Thicker is Not Better When it Comes to Asphalt Sealer

Posted on July 8, 2016 by admin

Without a sealcoat, your pavement will quickly become dry and brittle, which will eventually result in cracks, crumbling pavement, discoloration, and many other damages. Sealcoating asphalt pavement costs pennies per square-foot, yet repairing asphalt pavement costs dollar per square-foot. So you can see that preventative maintenance is more cost-effective. Continue reading to learn how to properly assess your sealcoating needs, and why thicker sealcoat does not necessarily mean it is better.

Sealcoating Benefits

A paved driveway or parking lot is an important investment. And in order to maintain and protect your investment, routine asphalt care is required. One part of routine asphalt maintenance is sealcoating. Sealcoating delivers an attractive, crisp look, and is a critical component to preserving the function and stability of asphalt pavements. Not only does regular sealcoating protect against water penetration, it also protects against sun damage and chemical erosion.

More Reasons to Seal Coat:

• Prevents Water Penetration
• Protects Against Harmful UV-Rays
• Resistant to Oil and Chemical Spills
• Protects Against Premature Cracking and Erosion
• Enhances Appearance
• Increase Longevity and Stability

Although sealcoating is the right choice for your asphalt pavement, choosing to sealcoat is only half the process. For the best results, you must also ensure that the sealcoating work is carried out correctly. Improper sealcoating is one of the most common issues behind failing asphalt pavement. And one of the most common mistakes made during the sealcoating process is using too much product.

When it comes to sealcoat, thicker is never better. In fact, it is a bad idea. You can tell when pavement has excessive layers of sealcoat if it looks like it has no texture at all, and asphalt should always have texture. If it’s too smooth and has no visible dynamic, then the pavement is over-sealed. Not only does too much sealcoat take too long to cure, it doesn’t cure properly, resulting in unevenness and irregularity. It can also lead to surface cracks and track marks.

Commercial Sealcoating Services in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional asphalt sealcoating in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. 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 Causes Fatigued Cracking in Asphalt?

Posted on June 3, 2016 by admin

A scattered series of interconnected crack lines in pavement is called fatigued cracking. The structural failure of an HMA (hot asphalt mix) surface or stabilized base is generally caused by repetitive loading and heavy traffic. There are several reasons why asphalt pavement can be affected and damaged in this way, all of which involving inadequate structural support.

Continue reading to learn more about fatigue cracking in pavement, and who to call for professional paving repair service you can trust.

Indianapolis Asphalt Repair 317-549-1833

Thin Pavements

In thinner pavement, the bottom of an HMA layer is where the flexible stress is the highest. Fracturing begins here, and then spreads to the surface in the form of longitudinal cracks. This type of cracking is also known as “classical” or “bottom-up” fatigue cracking.

Thick Pavements

In thicker pavements, the top layers have the highest tensile stress levels due to tire activity, asphalt-binder aging, and other types of wear and tear. For this reason, fatigued cracking usually begins at the top. This form of fatigued cracking is called “top-down” cracking.

Causes

As mentioned, inadequate structural support is the umbrella cause for fatigued asphalt cracking. Inadequate construction, structural design, compaction, drainage, and more are just a few common examples that lead to the formation of fatigue cracks. Other possible causes include a decrease in sub-grade support or base stability from water infiltration and freeze-thaw cycles. It can also occur from improper stripping on the bottom HMA layers.

Solutions

The formation of fatigued cracking is unique and easily distinguishable. Many agree it somewhat takes on the appearance of alligator skin or distressed leather. To be sure, it is important to have a professional paver assess the cracking in your asphalt pavement to accurately diagnose the damage, identify the cause, and implement safe and effective solutions. This process involves digging a hole or pit to evaluate the structural makeup of the pavement. This method also helps determine if subsurface moisture is contributing issue. Fatigued cracks cannot simply be sealed as a means of repair. Instead, they must be patched or overlaid, depending on their size.

Commercial Asphalt Maintenance and Repair in Indiana

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional asphalt maintenance and repair in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding locations. 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.

Ditch the Gravel and Choose Asphalt for Driveway Installation!

Posted on May 8, 2015 by admin

Many homeowners go back and forth between the pros and cons of gravel driveways. In this blog, you will learn why you should just ditch the idea of gravel driveways, and choose asphalt pavement instead! Continue reading to review some facts about gravel driveways and roads that will paint an unappealing picture compared to the benefits of asphalt driveways.

Indianapolis Asphalt Repair 317-549-1833

Gravel Driveways

Let’s talk gravel for a moment. It is, after all, the most widely-used material for residential driveways in the country! But this doesn’t mean it is the best option for driveway installation. You see, gravel is cheap. In fact, it is the cheapest and easiest option for driveways. This is why many homeowners with second homes or homes with extremely long driveways have opted for gravel. It is an instant “face-lift” for a property with a dirt driveway. And it can be used almost immediately after installation. Yes, these are a few advantages of gravel, but again, these advantages do not make gravel a good choice for driveways.

Here’s why gravel is not so great for residential driveway installation:

Snow and Ice Cause Problems. Removing snow and ice from gravel driveways is not an easy, or even 100% possible, task. Not only does the act of physically removing snow from gravel disturb the placement and elevation of the rock, it is back-breaking work. It can cause sinkholes and more in certain areas of the driveway that are equally as hazardous as potholes in the street. Sand and salt are the only practical options for snow and ice removal on gravel, and this could be an environmental concern for some.

Elevation Issues and Sinkholes. Sinkholes and dips in gravel form overtime from standard wear and tear. Not only does this require routine gravel re-fills and raking, it means that there is an increased chance of tire and vehicular damage, as well as, pedestrian injuries. Gravel is not always a safe walking platform. If not properly raked and filled, loose gravel can cause cosmetic damages to vehicles, like dents, scratches, nicks, and more. And it can also clog certain areas of a vehicle’s undercarriage.

Dust and Dirt. Especially in the warmer months when the ground tends to be drier, gravel driveways can lead to an abundance of dust, dirt, and debris in the surrounding air. This dander is spread and lifted even more when vehicles drive on the gravel. You can expect the exterior of your home to be dusty, as well as, all exterior commodities, like porch swings, furniture, lawn décor, and more. This certainly increases your personal power washing duties each year!

Poor Appearance. Gravel, if not artistically raked everyday, will retain tire marks and more. This doesn’t look pretty. And even with a grid installed beneath, weeds and grass can eventually grow upwards and through the gravel if the grid cracks; also not very pretty. It can make a home or property appear less refined and modern, thus reducing the property’s perceived value.

Learn why asphalt is a good choice for driveways, and decide for yourself which is a better fit for your home and property. Contact a local pavement contractor for answers to your driveway installation questions and more.

ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc.

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional asphalt paving 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 bids and consultations, flexible scheduling, references upon request, and more. Best of all, our work is backed by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, so you can rest assure that your investment is sound. Request a free quote, today.

Eco-Friendly Facts about Asphalt!

Posted on March 19, 2015 by admin

Did you know that asphalt paving has Eco-friendly qualities? It’s true! Asphalt pavement retains certain characteristics and properties that makes it a perfect choice for those who are considering pavement installation and prefer a “greener” option for this kind of addition to their property. Asphalt provides several benefits for the surrounding Eco-system and environment, including the local water table and more.

To learn what makes asphalt pavement so Eco-friendly, continue reading and broaden your perception of modern construction!

Asphalt is Recyclable

One of the greatest Eco-friendly advantages to installing asphalt pavement is that it is entirely 100 percent recyclable. In fact, it is among the top recycled products in the country, having more than 100 million tons reclaimed each year. Asphalt is an aggregate material that can be melted down and reused over and over again, just like gold or other precious metals. This is why it is totally recyclable.

Underground Water Tables

Another environmentally friendly characteristic of asphalt pavement is that it supports the local water table. It does this by retaining porous and permeable qualities. This means water can run right through it, stopping water runoff and returning water back to the water table. And asphalt pavement helps to filter rainfall, so the water is cleaner when it enters our rivers and streams.

Longevity

Because perpetual asphalt pavement can last up to 20 years, even in high traffic areas, local wildlife, landscaping, and traffic are not interrupted for long periods of time with pavement installations and repairs. Once it’s down it’s done, and there’s very little maintenance required.

Indianapolis Asphalt Paving

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

Hazardous Winter Weather Effects for Roads and Other Pavements

Posted on January 5, 2015 by admin

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.

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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!

Asphalt Repair Can Be Economically Beneficial!

Posted on November 12, 2014 by admin

Many of us are well-aware of the problematic roads in our local cities and towns. And it’s likely that many people put a lot of effort into avoiding these areas as much as possible. In fact, businesses can be affected by poor pavement management, while certain cities are neglected completely due to their reputation for poor quality road systems and driving conditions. What this means is that asphalt and road repair can be economically beneficial to commercial business, yes, but in a bigger picture, cities and towns too!

Continue reading to learn how proper pavement maintenance and asphalt repair can have a positive effect, economically, for a region, state, city, or town.

Economic Benefits of Asphalt Repair and Maintenance

Poor quality roads, parking lots, highways, bridges, and more are not just a safety concern for everyday traffic and pedestrians. They are also a blight on a community’s status and reputation, and subsequently, its economy. Cracks and crevices soon become potholes, which then turn into craters, rubble, and more. Asphalt repair and maintenance is the only solution for excessive deterioration that occurs overtime. Better roads and highways provide for safer commutes, but can also positively influence a city’s economy. Here’s how:

☑ Preventative Maintenance

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound in cure, right? This is most certainly true with asphalt pavements. Small pavement problems are inexpensive and easy to fix; but if neglected, they will eventually turn into a larger, more unmanageable, and costly repair down the road. A little preventative maintenance, like seal coating and tending to small repairs as they occur, can save a city thousands of dollars in the long run. More city money means more economic growth and stability.

☑ Tourism

What’s more attractive than a smooth ride through a state you wish to explore or travel to? Better roads, increased accessibility, and smart pavement management is a vital part of a city’s tourism reputation. This is what visitors, tourists, and guests expect when they visit a popular town or area. This is especially true for real estate buying and selling.

☑ Reduced Motor Vehicle Accidents

Better roads equals easier and safer driving. Navigating through unleveled, uneven, cracked, or deteriorated roadways can be hazardous. Conditions like these frequently cause traffic and road accidents. This is especially true during seasons of high precipitation, or poor weather conditions. Costs associated with roadway and motor vehicle accidents are extremely high, so reducing them can save a city thousands, or even millions, of dollars in the long run.

Commercial and Industrial Asphalt Repair in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc. at 317-549-1833 for more information about asphalt paving 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!

Repairing Asphalt Can Boost Commercial and Residential Curb Appeal

Posted on October 22, 2014 by admin

Deteriorated pavement can certainly influence customers, clientele, and guests regarding the building’s degree of professional and even safety. Repairing cracked or crumbling asphalt can render several great advantages for commercial and residential properties. Not only can curb appeal be enhanced, the safety, durability, and longevity of pavement can be improved as well.

Continue reading to learn about all the advantages to repairing asphalt pavements, and how these improvements can increase property value and curb appeal.

Advantages of Professional Asphalt Repair

Fixing potholes, crumbling rock, cracked pavement, and depreciated curbs can bring about a whole heap of benefits, for both proprietor and guest. We will start with safety. As they say, “safety first!” When it comes to owning or managing a commercial property, hazardous pavement conditions can be a liability for customers and clientele. If someone were to injure themselves as a direct result of unkempt pavement, this could lead to a premise liability lawsuit; and no property owner wants that on their hands.

Repairing broken and deteriorated asphalt pavement makes your property a safer environment and will prevent slip, trip, and fall accidents. Improving the security and safety of a premises can drastically increase property value and appeal. A safer and more durable foundation can prove to be a reliable investment for any potential buyers or investors.

Another reason why professional asphalt repair is so valuable for a property involves traffic control. Flatter pavement is better pavement for cars, trucks, and other vehicles that might visit a lot or driveway. It reduces congestion, as well as, the likelihood of motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents; another valuable quality to potential buyers, customers, and investors. Asphalt repair is an economically beneficial service to outsource, whether you own a residential property, or a commercial one.

Trusted Indianapolis Asphalt Work for Commercial Pavements

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

Cost-Effective Pothole Repair Tips for Asphalt Pavements

Posted on September 15, 2014 by admin

There are several variables that cause asphalt pavements to deteriorate and breakdown. Harsh elements like wind, rain, snow and ice are some of the more common sources behind worn out asphalt; while everyday traffic and exemplary “wear and tear” are also to blame. With these year-round threats in play, potholes, chuckholes, and kettle-holes are bound to appear.

For commercial properties and complexes, potholes can significantly affect business and drastically reduce customer appeal and convenience. As for residential properties, poor asphalt pavement can significantly reduce a home’s value and threaten the strength of a homeowner’s investment. These reasons, and more, are why routine asphalt pavement repair and maintenance are so vital. If you have troublesome or unsightly potholes in your asphalt foundations, it is time to take control.

Continue reading to learn the most cost-effective method to repairing potholes.

Indianapolis Pothole Repair 317-549-1833

Asphalt Pot Hole Repair

You see, pavement is under constant pressure; and after some time, hairline cracks turn into alligator cracks, crevices, and eventually, holes. This happens as a result of steady water and tire pressure, which pulls loose pieces out from cracks, and leaving behind gaping holes. If potholes are not fixed in a timely manner, they will quickly collect rain water, grease, and oil which will cause the pothole to grow larger and larger. This is especially important in cold weather or freezing climates because water within these holes can freeze up, expanding the hole even further. Even in milder weather, a pothole will remain an issue until repaired completely.

But who has time and money to fix all the chuckholes on their premises? The answer is you! Commercial asphalt repair is more affordable than most people believe, and you can find reputable Indianapolis commercial paving company in a matter of minutes. Just be sure to choose a company that is licensed and insured, with years of experience and training. They can offer competitive rates and free estimates; saving you hundreds of dollars along the way.

Hot and Cold Mix Asphalt Info

For the DIY enthusiast, there are additional cost-effective methods to repairing asphalt potholes. First, be aware that there are three principle types of cost-effective pothole repair products; cold, hot, and polyurethane asphalt. Hot asphalt is mixed at a shocking, 350 degrees; but it lasts much longer than most other pothole repair products in the market.

It is not recommended to use hot asphalt for small repair projects because it is typically not available in these amounts. The compaction and repair process must be facilitated while the asphalt is still hot; another reason it is not recommended for smaller repairs. Simply fill the hole, making sure all areas and crevices are filled. Then use a roller to flatten and smooth the surface. Allow it to dry completely. This can take one to two days.

Cold asphalt is great for smaller repairs and projects, but does not last as long nor offer the same level of durability as hot asphalt. It is, however, very easy to work with and simply requires mixing, filling, and compacting. Polyurethane asphalt pothole repair products are slightly different. Although they can be applied in any climate or season, they are more costly than the other products available. The upside is that it lasts a long time so you make back on your initial investment by avoiding needed repairs down the road.

Indianapolis Pothole Repair Services

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional Indianapolis pothole repair you can trust. 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.

Repairing Asphalt Over a Culvert

Posted on August 18, 2014 by admin

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.

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.