Choosing the Right Access Chamber Cover: A Practical Guide

Access chamber covers do more than hide unsightly manholes. The right cover improves safety, enhances finishes, and meets technical requirements for driveways, gardens, interiors and more. In this guide, we break down the main types of covers available from Eco Trade Counter and when to use each one.

What is an Access Chamber Cover?

Access chamber covers (or manhole covers) provide access to drainage and utility chambers below ground. Depending on your project, you’ll need different load ratings, finishes, and sealing options.

At ETC, our collection includes everything from recessed covers for paving and tiling, to heavy-duty ductile iron options for trafficked areas. Here's a breakdown by type:

1. Recessed Manhole Covers

Designed to blend in with their surroundings. These have a tray that’s filled with block paving, gravel, grass or tiles.

	Block Paving Recessed Covers For standard driveways and patios using block pavers.
	Gravel Recessed Covers Prevents gravel from shifting while retaining access.
	GrassTop Recessed Covers Supports turf growth with factory-fitted membranes.
	Seamless Tile Recessed Covers Ideal for interior tiled floors, bathrooms and basements.
	Odour & Watertight Covers For internal use, where smells or water ingress must be prevented.

2. Sealed and Locking Covers

When extra sealing is needed - such as in kitchens, wet rooms or playgrounds - these covers add locking screws and rubber gaskets to prevent odours and dirt ingress.

	Double Sealed Aluminium Covers Suitable for block paving with added odour protection.
	Triple Sealed Aluminium Covers Adds an extra “T-rubber” seal for maximum resistance.

3. Solid Top Covers

Flush-fit covers that remain visible. Used when aesthetics aren’t a concern, such as industrial sites or non-paved surfaces.

Solid Top Access Covers Available in multiple sizes and loading capacities.

4. Ductile Iron Covers

Used in roadways and heavy-duty applications. Offers exceptional strength and longevity.

Ductile Iron Manhole Covers Load-rated for vehicle traffic and external installations.

5. Stainless Steel Covers

For premium internal finishes where rust resistance and hygiene matter.

Stainless Steel Manhole Covers Ideal for food areas, pool zones, and cleanrooms.

6. Accessories That Make Life Easier

From lifting keys to chamber risers and reducing rings, ETC offers a full range of Manhole Cover Accessories to complete your installation safely and efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re managing a public site or working on a home garden project, there’s a manhole cover suited to your needs. Browse our Access Chamber Cover collection or explore each sub-range linked above to find the right fit.