TYPES OF DAMS WE CONSTRUCT
Dams come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can be constructed from either natural materials, like rock and earth, or man-made materials, like concrete. There are a few main types of dams that are worth noting:
ARCH DAM
An arch dam is a man-made dam that you'll usually find in a steep, narrow valley. Their name comes from their curved, arch-like shape that points back into the water for added strength. Arch dams are particularly robust because they're made primarily of concrete and are designed specifically for pushing the force of oncoming water behind the dam itself.
GRAVITY DAM
A gravity dam is also a man-made dam that is made from either concrete, masonry, or a combination of the two. Gravity dams are so-called because their triangle-like cross-section allows gravity to hold them to the ground to prevent the water sitting in the reservoir from tipping them over. These types of dams can be built in both narrow and wide valleys.
EMBANKMENT DAM
Embankment dams are mainly made from natural materials from nearby sites and come in two forms; rockfill dams (made of compacted rockfill) and earth-fill dams (made of compacted earth). The core of embankment dams is usually made of asphaltic concrete or clay soil and is built in a hill shape to stop water from passing through. These types of dams are usually suited to wide valleys and can be built on either soft soil or hard rock because they don't exert much pressure.
BUTTRESS DAM
A buttress dam is a man-made dam that can be made of either masonry or concrete. Their triangular-shaped walls (buttresses) are positioned at intervals to support their watertight upstream side to resist the force of the reservoir water. These dams can be built on wide or narrow valleys.
Process Of Dam Construction In Rockhampton
Many dams fail if not planned and constructed properly, with part of their success determined by where the dam is built on the property.
At Mike Barlow Earthmoving, our experience in dam construction allows us to effectively pick a suitable site for the project based on soil type and other environmental factors -- usually in a gully, depression or on a hillside. We’ll take into account things like the catchment yield, drainage patterns, soil type and other environmental factors.
Once we’ve chosen the best location for your dam, we’ll promptly clear the site. This includes the careful removal of trees and stumps and stripping away all the topsoil, roots and other vegetation.
Next we mark out the shape of the hole, including the embankment and spillway. Our powerful machinery can excavate the proposed site, ready for the construction of the dam and laying required pipelines. We’ll make sure your dam is the right shape, isn’t too shallow or too steep, and that it’s well-compacted.
We construct dams to meet your specific requirements at all times.
Benefits Of Dams
A properly constructed and well-functioning dam has many uses, including:
• Essential drinking and wash-down water for livestock
• Fire protection and fire fighting
• Reticulated water supply
• Irrigation of crops and gardens
• Habitat for wildlife
• Recreational purposes
DAM CONSTRUCTION FAQ'S
What kind of dam do I need for my property?
The type of dam you need for your property will depend on the width and the foundation of your site. If you're not sure which kind of dam you need, get in touch with our team and we'll be happy to help.
How long will my dam last?
On average, dams will last for approximately 50 years, but this will depend on the type of dam you install on your property. If your dam is well-maintained, it could last up to 100 years.
How long does it typically take to build a dam?
The time it takes to build a dam can vary depending on several factors, including the size and complexity of the project, the availability of materials and resources and the weather conditions. During the build, the construction team will need to clear the site, excavate the area, build the dam structure, install pipelines and other infrastructure and perform necessary tests and inspections to ensure the dam is safe and functional. For a more accurate estimate on the time it might take to build your dam, contact us for a quote on (07) 4934 4229.
What type of materials are used in dam construction?
The materials used in dam construction will depend on the type of dam being built, the site conditions and other factors. Common materials include concrete, rockfill and compacted earth. These materials are chosen for their strength, durability and ability to withstand the force of water and other environmental factors. The selection of materials will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the dam project.
Are there any regulations that need to be followed when building a dam on private property?
Yes, there are regulations that need to be followed when building a dam on private property. These regulations can vary by location and may include obtaining permits, complying with environmental and safety requirements and following specific design and construction standards. When hiring a professional dam construction company, opt for one that is familiar with local regulations and can ensure your dam is built safely and legally.
How much does it cost to construct a dam?
The cost of constructing a dam can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size and type of dam, the materials used, the location of the project and any additional infrastructure that needs to be built. It's best to request a quote from us for a more accurate estimate.
Are there any additional costs associated with long-term dam maintenance?
Yes, there can be additional costs associated with long-term dam maintenance. These costs can include routine inspections, repairs and upgrades to ensure the dam continues to function properly and meet regulatory requirements. It's important to budget for these costs and work with a professional dam maintenance company that can help you develop a comprehensive maintenance plan to ensure the long-term sustainability of your dam. By investing in regular maintenance, you can help prevent costly repairs and ensure the safety and reliability of your dam for years to come.
CONTACT US TODAY
If you would like to learn more about dam construction or would like to request a quote, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our team today on 07 4934 4229.
ABOUT US
We offer premium earthmoving and excavation services throughout Rockhampton and Central Queensland. Our experienced operators are fully qualified and licensed, and committed to a high standard of workmanship. We cater for earthmoving jobs of all sizes, from small domestic services to large-scale commercial projects.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Address: Rockhampton QLD 4700
Phone:
07 4934 4229
Mobile:
0407 131 022 - Mike
Fax: (07) 4935 4642
Email:
mike.barlow@bigpond.com
Operating Hours: 7am to 7pm / 7 days a week
