World’s longest covered bridge, at 107 years old, gets extended life after Unitex epoxy polymer overlay application

Versatile Unitex epoxy overlay offers better repairs
for bridges, parking structures, more

Key facts:

• The world’s longest covered bridge, the Hartland Covered Bridge, in New Brunswick, Canada, is undergoing the most extensive rehabilitation in its 107-year history.

• An epoxy polymer overlay from Unitex Chemicals — Unitex Pro-Poxy Type III DOT (http://www.unitex-chemicals.com/catalog/propoxy_dot.shtml) — is being used to repair the bridge deck.

• The Unitex epoxy adds less weight than resurfacing with asphalt, which had been done previously.

• The overlay will extend the bridge deck’s life and make it smoother and more skid-resistant.


Click here for high-resolution project photo and repair steps. (http://www.russellpr.com/UnitexHartland/default.aspx)

Click here for product technical information. (http://www.unitex-chemicals.com/catalog/propoxy_dot.shtml)


KANSAS CITY, Mo., Sept. 9, 2008 – The world’s longest covered bridge, the Hartland Covered Bridge in Hartland, New Brunswick, Canada, is now smoother and safer, thanks to an epoxy polymer overlay from Unitex. The wood deck of the 107-year-old, 1,282-foot bridge structure should now last for decades.

The Unitex Pro-Poxy Type III DOT (http://www.unitex-chemicals.com/catalog/propoxy_dot.shtml) epoxy polymer overlay is traditionally used on concrete bridge decks, but has proven successful on wood bridges as well. The epoxy is also used on parking structures, pedestrian bridges and more.

The Unitex epoxy polymer overlay application is lighter, more flexible, and more corrosion-resistant than resurfacing with asphalt or concrete. Compared to using concrete, the Unitex epoxy overlay reduces added weight by more than 50 percent. It also provides better skid-resistance.

“Many governments choose our epoxy overlay application as a better way to protect bridge structures for the long term,” says John Grissinger, Unitex president. “Ultimately, it helps them better use taxpayer dollars, while providing a safer, longer lasting surface.”

Innovative approach

The Hartland Bridge’s rehabilitation is the most extensive in its history. The first stage of deck repairs were completed in June. The bridge was closed for about four weeks. Remaining deck repairs are set for September.
The Unitex epoxy overlay was applied in the morning and allowed to cure overnight. The covered bridge kept the surface area cool, providing for longer working times. The crew was even able to work on rainy days.
“We’re proud to help this historic bridge last many more years,” says Grissinger.
Unitex’s project partner was its distributor, J.W. Bird Stairs, of Fredericton, New Brunswick.

More about Unitex

Unitex Chemicals, based in Kansas City, Mo., develops and manufactures solutions for concrete construction and repairs. The 40-year-old, family-owned company serves contractors, departments of transportation and others worldwide. Unitex products are also sold through distributors.

Unitex products include epoxy polymer overlays, epoxy machine grouts, low modulus epoxy repair mortars, injection epoxies, NSF certified and GreenSpec listed products. Unitex guarantees its products and provides on-site support and training. The company’s research and development team is continually working on new ways to support the industry.

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Contact: Carolyn Russell, 316.932.9000
Russell Public Relations, unitex@russellpr.com