Can You Pave Asphalt Over Concrete?

When it comes to installing asphalt on top of concrete surfaces, many professionals will tell you that there are some known side effects that can occur. Continue reading to learn what’s really at stake regarding this type of pavement work before choosing to install asphalt over concrete on your property.

Indianapolis Asphalt Paving 317-549-1833

Indianapolis Asphalt Paving 317-549-1833

A property owner may want to install asphalt on top of a concrete surface for many reasons. Whether repaving a concrete driveway or restoring an old parking lot, repaving over concrete with asphalt is usually an excellent choice. Also known as an “overlay”, paving on top of another surface is a common practice in the pavement construction industry.

In fact, miles of concrete highways and roads are repaved with asphalt, every year. Paving over concrete with asphalt is a safe and suitable method of repaving, and works well under many circumstances. Concrete is an effective material to use as a base or foundation. This is because it is solid and strong, and allows for excellent compaction of the asphalt that will soon be laid above.

Asphalt overlays are popular since they are a more efficient and easier means to restoring old or defective pavement. After all, you get to skip over all the demolition, clearing, and cleanup that would be required otherwise. Not only does this take more time, it requires more labor, which costs more money. But even though it is a whole lot easier, there are some risks you might take on if you choose this route.

Risks to Consider

Installation is key when it comes to long-term performance of pavement. If a concrete base was not properly installed, such as being poured over unstable soils, it can cause problems within the concrete that will eventually show at the surface of the asphalt. For instance, concrete poured over unstable soils can experience cracking and moving at the expansion joints of its slabs. This causes the surface pavement to “pivot” with traffic, heaving and warping from where they were originally poured.

Another risk that can occur with an asphalt overlay over concrete is reflective cracking as a result of continuing heat and cold expanding and contracting. In contrast to asphalt, concrete contains expansion joints that are vulnerable to shifting. This movement causes the concrete to crack; and where the concrete cracks, so does the asphalt surface. Even applying special reinforcing fabric strips prior to overlay cannot entirely prevent this from occurring.

Who to Call for Certified Indianapolis Pavement Repair

ACI Asphalt Concrete Inc. 317-549-1833

ACI Asphalt Concrete 317-549-1833

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for Indianapolis pavement repair at the most competitive prices in town. Our licensed, bonded, and insured paving company offers a wide range of asphalt and concrete construction services for both commercial and industrial properties, including pavement repair, sealcoating, road work, commercial paving, industrial paving, and more. Request a free quote, today.

An Eco-Friendly Asphalt Binder Option

There have been many advancements in the paving industry, many of which designed to improve efficiency, binding, and appearance. One such advancement is a new Eco-friendly binder called Aquaphalt®. Continue reading to learn more about Aquaphalt® and how it applied to the world of asphalt paving and construction.

Indianapolis Asphalt Paving 317-549-1833

Indianapolis Asphalt Paving 317-549-1833

Asphalt Patching Products

Aquaphalt® is a new asphalt patching product that is not only environmentally-friendly, but effective as well. This revolutionary “green” asphalt patching product is currently only available in the United States. It is a binder that reacts and reinforces simply with water. This product is “green” because it contains no VOC’s (volatile organic compounds), which are harmful constituents found in all other asphalt paving products. It is scientifically designed to be a permanent asphalt patching and repair material, and primarily used to fill-in and patch-up potholes and other pavement defects. It quickly hardens to a solid, strong surface, with strength and durability equivalent to the surrounding asphalt pavement. Another advantage to Aquaphalt® is that is can be applied in most weather conditions, and will not experience adverse effects if installed properly.

In comparison to cold patching, Aquaphalt® is not meant to be a temporary means of repair. It is a permanent asphalt patching material, whereas cold patching is not. Asphalt that has been “cold-patched” will need to eventually be replaced with a permanent paving material. So not only is Aquaphalt® eco-friendly, it saves time with its quick hardening process, as well as, money since further patching is not required! There are several exciting innovative asphalt manufacturing products and solutions happening in the pavement industry. Aquaphalt® is not yet available to all states, but the good news is that these innovative technologies are being designed and produced, and proven to be effective!

Where to Get Trusted Asphalt Repair

Talk to a licensed Indianapolis paving company for details about the best practices for asphalt patching and repair for your commercial pavement. The circumstances of your commercial lot may be different from others, which means you need a professional assessment and custom plan for asphalt repair. Choose a pavement repair company that has been in business for more than 10 years to ensure professionalism and establishment. You do not want to fall victim to a fly-by-the-night pavement service that cheats you out of your business’s hard-earned money.

Indianapolis Pavement Repair

Asphalt Concrete Repair

Asphalt & Concrete Pavers 317-549-1833

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional pavement repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide range of asphalt and concrete repair services for commercial and industrial properties, at the most competitive prices in town. As a licensed, bonded, and insured paving company, you can rest assure knowing your lot is in the best and most capable hands. Call 317-549-1833 to request a free quote, today.

4 Ways ACI Asphalt and Concrete Ensures Excellent Service and Results

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

When it comes to contractors, the term itself can sometimes have a stigma. That is because there are several inexperienced, untrustworthy, and fly-by-the-night construction crews that take advantage of property owners. These are unprofessional and unethical business owners who have given hardworking professional contractors a bad name. For this reason, property owners are weary of hiring. How do you know you are hiring a dependable company you can trust?

In the paving industry, the same stigmas apply, but ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc. has learned how to combat them in order to prove our value. Our licensed, bonded, and insured paving contractors adhere to a strict internal code that supports professionalism and quality results for every project. Continue reading to learn the top 4 ways we achieve this level of integrity and ensure excellent service and results.

Your Budget Is Important To Us

Not only do we maintain economy-based prices, we appreciate our client’s budget. It is never our interest to over sell our clients for a bigger payout. Our goal is to provide professional and long lasting paving work that meets the budget. We work with our clients to figure out how we can offer them the best paving solutions within the budget they have allocated for themselves. As experienced professionals in the industry, we are able to very accurately price out each project so that you know what to expect in terms of cost.

We Use a Concentrated Approach to Project Management

We use a very strict and focused approach to project management. This gives us optimal foresight, thus allowing us to investigate every angle of the project and its unique needs, including weather, permits, time, and other variables that can affect the course of the project. We also take the time to coordinate with other industries, contractors, and venues when necessary.

We Meet Our Deadlines

When your contractor does not deliver as promised, when promised, it can be very frustrating. At ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc., we are fully equipped to manage any paving project, regardless of size or scope. And as mentioned, we use a strict, concentrated approach to project management. This means we can easily meet our deadlines and get our work done in a time frame that’s convenient for our clients. Furthermore, we get the job done right the first time, every time.

We Communicate With You at All Times

When it comes to client-contractor relationships, the most common complaint is about communication. We can understand just how frustrating it would be if your contractor fails to inform you of your project’s timelines, status, budget, and more. This can get especially messy if subcontractors are involved as well. Being left in the dark is not something that happens at our company. We remain in constant communication with our clients to ensure they are fully informed and comfortable with the proceedings of their project.

Indianapolis Asphalt Paving

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for Indianapolis pavement repair and installation you can trust. Our paving contractors are licensed, bonded, and insured with decades of experience in the pavement industry. Call 317-549-1833 to request a free estimate, today.

What is Permeable Pavement?

Permeable pavement is known by a few other names, including pervious pavement and porous concrete. It is a specific type of pavement material that retains high porosity values, which allows rainwater and other liquids to pass through the pavement and into the underlying ground soil. This process mimics natural ground soil saturation, reducing runoff and returning water back to underground aquifers. But these are not the only good qualities of permeable pavement; it also traps suspended solids and pollutants, and blocks them from entering the water stream.

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Pervious Pavement Applications

In order for permeable pavement to deliver the advantages it’s known for, it must be installed properly and used in the proper applications. Pervious pavement does not share the same strength as concrete, so it is not strong enough to handle certain conditions. For this reason, it is not recommended for highways, interstates, high-volume streets, heavy loading areas, and even potential spill sites.

Common applications for permeable pavement include:

• Sidewalks
• Driveways
• Residential Roadways
• Parking Lots
• Low Water Bridges
• Pool Decks
• Patios
• Well Linings
• And Any Other Low-Volume Surfaces

Brief History

Pervious concrete was originally introduced to the paving industry in Europe, in the early 1800’s. Europe frequently used permeable pavements for pavement resurfacing, load-bearing walls, and infill panels. But when World War II drastically reduced the availability of cement, pervious pavement made a come-back, and was a popular alternative once again. Modern uses of permeable pavement began in the 1960’s, including flood prevention and raised water basins.

Types of Permeable Pavement:

• Porous Asphalt
• Plastic Grids
• Porous Turf
• Single-Sized Aggregate
• Interlocking Concrete Pavers
• Resin-Bound
• Bound Recycled Glass
• Clay Brick

Indianapolis Asphalt and Concrete Paving

Asphalt & Concrete Service 317-549-1833

Asphalt & Concrete Service 317-549-1833

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc. at 317-549-1833 for professional pavement installation and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. Owner, Lindsey Lewis, and his team of licensed and insured pavers, provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete paving services for commercial, industrial, and municipal properties throughout the state. Call 317-549-1833 to request an estimate for Indianapolis paving, today.

Why Can Soil Become Unstable Below Old Asphalt?

Often times, paving companies or contractors will begin a paving project, only to find that the soil beneath the old pavement is too soft and not stable enough to take on new material. There are a few common causes for soil instability, all of which can interrupt a paving project. But fortunately, unstable soil can be resolved. It just takes a few extra steps. Continue reading to learn what causes soil instability, and how to fix it for purposes of paving.

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Causes of Soil Instability

There are three main causes of soil instability: 1) organic presence, 2) lack of compaction, and 3) poor composition. Look below for a brief explanation of each issue.

Organic Presence – The excessive presence of organic matter, especially decomposing organics, can cause soil to soften, making it unstable. This includes insects, leaves, plant matter, and water.

Poor Compaction – When soil lacks compaction, it is weak and does not retain the ability to properly bear weight. Lack of compaction means soil is soft and unable to stabilize for the purpose of bearing weight, such as paving material.

Poor Composition – The make-up of soil has a major influence on its level of stability. When improper levels of essential minerals, namely air, water, and organic matter, are present in soil, it lacks the ability to be strong. Soil needs just the right amount of moisture, matter, and air to be stable for paving.

Paving Over Soil

You cannot add new asphalt paving material on top of an unstable foundation. And soft soil is unstable. Instead, new asphalt paving solutions need to be considered and chosen. Most of the time, soft soil can be resolved, and once they are, paving projects can continue as planned. Various methods for treating soil instability have proven effective, either on their own or in combination with each other. They include practices such as:

Using drainage tiles to remove excess moisture from soil.

Excavating the soft soil and replacing it with a proper base material.

Tilling and turning the soil to encourage drying or hardening.

Using soil separation fabrics to prevent soil from intermixing with base materials.

Using reinforcement grids (geo grids) to even out the weight of the load.

Tilling chemical stabilization into the soil to change the composition to make it stronger.

Applying foam asphalt injections to mimic the characteristics of pavement.

Indianapolis Paving Contractors

Asphalt Concrete Repair

Asphalt & Concrete Service 317-549-1833

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc. at 317-549-1833 for professional pavement repair and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. Owner Lindsey Lewis, and his team of licensed paving contractors, provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete paving services for commercial, industrial, and municipal properties throughout the state. As highly-trained and experienced pavers, you can trust us for quality service at an honest price. Call 317-549-1833 to
request an estimate for Indianapolis
paving services
, today.

Why is Proper Pothole Repair So Important?

Potholes are foe to every driver, property owner, and pedestrian alike. Not only can they cause damage to our vehicles, they can reduce property value, compromise company profit, and even pose safety hazards. The short message here is that potholes are no good and should be repaired as soon as possible. In most cases, pothole repair is not a recommended “do-it-yourself” project.

Continue reading to learn why accurate pothole repair is so vital, and who to call for commercial paving services you can trust.

Pothole Origins

Potholes are created as a result of many factors. The most common factors are freeze-thaw cycles. When it rains or snows, water enters the pores and cracks within the pavement. The cycle of contracting and expanding in the pavement causes it to weaken overtime. And with ongoing traffic and inclement weather, the vulnerable pavement will begin to wear away, eventually collapsing and forming a hole.

Pothole Repair

The process of repairing and stabilizing deteriorated pavement is complex, and retains methods and techniques that differ slightly depending on several factors. From weather conditions to water drainage, there are many aspects to consider before filling-in or patching-up a pothole. Proper pothole repair is critical in order to protect your investment and achieve the long-lasting pavement stability you desire.

There are two common methods for repairing a pothole. Depending on certain factors, a pothole will require a temporary patch or a semi-permanent repair. Temporary pothole patching often involves a process known as “throw and roll.” It starts filling a pothole with hot or cold asphalt patching material, and then compressing it down manually (hand tamping) or with a paving vehicle. This option is more efficient and less expensive.

Semi-permanent pothole repair is a little more labor intensive since it requires adequate debris removal first, and then pavement cutting to achieve straight, even edges. Once a clean shape is achieved, a hot or cold asphalt paving material is poured inside and then compacted with a roller or vibratory plate.

Pothole Prevention

Pothole prevention starts with a trusted paving company that knows how to assess an area and provide proper pavement installation, taking into consideration sub-grades, water drainage, risk factors, and more. If pavement is not installed and laid properly, it will immediately show signs of defects and instability. Improper pavement installation will surely lead to an increase in pothole formation, and costly pothole repair.

Commercial Pothole Repair Services in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial pothole repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Our licensed road construction contractors provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete work for commercial and industrial properties, including inspections, installation, replacement, repair, and more. We also offer free estimates and consultations, flexible scheduling, references upon request, and more. Best of all, our work is backed by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, so you can rest assure that your investment is sound. Request a free quote, today.

The Importance of Commercial Pavement Repair

When it comes to any commercial property, the parking lot is the very first impression customers receive upon initial visitation. We have all been there; pulling into a crumbling lot, bouncing over countless potholes, attempting to discern the very-faded parking lot lines, and trying your hardest to avoid the weeds and grasses growing through the deep crevices as you make your way to the company’s entrance. Before customers even enter the building, they are already dissatisfied and agitated over the parking lot obstacles and inconveniences. This is why parking lot maintenance and pavement repair are vital to any company or business.

Below you will read just how, and why, commercial pavement repair and service are important to a company’s success and reputation.

Pothole Repair Indianapolis 317-549-1833
Pothole Repair Indianapolis 317-549-1833

Commercial Asphalt and Concrete Services

Parking lots are not the only asset that requires routine upkeep and repair. Sidewalks, loading docks, freight entrances, curbs, speed bumps, and lamp posts are all pavements that also require regular service and repairs when needed. A crumbling or cracked sidewalk is a dangerous hazard that can bring upon premise liability lawsuits and injured customers. So as you can see, a poor quality parking lot is more than just an eye sore and bad first impression.

There are safety concerns as well. Lamp posts are important to repair right away in order to prevent a falling or leaning commercial light post. This is also very dangerous and a huge liability for a company. No one wants a 30 foot parking lot lamp post falling on their vehicle, or worse, another person! Immediate repair is strongly encouraged for cracked, crumbling, or weakened parking lot lamp posts.

On top of actual pavement repair for cracking, breaking, and crumbling concrete or asphalt, aesthetic care is also crucial. This means freshly painting and clearly labeled parking spots, smooth speed bumps, intact curbs and medians, and more. These are all important for a customer’s first impression, as well as, their safety. There are several methods for effective and long-lasting concrete and asphalt care.

A professional pavement repair company retains the proper equipment and technologies to apply several methods of parking lot maintenance for commercial properties. One of the most beneficial services a commercial property or complex can receive is seal coating. This protects the pavement from premature crumbling, cracking, and fading. There are several other services as well that promote longevity and visual appeal for commercial buildings and lots.

Commercial Parking Lot Repair in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 to discuss commercial parking lot repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed road construction contractors provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete work for commercial and industrial properties, including inspections, installation, replacement, repair, and more. We also offer free estimates and consultations, flexible scheduling, references upon request, and more. Best of all, our work is backed by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, so you can rest assure that your investment is sound. Request a free quote, today.

What is Perpetual Pavement?

Asphalt is a wonderful and versatile pavement that provides a wide range of benefits, both financial and environmental. The smooth ride, enhanced safety, and appealing luster are just a few of the many admirable attributes of asphalt pavement. But what is perpetual pavement? Is it the same thing? What applications is it used in? For answers to these questions and more, continue reading and eliminate the confusion between perpetual and porous pavement.

Indianapolis Asphalt Seal Coating 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Asphalt Seal Coating 317-549-1833

Perpetual Pavement

Perpetual pavement is simply asphalt! However, it is a type of asphalt that combines all the smoothness and safety of asphalt, but in multiple layers. Perpetual pavement uses an advanced design process that lays asphalt in multiple layers to increase durability, strength, and longevity in roads and highways. This makes it perfect for areas with high traffic volume.

The first (bottom) layer of perpetual asphalt is flexible but strong, and resists pliable pressure caused by heavy traffic and more. This prevents the occurrence of cracks forming at the very bottom of pavement foundations.

The permanent structural portion of laying perpetual pavement is finished in the intermediate layer, following the bottom layer. This intermediate layer provides more strength and durability, as well as, extends lifespan of asphalt.

The last layer of perpetual asphalt is the rut-resistant hot-mix asphalt portion. It produces years of lasting resistance and durability that’s well passed the scheduled date for restoration.

The advantages of perpetual pavement services are well-worth the effort. Since the process is quick and efficient, construction times are reduced and traffic is not blocked or delayed for long periods of time. Also, this type of pavement installation provides exceptionally long-lasting strong pavement that is virtually uninfluenced by harsh weather and heavy traffic volume.

Commercial Asphalt and Concrete Paving Service in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial or industrial asphalt installation and repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed road construction contractors provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete work for commercial and industrial properties, including inspections, installation, replacement, repair, and more. We also offer free estimates and consultations, flexible scheduling, references upon request, and more. Best of all, our work is backed by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, so you can rest assure that your investment is sound. Request a free quote, today.

Hazardous Winter Weather Effects for Roads and Other Pavements

All adverse weather can cause problems for concrete and asphalt pavements, but especially winter weather. There is a substantial increase in moisture and precipitation during the cold season, like rain, ice, and snow. These elements, and other factors, greatly contribute to the natural wear and tear of roads and pavements, as well as, accelerated deterioration and degeneration.

Continue reading to learn about the hazardous effects of winter weather on roads and other types of pavements.

Indianapolis Pavement and Pothole Repair
Indianapolis Pavement and Pothole Repair 317-549-1833

Permeable Pavements

Permeable means porous and penetrable. Many forms of concrete and asphalt are permeable pavements. This means water and moisture can penetrate the surface of pavements and seep deep into the pores. Most asphalt is non-permeable, while other forms of asphalt lack the pertinent aggregate material needed to thwart this occurrence. Concrete on the other hand, is porous and permeable, which is why we often see it in distress during this time of year and after long, harsh, winter seasons. There are benefits of porous pavements in regards to winter weather, but there are many more damages that occur in comparison.

The advantage of porous or permeable pavement in wintertime is that it reduces the accumulation of standing water on roads and walkways. This prevents slippery areas and ice formation that can cause serious car accidents, slips, trips, and falls. Because the water on the surface of the pavement seeps into the pores, it is not flooding the street and freezing into ice.

Damages That Result From Winter Conditions

When water seeps into the pores of any pavement, it is filtered down to the rock bed, along with oil and other substances collected in the water. In the colder seasons, this water eventually freezes, causing the pores in the pavement to expand. When you see cracks, fissures, and crumbling concrete or asphalt, this is mostly likely the cause. The freeze-thaw cycles can greatly deteriorate pavements overtime, or even after just one harsh winter season.

Potholes, cracks, crevices, and crumbling pavement can be seen on sidewalks, curbs, driveways, parking lots, interstates, roadways, and streets everywhere. In order to stop this from happening, we need to continue innovating better technology for commercial and public pavement. This is why it is important for commercial property owners to consult a licensed pavement contractor for accurate and reliable advice regarding the appropriate type of pavement for your particular climate and region.

Winter Cold Patching and Pavement Repair in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial winter cold patching and pothole repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete pavement repair and installation services at the most competitive prices in town, including crack filling, overlays, resurfacing, and sealcoating. Request a free estimate, today!

Repairing Asphalt Over a Culvert

A culvert is a sewer conduit, drain, trench, or channel that crosses under a road, bridge, sidewalk, or other paved groundwork. It is a structure that allows water to pass below and through the foundation or paved surface. These surfaces can be a street, railroad, sidewalk, driveway, parking lot, and more. They are erected to provide bridge-like support for vehicular and foot traffic. From time to time, asphalt pavement above a culvert will need repaired or replaced, in both residential and commercial projects.

Continue reading to learn more about how pavement is repaired above a culvert, and who to call for more information about culverts and paving services in your town.

Drainage Culvert Paving 317-549-1833
Drainage Culvert Paving 317-549-1833

Culvert Pavement Repair

Culverts come in various shapes and sizes, such as elliptical, pear-shaped, flat-bottomed, rounded, and even box-like. Therefore, many factors will determine how soon a culvert repair job will be needed. For instance, natural wear and tear can weaken pavement located above a culvert. It is important to implement comprehensive repairs to pavement located above culverts, as to not damage the culvert in any way. This can lead to even more damage and costly repairs. Be sure to choose a licensed and experienced Indianapolis Asphalt and Concrete Repair Company for the most accurate and reliable culvert construction and pavement repair services.

The Process of Culvert Repair

To begin a job like this, pavement contractors will first use saw cut the apron approach area and then peel away the old asphalt using a skid steer. Once the asphalt and removed and the gravel is pushed to the side, the culvert pipe will most likely be exposed. If it is damaged, it will need to be replaced. If the old asphalt is raised, lifted, or bumpy, then the pipe will most likely be damaged as well and need replaced. As a side note, the old asphalt and culvert pipe can be recycled and reused!

At this point, the base is ready to be set. Most contractors use a bed of crushed stone. Next, the culvert is positioned on top of the crushed stone, and the sides are packed in with this crushed material as well. This guarantees proper placement. When culverts are installed in dirt or poor-quality gravel-like material, it can cause future complications and needed repairs.

Once the stone bed is set and the culvert is situated and packed in, flares are installed to open up the ends of the piping. These flares permit paving contractors to pack-in the gravel and asphalt by hand, in order to taper it to the ditch line properly. They also promote better durability against weed over-growth and storm wash-outs.

When the pipe is replaced and the culvert is set up, the rest of the pavement project can continue as normal. The stone base and layers of asphalt can be applied as usual. When this kind of pavement repair job is done incorrectly, heaving and large bumps will appear. If there were complications with the initial culvert construction, the new pavement repair job should not be affected in any way; so long as the company uses the proper equipment, tools, and procedures.

Indianapolis Culvert Paving and Repair Services

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial culvert repair and 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, winter cold patching, and more. We are the industry veterans to trust for skilled craftsmanship and competitive prices! Request a free estimate, today.