COMANCO Returns to Puerto Rico for Landfill Liner Installation Amid Unpredictable Weather
Landfill liner systems are only as reliable as the conditions under which they are installed. In regions with consistent rainfall and high humidity, maintaining subgrade integrity becomes a constant challenge. When moisture compromises the foundation, it directly impacts the performance of the entire containment system.
At the Municipality of Juncos Landfill in Puerto Rico, this challenge is front and center. Located near a rainforest, the project has experienced unpredictable weather, leading to subgrade deterioration and schedule delays. Despite these conditions, the work must continue with a focus on safety, quality, and long-term environmental protection.
Subgrade Stability in Wet Conditions
In landfill construction, subgrade preparation is one of the most critical steps. A stable, well-compacted surface is required to support geosynthetic materials and prevent future settlement or failure.
In wet environments, several risks become more pronounced. Saturated soils lose strength and stability; equipment traffic can rut or damage prepared surfaces; moisture can interfere with proper liner deployment and seaming; and slopes become hazardous for crews, increasing overall safety risks.
At the Municipality of Juncos Landfill, these conditions have caused noticeable delays as sections of subgrade required rework before installation could continue. This is a common issue in high-rainfall regions, but it demands careful coordination to avoid compromising system performance.
Liner Installation in Unpredictable Weather
Experienced contractors understand that working in wet climates requires flexibility and strict quality control. Successful execution depends on adapting to changing conditions without cutting corners.
Key practices include continuously evaluating subgrade conditions to confirm proper compaction and moisture levels before installation, sequencing work areas to reduce exposure to rain events, protecting installed materials from damage or contamination, and adjusting crew operations to maintain safe working conditions on slopes and access roads.
Equally important is maintaining communication between field crews, project management, and quality control teams. Weather impacts every phase of the work, so daily adjustments are necessary to keep the project moving safely and efficiently.
COMANCO Executes in the Field
COMANCO’s approach to projects like the Municipality of Juncos Landfill focuses on disciplined execution, even when conditions are less than ideal. Under the leadership of Superintendent Larry Graham, the team continues to prioritize safety while maintaining installation quality.
The project includes installing a three-layer geosynthetic system designed to support the landfill’s leachate collection system. The project is approximately 65 percent complete, with measurable progress across all materials:
- HDPE Liner: 60 mil double-sided textured liner from Solmax, 198,240 SF installed, with 156,816 SF remaining
- Geocomposite Drainage Layer: SolFlow 330 mil triaxial geocomposite, 201,475 SF installed, with 122,132 SF remaining
- GCL: Bentoliner NS 75, 198,240 SF installed, with 156,813 SF remaining
Despite ongoing weather challenges, the crew has remained focused on maintaining proper installation procedures. This includes verifying subgrade conditions before deployment, ensuring proper panel placement, and maintaining seam quality throughout the installation process.
Safety remains a constant priority. With slippery slopes and wet working conditions, crews stay vigilant and aware of their surroundings. This attention to safety extends beyond the installation team to anyone entering the work zone.
Building Systems That Protect Communities
This project is a critical component of the leachate collection system at the Municipality of Juncos Landfill. Proper installation of the liner and drainage layers helps prevent contaminants from migrating into surrounding soils and groundwater.
In regions like Puerto Rico, where rainfall can be intense and frequent, these systems must perform under constant hydraulic pressure. That makes quality installation even more important. Any weakness in the system can lead to long-term environmental risks.
By staying committed to best practices, even in difficult conditions, the project supports the protection of nearby communities and natural resources.
Delivering Reliable Systems
Projects like the Municipality of Juncos Landfill highlight the importance of experience, planning, and adaptability in environmental construction. Weather cannot be controlled, but how a contractor responds to it determines the outcome.
Taking the time to address subgrade issues, adjust schedules, and maintain strict quality control ensures that the final system performs as intended. It also reduces the risk of costly repairs or future environmental impacts.
COMANCO’s work in Puerto Rico reflects a practical approach to these challenges. The focus remains on safety, compliance, and long-term performance, even when conditions are unpredictable.
SAFETY ★ QUALITY ★ SERVICE
COMANCO is an environmental, commercial, and civil construction company specializing in constructing containment facilities.
COMANCO continues to deliver reliable environmental construction services in Puerto Rico, even in challenging weather conditions. Our team understands how to adapt to wet climates while maintaining strict quality control and safety standards. From subgrade preparation to final liner installation, every step is completed with long-term performance in mind.
Contact COMANCO to learn how we can support your next project.
📍 4301 Sterling Commerce Dr, Plant City, FL 33566
📞 (813) 988-8829
🌐 www.comanco.com