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Bridges
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How long do bridges last? Do they receive regular maintenance and what does that maintenance consist of?
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Answer:
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Bridges are typically designed to provide 30 years of service. The actual length of service depends a lot on the amount of stress the bridge is subjected to. MDOT conducts regular inspections of every bridge on state trunklines. These inspections involve long-term wear inspections as well as maintenance inspections to ensure a smooth-riding deck. Typical maintenance activities we perform to extend the life of a bridge include: painting the structural steel with a weatherizing sealer; replacing joints; resurfacing the deck to improve ride quality; sealing the deck to prohibit the infiltration of water into the surface; and replacing the pins and hangers used to connect the pieces of the bridge.
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