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PROTECTING YOUR WORLD

Everything You Need To Know About Manhole Linings

    MANHOLE LINING

    Manhole Lining For Corrosion Protection And Structural Reinforcement

    Last Updated: March 25, 2026 | Read Time: ~15 min | Reviewed by: ArmorThane Technical Team
    Manhole and underground pipe coating process

    what are MANHOLE LININGS?

    Manhole lining is a proven, high-strength solution for rehabilitating and protecting aging underground infrastructure. ArmorThane’s manhole lining systems create a corrosion-resistant, leak-proof barrier inside existing manhole structures.

    Our spray-applied polyurea and polyurethane protective coatings provide both corrosion protection and structural reinforcement, extending the service life of manholes, lift stations, and other critical sewer assets.

    WHAT IS
    MANHOLE LINING?

    A manhole lining is a continuous coating applied to the interior of a manhole to form a new protective surface. These protective coatings (often advanced polyurea or epoxy coating formulations) bond to the concrete or brick walls of the existing structure, sealing out moisture and corrosive agents.

    A manhole liner creates a corrosion-resistant inner shell that shields the host structure from chemical attacks, water infiltration, and physical wear. ArmorThane’s manhole lining systems are spray-applied, meaning they can be installed without digging up the existing manhole – known as the trenchless manhole rehabilitation method.

    The coating quickly sets, forming a durable cured-in-place manhole liner that conforms exactly to the manhole’s shape. This process restores aging concrete manholes and similar structures to like-new conditions without the expense and disruption of full replacement.

    polyurea protective coating in a tank

    WHY DO MANHOLES NEED LINING?

    Underground sewer system structures endure harsh conditions. Concrete manholes and lift station wet wells are constantly exposed to sewage, stormwater, and corrosive sewer gases. Over time such an environment causes chemical attacks on the concrete or metal surfaces.

    THE BENEFITS OF ArmorThane's
    MANHOLE LINING SYSTEMS

    Applying a manhole lining is an ideal solution for aging sewer and stormwater infrastructure because it addresses multiple problems at once:

    CORROSION RESISTANCE
    AND CORROSION PROTECTION

    Our linings form an inert barrier that is highly resistant to sewage acids, gases, and other types of harsh chemicals.

    Polyurea offers exceptional acid resistance, shielding the substrate from sulfuric acid and other corrosives, and this corrosion protection prevents further decay of the underlying concrete or steel.

    Unlike bare concrete, a lined manhole withstands decades of exposure to hydrogen sulfide and other chemical attacks without deteriorating.

    LEAK PREVENTION
    AND INFILTRATION CONTROL

    A seamless (literally, without seams) ArmorThane liner stops leaks in their tracks. It adheres to every inch of the manhole interior, sealing cracks, joints, and pinholes.

    By eliminating groundwater infiltration, the liner prevents excess water from entering the sewer collection system during rain events or high water table conditions and mitigates infiltration issues that can lead to overburdened lift stations and treatment facilities.

    STRUCTURAL REINFORCEMENT

    Our high-build polyurea adds significant structural reinforcement to the manhole. Once cured, the liner has high compressive and tensile strength, effectively creating a new pipe-within-a-pipe.

    It bonds monolithically to the existing walls, restoring integrity even if the substrate was partially deteriorated, and this added high-strength layer re-establishes the manhole’s structural integrity, enabling it to handle soil loads and traffic stress like a new structure.

    EXTENDED SERVICE LIFE

    Combining these benefits means manhole lining greatly extends a structure’s service life. A quality liner can add decades of use to a deteriorated manhole, providing a long-term solution that delays or avoids full replacement.

    MANHOLE LININGS
    Manhole lining calculator

    Manhole Lining Cost Calculator

    Enter your project details to get an instant cost estimate and see how polyurea manhole lining compares

    Cost breakdown results Estimated Project Cost Breakdown
    --
    Cost Per Manhole
    --
    Total Project Cost
    --
    Expected Lifespan
    Estimated 25-Year Savings vs. Full Replacement
    $0
    Based on avoided excavation, traffic control, and re-replacement costs
    DURABILITY

    Expected Lifespan (Years)

    Polyurea
    25–30 yrs★ BEST
    Epoxy
    10–15 yrs
    CIPP
    15–20 yrs
    Cement
    5–10 yrs
    25-YEAR ROI

    Total Cost of Ownership

    40-60%
    Lower With Polyurea
    $3,500
    Polyurea /Manhole
    $15,000+
    Full Replacement
    800,000+
    manholes in the US need rehabilitation
    $7.5B
    spent annually on sewer infrastructure repairs
    25-30
    years of extended service life with polyurea
    4 hrs
    average return-to-service time per manhole

    Warning signs for manhole damageSigns Your Manholes Need Lining

    Corrosion warningVisible Corrosion & Pitting

    Surface deterioration, exposed aggregate, and acid-etched walls indicate active MIC (Microbiologically Induced Corrosion)

    Infiltration warningInfiltration & Leaking Joints

    Water seeping through cracks, pipe joints, and wall seams — a sign of failed waterproofing and structural compromise

    Rising I and I volumesRising I&I Volumes

    Unexplained increases in inflow and infiltration (I&I) overwhelm treatment capacity and increase operating costs

    Structural damageStructural Cracks & Spalling

    Concrete delamination, rebar exposure, and structural cracks compromise manhole integrity and safety

    Proactive manhole lining can extend infrastructure life by 25–30 years and reduce long-term costs by 40–60%.

    Manhole lining methods comparison

    Manhole Lining Methods Compared

    Polyurea Spray Coating — The Gold Standard
    Polyurea is a spray-applied elastomeric manhole lining that cures in seconds, creating a seamless monolithic membrane. With 300%+ elongation, it bridges cracks, absorbs impacts, and resists H₂S corrosion indefinitely.
    Advantages ADVANTAGES
    • 25-30 year lifespan — no recoats
    • Seamless — zero joint failures
    • Cures in seconds — 4hr return to service
    • 300%+ elongation bridges cracks
    • Superior H₂S and acid resistance
    Considerations CONSIDERATIONS
    • Higher upfront cost ($2,500–$5,000/manhole)
    • Requires certified applicator
    • Specialized spray equipment needed
    Epoxy Coating — Budget-Friendly Option
    Epoxy coatings are brush or spray-applied manhole linings that provide good chemical resistance at a lower upfront cost. However, they have shorter service life and limited flexibility.
    Advantages ADVANTAGES
    • Lower initial cost ($1,500–$3,000/manhole)
    • Good chemical resistance
    • Available in many formulations
    Considerations CONSIDERATIONS
    • 10-15 year lifespan — requires recoating
    • Long cure time (24-48 hours)
    • Rigid — can crack with ground movement
    • Multiple coats often required
    CIPP — Cured-In-Place Pipe Liner
    CIPP uses a resin-saturated felt liner that is inverted or pulled into the manhole and cured with heat or UV. It provides good structural support but has some limitations for manhole applications.
    Advantages ADVANTAGES
    • Good structural enhancement
    • 15-20 year lifespan
    • Established technology
    Considerations CONSIDERATIONS
    • More complex installation
    • Higher cost ($3,000–$6,000/manhole)
    • Seams at benching and transitions
    • Longer installation time
    Cementitious Lining — Traditional Approach
    Cementitious coatings are mortar-based linings applied by hand or spin-casting. While affordable, they offer limited corrosion protection and shorter service life in aggressive sewer environments.
    Advantages ADVANTAGES
    • Lowest upfront cost ($800–$2,000/manhole)
    • Simple application process
    • Good for non-corrosive environments
    Considerations CONSIDERATIONS
    • 5-10 year lifespan in sewer applications
    • Vulnerable to H₂S acid attack
    • Rigid — no crack-bridging ability
    • Must be reapplied frequently
    ★ EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

    Why Polyurea Is the Best Choice for Manhole Lining

    Polyurea manhole lining systems offer the best combination of durability, speed of installation, and long-term value. ArmorThane's spray-applied polyurea creates a seamless, monolithic barrier that protects against H₂S corrosion, stops infiltration, and adds structural reinforcement — all in a single application that returns manholes to service within hours, not days.

    25-30 yrs
    Service life without recoating
    4 hours
    Average return-to-service time
    40-60%
    Lower total cost of ownership
    Find ideal manhole lining method

    Find Your Ideal Manhole Lining Method

    Answer 3 quick questions to get a personalized recommendation

    1. What is your primary concern?
    2. How many manholes need lining?
    3. What is most important to you?
    ★ RECOMMENDED

    Manhole Lining Property Comparison

    Compare key performance properties across different manhole lining methods

    Property Polyurea Epoxy CIPP Cementitious
    H₂S / Acid Resistance ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★
    Waterproof Seal ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★ ★★
    Flexibility / Elongation ★★★★★ ★★ ★★★
    Cure Time Seconds 24-48 hrs 4-8 hrs 24-48 hrs
    Structural Reinforcement ★★★★★ ★★★ ★★★★ ★★★
    Service Life 25-30 years 10-15 years 15-20 years 5-10 years
    Cost per Manhole $2,500-$5,000 $1,500-$3,000 $3,000-$6,000 $800-$2,000
    Total 25yr Cost $2,500-$5,000 $4,500-$9,000 $4,500-$9,000 $4,000-$10,000
    Free consultation

    Free Webinar: How to Choose the Right Manhole Lining System

    Learn from ArmorThane's technical experts about selecting the optimal manhole lining solution for your project.

    REGISTER FREE →

    APPLICATIONS: WHERE MANHOLE LININGS ARE USED

    In municipal wastewater systems and collection system networks, most manholes are constructed of concrete or brick. Lining these manholes restores deteriorated surfaces and protects them from future corrosion. Cities across the United States are incorporating linings into their manhole rehabilitation projects to renew aging sewer infrastructure without costly excavation. Our solutions have been implemented from small towns to large metropolitan sewer systems, with consistent success in stopping leaks and corrosion.

    Storm drain manholes and catch basins can also be lined to prevent leaks and deterioration. Even though stormwater is less corrosive, linings protect against erosion and groundwater intrusion in these structures.

    Sewage lift stations (pump stations) are deep manhole-like structures that house pumps, making them prone to severe corrosion from concentrated sewer gases, with even greater consequences. Lining a lift station wet well provides robust corrosion protection and leak sealing under those extreme conditions. The high-strength liner helps maintain the wet well’s shape and structural integrity, and utilities often line their key lift stations to avoid catastrophic failures and environmental spills.

    Primarily used in wastewater systems, the same linings can protect concrete tanks at a wastewater treatment plant or valve vaults in water distribution systems. Many of ArmorThane’s coatings are certified safe for potable water contact, making them versatile beyond sewer applications.

    THE MANHOLE REHABILITATION PROCESS

    FAQ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS​​

    Yes. A spray-on manhole liner forms a continuous, joint-free seal over cracks, seams, and around pipe inlets, effectively sealing a leaking manhole from the inside. This stops groundwater infiltration and exfiltration by creating a watertight envelope. By eliminating infiltration issues, the liner keeps excess water out of the sewer line and prevents sewage leakage into soil. Stopping leaks helps preserve surrounding roadbeds and keeps the wastewater system more efficient.

    Yes, a quality manhole lining system significantly enhances a manhole’s strength. ArmorThane’s polyurea liner adds structural reinforcement to the existing walls, thanks to its high bond strength and tensile strength. It can bridge gaps and hold together sections of deteriorated concrete, essentially creating a new structural wall inside the old one. While extremely damaged manholes may need additional repairs, most linings can return an aging structure to good condition with improved structural integrity.

    Manhole liners provide a long-term solution, often extending a manhole’s service life by 20-50 years or more. They withstand continuous exposure to sewage and temperature swings without significant degradation. Once lined, the manhole typically needs little maintenance over decades. This extended lifespan makes lining a very cost-effective approach compared to repeated minor manhole repair or full replacement. 

    THE COATINGS INDUSTRY BY THE NUMBERS

    A Booming Market Waiting For You

    The protective coatings industry is growing at an unprecedented rate. Here's why now is the best time to become an ArmorThane applicator.

    Business growth
    $32B
    Global Protective Coatings Market by 2028
    Growing demand
    6.2%
    Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) in Polyurea Coatings
    Infrastructure demand
    800K+
    Manholes Needing Rehabilitation in the US
    Revenue potential
    $7.5B
    Spent Annually on Sewer Infrastructure Repairs
    APPLICATOR OPPORTUNITY

    Why Become An ArmorThane Applicator?

    Join a growing network of certified professionals who are building thriving businesses with the most advanced polyurea and polyurethane coating systems in the world. ArmorThane provides everything you need to succeed.

    ✓ No Franchise Fees ✓ No Royalties ✓ Protected Territories ✓ On-Site Training ✓ 35+ Years Experience ✓ Diverse Applications
    Quick launch
    30 Days
    Up & Running
    Revenue potential
    $0
    Franchise Fees
    Global territories
    Global
    Dealer Network
    Expert support
    24/7
    Technical Support
    Earnings potential APPLICATOR EARNINGS POTENTIAL

    How Much Can You Earn?

    Estimate your potential revenue as an ArmorThane applicator based on real market data and typical project pricing.

    Primary Service
    Truck Bed Liners: $350–$600/job
    Manhole Lining
    $2,500–$5,000 per manhole
    Industrial Flooring
    $3–$8 per sq ft
    Marine Coatings
    $1,500–$4,000/job
    $150K–$500K+
    Annual Revenue Potential
    40-55%
    Typical Profit Margin
    3–6 Mo
    Equipment ROI Timeline

    * Estimates based on industry averages. Actual results vary by market, experience, and business management.

    SUCCESS STORIES

    Real Applicators. Real Results.

    Hear from ArmorThane applicators who transformed their careers and built profitable coating businesses.

    ★★★★★

    ArmorThane's training and ongoing support made all the difference. Within six months, we had more work than we could handle. The manhole lining market alone keeps us busy year-round.

    $420K+
    First Year Revenue
    MJ
    Mike J.
    Municipal Coatings Applicator, Texas
    ★★★★★

    I added ArmorThane coatings to my existing contractor business and it completely transformed our revenue. No franchise fees means we keep more profit.

    3x Revenue
    Growth in 2 Years
    RD
    Robert D.
    Industrial Coatings Contractor, Ohio
    ★★★★★

    Starting with ArmorThane was the best business decision I ever made. The protected territory gives me peace of mind, and the product quality sells itself.

    6 Months
    To Break Even on Equipment
    SL
    Sarah L.
    Protective Coatings Specialist, Florida
    OUR LEGACY

    35+ Years of Industry Leadership

    When you partner with ArmorThane, you're backed by decades of innovation, trust, and proven results.

    1989
    ArmorThane Founded
    Garry Froese founded ArmorThane with a vision to revolutionize protective coatings.
    2002
    Mobile Coatings Unit Launched
    Pioneered the MCU, allowing applicators to bring the shop to the job site.
    2010
    International Expansion
    Grew to a multi-national operation with dealers worldwide.
    2024
    Industry Leader & Innovator
    Leading with cutting-edge R&D, the broadest product line, and unmatched dealer support.
    Market opportunity MARKET OPPORTUNITY

    Massive Demand. Unlimited Potential.

    The protective coatings market is one of the fastest-growing sectors. Here are the areas where ArmorThane applicators are thriving.

    Infrastructure market
    Municipal Infrastructure
    Cities face aging sewer systems. Manhole lining, lift station coating, and pipe rehabilitation represent a massive recurring revenue stream.
    $7.5Bannual sewer repair spending
    Mobile coating delivery
    Automotive & Truck Accessories
    Spray-on bed liners, undercoating, and vehicle protection remain top-selling coatings services with high margins.
    $4.2Btruck accessories market
    Industrial facilities
    Industrial & Manufacturing
    Factories and warehouses need chemical-resistant flooring, containment coatings, and corrosion protection.
    $12B+industrial coatings market
    YOUR PATH TO SUCCESS

    From Beginner to Certified Expert

    ArmorThane's comprehensive training program ensures you have the knowledge and confidence from day one.

    1
    Consultation & Business Planning
    Work with ArmorThane to identify your target markets, choose products, and select the right equipment.
    Market AnalysisProduct Selection
    2
    Equipment & Product Package
    Receive your custom-ordered equipment. ArmorThane offers high and low pressure systems, and complete MCUs.
    Custom EquipmentMCU Options
    3
    On-Site Training at YOUR Location
    An ArmorThane technician comes to your location for comprehensive hands-on training, optimizing your setup.
    Hands-OnAt Your LocationStaff Training
    4
    Launch & Ongoing Support
    Go live with full confidence. ArmorThane provides ongoing support, marketing materials, and lead referrals.
    24/7 SupportMarketing HelpLead Referrals
    PROFESSIONAL EQUIPMENT

    World-Class Equipment Solutions

    ArmorThane designs and manufactures application equipment in-house. From compact units to high-volume systems, we have the right setup for your business.

    High-output spray equipment
    High-Pressure System
    MOST POPULAR

    Flagship plural-component system for truck bed liners, manhole linings, industrial floors, and more.

    ✓ Heated hose for consistent spray
    ✓ Variable ratio settings
    ✓ High output capacity
    ✓ Custom-built to your specs
    Mobile spray unit
    Mobile Coatings Unit
    BRING THE SHOP TO THE JOB

    Complete self-contained mobile workshop with equipment, product, compressor, and generator.

    ✓ Complete self-contained unit
    ✓ Custom trailer or van build
    ✓ No territorial boundaries*
    ✓ Quick setup and breakdown
    Low-pressure system
    Low-Pressure System
    ENTRY-LEVEL OPTION

    Accessible entry point for new applicators or businesses adding coatings as an additional service.

    ✓ Lower equipment investment
    ✓ Easy to operate and maintain
    ✓ Great for specialty coatings
    ✓ Ideal for start-up businesses
    ROI comparison ROI COMPARISON

    ArmorThane vs. Traditional Business Models

    See how an ArmorThane applicator business compares to franchise models and traditional contracting.

    Factor ArmorThane Typical Franchise
    Startup CostEquipment + Product Only ★$50K–$250K+ franchise fee
    Ongoing Fees$0 — No royalties ★5-8% of gross revenue
    TrainingOn-site at YOUR locationAt franchise HQ (travel required)
    TerritoryExclusive & Free ★Often restricted / extra cost
    Time to Revenue30 days or less ★3–6 months typically
    Profit MarginHigher — no fees taken ★Lower after royalties
    $0
    Franchise Fees Forever
    $0
    Royalty Payments
    100%
    Your Profit Is Yours
    TERRITORY OPPORTUNITIES

    Exclusive Protected Territories Available Now

    ArmorThane provides exclusive, protected territories to authorized dealers at no additional cost. Your territory size is based on the population you can service.

    Territory protection Exclusive territory protection at NO additional cost
    Territory sizing Territory sized to match your capacity
    Mobile dealers Mobile dealers travel beyond fixed boundaries
    International territories International territories available worldwide
    Check Territory Availability →
    Territory map
    Global Dealer Network
    Territories still available in many high-demand areas.
    50+
    US States
    30+
    Countries
    Open
    Territories Available
    FREE
    Territory Protection
    A TYPICAL DAY

    A Day in the Life of an ArmorThane Applicator

    Here's a typical day for a full-time applicator running a manhole lining and protective coatings business.

    Morning 7:00 AM
    Arrive at Job Site
    Meet the project manager, review scope, unload the MCU, confirm safety protocols.
    Preparation 8:00 AM
    Surface Preparation
    High-pressure wash, repair cracks, prime the substrate for optimal bond.
    Target job 9:30 AM
    Spray Application
    Apply polyurea coating. One manhole takes about 45 minutes to spray.
    Revenue $2,500–$5,000 per manhole
    Afternoon work 1:30 PM
    Afternoon Job
    Complete a second manhole or switch to a different application. Diverse services maximize daily revenue.
    Revenue $350–$5,000+ additional
    Wrap up 4:00 PM
    Wrap Up & Plan Tomorrow
    Clean equipment, complete documentation, schedule tomorrow's jobs.
    Daily revenue Daily Revenue: $3,000–$10,000+
    Environmental impact ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

    Protect Infrastructure. Protect the Planet.

    ArmorThane's coatings extend asset life, reduce waste, and use solvent-free formulations.

    Extend asset life
    Extend Asset Life 25-30 Years
    Every structure you coat avoids costly replacement and associated carbon emissions.
    Solvent-free formulation
    100% Solids, Solvent-Free
    Most products are zero VOC formulations with no harmful solvents released.
    Eliminate excavation waste
    Eliminate Excavation Waste
    Trenchless rehabilitation means no digging and no concrete going to landfills.
    0%
    VOC Emissions
    90%
    Less Waste vs. Replacement
    25-30yr
    Extended Lifespan
    GET STARTED TODAY

    Three Simple Steps to Launch Your Business

    Go from interest to revenue-generating applicator in as little as 30 days.

    1
    Free consultation
    Free Consultation
    Talk with our team about your goals, target market, and budget. We'll recommend the perfect package — no obligation.
    2
    Get your equipment
    Get Your Equipment
    Receive your custom-ordered equipment, product supply, and everything you need. Designed and manufactured in-house.
    3
    Train and launch
    Train & Launch
    Our technician comes to your location for comprehensive training. Start booking jobs and building your empire.
    Ready to Start?
    A small investment gets you started. No franchise fees, no royalties — ever.
    Become An Applicator →
    Launch your business YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE

    Stop Watching Others Succeed.Build Your Coatings Empire.

    Join the ArmorThane family and gain access to world-class products, professional training, ongoing support, and a proven business model with zero franchise fees or royalties.

    35+
    Years in Business
    $0
    Franchise Fees
    30 Days
    To Launch
    1000+
    Applications
    Trusted since 1989 · No franchise fees · No royalties · Protected territories · On-site training · 24/7 support

    PROTECTING YOUR SEWER INFRASTRUCTURE CONTACT ARMORTHANE

    Investing in professional manhole lining is an effective solution to prolong the life of your underground assets and avoid emergency failures. It rehabilitates each existing manhole without excavation, drastically reducing downtime and cost. 

    ArmorThane is a leader in trenchless manhole rehabilitation, providing industry-leading products and expertise to municipalities and contractors on manhole rehabilitation projects.

    All our installations are handled by trained, certified installers for quality results. We proudly support our partners with reliable, high-performance protective coating solutions for sewer infrastructure rehabilitation.

    So if you are ready to protect and strengthen your manholes and lift stations, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our manhole lining systems, technical training programs, and partnership opportunities.

    Our team will work with you to implement the ideal solution for your needs, helping you to achieve safer, longer-lasting infrastructure and peace of mind for years to come.

    Tyler Gleckler, chemist and polyurea coatings expert

    ABOUT THE AUTHOR

    TYLER GLECKLER

    I am a chemist with a specialization in nanotechnology and applied materials chemistry. My work has focused on the characterization of optoelectronic materials, namely including semiconductor nanocrystals.

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