4 Common Mistakes People Make When Pouring a Concrete Slab

Posted on September 30, 2022 by admin

There are several reasons why it is important to hire a professional paving contractor for any type of concrete slab work. In fact, the most common mistakes made by those who choose the “do-it-yourself” approach are the very reasons why qualified concrete service is so critical to the outcome of a paving project. So, if you are a property owner who is considering a DIY concrete slab pouring project, be sure you are fully informed before getting started.

Continue reading to learn the top four mistakes made when pouring concrete slab. These common errors might just change your mind about do-it-yourself concrete work and bring you to the conclusion that licensed and bonded concrete installation is the best route to take.

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DIY Concrete Slab Mistakes

Even the most experienced handyman or home improvement buff is better-off hiring a professional Indianapolis paving company for any type of slab work. Without the proper resources, a person can have a lot of trouble pouring concrete on their own, and a low chance at achieving quality results. This includes the proper tools and materials, specialized equipment, and a sufficient team of helpers. In addition to the proper tools and resources, adequate training and hands-on experience is essential to pouring concrete slabs skillfully.

Here are four common mistakes made when pouring concrete slab:

Site Preparation ▶ Pouring concrete is a complex job that requires a significant amount of preparation. Those without experience often overlook the importance of proper site preparation. For concrete can be poured, the site must be perfectly level and thoroughly compacted. In most cases, this requires preliminary site excavation work. Depending on the quality of your work site’s surface, various adjustments may be needed to achieve a good outcome.

Concrete Mixing ▶ Another common mistake made by novice concrete installers is improperly mixing the concrete or using the wrong type altogether. Even the mix is only slightly off balance, it is worthless and shouldn’t be used. Also, not all concrete projects call for the same type of concrete mix, so it is important to differentiate products from one another. Using the wrong concrete would be disastrous to your project, not to mention a huge waste of your money and effort.

The Weather ▶ Very few people consider the weather before starting a concrete installation job, which is highly influential to the overall project. If weather is hot, cold, or wet, certain precautions and adjustments must be made in order to achieve the proper results. So failing to check the weather report before scheduling a concrete slab work day can be a huge setback.

Finish Work ▶ It is very common to forget the finish work required for pouring concrete slab. Before it’s finished, it needs to be screeded, edged, and floated. Failing to do so will result in a bubbly, uneven surface. If this is not completed, then the entire project is essentially a waste of time, money, and effort. This goes for any project that is only done halfway.

Do you have questions about your commercial concrete paving plans? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional commercial and industrial concrete paving in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also serve municipal clients.

Will I Pay More For Asphalt or Concrete?

Posted on June 7, 2022 by admin

Cost comparisons play a vital role in all business-related expenditures, large or small. So, when it comes to paving new surfaces for your company, you will naturally want to know which pavement material is more cost-effective. Basically, you want to know if asphalt will cost you more than concrete, or vice versa. Scroll down to learn some facts about the cost of asphalt and concrete paving materials that will help you make the best spending decision for your business.

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The Price of Asphalt Versus the Price of Concrete

Asphalt and concrete are two entirely different paving materials used to render the same types of paved structures. From roads and parking lots to courts, plazas, sidewalks, curbs, bollards, and more, both asphalt and concrete have proven to be tried and true paving products. But which one will cost you more, upfront and in the long run? The answer is complicated and more importantly, will vary depending on the unique details and specifications of your paving project. For this reason, lean on the facts about asphalt and concrete prices to help you get started in the right direction.

Let’s examine the pros and cons of both paving materials in terms of price and maintenance.

Average Prices

Asphalt is generally cheaper than concrete. That is why it is so widely used to pave roads, highways, and interstate systems. Oppositely, concrete tends to come with a high price tag. On average, asphalt can be procured between $1 and $5 per square foot (installed), while average concrete prices range between $3 and $10 per square foot installed.

Routine Maintenance

Although asphalt is the cheaper paving option upfront, it generates additional costs every 3 to 5 years when it needs resealing. A single bucket of asphalt sealant can cost upwards of $20, so you can imagine the total cost to reseal a multi-level parking lot or business front driveway. Without a proper sealcoat, asphalt will incur more damage, which can lead to premature repairs and overlays.

Concrete does not require much maintenance other than routine cleaning, pressure washing, and if applicable, fresh paint application. However, concrete cracks tend to be a challenging repair, and therefore, pricey. That is something to think about when deciding on a paving material.

Square Footage

Because asphalt and concrete are typically priced by the square foot, installed, the size of your project will largely impact the total cost of paving. The more surface area, the higher the cost, both upfront and in the long run.

Lifespan

Concrete pavements can last between 20 and 60 years with good care. Asphalt pavements can last between 10 and 30 years with regular sealcoating and good care.

Are you looking for qualified road construction and commercial paving in Central Indiana? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for licensed and insured paving services for asphalt and concrete pavements in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout such parts of the state.

FAQS About Commercial Concrete Overlays

Posted on April 8, 2022 by admin

If you have old, existing concrete foundations on your commercial lot, it is likely that they are in need of a little restoration or repair. One of the most cost-effective and easy options for old, existing concrete improvement are overlays. Concrete overlays are installed directly on top of existing foundations, which means there is little to no demolition or excavation necessary. They are great options for parking lots, sidewalks, plazas, courtyards, patios, driveways, and many other areas of paved surfaces.

Continue reading to review the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about commercial concrete overlay application, performance, appearance, and maintenance.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Concrete Overlays

Where Can Concrete Overlays Be Applied?

Any existing concrete surface that is in sound condition is a good candidate for overlay installation. A few cracks here and there are not usually an issue, but if the foundation is heaving, crumbled, or full of crevices, it is not a good candidate. A licensed and insured Indianapolis commercial concrete contractor can provide an assessment to determine if your property is a good candidate for concrete overlays. Everything from commercial parking lots and sidewalks to athletic courts, pool decks, paved trails, and more can be overlain with a freshly-paved layer of concrete. Overlays are also a great option for stained or discolored surfaces.

Are Concrete Overlays Durable?

Commercial concrete can last a long time with good care. Plus, with proper installation and the use of concrete sealers, concrete overlays can withstand the elements and natural wear and tear for several years. They can also be polished to a smooth, even finish. This adds more protection, especially on high-traffic pavements. Concrete polishing is a great option for surfaces that are blemished, discolored, or stained.

What Does a Concrete Overlay Look Like?

For the most part, a concrete overlay will look much like a smooth, grayish-white surface. But the great thing about concrete is that it is a highly versatility paving material. It can be polished, stained, colored, stamped, decorated, molded, shaped, dyed, and much more. These paving options can give standard gray concrete a decorative appearance, and even mimic higher end materials like brick, tile, cobblestone, and marble. This makes it an extremely cost-effective alternative to these materials and more. Concrete is also easier to clean and care for, making it less labor-intensive for the property owner.

How Do I Maintain Commercial Concrete?

Although concrete is one of the most common paving materials used across the world, admired and sought-after for its various properties, it is also porous, which means it is susceptible to certain damages caused by natural elements, chemicals, and more. For this reason, concrete requires proper installation, routine maintenance, and sometimes, repaving, overtime. What kind of maintenance? Routine sweeping, power washing, debris removal, crack filling, and weather management are all important elements of a responsible and effective concrete maintenance plan. These routine tasks will allow paved concrete to maintain a fresh and smooth appearance.

Are you looking for a trusted Indiana commercial paving company to restore your concrete pavements? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 to speak with a seasoned commercial paving contractor in Indianapolis, Indiana today. We specialize in both asphalt and concrete work for commercial and industrial clients.

Is Concrete Energy Efficient?

Posted on February 8, 2022 by admin

If you are preparing to pave your property, you might be stuck on the decision between asphalt and concrete. Concrete happens to be the most widely used materials for paving, ton for ton. Perhaps because it is low cost, but also likely due to the fact that it renders many viable and lucrative benefits for property owners and developers, like energy efficiency. That’s right; concrete is an energy efficient pavement choice.

Continue reading to learn how concrete can be energy-efficient, plus who to trust in central Indiana for superior commercial and industrial concrete paving services.

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Energy Efficient Pavements

Concrete is really an amazing paving and building materials. Comprised of inert aggregates like sand, gravel, and cement, concrete delivers a wide range of benefits. One such benefits is energy efficiency. Concrete is energy efficient because it absorbs and retains heat, which in turn keeps structures warm in the cooler seasons and cool in the warmer seasons. This helps residences and buildings conserve energy and save on monthly utility costs.

It is also Eco-friendly. In fact, concrete emits zero harmful emissions. When concrete cures, it does not give off toxic fumes, gases, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It is a paving material that is 100% emissions-free. Concrete is also 100% recyclable and can be reused and repurposed almost infinitely.

More Benefits of Concrete

Energy efficiency is just one beneficial attribute of concrete. As we continue to mention, concrete delivers several advantages. Not only is concrete highly durable and gets stronger overtime, but it is also one of the more cost-effective and low maintenance paving material options. Concrete repairs are easier, less invasive, and cheaper. Plus, concrete is extremely versatile and can be customized to fit the functional and aesthetic needs of a property.

Choosing the Right Pavement

It is important to consult with a professional Indianapolis paving contractor so they may assess your property and determine which paving material is best for your paving applications. Such factors they will consider include your soil conditions, the property location, regional climate, land grade, average traffic patterns, and water drainage.

Does your business require some seasonal concrete repairs or renovations? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial concrete repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout Central Indiana.

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The Benefits of Using Concrete for Construction Applications

Posted on January 20, 2022 by admin

Have you ever heard anyone use the phrase concrete jungle to describe an industrial or commercial complex or area of the city? Although this colloquial term may seem to imply a negative point, there is actually very good reasons why concrete is used so predominantly in the building and construction industry. If you are preparing to build, whether new construction, conversion, or remodel, these reasons will be important to you once the planning process begins.

Continue reading to learn the various benefits of using concrete for construction applications, plus who to choose for superior and unparalleled commercial and industrial paving services and social Indiana.

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The Advantages of Concrete

Concrete delivers a wide range of benefits in the building and construction industry. Known for being durable, low maintenance, and Eco-friendly, concrete is exceptionally compatible for several different applications.

Concrete is Durable and Long-Lasting

Concrete is generally comprised of a collection of aggregates, which can be sand, gravel, or dirt, and a bonding agent, which is usually cement, but can also be vitamin in some cases. Because of this unique composition, concrete is highly durable and long-lasting. With proper care and good maintenance, concrete pavements and installations can last decades longer than wood or steel building components. In fact, concrete hardens over time, making it even more resilient as the years pass by.

Concrete does not rust, oxidize, rot, or burn. However, concrete is susceptible to corrosion and similar damages caused by natural wear and tear. With a little maintenance and care, these susceptibilities can be abated significantly.

Concrete is Eco-Friendly

Concrete is also a pragmatic and sensible paving material because it is Eco-friendly. Concrete is considered to be an energy-efficient pavement for a few reasons. First, it does not produce any harmful or toxic carbon emissions during production or installation, like carbon dioxide or carbon monoxide.

Additionally, concrete is hundred percent recyclable. It can be broken down and reused over and over again without losing any important or valuable properties. And for those cold winter months, concrete delivers energy efficiency by retaining heat in itself. This cuts back significantly on heating bills through the season.

Concrete Has Many Applications

Concrete is a predominant and popular paving material in the building and construction industry because it has so many applications and uses. This versatility makes it a valuable paving material and construction tool for residential, commercial, and industrial construction. From roads and interstates to fencing, poles, sidewalks, bridges, overpasses, walls, curbs, parking lots, buildings, statutes, hardscaping, pools, and more, the uses for concrete are virtually endless.

Are you looking for a professional pavement company that can deliver outstanding work for your commercial or industrial concrete project? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial concrete maintenance and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout the central parts of the state. Request a bid, today.

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Category Archives: Concrete