4 Reasons Iron Manhole Covers Are Worse Than You Thought

4 Reasons Iron Manhole Covers Are Worse Than You Thought

For decades, traditional iron manhole covers have been the default choice for municipalities, but their time-tested presence hides significant flaws. These legacy covers create persistent, costly, and dangerous problems that modern cities can no longer afford to ignore.

A large pile of broken and rusted old iron manhole covers at a scrap or disposal site.

1. They Are a Constant Target for Theft

One of the most persistent manhole cover problems is theft due to iron's scrap value, which creates immediate replacement costs and public safety hazards. SuperCover composite covers have zero scrap value, which completely eliminates the incentive for theft from day one.

A single, severely rusted and weathered iron manhole cover lying on dry, cracked ground.

2. They Corrode and Degrade Over Time

Iron inevitably corrodes in sewer environments, compromising its seal and leading to costly I&I. Because SuperCover is made of a corrosion-proof composite material, its watertight seal remains intact year after year, ensuring reliable, long-term protection against leaks.

A low-angle close-up of a cracked iron manhole cover on a street with deteriorating asphalt.

3. They Create Serious Safety Liabilities

A cracked or displaced iron cover is a major liability that compromises public infrastructure safety. In contrast, SuperCover’s HS-25 traffic-rated design includes anti-rotation tabs and a bolted safety dish, ensuring the cover stays securely in place even under the heaviest loads.

An open manhole on a street with the iron cover placed next to it, surrounded by four orange safety cones.

4. Their Weight Poses a Risk to Your Crews

Weighing over 200 pounds, iron covers create a significant risk of strain and injury for work crews. SuperCover's lightweight composite manhole covers are ergonomically designed for safe handling by a single worker, protecting your employees from preventable injuries.

Upgrade to a Superior Solution

The ongoing costs and risks associated with theft, corrosion, and safety make iron an obsolete choice for modern infrastructure. Contact SuperCover today to learn how our innovative composite solutions eliminate these problems for good.

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