Header Beams
Precast reinforced concrete header beams, engineered and manufactured by Unbrako, provide robust end restraint and load distribution for box culvert inlets and outlets.
Culvert Header Beams
Precast header beams allow for the effective support and tying together of culvert sidewalls at the inlet and outlet, improving overall structural integrity and ensuring loads are distributed evenly across the culvert opening.
Positioned at the culvert entrance or exit, header beams play a key role in maintaining alignment and stability, particularly where higher loads or more complex headwall and wingwall arrangements are involved. They provide a robust structural interface between the culvert units and the surrounding infrastructure.
Designed to span the full width of the culvert, they can be integrated seamlessly with bespoke headwall and wingwall solutions, helping to create a cohesive, well-supported system that performs reliably over the long term.
All units are manufactured to suit project-specific requirements, allowing flexibility in dimensions, load capacities, and detailing. This approach ensures each solution is tailored to site conditions while supporting efficient installation, consistent quality, and long-term durability.
Made To Order
Manufactured to your required width, height and loading
Fully Customisable
Make your product bespoke to meet your project specifications
Fast Installation
Nationwide delivery, culvert systems arrive ready for quick installation
Engineered for Strength, Safety, and Easy Installation.
Key Benefits
Precast culvert solutions offer a highly efficient and reliable method for managing water flow and supporting infrastructure.
- Structural Reinforcement - Header beams help distribute loads above the culvert opening, reducing stress on the culvert units themselves
- Support for Heavy Loads - In applications such as roads, access routes, and industrial areas, header beams provide extra structural capacity to support heavy traffic and equipment operating above the culvert
- Faster Installation - Precast header beams are manufactured off-site and delivered ready for placement
- Precision and Consistent Quality - Manufactured in a controlled environment, precast header beams are produced to precise dimensions and strict quality standards
- Durable and Long-Lasting - Constructed from reinforced precast concrete, header beams offer excellent resistance to environmental conditions, moisture, and long-term structural loads
- Designed for Integration with Culvert Systems - Header beams are designed to work seamlessly with precast culverts, headwalls, and wingwalls
At Unbrako Precast Concrete LTD, header beams are manufactured to deliver reliable performance across a range of civil engineering and infrastructure projects.
Common Applications
Common applications include:
- Road and Highway Culvert Openings - Used at box culvert inlets and outlets to provide structural restraint, load distribution, and support around highway drainage openings
- Railway and Transport Infrastructure - Installed as part of culvert inlet and outlet arrangements where additional structural support and alignment are required beneath transport corridors
- Headwall and Wingwall Interfaces - Used to tie together culvert sidewalls and provide a stable structural connection for associated headwall and wingwall systems
- Heavy Load Applications - Suitable for projects where culvert openings are subject to increased loading from roads, access routes, industrial yards, or plant movement
- Stormwater and Flood Management Schemes - Supports robust culvert inlet and outlet structures within drainage systems designed to manage stormwater and surface water flows
- Industrial and Commercial Developments - Provides structural support for culvert openings within drainage infrastructure serving buildings, yards, roads, and access areas
- Agricultural and Rural Access Routes - Used to strengthen culvert openings beneath farm tracks, estate roads, and rural access routes where long-term durability is required
Product Specifications
Concrete: High-strength structural concrete (typically C50 or as required)
Selected to provide durability and performance in line with site conditions and structural demands.
Finish: Smooth finish or as specified
Designed to enhance performance and minimise maintenance requirements.
Design life: Up to 120 years
Engineered for long-term use in accordance with relevant standards and site-specific conditions.
How are Culvert Header Beams installed?
Precast culvert header beams are designed for efficient installation, providing a secure structural connection at the culvert inlet or outlet. Manufactured off-site to precise specifications, they allow for accurate placement and consistent performance on site.
Installation is straightforward and follows a logical sequence:
- Before the header beam is installed, the culvert units are positioned and aligned in accordance with the project’s engineering design
- Using suitable lifting equipment such as a crane or excavator with lifting attachments, the precast header beam is carefully lifted and positioned over the culvert opening
- Once in place, the header beam is set and secured in line with project specifications
- Following installation of the header beam, any associated wingwalls or headwalls can be installed and aligned accordingly
- The surrounding area is then backfilled and compacted where required
Manufactured in a Controlled Factory Environment
Why Choose Unbrako?
We understand that no two drainage or infrastructure projects are identical. That’s why we offer fully bespoke culvert solutions tailored to:
- Hydraulic design requirements
- Ground conditions
- Load classifications
- Environmental considerations
- Site access constraints
- Programme timelines
Our team works closely with engineers, contractors, and developers to deliver practical, buildable, and compliant solutions.
From small drainage schemes to major infrastructure developments, Unbrako Precast Concrete LTD provides durable, engineered culvert solutions built for long-term performance.
How To Order:
Our culvert header beams can be ordered directly from our sales team. We offer a site visit and design service for every project if required and are also available to assist with technical advice.
For more information, please fill in the enquiries form using the button below, or call 01949 860 985 and a member of our sales team will be happy to help. Alternatively, email Daniel@unbrakoprecast.com for direct technical support on your project.
