Deconstruction & Replacement for Bridges, Viaducts and Footbridges
When a bridge has reached the end of its uselful life
Some structures reach a point where repair or strengthening are no longer viable, due to damage, design limitations, or changes in use. In these cases, structural elements must be removed or replaced without compromising user safety or network continuity.
VSL brings together structural engineering, lifting technologies, and construction expertise to safely dismantle and replace bridge components, or entire sections, with minimal disruption.
Our services for Deconstruction or Replacement
We replace damaged or outdated bridge components, from bridge cables to decks, using safe and efficient methods. VSL uses synchronized jacking, strand lifting, and mobile access platforms to ensure safety and accuracy.
- Replacement of cables and hangers
- Girders and crossbeams
- Deck slabs and parapets
- Precast or in-situ replacement elements
- Grouting, levelling, and tensioning of new systems
Removing structural components in service environments requires a tailored approach. We plan and execute each operation to minimize risks and downtime. We regularly intervene in constrained sites (urban zones, live traffic, rail corridors) where full demolition is not an option.
- Step-by-step dismantling plans with structural staging
- Load redistribution and temporary supports
- Use of lifting frames, strand jacks or sliding equipment
- Selective cutting and separation of structural elements
- Coordination with asset owner, designer and safety teams
- Environmental and safety controls for dust, noise, and access
Why choose VSL for Bridge Deconstruction and Replacement?
Specialist in partial replacement and handling of heavy loads
From decks to stay cables to bridge bearings, we replace elements without replacing the whole structure.Integrated design and methods
Our engineers work hand-in-hand with site teams to design temporary works, equipment setups and sequencing.Proven lifting systems
VSL’s proprietary strand jacking and sliding equipment ensures safe, precise operations.Minimal disruption
We prioritize safety, service continuity, and project coordination from day one.
FAQ about bridge deconstruction and replacement
Deconstruction or replacement becomes necessary when deterioration is too advanced for repair, when structural capacity can’t meet updated standards, or when functional changes require a new configuration. VSL helps assess feasibility and define the safest, most cost-effective path.
Yes. Many of our operations are performed in live environments, including highways and rail corridors. We use phased works, temporary supports, and synchronized lifting systems to maintain service continuity wherever possible.
Safety is engineered into every step. VSL performs detailed staging analyses, designs dedicated temporary works, and uses certified lifting systems such as strand jacks and sliding equipment. All operations follow strict risk-mitigation and monitoring protocols.
We routinely replace cables, hangers, girders, crossbeams, deck slabs, parapets, and precast or in-situ concrete elements. Our teams also handle grouting, levelling, and tensioning of newly installed systems.
We plan works around traffic schedules, coordinate closely with authorities, and use methods that minimize noise, dust, and closures. Whenever possible, we use night shifts, prefabrication, and accelerated installation to shorten intervention time.