We know choosing the right recessed manhole cover can lead to problems if key details are missed. Incorrect clear opening sizes, unsuitable load ratings or the wrong tray depth are the most common causes of ordering errors and site delays. This page answers the most frequent questions around product selection, installation, delivery and returns.

The guidance is based on real use across domestic, commercial and light civil projects. It focuses on clear opening measurement, load class selection, sealing requirements and installation principles so you can specify correctly, order with confidence and avoid issues on site.

Ordering

All your queries answered regarding ordering.

How do I place an order?

Add the required recessed manhole cover to your cart, check the clear opening size carefully, then proceed to checkout. Enter delivery details, select shipping and complete payment.

Before ordering, confirm:

  • Clear opening size, measured internally across the chamber
  • Load rating based on actual traffic
  • Tray depth to suit your finish

Most incorrect orders come from sizing errors or selecting the wrong load class.

Can I add or remove items from my cart?

Yes. You can adjust quantities or remove items before checkout.

After checkout, changes are only possible if the order has not been dispatched.

Do I need an account to place an order?

No. You can check out as a guest.

Creating an account allows you to track orders and repeat previous purchases without re-entering details.

Can I change or cancel an order after I’ve placed it?

If the order has not been dispatched, it can usually be changed or cancelled.

Once dispatched, it cannot be amended. You can return it after delivery if it is suitable for return.

Do you offer trade accounts or bulk discounts?

Yes. Trade pricing is available for regular orders or project quantities.

Provide:

  • Clear opening size
  • Load rating
  • Quantity
  • Site type, internal or external

This avoids delays and incorrect specification.

Product

All your queries answered regarding products.

How do I know which recessed manhole cover I need?

Work through this in order:

  1. Measure the clear opening of the chamber, not the existing cover
  2. Identify traffic type, pedestrian, domestic vehicles or heavy traffic
  3. Confirm installation location, internal or external
  4. Decide if sealing is required
  5. Match tray depth to the surface finish

Do not order based on the overall frame size. This is one of the most common mistakes.

How do I measure the clear opening correctly?

Measure the internal opening of the chamber wall to wall.

Do not measure:

  • The existing cover
  • The outer frame
  • The brickwork outside the chamber

If replacing a cover, remove it and measure the opening directly where possible.

What load rating do I need?

Choose based on regular use, not occasional access:

  • A15, pedestrian only
  • B125, patios and domestic driveways
  • C250, light commercial traffic
  • D400, roads and frequent vehicle traffic

If a driveway is used daily by vehicles, do not use a pedestrian-rated cover.

What happens if I choose the wrong load rating?

The cover may:

  • Deflect or bend
  • Crack the infill material
  • Fail under load

Load rating should always match the worst case use, not the average.

Do I need a sealed manhole cover?

Use sealing based on location:

  • Internal areas, sealed covers are required to prevent odours and gases
  • External areas, sealing is usually not required

Sealed covers include gaskets and screw fixings. They are not designed for constant water pressure or flooding.

What load rating do I need?

Choose based on regular use, not occasional access:

  • A15, pedestrian only
  • B125, patios and domestic driveways
  • C250, light commercial traffic
  • D400, roads and frequent vehicle traffic

If a driveway is used daily by vehicles, do not use a pedestrian-rated cover.

What is the difference between single, double and triple sealed covers?

The number of seals increases resistance to odours and moisture.

  • Single seal, basic odour control
  • Double seal, improved odour and water resistance
  • Triple seal, higher performance with additional protection against dirt ingress

For internal installations, use at least a sealed cover.

What tray depth should I choose?

Match the tray depth to your finished surface build-up:

  • 40 to 60 mm for tiles or internal finishes
  • 60 to 80 mm for paving slabs
  • 80 to 100 mm for deeper block paving builds

If the tray is too shallow, the infill will be weak.

If too deep, the cover will sit below the finished level.

Can recessed covers be used with block paving, slabs or tiles?

Yes. The infill should match the surrounding material.

This keeps the cover level and prevents movement or rocking under load.

Can I use a recessed cover in a lawn or gravel area?

Yes, but standard recessed covers are not designed for loose infill.

For grass or gravel, use a cover designed with drainage or stabilisation features. This prevents movement and allows water to drain correctly.

Can I get a non-standard size?

Yes. Bespoke covers can be manufactured.

Provide:

  • Clear opening size
  • Load requirement
  • Tray depth
  • Any sealing or access requirements

Allow for additional lead time.

Do your products have a warranty?

Yes. Manufacturer warranties apply to material defects when installed and used correctly.

Incorrect installation or misuse will invalidate this.

Payment

All your queries answered regarding payments.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept debit cards, credit cards and PayPal. Trade account terms are available on request.

Is my payment information secure?

Yes. Payments are processed through secure encrypted systems. Card details are not stored.

Can I pay on delivery?

No. Orders must be paid before dispatch.

Can I get a VAT invoice?

Yes. A VAT invoice is issued with your order confirmation and available on request.

Shipping

All your queries answered regarding shipping.

What are your shipping options?

We offer UK delivery:

  • Courier for smaller covers
  • Pallet delivery for larger or multiple covers

Tracking details are provided once dispatched.

How much is delivery?

Delivery is calculated at checkout based on size, weight and postcode.

Heavier covers and pallet deliveries will increase cost.

Can I collect my order?

Yes. Collection is available by arrangement.

Confirm before travelling to ensure your order is ready.

Can I track my order?

Yes, you can track your order's progress by logging into your account or using the tracking information provided in your order confirmation email.

What if my delivery is late?

Check your tracking link first.

If there is no update or an issue, contact us and it will be followed up with the courier.

Can the courier leave my order in a safe place?

Yes, but this is at your risk.

Pallet deliveries require someone present to receive and sign.

Return products

All your queries answered regarding return.

What is your return policy?

Unused items can be returned within 14 days if they are in clean, resalable condition.

Bespoke or made to measure covers cannot be returned.

How do I return an item?

Please visit our Returns Policy page or contact customer service for instructions on initiating a return.

Who pays for return shipping?

This depends on the reason for the return. Our Returns Policy will specify who is responsible for return shipping costs.

What if my order is damaged or missing items?

Report this as soon as possible after delivery.

Provide photos to allow the issue to be resolved quickly.

Installation and maintenance

All your queries answered regarding installation and use.

How do I install a recessed manhole cover?

Correct installation is critical:

  • Set the frame level with the finished surface
  • Bed fully on mortar or concrete with full support
  • Ensure the clear opening aligns with the chamber
  • Allow for the full depth of the final surface build-up

Do not leave voids beneath the frame. This leads to movement and failure.

What are the most common installation mistakes?

  • Measuring the wrong size, using overall frame instead of clear opening
  • Insufficient support under the frame
  • Incorrect tray depth for the finish
  • Using the wrong load rating

These issues lead to rocking covers, cracking infill or premature failure.

Do recessed manhole covers need maintenance?

Minimal maintenance is required.

  • Keep lifting points clear
  • Clean seals on sealed covers
  • Check for movement if installed in trafficked areas

Can I reuse a manhole cover?

Yes, if it is undamaged and the frame remains square.

Check that it sits flat and does not rock before reuse.

Can I install multiple covers together?

Only if designed as a multipart system.

Standard covers should not be altered or installed side by side without design consideration.

Need Help?

Still not sure?

Our team can help you choose the right product, check compatibility, or sort delivery and return questions.

 Use our Contact Us page to get in touch. Send as much detail as you can about your project or issue - it helps us respond quickly and accurately.

Contact Us