Community Update: Historic Masonry Progressing Well

January 29, 2018 – Historic masonry within the lock chamber is ongoing at Edmonds Lock 25. Work on the lock is on target to finish in the early spring, with site restoration to be completed closer to the opening of navigation season. This work is essential in preserving the historic, aesthetic, and functional integrity of Edmonds Lock 25 for generations to come.

The contractor at Edmonds Lock is currently removing sections of worn stone throughout the lock chamber and replacing those stones in-kind. This process includes the cutting of old stone, sanding of the remaining surface and the insertion of new stone portions. In order to affix the stone, the contractor inserts stainless steel dowels into the remaining wall and the new stone portion, then uses adhesive and grout, in behind and around the stone, to seal the seams and reduce water permeation into the joints. This work is completed within a heated tarp covering – hoarding - to ensure the correct temperature is maintained for the grout and adhesive to cure. The final phase of repairs to the Edmonds site will include work on the weir beginning in fall 2018. The full project is expected to be completed in spring 2019.

About Edmonds Lock 25, Dam and Weir

Edmonds Lock, Dam and Weir were constructed in the late 1820s to early 1830s. The lock was created with a 2.64 metre (eight foot, eight inch) lift, built on a clay foundation and wooden floor. A stone arch overflow dam was built with a weir, installed to reduce the chance of floods. In the early 1840s, a stone lockmaster's house was constructed at the site then replaced with a two-storey house in 1905.

For More Information:

For up-to-date news on infrastructure work along the Rideau Canal, please visit our website: www.pc.gc.ca/rcInfrastructure. If you would like to be added to our community engagement list and receive updates on this project, please e-mail RideauCanal.info@pc.gc.ca and include “Edmonds Lock 25” in the subject heading.