to identify the cover.
• Call your city Public Works department to check if they have manhole maps.
• Ask neighbors if they know where your utility access point is located.