Solving Concrete Problems: A Guide for Property Owners

The foundation of any structure stands about as literally as anything can for the rest of the building. When it comes to property, concrete problems aren’t just cracks and blemishes—they’re deep-rooted issues that can spread, deteriorate and, if left unchecked, significantly impact both the value and safety of your property.

Whether you’re a homeowner, business-owner, or facility manager, understanding the intricacies of concrete problems and the steps to address them is a vital part of property stewardship. Unsure where to begin when faced with concrete concerns? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered.

Call 317-549-1833 For Concrete Repair Service in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-549-1833 For Concrete Repair Service in Indianapolis Indiana

Common Concrete Issues

Concrete, despite its strength and durability, is not exempt from the ravages of time and the elements. Common concrete issues like cracks, which can range from hairline fissures to gaping maws, often signal underlying problems. Understanding and addressing these common concrete concerns early can prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs.

Cracks – Cracks in concrete can range from small, negligible hairlines to large, gaping voids, often appearing due to a variety of reasons such as shrinkage, settlement, or freeze-thaw cycles.

Spalling – Spalling is the flaking or chipping of the concrete surface, a visible indicator that the integrity of concrete is compromised, often by water intrusion or corrosion of the reinforcing steel.

Settlement and Heaving – These terms refer to the sinking or upward movement of concrete slabs, typically caused by soil erosion, poor compaction, or freeze-thaw cycles.

Discoloration – Whether from aging, chemical exposure, or improper curing, discolored concrete not only looks unpleasant but can hint at more severe issues such as contamination or improper mix ingredients.

Mold and Stains – While not structural issues, mold growth and stubborn stains can cause a range of environmental and aesthetic concerns.

Impact on Property Value and Safety

Concrete problems are more than just unsightly—they can be indicative of and can pose serious risks to property value and safety. In terms of property value, aesthetic and structural soundness are significant factors in determining property value. A devalued property can have considerable financial repercussions. As for the concern for safety, cracked or sunken concrete can be a tripping hazard for occupants and visitors, and in an operational facility, this can lead to legal liabilities and safety risks.

DIY Versus Professional Service

The decision between handling concrete problems yourself or hiring a professional is not a simple one. Here are the most talked-about pros and cons:

Do It Yourself – DIY can be cost-effective for small repairs, and it’s satisfying for some property owners. However, the risks of do-it-yourself concrete repair include not addressing underlying issues or making the problem worse with improper techniques.

Professional Paving – Experienced professionals have the tools and knowledge to address a wide range of concrete problems effectively and efficiently. Their work is often backed by licensed and bonding and can ensure problems do not return.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

Perhaps the most effective approach to addressing concrete issues is to proactively prevent them. Implementing preventive measures can significantly contribute to the longevity and durability of concrete structures. Here are some key strategies for proactive concrete care:

Regular Inspections – Frequent checks can help spot and address problems before they worsen.

Proper Drainage – Ensure your property has effective drainage to minimize water-related issues.

Vegetation Control – The roots of plants can cause concrete upheaval—keep on top of your vegetation control plan.

Prompt Repairs – Don’t wait. Address concrete issues as soon as you notice them.

Sealing and Maintenance – Properly sealing concrete can protect it from the elements and staining.

Final Thoughts

Concrete problems on your property are a call to action. Whether you’re dealing with a small crack or a major upheaval, understanding the issues, their implications, and the approach to solving them could not only save you money but can ensure the continued safety and usability of your property.

The longevity and aesthetics of a property are not just about initial construction but about the ongoing vigilance and maintenance of those systems and materials that keep us safe and secure. Next time you see that hairline crack, don’t shy away from addressing it. Your property—and those who spend time within it—will thank you for the care and attention.

Don’t let concrete problems degrade the value and safety of your Indianapolis property. Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 and safeguard your investment with our expert commercial concrete repair and paving services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also provide ready mix concrete supply and delivery for both residential and commercial buyers.

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Common Questions About Sealing Concrete Pavements

Commercial Concrete Repair: Preserving and Protecting Your Investment

Concrete is the lifeblood of commercial buildings, providing a solid foundation and structural integrity. As a building or facility owner, you understand the critical importance of maintaining your property, not only for its continued operation but also for the safety and comfort of those who use it. The long-term effects of deteriorating concrete can be costly, which is why regular inspections and repairs are essential for commercial real estate. In this comprehensive guide, we dive into the common issues faced, the benefits of proactive repair, and how to select the best repair company for your needs.

Call 317-549-1833 For Commercial Concrete Repair Near Indianapolis
Call 317-549-1833 For Commercial Concrete Repair Near Indianapolis

Common Types of Concrete Damage

Over time, concrete surfaces endure significant wear and tear, leading to a range of structural issues. Here, we explore the most common problems that demand attention:

Cracks and Fractures: Cracking can arise from thermal expansion, subgrade settlement, or overloading. While small cracks may seem like merely cosmetic issues, they can escalate to severe structural damage.

Spalling and Scaling: Exposure to freeze-thaw cycles and chemical deicers can cause the surface layer of concrete to flake away, leading to spalling and scaling.

Settling and Sinking: Poor soil conditions or improper compaction can lead to settling or sinking of concrete slabs, creating uneven surfaces and potential tripping hazards.

Benefits of Commercial Concrete Repair

Repairing concrete isn’t just about fixing what’s broken; it’s about preemptively guarding your investment against future issues. Here are some of the top benefits of good concrete care:

Enhanced Safety and Reduced Liability: Neglecting damaged concrete can be a major safety hazard. Proactive repair mitigates risk and protects you from liability concerns.

Improved Aesthetics and Curb Appeal: First impressions count, and the exterior of your commercial property sets the tone for potential clients or renters.

Extended Lifespan of the Structure: Routine maintenance prolongs the lifespan of your concrete constructions, ensuring they continue to support your business operations for years to come.

Types of Commercial Concrete Repair

There are several proven methods available to effectively address diverse concrete damages. These methods include patching, resurfacing, and crack repair. Patching involves filling in small holes and superficial cracks, while resurfacing is a more extensive process that involves applying a new layer of concrete to restore the surface. In cases of larger cracks or structural damage, crack repair techniques such as epoxy injection or carbon fiber reinforcement can be employed to strengthen and restore the integrity of the concrete. By utilizing these various methods, concrete damages can be addressed comprehensively, ensuring the longevity and durability of the structure.

Crack Repair and Sealing: Specialized sealants and resins can mend cracks, forestalling water ingress and further deterioration.

Concrete Resurfacing and Overlays: This approach involves applying a new layer over existing concrete to revitalize its appearance and function.

Slab Lifting and Leveling: Techniques like slab jacking or mud jacking can correct sinking or settling slabs without the need for complete replacement.

Choosing the Right Concrete Repair Company

Ensuring professional and durable concrete repair depends on whom you entrust with the job. Consider these factors:

Experience and Expertise: Look for companies with a proven track record in commercial concrete repair, indicating their capability to handle a range of issues.

Quality of Materials and Techniques: High-quality materials and modern repair techniques are vital for effective and long-lasting repairs.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials: Previous customer experiences can provide insight into a company’s reliability and quality of service.

Final Thoughts

Ignoring the integrity of your commercial concrete can have dire financial and safety consequences. Maintaining a proactive repair and maintenance plan is a smart business practice that preserves the value and appearance of your property. If you’re noticing signs of wear or damage, the time to act is now. Consult with a reputable commercial concrete repair company to analyze your needs and get ahead of potential problems.

Has your property’s concrete seen better days? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for licensed, bonded, and insured commercial concrete repair and crack filling services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also specialize in winter cold patching and pothole repair.

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Cracks in Commercial Pavements: Causes, Implications and Prevention Strategies

Cracks in commercial pavements are more than just an eyesore. They signify underlying issues that can escalate into major problems, impacting the safety and functionality of the pavement. From small hairline fractures to gaping crevices, pavement cracks are a universal challenge in infrastructure management. But what causes this kind of damage, and what are their implications?

More importantly, how can we prevent them from ensuring our pavements are safe, durable, and aesthetically pleasing? This blog post delves into the anatomy of pavement cracks, exploring their causes, implications, and effective prevention strategies in the context of commercial pavements. Join us as we navigate the expansive world of crack filling and pavement maintenance.

Call 317-549-1833 For Commercial Pavement Crack Repair in Indianapolis
Call 317-549-1833 For Commercial Pavement Crack Repair in Indianapolis

Causes of Cracks in Commercial Pavements

The primary cause of pavement cracks is aging or deterioration due to natural wear and tear. The longer pavements are in service, the more likely they are to develop issues such as alligator cracking, fatigue cracking, transverse cracking, longitudinal cracking, and edge cracking. Other contributing factors include shallow foundations, inadequate drainage systems, and the use of poor-quality materials.

Climate is another major factor that can aggravate existing pavement cracks. The freeze-thaw cycle causes water to accumulate in the pores of asphalt concrete, leading to further deterioration due to moisture damage. Furthermore, temperature fluctuations lead to a process called “thermal shock” which increases the risk of cracks developing on your pavement.

Implications of Pavement Cracks

Cracks in commercial pavements can have serious implications for the safety and functionality of your infrastructure. They can create a trip hazard, leading to potential lawsuits if someone falls on your property. Additionally, cracks can lead to more frequent potholes due to water seeping into the sub-base layer and eroding the surface. This can reduce the durability of your pavement, leading to increased maintenance costs and frequent repairs. Cracks can also create a breeding ground for weeds and moss, which can further damage the pavement over time. Finally, cracks pose an aesthetic concern as they detract from the overall appearance of your premises.

How Paving Companies Repair Cracks in Commercial Pavements

The best way to prevent cracks in your commercial pavement is to partner with a paving company for regular maintenance. They can inspect the surface of your pavement and identify any potential issues, such as signs of alligator cracking or fatigue cracking. The best way to repair these damages is by using a hot mix asphalt patching technique, which your paving contractor can provide. Hot mix asphalt patching involves heating the asphalt and mixing it with a binding agent to form a cohesive patch that bonds seamlessly with your pavement. This technique is long-lasting and durable, helping to protect your pavement from further damage due to cracks.

In addition to hot mix asphalt patching, some paving companies also offer crack filling services. Crack filling is done by sealing the cracks in your pavement with a flexible material that prevents water from seeping through and causing further damage. It is important to note, however, that crack filling only works on small cracks and potholes. If the crack is too large, your paving contractor may advise an alternative solution such as overlaying the area with fresh asphalt or concrete.

Prevention Strategies for Pavement Cracks

The most effective way to prevent pavement cracks is to maintain your pavement on a regular basis. The first step in the process is to conduct a thorough inspection of your pavements, looking for signs of distress or deterioration. If any issues are identified, they should be addressed immediately to prevent further damage. Additionally, you should ensure that the underlying base layer of your pavement is properly drained and compact to prevent water from accumulating. Finally, you should invest in quality materials for construction to reduce the risk of issues developing over time.

Wrapping Up

All in all, cracks in commercial pavements can have serious implications for infrastructure safety and durability. To ensure your pavement remains safe and aesthetically pleasing, it’s essential to conduct frequent inspections and preventive maintenance. Investing in quality materials and regularly consulting with a paving contractor can help reduce the risk of cracks developing in your pavement. With careful planning and regular maintenance, you can keep your pavements safe and damage-free for years to come.

Would you like to get your pavement cracks repaired to help increase your lot’s value? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional road construction and paving services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer asphalt and concrete work, including sealcoating services and pothole repair.

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How to Repair Concrete Cracking and Minor Damages

How to Repair Concrete Cracking and Minor Damages

The concrete in and around your commercial building plays an important role in your property’s curb appeal, and therefore, it’s overall value. If your concrete parking lot, drive paths, sidewalks, curbs, bollard posts, steps, and ramps are starting to show signs of damage, it is wise to resolve these pavement issues before they can take a turn for the worst. Overtime, minor concrete damage progresses into major damage, which can cost you a lot of time and money to repair.

So, to subside concrete wear and tear, and prolong the life of your commercial pavements, be sure to address minor concrete damage as soon as they form. The most common type of minor concrete damage is cracking. Fix this as they form to prevent more damage from developing.

Continue reading to learn which products and supplies you need, as well as how to repair concrete cracks, both working and non-working.

Commercial Concrete Crack Filling Indianapolis 317-549-1833
Commercial Concrete Crack Filling Indianapolis 317-549-1833

What You Need to Repair Concrete Cracks

The most common and recommended products for repairing concrete cracks include vinyl concrete patchers, concrete patching compounds, polymer modified structural repair fillers, and advanced polymer concrete crack sealants. You can find all of these products online or at your local home improvement store. There are many brands to choose from, but a popular choice for all is Quikrete. Always clean concrete thoroughly and remove any debris prior to applying any of these products.

Working and Non-Working Cracks

Before you start applying products all over the place, you must first identify the type of cracks you are repairing. Concrete cracks are either working cracks or non-working cracks, which are also referred to as moving and non-moving.

Working Cracks in Concrete – Working cracks form deep and wide or have one side that is taller than the other. These cracks continue to grow larger and threaten other nearby structures. To repair working cracks, apply an advanced polymer concrete crack sealant.

Non-Working Cracks in Concrete – Non-working cracks do not change, nor seem to pose a threat to any nearby structures. They appear in the form of thin, shallow crevices in pavement. If a non-working crack is more than a ½ inch in depth, use a polymer modified structural repair filler.

Other Types of Concrete Damage

Aside from working and non-working cracks, it is important to identify any other types of concrete damage before getting started with your repairs. Look for shallow divots or chips, as these will require a different type of concrete repair product than moving and non-moving cracks. In fact, to repair these kinds of trivial concrete damages, you will need to use a vinyl concrete patcher or patching compound. You will also need a trowel to apply these products smoothly.

Do your commercial concrete pavements need some professional attention? 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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Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833

DIY Mold Removal Guide for Concrete Pavements

Water stops and other moisture barriers are commonly installed beneath concrete foundations; however, these can wear out and deteriorate over time. They can also become defective or break under extreme conditions. In the case that water and moisture get into the foundation of concrete walls or floors, there is a chance that both mildew and fungal growth can occur. No one wants mold growth anywhere on their properties, so when it becomes apparent, immediate action is required. Stopping mold growth in its tracks can greatly reduce the need for costly repairs, restorations, and reconstruction.

Continue reading and learn how to remove mold and mildew from concrete floors, walls, and other surfaces.

Indianapolis Concrete Pavement Contractors
Indianapolis Concrete Pavement Contractors 317-549-1833

Mold Removal Process for Concrete Surfaces

The process of cleaning mold off of concrete is fairly straight-forward and therefore easy; however, it does require some initial grunt work. Be prepared to sweat a little when it’s time to scrub mold and mildew out of concrete. It doesn’t require a lot of tools either; simply locate a hard-bristled scrubbing brush, household bleach, clean water, and protective cleaning gloves. Combine the bleach and cold water (1 part bleach to 4 parts water) and liberally apply the solution to the affected area. Once the area is saturated, use the scrubbing brush to powerfully brush and rub out the mold from the concrete.

Once you have finished scrubbing in this solution, allow it to set it for a few hours; longer if the mold is extensive. Finish with a thorough rinse using fresh clean water. Use room-temperature or cold water so to not promote future mold growth. Heat, moisture, and shade is all it takes for mold and fungus to form. It is best to use a power washer to rinse the bleach solution away because the pressure of the water works well to thoroughly rinse away the remaining particles.

For Very Serious Mold-Damaged Pavements

If you prefer to not handle bleach or concoct your own solution, you can choose to purchase a store-brand mold-killing detergent. Although store-bought, they provide the same results and require the same steps. For severe cases of mold, it is best to outsource professional concrete repair or replacement services. If you want great pavements all year long, be sure you choose a certified pro to install, repair, and protect your concrete.

Are you looking for commercial pavement services in Indiana? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 to speak with one of our licensed paving contractors about your Indianapolis, Indiana commercial concrete repair or installation needs.

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Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company
Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company 317-549-1833

Common Causes for Crack Development in Concrete Pavement

Although it doesn’t seem right that something as solid and firm as concrete can crack, but unfortunately, it does, and can do so very quickly under particular conditions and circumstances. This is an issue that thousands of home and property owners all across the nation are dealing with every day. You see, concrete deterioration is all too common, and the thought of wasted money on premature concrete repair scares property owners. Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do to abate pavement deterioration, all of which can be implemented this spring!

But first, continue reading to learn why concrete cracks, what might be the reason behind your particular concrete woes, and what you can do about it all!

Indianapolis Commercial Paving 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Commercial Paving 317-549-1833

Concrete Paving

Many questions start to arise once a contractor or customer notices cracks and crevices in their newly paved concrete foundation. They wonder if the concrete technician added too much water to the mix; or if the sand content was too high. Was fiber or wire mesh installed? Were the saw cuts placed correctly?  Although it is easy to blame the contractor that installed the concrete, they are not always the root of the problem.  There are natural circumstances beyond our control that can cause pavement to crack. Surprisingly, the main culprits behind self-destructing pavements have to do with cold weather and hot weather.

Freezing Temperatures

In the northern parts of the nation, freeze and thaw cycles are the most common reasons behind cracked concrete pavement. This cycle begins when water inside the ground freezes from cold temperatures; and when water freezes it turns into ice and expands. This increase in mass can cause the ground to rise or shift, causing anything above it to do the same. If concrete pavement lies above a frozen and lifted ground, the concrete is likely to be implicated as well.

When seasons change and the ice melts, pavements are shifted and moved again because there is a void where solid ice once existed. This results in more cracking and damage. There is not much a property owner can do to prevent natural occurrences like this; however, in order to prevent a freeze thaw cycle issue, wait until spring and summer to install new concrete. This way it has time to strengthen and solidify before harsh weather can cause its deterioration.

Extreme Heat

In contrast to freezing temperatures, concrete can also crack in extreme heat. In the south and coastal regions of the United States, it is common for pavement to rupture from extended sun exposure and heat. Just as ice expands within the ground, heat causes concrete to expand and move as if it were baking in the sun. Once the sun or temperatures go down, the concrete retreats back to its normal state. This consistent expansion and decreasing in size can make pavement more susceptible and vulnerable to cracks, crumbling, and deep crevices.

The fact that concrete is moving and shifting is the damaging factor; not the magnitude or weight of the damage. In order to prevent natural occurrences and weather from damaging your newly paved concrete, be sure to discuss the best times to install new pavement. Always use a reputable and licensed paving company that can answer your questions about concrete installation, or concrete repair and protection, as they are the industry experts that can deliver precision concrete placement you can trust.

Trusted Concrete Repair in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial paving services in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide a wide range of concrete and asphalt repair and installation services at the most competitive prices in town. Request a free estimate, today.

Causes and Cures for Concrete Cracks

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.

Indianapolis Concrete Repair 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Concrete Repair 317-549-1833

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.

A Few Considerations Regarding the Integrity of Concrete Surfaces

When it comes to choosing between concrete resurfacing and concrete repair, there are a few important considerations to think about before making any final decisions. Choosing the proper solution for concrete renovation can save contractors and property owner’s significant amounts of money and time, and avoid potential do-overs.

Continue reading to learn the questions you should be asking yourself, and your concrete contractor, regarding concrete resurfacing and repair.

Indianapolis Concrete Repair 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Concrete Repair 317-549-1833

Concrete Repair or Concrete Resurfacing

Concrete is a porous, permeable pavement material, which means it can absorb moisture and water. Water enters these pores, freezing and thawing, causing cracks, fissures, crevices, crumbling, and more. Overtime, this exponential accumulation of rain water, winter precipitation, and natural wear and tear from foot and vehicular traffic, causes concrete surfaces to breakdown. In order to combat these problematic variables, it is important to use a high-quality concrete sealer.

Sealcoating is vital for additional and long-term protection against natural elements, harsh weather, changing climates, traffic, and more. Applying a seal coat to a newly paved or repaired concrete surface is safeguarding your investment. As concrete breaks down or deteriorates, property owners might begin to think about renovating or replacing their pavement. At this point, it is wise to think about certain considerations to properly assess whether or not to repair or resurface concrete pavement.

Here are some important questions to ask yourself about your commercial concrete pavements:

What is the Structural Condition of the Concrete?

Is the concrete safe to walk or drive on? Are the cracks larger than a quarter of an inch? Have the concrete slabs moved vertically yet? If the answer to all these questions is no, then a full concrete repair or replacement project is not necessary. Instead, concrete resurfacing can simply fill in the cracks and strengthen the foundation. You can even go above and beyond by adding some upgraded aesthetics to enhance and refresh the appearance of your concrete pavement.

Is the Concrete Sunken or Raised?

When concrete is sunken low into the ground, or raised above the surface level, you might still be able to avoid a full-on concrete repair project. Instead, you may have the option to use a concrete hydraulic leveler to even out the surface, and follow it with concrete resurfacing. Hydraulic concrete levelers drill a 2 to 3 inch hole in sunken concrete, and then inject a lime blend material to raise it back up to the proper level. Follow this with a polymer modified cement treatment for a professional finish.

Is More than 50% of the Concrete’s Integrity Jeopardized?

If at least fifty percent of the concrete surface is deteriorated, cracked, or sunken, concrete repair is the best option. If the thickness of the concrete is eroded or crumbled more than one and a quarter inch, then concrete repair is also the necessary choice.

For accurate industry information and advice regarding asphalt and concrete repair or installation, speak with a licensed pavement repair contractor. They can offer you the most accurate advice for choosing between concrete resurfacing and concrete repair. Be sure to choose a licensed, bonded, and insured pavement repair company with several years of experience in the industry. This will ensure you are receiving honest, educated, and accurate information.

An Indianapolis Pavement Repair Company You Can Trust

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

Why Does Concrete Crack?

You would think something as hard and solid as concrete wouldn’t crack so easily. The truth is that concrete pavement is susceptible to a variety of elements and influences that can cause it to crack, buckle, crumble, and more. Although faulty concrete installation jobs can sometimes also be a reason behind crumbling or cracked concrete (i.e. no wire mesh installed, too much sand in the mix, watered-down mix, etc.), in most cases, the reasons are natural.

Continue reading to learn what makes concrete crack and what to do if you want them fixed in your driveway, parking lot, or street.

Indianapolis Concrete Repair 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Concrete Repair 317-549-1833

Cracked Concrete

Concrete commonly cracks in harsh environmental conditions. For example, concrete often cracks during freeze and thaw cycles; mostly in the northern climates of course. Freezing weather can freeze an underground water supply solid, and solid ice expands and requires more space than water. This is where the concrete is inflicted. The water-turned-ice expands underground, creating rifts and lifts in the above-ground concrete. It can cause the concrete to raise as much as two to three inches or more in most cases.

In the spring time, this cycle is reversed, causing even more concrete cracks and fractures. This is because as the ice melts in spring, causing the solid ice foundations beneath the concrete to disappear. This results in crumbling or caving concrete because there is no longer string ice beneath it for support. Once the summer time comes, even more damage is possible.

In the late spring and summer months, concrete pavement can suffer from cracking and fading from extensive sun exposure. This type of heat exposure can cause the concrete to warp and move even more so than it would in its freeze/thaw state. Once the sun goes down, the concrete will retract and settle in its original position. The problem is that the frequent instability and movement of concrete in hot weather can eventually weaken and crack the foundation altogether.

Indianapolis Concrete Repair

If you are bothered by excessive concrete cracks and deterioration, call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial and industrial concrete pavement 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.