Is it Better to Apply a Thicker Layer of Seal Coat?

Posted on September 10, 2015 by admin

Since summer is coming to an end shortly, and fall will be here before we know it, pavement maintenance is something to think about now. Before the inclement weather reaches our driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots, we property owners should be getting a head-start to protect our pavements so they can withstand what fall and winter has in store. This is exactly what sealcoating services are for!

Applying a sealcoat to pavement adds an extra layer of protection against harsh elements and natural wear and tear. But applying too much sealcoat can be problematic. Many people assume that a thicker layer of sealcoat is better and more protective, but professionals will refute this assumption quickly.

Continue reading to learn why it is not better to apply a thicker layer of sealcoat on asphalt and concrete pavements.

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Seal Coating Basics

Seal coating should be applied by trained and licensed professionals who retain the proper tools and equipment to proficiently and effectively complete the project. Licensed pavers are well-aware that a thicker layer of sealcoat does not equal more protection. Instead, it renders pavement more vulnerable than before.

Here’s why:

☑ Thick Seal Coats Do Not Cure Evenly

☑ Thick Seal Coats are More Prone to Surface Cracks

☑ Thick Seal Coats Take a Long Time to Cure-Increasing Project Schedule and Labor

☑ Thick Seal Coats Cause Degradation and Decrease Lifespan of Sealer

☑ Thick Seal Coats are Prone to Tracking

☑ Thick Seal Coats are Prone to Peeling

Over-Sealed Pavement

When pavement, such as asphalt driveways, have been over-sealed, you can see the signs. For one, it will look extremely flat and smooth, and will not have any visible texture. Asphalt pavement should always retain texture. Too much sealant will only make the condition of pavement worse. In order to fix an over-sealing job, pavers may have to provide an overlay or slurry sealcoat, which is not always desirable. It is best to simply wait a few years until the pavement needs resealed or replaced. Just remember, when it comes to sealcoating, more is definitely not better!

Trusted Indianapolis Commercial Sealcoating Services

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional pavement sealcoating 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.

Coal Tar-Based Seal Coats Versus Asphalt-Based Seal Coats

Posted on September 4, 2015 by admin

In the paving industry, there has been a long-term debate regarding the pros and cons of both coal tar and asphalt seal coats. And anyone that works in the industry is either for one way or the other, having a strong opinion and preference about each. Although coal tar was used prior to World War II, asphalt-based seal coats were an innovative and exciting addition to the paving industry in the 1980’s.

Continue reading to learn more about these two types of seal coating materials, as well as, the pros and cons of of each.

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Coal Tar Seal Coats

As mentioned, coal tar-based seal coats were used prior to World War II, and have been the customary seal coat for asphalt pavements east of the Rocky Mountains for many years. But in the recent years, many states and municipalities have banned the use and sale of coal tar seal coats for environmental and health reasons. Such states include Washington, Illinois, New York, Minnesota, Maryland, Washington State, The District of Columbia, and Austen Texas. The reason for such bans has to do with coal tar seal coat toxicity. It contains 20 to 30 percent coal tar pitch, which is a steel manufacturing by-product made of 50% polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are harmful to humans and the environment. In fact, it is considered a human carcinogen.

Although there are drawbacks to coal tar emulsions, there are a few strong points worth mentioning as well. Coal tar seal coating is highly durable and the application process is easy. It’s also oil and fuel resistant. It is said that the application of coal tar seal coating has to be precise in order to prevent harming the environment and jeopardizing human health; but everyone has their own opinions about this!

Asphalt Seal Coats

Many in the industry look to asphalt-based seal coats as an alternative to the off-putting coal tar based materials. It is a byproduct of petroleum refining and provides a deep, rich black topcoat color. They are much better for the environment because they do not emit harmful volatile organic compounds (VOC’s). This makes this a great alternative to coal tar emulsions. It is also easy to install and less prone to cracking. A few downfalls to asphalt-based sealcoats include their vulnerability to fuel and oil. Unlike coal tar sealcoats, asphalt-based sealers are less resistant to oil, gasoline, and more.

Indianapolis Commercial Paving and Sealcoating Services

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial pavement repair and sealcoating service 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.

Parking Lot Maintenance Tips

Posted on April 21, 2015 by admin

The parking lot is usually the least visually-appealing aspect of a commercial property. But this doesn’t mean ignore it completely! Keep in mind that a business’s parking lot is one of the first impressions a guest or customer will see. It can tell a person a lot about the company in general, or at least they will think so. A safe and aesthetically-pleasing parking lot will give clients the message that a company truly cares. Parking lots require a note-worthy amount of routine care and maintenance for safety, cost-efficiency, and longevity.

Continue reading to learn three effective tips for maintaining and preserving a commercial parking lot.

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Routine Parking Lot Care

When parking lots are neglected, you can see it. You will spot weeds growing through cracks and crevices, which are created by freeze/thaw cycles and natural wear and tear; while the surface of pavement fades, crumbles, and creates pot holes. All of these damages are costly to repair, which is why parking lot preventative maintenance is so crucial. Not only will preventative maintenance save property owners money down the road by reducing the need for repairs and replacements, it protects their investment and sustains a safe driving and walking environment for customers.

Here are the top 3 tips to follow in order to preserve a commercial parking lot for years to come:

✅ Routine Parking Lot Cleaning

Asphalt and concrete pavements are prone to collecting leaves, trash, grease, oil, dirt, and even the occasional dead animal carcass. It is vital to routinely sweep off any tangible debris like grass trimmings, leaves, garbage, rubber tire pieces, and more. Grease, fuel, and oil are also common accumulations in parking lots; all of which should be cleaned up immediately using proper de-greasing techniques for asphalt and concrete pavement.

All of this maintenance prevents stains, spots, and other damages, as well as, customer injuries and accidents. It provides a tidy-looking parking lot. This should be done on an as-needed basis, like daily, once a week, or more often, depending on the elements and climate.

✅ Pothole Repair

If a parking lot has potholes, they should filled or repaired as soon as possible. Not only are potholes unsightly and only lead to creating more potholes, they are dangerous for pedestrians and drivers alike, and can cause accidents and injuries that a commercial company can be liable for. Potholes are hard to prevent, as they are created by water freezing and thawing within the pores and crevices of pavement. But they can be repaired, and should be addressed in a timely fashion to prevent accidents, injuries, and further wear and tear.

✅ Pavement Sealcoating

Sealcoating cannot be overemphasized enough. It is the most effective preventative maintenance option for commercial parking lots. Why bother investing all that money into a new parking lot without properly sealing the surface for added protection? Sealcoating provides protection against harsh elements and reduces the rate of natural wear and tear. It’s like insurance for your pavement! And it’s very necessary to increase its lifespan and prevent costly damages in the future.

✅ Professional Pavement Installation and Repair

Be sure to outsource licensed, bonded, and insured pavement repair or installation for your commercial parking lot for optimal results and durability. They retain the proper tools, training, resources, and knowledge to efficiently and proficiently pave asphalt and concrete parking lots. They are also the best option for prompt and affordable pavement and pothole repair.

Professional Parking Lot Paving and Repair in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for trusted parking lot 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!

Why Outsource Concrete Sealing Services

Posted on September 22, 2014 by admin

Concrete is a man-made material used in various industries for an infinite amount of uses. It is a combination of lime-enriched cement, sand, gravel, and water. Although concrete is widely used and renders numerous advantages, it is vulnerable to deterioration and damage. For this, concrete must be protected. Harsh weather, severe elements, heavy traffic, and every day wear and tear causes concrete to weaken, crumble, and crack.

Potholes, kettle-holes, chuckholes, and more are all the result of worn-out concrete pavement. The best solution for preventative maintenance is using a concrete sealer. Concrete sealcoating is strongly recommended to add durability, longevity, and even shine to any concrete pavement. Continue reading to learn more.

Concrete Sealcoating

Concrete is vulnerable to several elements and conditions because it is a porous material. This means moisture and water can seep deep down into the pores of concrete, and create more damage from within. In cold climates, water and moisture within these pores will freeze, thaw, and expand, resulting in crevices, cracks, and potholes. Sealcoating is a fantastic method to preventing the extent of these damages.

It requires the service of a professional Indianapolis Concrete Sealcoating contractor for effective and reliable results. They retain the proper training, tools, and resources to successfully and efficiently carryout concrete sealcoating services for residential and commercial properties. Be sure to use an experienced and licensed contractor, or risk having a sealer applied improperly, ruining the concrete paving job altogether.

Concrete sealers can more than double the lifespan of concrete pavement. Once applied, it can reduce cracking, splitting, crumbling, pitting, and dusting; as well as, stop efflorescence (white powder accumulation), prevent musty odors, and will resist moisture. This means protection against mold, mildew, bacteria, and more.

Concrete sealcoaters can be applied to driveways, decks, patios, basement floors, and all other concrete foundations. There are several types of concrete sealers on the market, so it is suggested to consult a professional concrete contractor for accurate advice on which sealer is right for your project.

Indianapolis Commercial Sealcoating Near You

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial sealcoating pavement 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.

The Usefulness of Concrete Sealers

Posted on May 16, 2014 by admin

Concrete is a man-made commodity used in countless trades all across the globe. It’s produced through the combination of lime cement, sand, gravel, and water. Concrete can be fabricated, molded, and fashioned in infinite ways; which is why it is one of the most commonly used materials in the manufacturing and construction industry. Although concrete is a widely useful product, it can be a victim of the elements. This means concrete is vulnerable to damage and deterioration and requires a certain degree of care and protection. This is where concrete sealers come into play.

Continue reading to learn more about the importance of concrete sealers for commercial and city pavements.

Concrete Sealing

One of the downsides to concrete is that it is a permeable pavement. This means it is porous. This characteristic alone makes concrete extremely vulnerable to natural elements and more. The holes and crevices within concrete pavement can gather and collect water when it rains or snows. Standing water within concrete will eventually begin to breakdown and cause the concrete to deteriorate. In colder climates, the water will freeze and thaw, causing expansion within concrete slabs and pavements. This results in uneven surfaces, warped concrete foundations, cracks, and fissures. Unfortunately, concrete is susceptible to harsh weather, wear, and tear. This is why concrete sealers are so valuable.

Sealing concrete can more than double its expected lifespan. When laying concrete foundations or flooring, a sealant should always be strongly considered. It will protect and strengthen the surface of the concrete and reduce the amount of damaging effects from elements like wind and water. It prevents splitting, cracking, pitting, crumbling, and dusting. Concrete sealers are moisture-resistant and prevents water damages from occurring. It eliminates the threat of efflorescence (white powder), musty odors, mildew, mold, and more. It protects concrete from salt damage, acid stains, and much more.

Concrete sealers are highly recommended to obtain a clean and sleek finish for concrete foundations and flooring, as well as, roads and walkways with heavy traffic. Concrete seal coating is mostly needed for projects that call for impenetrable foundations; such as warehouse flooring, bridge decks, pool decks, commercial flooring, basements, driveways, parking lots, and more.

Concrete sealers are extremely useful and come highly recommended by professionals. There are several different types of sealers and sealcoating products on the market. In order to find the right one for you, contact a professional Indianapolis Seal Coating contractor for accurate industry advice you can trust. Consulting a licensed concrete repair and installation technician can save you time and money!

Indianapolis Concrete Installation and Repair

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial concrete pavement repair 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.

Tips for Preserving Asphalt Driveways

Posted on January 25, 2014 by admin

If you chose asphalt pavement for your driveway, you most likely made an excellent choice. There are several advantages to asphalt driveways that one can truly appreciate. This is especially true when it comes down to asphalt maintenance and repair. Asphalt paving is more economical that other alternatives, such as concrete; and typically costs less at local hardware and construction stores. Not only is it flexible and easy to maintain, it provides long-lasting beauty up to 15 or 20 years. These are maybe the reasons behind why asphalt driveways have become trendier in the past decade.

If you are an asphalt driveway owner, continue reading to learn a few helpful hints for safeguarding and preserving asphalt pavement.

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Common Contributors to Asphalt Damages

Asphalt is a great option for residential driveways and paving; however, there are several factors that can jeopardize the integrity of the pavement. It is important as a property owner to protect your driveway from harmful and destructive conditions. All it takes is a little effort and knowledge to preserve asphalt paving for up to fifteen years or more; only needing minor repairs and maintenance along the way.

Here is a list of damaging factors to look out for:

Professional pavers recommend various strategies that can protect asphalt driveways from extensive damages such as these. For example, it is highly suggested to place watering devices and sprinklers far from freshly paved asphalt. This will allow new asphalt to set, firm, and dry properly to avoid any marks, dents, uneven areas, or other flaws.

Some more important suggestions for newly paved asphalt and existing asphalt pavement entail removing old or large trees near driveways. This will prevent tree roots from sprouting and breaking the surface of your driveway. It is also highly encouraged to call a professional tree care technician if you notice cracks or holes in your asphalt. If these holes and cracks exist, they will only continue to grow larger; leading to more expensive and intrusive repairs. The sooner you take action the cheaper and easier the repair will end up.

Asphalt Paving in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial asphalt 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.

Winter Cold Patching and Pot Hole Repair

Posted on January 6, 2014 by admin

In the wintertime, roads and tarmacs are more vulnerable to damages and deterioration. It is during this time that we notice more and more pot holes in our way. Pot holes are a huge implication when it comes to driving and safe road conditions. They are detrimental to our vehicle’s well-being; but more importantly, our safety. Not only can pot holes damage our vehicles, they can cause us to lose control and drive off the road; or worse, wreck!

In the winter, the weather goes through various freeze and thaw cycles, making existing pot holes and chuck holes even larger! This makes driving more dangerous, as well as, creates more and more pot holes on the road. Pot hole repair and winter cold patching are the most effective and time-friendly solution to pot hole repair and road repair.

Continue reading to learn more about winter cold patching, pot hole repair, and additional preventative maintenance for concrete and asphalt roads.

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Road Patching

It is highly advised to have the roads within or on your property patched. It is an essential part of pavement maintenance and repair. Road patching prevents accidents from occurring, as well as, new pot holes from forming. Road patching is a fantastic opportunity to protect your property investment and drive hassle-free.

Common winter road patching services offered by asphalt and concrete repair companies include:

Winter Road Patching and Pot Hole Repair in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial winter road patching and pot hole repair 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.

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Category Archives: Sealcoating