Ultra-high performance concrete, or UHPC, is a new class of superior-performing concrete paving material. It is also known as reactive powder concrete, or RPC for short. This version of concrete is strong and ductile, delivering compressive strengths up to 29,000 pounds psi (per square inch), and flexural strengths up to seven thousand psi. It is primarily formulated by combining a list of powders, superplasticizers, organic materials, and more. The most common constituents include varying ratios of water, cement, quartz flour, silica fume, fine silica sand, high-range water reducer, and organic or steel fibers.
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UHPC Benefits
When procuring UHPC, you will generally get them in a pre-blended bag of all the above-mentioned materials, excluding the water of course. It is commonly sought-after for its capacity to distort and support flexile and tensile loads, even after its early age cracking phase. These qualities and more make construction applications simpler by eliminating the need of steel reinforcements, and because ultra-high performance concrete has the capacity to nearly self-place or dry cast.
So what makes ultra-high performance concrete so useful and effective? It’s the combination of fine powders (no larger than 600 micrometers per grain) and the induced chemical reaction. As a result, UHPC renders a small, disconnected pore structure with ultimate compactness.
UHPC Applications
The most common modern-day applications for UHPC include the construction of bridges (bridge girders, decks, piles, etc.), building facades, marine anchors, piers, seismic columns and structures, highway infrastructure, wind turbine towers, reinforcement connectors (bridges, buildings, etc.), and much more.
Indianapolis Concrete Pavers
Asphalt & Concrete Pavers 317-549-1833
Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc. at 317-549-1833 for professional concrete installation and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner Lindsey Lewis, and his team of licensed and insured pavers, provide a wide range of paving services for commercial, industrial, and municipal properties. Call 317-549-1833 to request a quote from one of our esteemed Indianapolis concrete pavers, today.
When it comes to choosing a concrete deicing product, most people look for melting power. So it is no surprise that calcium chloride pellets are the top-most recommended material to use for winter pavement management. This substance is so powerful, it can still melt ice and snow in temperatures below freezing; in fact, up to negative 40 degrees Fahrenheit! But as for concrete deicers, there is more to consider aside from melting power.
You must also think about your surrounding environment, the condition of your pavement, seasonal temperatures, and even the corrosive agents in the deicing product you choose to apply to your concrete pavements. Although calcium chloride offers incredible melting power, it may not be a suitable choice for everyone. Continue reading to learn more about calcium chloride deicers and winter concrete care.
Benefits of Calcium Chloride Deicer
As a hygroscopic compound, calcium chloride absorbs moisture. When applied to snow and ice, it begins to immediately dissolve and absorb all the moisture on the pavement. As it dissolves, the calcium chloride uses an exothermic process that generates heat up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This is why the results are so sudden.
Calcium chloride is better than sodium chloride, or “rock salt”, in terms of environmental care and protection. It is less harmful to the surrounding plant life and soil in the case of water run-off. It is also less corrosive, so it is a suitable deicing solution for older pavement.
Disadvantages to Consider
Although calcium chloride is a powerful deicing agent, it comes with a few drawbacks that you should be aware of before applying it to your pavement. First, it melts quickly, so it leaves behind a moderate amount of slush. This slush can re-freeze, or turn into a hazardous in terms of pedestrian slip and falls, as well as, driving accidents. For personal safety and liability, it is best to sweep the slush to the side after application.
Secondly, it is a bit more expensive to deice with calcium chloride. A 50 pound bag sets you back about $18 on average, depending on the retailer. For moderately cold temperatures and conditions, it is recommended to mix calcium chloride with a standard market deicer for a more economical version.
Indianapolis Concrete Repair
Commercial Lot Repair 317-549-1833
Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc. at 317-549-1833 for professional Indianapolis concrete repair and sealcoating you can trust. Owner Lindsey Lewis employs a team of highly-trained and experienced pavers who are licensed, bonded, and insured to perform. We offer a wide range of pavement repair services for commercial, industrial, and municipal properties. Call 314-549-1833 for professional concrete repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas.
Cracks in concrete are a very common occurrence, but more often than not, misjudged. In fact, the American Concrete Institute (ACI) acknowledges this issue by stating that it is unrealistic to expect crack-free concrete, and normal to expect some degree of cracking, despite the quality of product and installation. The only method of crack prevention is to use certain paving strategies to control the cracking. And although not all concrete cracks can’t be entirely controlled, all can be explained.
Continue reading to learn some common, and overlooked, causes behind concrete cracks, and some methods that professional pavers use to prevent excessive cracking in concrete.
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Cracks in Concrete
A professional paving team will use special tools and strategies to stop concrete from cracking excessively. This includes proper sub-grade preparation, accurate water-to-material mix ratio, and fashioning reinforcement in the proper places. For this reason, it is vital to choose an experienced and reputable concrete repair service that can provide quality results you can trust. But keep in mind that concrete cracks can happen despite of everything else. Here are some reasons why:
Shrinkage
One of the most common reasons for cracks to appear in newly-paved concrete is plastic shrinkage. When concrete is still soft, and not yet hardened, it is in its plastic state. This is when the concrete is still full of water. And since water takes up space, it makes the concrete slab a certain size and shape. But as the concrete cures, and leaves its plastic state, the water inside begins to evaporate. This can cause the concrete to slightly shrink.
Concrete is rigid, so the shrinkage causes a lot of stress on the concrete slab. As it moves along the granular sub-grade, it can cause the slabs to move apart from each other. And when the stress gets to be too much, cracks will appear to relieve tension. All of this is exaggerated in hotter climates and weather.
When installed properly, these inevitable cracks are hairline fissures, and barely visible. But if the installation and mixing process is done inadequately, the cracks will be larger and more abundant. One example is mixing the concrete improperly by making it too wet. It is important to get the right water-to-mix ratio to ensure less cracking. It is common for under-qualified pavers to mix concrete with more water because it is easier to install and finish, especially in hot temperatures. Although a few extra gallons won’t have much effect, too much water can create weaker pavement and larger cracks.
Expansion
When concrete is exposed to hot weather, it expands as it increases in temperature. Cracking occurs when the concrete slab expands to an obstruction point that it cannot pass, such as a curb, brick wall, or even another concrete slab. Professional pavers know to use expansion joints to help control the amount of cracking in concrete. An expansion joint is simply a point of separation between two static surfaces. Also called isolation joints, these points of separation are filled with a type of compressible material that provides adequate shock absorption. This allows a little room for concrete to expand, thus reducing the amount of cracking.
Heaving
Heaving is another common cause behind concrete cracks. It occurs when concrete slabs, like sidewalks, experience a series of freeze/thaw cycles. The repetition of frozen and thawed states causes concrete to shrink and expand multiple times. This results in the ground beneath concrete to lift, causing the slab to heave or bow. Slabs can rise several inches, and also be affected by large tree roots.
Round Objects
Drains, sewer covers, and other rounded objects in concrete pavement are common causes for cracks. In the same way that concrete experiences expansion and shrinkage, round objects inhibit concrete from compressing, thus resulting in excessive stress on the slab. This creates cracks in the concrete.
Professional pavers will constructively incorporate control joints concrete slabs. These are contraction joints that give concrete a designated place to crack when shrinkage or expansion occurs. Instead of cracking randomly through the slab, the concrete will crack exactly on the control joints.
Commercial Concrete Repair and Paving in Indianapolis
Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional concrete 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.
Commercial properties are expected to maintain a certain level of aesthetic appeal for its clients, customers, employees, and guests. The appearance of a company or building is important to maintain for liability and safety purposes as well. When a property’s exterior is neglected, several problems can occur that can be both costly and hazardous. One area that is important to upkeep is concrete pavement. Concrete is porous and can be influenced inclement weather, freeze thaw cycles, and natural wear and tear. One element to commercial concrete paving that provides a wide range of benefits is concrete curbing. It has become a popular choice for commercial businesses and complexes for these benefits and more.
Continue reading to learn about concrete curbing and how it can benefit your commercial property.
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Concrete Curbing Services
Not only do concrete curbing services offer a distinct look and style to your outdoor landscaping, it provides a wide range of functional and practical applications too. Concrete curbs can be installed in various unique styles, colors, designs, shapes, and more. They commonly edge and border flower beds, mulched areas, sidewalks, walking trails, parking lots, raised lawns, and more. It is strongly recommended to outsource concrete installation and repair services for professional-looking pavement that will last.
Commercial Concrete Curbing Benefits Include:
• Increases Property Value • Effective Root Barrier Against Sod and Seed Grasses • Provides Durability to Landscaping • Reduces Edging and Trimming Time • Attractive and Permanent Landscaping Accent • Numerous Shapes, Styles, and Unique Looks to Choose From • Customized Designs, Colors, Lengths, and Textures • More Economical and Durable than Traditional Landscape Edging • Installation is Quick (Usually 1 Day) • Continuous Curbing • Rust-Resistant • Stays in Place • Cost-Effective
If you are considering an overhaul to your outdoor commercial space, then be sure to consider concrete curbing too. Enhancing the look of your exterior not only attracts more customers and promotes employee optimism, it provides a clean and safe environment for everyone. Talk to your local trusted paving company for more information about commercial concrete curbing service.
Commercial Concrete Curbing in Indianapolis, Indiana
Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for information about commercial concrete curbing 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.
Whether indoors or outdoors, polished concrete has become a fantastic substitute for expensive, hard-to-maintain flooring. It has a beautiful finish that is easy to create. Not only is polished concrete cheap, easy to implement, and stunningly beautiful; it is simple to maintain and clean. To polish concrete flooring, a polishing machine that uses discs made of shattered diamonds is swiped along a floor, similar to sanding wood. It is a fantastic and easy way to make the best of concrete flooring. It is also a cheap alternative to carpeting, tile, linoleum, and hardwood.
Continue reading to learn how to care for polished concrete flooring and who to call for professional advice or assistance in your town.
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Regular Maintenance for Polished Concrete
To simply clean and maintenance polished concrete on a daily basis, a few strategies need to be carried out every day. These strategies first start with mats, runners, and additional types of floor coverings. In high traffic areas, such as entry ways or hallways that lead to communal areas (i.e. restrooms, kitchens, etc.), floor mats are helpful. They reduce the negative effects of repeated foot-traffic by collecting dirt, moisture, and mud in its fibers rather than letting these permeate the floor. They also reduce color fading, stains, and general wear and tear.
Another daily method to maintaining polished concrete includes light sweeping with a soft-bristled broom. Using an industrial-strength or heavy-duty broom can cause scratches on the surface of your flooring. Be sure to use a soft broom for delicate sweeping and dusting. Also, it is important to clean spills immediately. Never allow anything sticky or stain-able to sit on polished concrete. This can jeopardize the aesthetic qualities of the floor. Another recommendation is to dry mop every day or to purchase an auto-floor machine that dusts on the hour, every hour.
These routine maintenance strategies serve as an excellent guide to caring for polished concrete. On the other hand, this type of flooring requires more than just cleaning; they require the use of application-specific tools and effective chemistry for a longer lasting shine and stronger durability. This means mastering mechanical and chemical maintenance as well. Using diamond-plated pads to buff the surface of polished concrete floors is the mechanical aspect; while using industry-appropriate cleaners and conditioners to sanitize. It is highly recommended to consult a professional and licensed commercial concrete company for more specific instructions regarding polished concrete care.
Indianapolis Commercial Concrete Contractors
Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for concrete repair and maintenance 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.
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.
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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.
Concrete patios are known to experience a strange, distinctive type of damage in the wintertime; a kind of damage that leave property owners completely puzzled. Although there is no technical name to describe this unique concrete damage that shows up every winter, many people describe the effect as “pop outs” or popped cracks. These areas of damaged concrete are about the size of a quarter, and appear as if they have risen or been pushed up from underneath, separating the concrete from its original surface level.
These pop outs can be very frustrating for property owners being that they are just as unsightly as they are costly to repair. Fortunately there are ways to prevent such damage to concrete patios and foundations, however, they do require a bit of time and money. The best way to prevent concrete damage is to provide regular maintenance and ensure the installation process is done correctly.
Continue reading to learn the causes behind concrete pop outs and how to manage them.
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Concrete Damage and Repair
Concrete pop outs occur on driveways, sidewalks, patios, porches and more, generally as a result of freezing temperatures and winter precipitation, like snow, ice and rain. When concrete freezes, water inside the pores freezes and thaws, expanding the aggregate material and popping it out through the surface of the concrete. This is caused by snow and ice, and the melting of both. When pavers use moderately porous aggregate material to make concrete, this kind of damage is more likely to occur. The most porous the concrete, the more vulnerable it will be to water freeze and thaw cycles.
Although pop out damage doesn’t affect the structural integrity of the concrete foundation, it is unsightly in an aesthetic sense, which is very important for commercial properties; especially those that provide a service. For this reason, it is common for property owners to outsource concrete repair services. Concrete repair companies are a fast and cost-effective approach to patch up concrete pop outs or repave concrete foundations. They retain the proper tools, training, and equipment to accurately repair concrete in a time frame that is convenient for everyone.
Commercial Concrete Paving Services in Indianapolis
Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial concrete pavement 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.
Soil can come part and separate under any sort of tension. When pavement contractors need to install a structure or roadway above soil grounds, they need a solution for this problem since their project involves placing excessive amounts of tension atop soil. In order to strengthen and support sub-bases and sub-soils in the case of pavement installation, contractors often use a synthetic material is used called a Geo-grid. These grids are commonly manufactured from polymers like polyproylene, polyethylene, and even polyester.
Continue reading to learn more about Geo-grid ground reinforcement technology and how it’s used in the pavement repair industry.
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Types of Ground Reinforcement Geo-Grids
Geo-grids are used for foundation soil, roadways bases, steep slopes, and more. And their main purpose is to provide ample reinforcement and stability for pavement and construction projects. There are numerous types ground reinforcement grids on the market today, ranging in everything from size to material. The parts of a Geo-grid include the apertures, or “ribs”, which are the horizontal and vertical beams; also referred to as longitude and transverse ribs. The point at which the apertures meets are called the junctions.
There are three kinds of Geo-grids. The original versions, introduced to the market back in 1982, are called “punched and drawn” Geo-grids. The second type is made from polyethylene-coated polyester fibers and called yarn-type Geo-grids. These grids are textile-like and flexible in comparison to punched and drawn Geo-grids. This makes them perfect for unleveled grounds like slopes and hills. The third type of Geo-grid is made from polyproylene or polyester rods that are bonded together using ultrasonic laser technology.
Pavement Repair Indianapolis Indiana
Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional commercial pavement repair and service 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!
Before concrete polishing innovation, concrete was drab, matte, and almost always grey. But now that we have products, equipment, and knowledge to polish concrete, these surfaces have never looked so amazing. In fact, concrete is becoming more and more popular for residential properties too. This is because concrete polishing gives home and property owners options in color, shade, grade, texture, style, and more! Not only does polished concrete offer a variety of looks, it is easy to clean and maintenance too!
Continue reading to learn more about polishing concrete and the benefits it offers residential and commercial properties.
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Polished Concrete
Polished concrete is treated concrete that looks glossy and retains a constant and brilliant shine. Before, concrete was solely used for constructing foundations in homes and buildings; but now with the new polishing technology, concrete can serve multiple purposes and be used as an alternative flooring option.
Instead of traditional carpeting, laminate, hardwood, linoleum, or tile flooring, polished concrete is a new option that might better provide the look and feel you are looking for. This is because its patterns and colors can be customized just the way you like! In fact, polished concrete can imitate other flooring types, like tile or stone. You can even install it for outdoor or patio purposes too!
Polishing and grinding machines are used to achieve these effects for concrete. It is very similar to sanding wood, but instead, it is concrete that is being buffed and shined. And with acid-staining technology, customizing the colors, patterns, and effects is easy! So long as new concrete has had at least 28 days to manicure and mature, it is ready for polishing.
If you wish to polish existing concrete, it must first be thoroughly washed, rinsed, and dried. Dirt, grease stains, and other surface imperfections and contaminants must be removed for optimal results. If existing concrete is uneven or very porous, it has to first be resurfaced, and then properly cleaned.
Top Benefits of Concrete Polishing:
☑ Non-Slip Flooring ☑ Dirt-Resistant ☑ Easy to Clean and Maintenance ☑ DIY Products and Options ☑ No Need for Seal Coating and Waxing ☑ Can Be Used for Countertops Too!
Once polished concrete is lain, dried, and completely finished, owners can enjoy less maintenance and easy cleaning. A damp mop and dry broom are all you need to clean and maintain this floor type. Outsource a professional concrete repair service for any damages that occur after. They can also provide concrete polishing services.
Commercial Concrete Paving and Repair in Indianapolis
Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial concrete pavement service 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!
Mold and mildew growth can be hazardous to one’s health, and pose many dangerous and unpleasant threats as well. For these reasons and more, mildew should always be removed as soon as it is discovered. It can also be quite unsightly and unattractive. One common area where mold can thrive is concrete, like sidewalks, curbs, driveways, fireplaces, and more. It is understandable to have mold or mildew somewhere on your property you cannot see or reach, but the exposed and attainable areas, like the ones just mentioned, should be cleaned thoroughly.
Continue reading to learn more about the importance of removing mold and mildew from concrete, and how to get it done.
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Concrete Mildew Removal
Mildew is slippery, especially when wet, and can cause slip and fall accidents; but the main health concern associated with mildew and mold has to do with our respiratory health. Spores from mold can become airborne, and consequently, be inhaled by people and pets. This can cause or contribute to several respiratory illnesses and conditions; like asthma, allergies, and more.
So when you find mildew growing on your concrete surface, be sure to follow similar instructions to the ones listed below, in order to successfully remove mold and mildew from concrete, cement, and more. If the fungus that causes mildew is not properly killed and removed, the mildew will be sure to come back.
What You’ll Need:
✔ Chlorine Bleach (about 1 Quart per 100 square foot) ✔ 1/3 Cup Powdered Laundry Detergent ✔ Large Bucket ✔ 3 Quarts Warm Water ✔ Running Water ✔ Garden Hose ✔ Stiff Bristled Broom or Brush ✔ Safety Goggles ✔ Rubber Gloves
What To Do:
1. Open Nearby Doors and Windows to For Ventilation (floor fans are best) 2. Put On Safety Goggles and Gloves 3. Mix Bleach and Warm Water 4. Add Powdered Detergent to Bleach/Warm Water Mix 5. Saturate the Affected Area with the Solution 6. Allow Solution to Fully Saturate for 15 minutes 7. Vigorously Scrub the Surface with the Bristled Broom or Brush 8. Turn On Running Water 9. Use Garden Hose to Rinse the Surface Clean 10. Make Sure the Area Dries Thoroughly 11. Repeat Steps 1-10 if Necessary
In order to prevent mildew and mold growth in the future, be sure to mop up excess puddles of standing water, and try to add more sunlight exposure to concrete surfaces. Sun and heat prevents mold and mildew growth. So keep concrete surfaces dry and bright!
Industrial andCommercial Paving Services in Indianapolis
Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for industrial and commercial concrete pavement repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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!
