Barlow Mountain School Gutter Restoration | Ridgefield, CT

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Project Outline

Mid-America Pool Renovation performed a specialized Hydro-Blasting prep and structural restoration on the perimeter gutter system at Barlow Mountain School, which was discovered to be in a state of severe failure. Initially identified during a random inspection while resurfacing the main pool, the 260-foot concrete gutter channel had deteriorated to the point of looking like a hydrogen-sulfide-damaged wastewater tank.

Project Specifications:

Challenges Solved

  • Advanced Concrete Deterioration:  The gutter walls suffered from severe cover-cracking and voids, with iron oxide nodules up to 2 inches in size penetrating out from the corroded internal steel.
  • Reinforcement Steel Corrosion:  Reinforcement bars were pitted and exposed; these were cleaned and encapsulated with Sika Armatec® 110 to stop the oxidation process.
  • Failing Infrastructure:  The existing 4-inch PVC return line was found to be brittle and worn, requiring a full replacement to restore proper circulation.
  • Chemical Attack:  Despite only carrying pool water, the concrete had been aggressively attacked, necessitating a finish typically reserved for industrial wastewater environments.

Special Considerations

  • High-Pressure Preparation:  To ensure a sound substrate, the entire surface was ground and subjected to 6,000 psi water jetting using a specialized rotational nozzle to remove all loose debris and contaminants.
  • Wastewater-Grade Materials:  The repair system utilized a high-solids, solvent-free Epoxy Amine coating and microsilica mortar to inhibit further penetration of chemically treated water into the concrete.
  • Engineering Collaboration:  The restoration was specified in conjunction with municipal engineers to ensure the repair system would meet long-term durability standards for public use.
  • Budget-Minded Preservation:  By applying advanced coatings to the existing formed and poured concrete, the project successfully extended the facility's life without the need for total demolition.

From Our Team

“Even though only pool water entered the gutter channel, the surface of the gutter looked like a deteriorated wastewater treatment tank attacked by hydrogen sulfide.”

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