How to Clean Moldy Concrete

Many people do not think about mold and mildew growing on foundations made from concrete or cement; however, if the conditions are just right, this type of growth can occur. Not only can mold, mildew, and fungus grow within the pores and on the surfaces of concrete foundations, staining is a probable result as well.

Mold and mildew can cause health problems, respiratory complications, and slippery surfaces. This can be dangerous to residents, guests, customers, visitors, and all other persons inhabiting the infected area. These reasons and more are why mold removal for concrete is so vital. Getting rid of mold growth encourages a healthier environment and a more durable foundation.

Continue reading to learn more about mold growth, including how to effectively eliminate it from concrete sidewalks, driveways, and more!

Indianapolis Pavement Repair 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Pavement Repair 317-549-1833

What Causes Mold?

Mold, mildew, and fungus grow in the presence of two principle variables: moisture and a food source. In most cases, these food sources are dirt and dust. Concrete is not capable of fungal growth on its own, but in the perfect conditions of humidity, moisture, and a present food source, mold can quickly grow and thrive for quite some time.

Prolonged weather conditions, water leaks, flooding, and poor insulation can create an environment for concrete mold growth. The combination of moisture and humidity, along with a viable food source, is the perfect formula to house mold and mildew.

Also, concrete is a porous pavement, meaning it has several pores and channels running within it. These pores and microscopic crevices are perfect incubators for fungal growth too. So as mentioned before, given the right conditions, mold can easily grow within and on concrete.

Some conditions are created on a temporary basis, like humid and wet weather mixed with dirt and dust, while others may be an interior issue that requires some extensive renovation or repair.

Cleaning Moldy Concrete

Finding the root of mold growth is the first step in removing it. If the fungus is a result of a larger underlying problem like interior water leaks, then it is vital to correct this issue first, in order to acquire long term mold removal and control. Since concrete is very durable, removing mold is fairly simple and the process is quite easy. Once the mold is removed, it is helpful to keep concrete surfaces that are more susceptible to fungal growth, clean and dust-free.

Here’s how to combat mold and mildew on concrete foundations:

⇒ Purchase an OTC Fungicide or Mold-Killing Detergent

These products can be purchased at any local hardware or home improvement center. You may even find them at your local grocer or superstore. Be sure to choose a higher-end product for optimal results. For a homemade solution, simply mix household bleach and water together, using equal parts.

⇒ Allow the Solution to Set in For Some Time

Apply the solution liberally to the infected areas and allow it to sit for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the extent of fungal growth. The next step involves scrubbing, but should then be followed with a second application, setting, and scrubbing once again.

⇒ Use Elbow-Grease to Scrub the Fungus Away

It really takes a lot of scrubbing and elbow grease to scrub the mold away. This job is great for the man of the house. Once the solution is applied liberally to the infected areas, use abundant force to scrub and rub away the fungal growth and stains. Rinse the area thoroughly, and repeat the last two steps until you achieve desirable results.

When You Need Concrete Replacement

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial and industrial paving services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide several Indianapolis asphalt and concrete paving services, including pavement repair, sealcoating, road work, commercial paving, industrial paving, and more. Request a free estimate, today!

Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833

The Difference Between Sealcoating and Resurfacing

When your commercial asphalt lot begins to show signs of aging, such as cracking, fading, unevenness, and more, it could be time to have it repaired. In the paving industry, there are two primary options for this kind of asphalt repair: sealcoating and resurfacing. Although there are also options for micro-surfacing, milling, and similar solutions, most often, good condition pavement with some minor wear and tear can be renovated with these two common options.

Continue reading to learn the difference between sealcoating and resurfacing, as well as, how to make the best choice for your commercial pavement.

Indianapolis Asphalt Repair 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Asphalt Repair 317-549-1833

Sealcoating

Sealcoating is a preventative application meant to protect the surface of pavement, thus extending its life and the quality of its performance. It involves applying one or two layers of asphalt material, known as sealant, for the purpose of protecting cracks, gaps, and other vulnerable or permeable areas. If you have ever seen a stunning, perfectly smoothed-out blacktop,you have seen a proper sealcoating job.

But even though sealcoating delivers an exceptional curb appeal, it is also one of the most important parts of asphalt maintenance. In fact, it is recommended to have your commercial asphalt lot resealed every 3 to5 years, depending on the amount of traffic your lot gets and the extent of inclement weather in your region. See our blog, “Frequently Asked Questions about Sealcoating” to learn more about the process and its advantages.

Resurfacing

Resurfacing asphalt is also known as overlaying. Overlays are a great option for lots that have extensive surface damage that cannot just be filled in and evened out with sealant. Resurfacing involves tilling up and removing the top few inches of asphalt, and replacing it with new material. Essentially,it is like installing a new asphalt surface, but without all the ground work.

Many property owners enjoy the cost-effectiveness and instant gratification of asphalt overlays, which is why they are a common serviced provided by pavement repair companies. In contrast to resealing, an asphalt lot should only be overlaid every 15 to 20 years or so. Concrete can also be resurfaced. See our blog, “Deciding Between Concrete Repair or Concrete Resurfacing” to learn more about this topic if you have a commercial concrete lot.

Who to Choose for Commercial Pavement Repair in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for Indianapolis pavement repair and sealcoating services you can trust. Our team of skilled paving contractors are licensed, bonded, and insured, and have decades of combined hands-on experience in the road construction and design industry. We provide paving services for both asphalt and concrete. Request a free estimate, today.

Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833

5 Qualities To Look For in a Paving Contractor

Pavement repair is an important investment to make for your property, so it is necessary for it to be done right. The primary key to all good paving work is installation. Without proper installation and craftsmanship, your pavement does not stand a chance against weather, wear, tear, and time. So you see, all good paving work starts with hiring the right contractor.

Continue reading to learn which qualities you should be looking for in a paving contractor in order to ensure trusted, long-lasting results for your pavement.

Commercial Paving 317-549-1833

Indianapolis Commercial Paving 317-549-1833

License

The first quality you should be looking for in a qualified paving contractor is licensing. The state departments for licensing and regulation of paving contractors issues licensing numbers that your contractor should be able to provide. You can use this number to look up their license status online. (Our state licensing number is #C8081407)

Insurance

The second important quality to look for in a paving professional is insurance coverage. This is for your own protection. Be sure a paving contractor can provide proof of their official certificate for general liability and workers compensation insurance. Insurance coverage is also an indication that you are working with a professional company.

References

Another important quality to look for in a paving professional is their company reputation among past clientele. You can do this by directly asking the paving contractor for references, or you can look up customer reviews and testimonials online on popular sites like Yelp and Angie’s List. A good contractor is always eager to provide references because they are confident and proud of their work.

Written Contract

Before allowing any work to be done on your property, it is vital that you have, in your possession, a comprehensive written contract detailing all of the agreed upon work, materials, payment terms, and estimated completion date. Always be sure your paving professionals incorporate written contracts in their standard business practices to protect yourself and your investment.

No Full Payment Upfront

In most states, the law does not allow contractors to require all payments in full before the work has begun. In fact, such laws do not allow contractors to accept more than one-third of the total contract price, upfront. If a paving contractor mandates that all costs need to be paid in full upfront before they get started on the project, it is not a good business practice.

Professional Pavement Repair in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial paving services in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide a wide range of pavement repair and installation services at the most competitive prices in town. Request a free estimate, today.

Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833