Common Questions About Sealing Concrete Pavements

Whether you own a commercial or residential property, all of your concrete surfaces should be protected year-round. Concrete sealers are one of the most effective methods of doing so. Continue reading to review some common questions and answers about sealing concrete pavements, and who to trust for commercial and industrial paving work in the Indy areas.

Indianapolis Indiana Commercial Concrete Repair and Sealcoating
Indianapolis Indiana Commercial Concrete Repair and Sealcoating 317-549-1833

FAQS About Concrete Sealing

Why Seal Concrete?

There are several benefits to sealing concrete surfaces and pavements. The primary advantage of using a concrete sealer is enhanced longevity. Your concrete surface will stand up better against natural wear and tear (wind, rain, snow, ice, traffic, etc.) and similar pavement damages (chemical spills, dirt, oil, etc.), and for a longer period of time.

Not only does this protect your investment since it abates unnecessary or premature concrete repair, but it also improves and sustains visual appeal. When it comes to property value, curb appeal is important, and the condition of your concrete can make all the difference when it comes to remortgaging or selling.

Do I Have to Seal New Concrete Pavement?

After pouring and laying new concrete pavement, applying a sealer is one of the most important preventive maintenance methods you can take to extend the look and life of your results. Although you don’t have to do anything with your concrete pavement, it is wise to use concrete sealers for the sake of protecting your investment, ensuring safety, and abating liability. Without a concrete sealer, your newly-laid concrete will be subjected to cracks and potholes within a period of weeks. A concrete sealer will provide instant protection against anything that wants to damage your concrete.

Do I Need to Seal Concrete Pavement More Than Once?

It is important to reseal your concrete surfaces and pavements on a regular basis to ensure optimal protection. The regularity in which you reapply your concrete sealers will depend on various factors, including the current condition of your concrete, the type of sealer used, the level of craftsmanship during installation, and much more. However, the general rule of thumb is to reseal concrete pavements every 3 to 10 years, or more frequently for regions that experience extreme climates, such as extreme cold or extreme heat.

What Kind Of Concrete Sealers Are Available?

There are various types of concrete sealers and sealing products available over the counter, and several others used by professional concrete paving companies. All types of concrete sealers are either solvent-based or water-based. Within these categories, the most common types of concrete sealers include polyurethane, acrylic resin, penetrating resin, and epoxy products.

These sealers are designed to block moisture, oil, water, and other penetrable contaminants for the purpose of maintaining structural and aesthetic integrity. Solvent-based concrete sealers are applied by either sprayers or rollers, while water-based concrete sealers are applied using rollers.

Are you looking for professional concrete ceiling and reinforcing services for your commercial or industrial property in Indiana? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for reputable and trusted pavement sealcoating and concrete repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana.

You Should Also Read:

The Difference Between Crack Sealing and Crack Filling
Is it Better to Apply a Thicker Layer of Seal Coat?
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Sealcoat

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

Should You Replace Moldy Concrete Pavement?

A common problem concrete poses is mold. Since concrete is a porous, water can enter inside its numerous nooks and crannies, making for a perfect mold growing environment. Often times, this happens to concrete that is exposed to prolonged moist weather conditions, or concrete in damp and shady areas. Moldy concrete is not only unappealing, it is a health hazard that should be addresses right away. Many property owners want to know if mold on concrete is reversible, or if they must replace their concrete foundations altogether.

Continue reading to learn more about concrete mold abatement and remediation, including who to call for trusted concrete repair service near you.

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Indiana Commercial Paving 317-549-1833

Concrete Mold Removal

If you are a commercial property owner or manager, the exterior appearance of your building or complex is important. Not only does a well-groomed commercial property appeal more to customers, it protects against property value deduction and investment loss. One of the most critical areas of a commercial property is its parking lots and walkways. If your business makes it inconvenient for customers or guests to drive, park, or walk, then it is in poor condition. Concrete should be well-maintained and protected in order to sustain a safe, liability-free property. This includes mold removal.

How to Remove Mold on Concrete

There are do-it-yourself methods for removing mold from concrete, however, the process is time-consuming and requires a lot of manual effort. If you have an in-house janitorial or maintenance staff, then this might be the perfect assignment for them, but if you do not, you may want to hire professional pavement cleaning services instead. Unless you have a small area that needs cleaned, concrete mold removal is a big job.

The process involves using a store-bought or homemade (bleach and water) mold remover cleanser, and then applying the cleanser liberally to the affected areas. Once the solution is applied, it is instructed to allow the solution to sit for several minutes before scrubbing away the mold vigorously with a heavy-duty contractor broom. And you must always finish each time with a thorough rinse. The process must also be repeated several times over to completely remove all traces of mold. The number of times it must be repeated depends on the severity of damage and extent of growth.

Once you have cleaned the concrete, it is time to call a professional Indianapolis paving company for concrete sealcoating services. This will help prevent further damage to concrete and slow the rate of deterioration. Without a proper sealcoat, you can expect to scrub mold from your concrete every year. Read our blog, “Frequently Asked Questions about Sealcoating” to learn more about sealcoating.

Commercial Concrete Paving for Central Indiana

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 when you need commercial pavement repair for asphalt and concrete. Our licensed and bonded paving contractors provide pavement repair, sealcoating, road work, commercial paving, industrial paving, winter cold patching, and much more. We are the industry veterans to trust for skilled craftsmanship and competitive prices! Request a free estimate, today.

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.

The Top-Most Recommended Concrete De-Icer

Concrete Repair Indianapolis Indiana

Concrete Repair 317-549-1833

When it comes to choosing a concrete deicing product, most people look for melting power. So it is no surprise that calcium chloride pellets are the top-most recommended material to use for winter pavement management. This substance is so powerful, it can still melt ice and snow in temperatures below freezing; in fact, up to negative 40 degrees Fahrenheit! But as for concrete deicers, there is more to consider aside from melting power.

You must also think about your surrounding environment, the condition of your pavement, seasonal temperatures, and even the corrosive agents in the deicing product you choose to apply to your concrete pavements. Although calcium chloride offers incredible melting power, it may not be a suitable choice for everyone. Continue reading to learn more about calcium chloride deicers and winter concrete care.

Benefits of Calcium Chloride Deicer

As a hygroscopic compound, calcium chloride absorbs moisture. When applied to snow and ice, it begins to immediately dissolve and absorb all the moisture on the pavement. As it dissolves, the calcium chloride uses an exothermic process that generates heat up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This is why the results are so sudden.

Calcium chloride is better than sodium chloride, or “rock salt”, in terms of environmental care and protection. It is less harmful to the surrounding plant life and soil in the case of water run-off. It is also less corrosive, so it is a suitable deicing solution for older pavement.

Disadvantages to Consider

Although calcium chloride is a powerful deicing agent, it comes with a few drawbacks that you should be aware of before applying it to your pavement. First, it melts quickly, so it leaves behind a moderate amount of slush. This slush can re-freeze, or turn into a hazardous in terms of pedestrian slip and falls, as well as, driving accidents. For personal safety and liability, it is best to sweep the slush to the side after application.

Secondly, it is a bit more expensive to deice with calcium chloride. A 50 pound bag sets you back about $18 on average, depending on the retailer. For moderately cold temperatures and conditions, it is recommended to mix calcium chloride with a standard market deicer for a more economical version.

Indianapolis Concrete Repair

Commercial Lot Repair 317-549-1833

Commercial Lot Repair 317-549-1833

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc. at 317-549-1833 for professional Indianapolis concrete repair and sealcoating you can trust. Owner Lindsey Lewis employs a team of highly-trained and experienced pavers who are licensed, bonded, and insured to perform. We offer a wide range of pavement repair services for commercial, industrial, and municipal properties. Call 314-549-1833 for professional concrete repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas.

Removing Mildew from Concrete Pavements

Mold and mildew growth can be hazardous to one’s health, and pose many dangerous and unpleasant threats as well. For these reasons and more, mildew should always be removed as soon as it is discovered. It can also be quite unsightly and unattractive. One common area where mold can thrive is concrete, like sidewalks, curbs, driveways, fireplaces, and more. It is understandable to have mold or mildew somewhere on your property you cannot see or reach, but the exposed and attainable areas, like the ones just mentioned, should be cleaned thoroughly.

Continue reading to learn more about the importance of removing mold and mildew from concrete, and how to get it done.

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

Concrete Mildew Removal

Mildew is slippery, especially when wet, and can cause slip and fall accidents; but the main health concern associated with mildew and mold has to do with our respiratory health. Spores from mold can become airborne, and consequently, be inhaled by people and pets. This can cause or contribute to several respiratory illnesses and conditions; like asthma, allergies, and more.

So when you find mildew growing on your concrete surface, be sure to follow similar instructions to the ones listed below, in order to successfully remove mold and mildew from concrete, cement, and more. If the fungus that causes mildew is not properly killed and removed, the mildew will be sure to come back.

What You’ll Need:

✔ Chlorine Bleach (about 1 Quart per 100 square foot)
✔ 1/3 Cup Powdered Laundry Detergent
✔ Large Bucket
✔ 3 Quarts Warm Water
✔ Running Water
✔ Garden Hose
✔ Stiff Bristled Broom or Brush
✔ Safety Goggles
✔ Rubber Gloves

What To Do:

1. Open Nearby Doors and Windows to For Ventilation (floor fans are best)
2. Put On Safety Goggles and Gloves
3. Mix Bleach and Warm Water
4. Add Powdered Detergent to Bleach/Warm Water Mix
5. Saturate the Affected Area with the Solution
6. Allow Solution to Fully Saturate for 15 minutes
7. Vigorously Scrub the Surface with the Bristled Broom or Brush
8. Turn On Running Water
9. Use Garden Hose to Rinse the Surface Clean
10. Make Sure the Area Dries Thoroughly
11. Repeat Steps 1-10 if Necessary

In order to prevent mildew and mold growth in the future, be sure to mop up excess puddles of standing water, and try to add more sunlight exposure to concrete surfaces. Sun and heat prevents mold and mildew growth. So keep concrete surfaces dry and bright!

Industrial and Commercial Paving Services in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for industrial and commercial concrete pavement repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete pavement repair and installation services at the most competitive prices in town, including crack filling, overlays, resurfacing, and sealcoating. Request a free estimate, today!

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 Outsource Concrete Sealing Services

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.

Commercial Concrete Paving
Commercial Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

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.