Drilling a manhole cover

[neate]

The inlaid handles of my cast iron manhole cover have rusted away. I need to drill holes in it to fit a small raised one. Can it be drilled and if so what drill should I use?
Any advice appreciated.

 

[HERTS P&D]

Post a picture of it and I will tell you how to lift it.

Andy

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

The inlaid handles of my cast iron manhole cover have rusted away. I need to drill holes in it to fit a small raised one. Can it be drilled and if so what drill should I use?
Any advice appreciated.

An electric drill using HSS drill bits. Maybe start with smaller drills as a pilots, then work up to finish size.

 

[Nige F]

Now then Andy , you're becoming tell like O.P it can be drilled with a good High Speed metal drill - a cordless drill will power it fine

 

[HERTS P&D]

But Nige, I have the experience of lift manholes without drilling it. (and I'm guessing so do you!)



Andy

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

I think what is being hinted at above, is to force a large flat bladed screwed driver down between frame and cover. Using two such screwdrivers you can 'walk' the cover up, if lifting it is all that you are trying to achieve. Have a bar or similar ready to slip under it, once you have it raised.

 

[HERTS P&D]

Harry the expert on drainage now.

Andy

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

As I said - Herts P&D the stalker...

 

[HERTS P&D]

I think you will find that I posted first!

Who is the stalker then??

Andy

 

[HERTS P&D]

I see the guys on the 'Watch repaired' thread have you sussed!



Andy

 

[Deleted member 292770]

But Nige, I have the experience of lift manholes without drilling it. (and I'm guessing so do you!)



Andy

I’d plaster it with lime plaster, If you understood best building practice like me you’d know that.

 

[neate]

Thanks one and all. No problem in lifting it. It covers a pre cess pit inspection chamber. I just need to access it frequently to check to see if the cess pit needs clearing. Thanks Harry and Nige for drill advice.

 

[HERTS P&D]

Drilling holes in it will make any smell come out. Can you get a replacement cover with handles?

Andy

 

[neate]

If a handle is fitted, no holes. Also at bottom of garden.

 

[jacko555]

I’d plaster it with lime plaster, If you understood best building practice like me you’d know that.

Don't forget to remove the cement based plinth first. It'll cause damp.