How to Spot Poor Quality Commercial Pavement Workmanship

When commercial paving is done poorly, it can cause a number of problems that range from costly repairs to safety issues. That’s why it’s important to understand how to spot poor quality commercial pavement workmanship. Poorly executed commercial paving projects can lead to uneven surfaces, cracks and other damage that could be hazardous for pedestrians or vehicles. The good news is there are several ways you can identify potential problems with commercial paving before they become serious issues.

Continue reading to review some simple tips on what to look for when assessing the quality of commercial pavement workmanship.

Call 317-549-1833 For Commercial Asphalt and Concrete Repair in Indianapolis IN.
Call 317-549-1833 For Commercial Asphalt and Concrete Repair in Indianapolis IN.

Performing a Commercial Pavement Quality Check

1. Inspect the Surface: Take a close look at the commercial paving project and keep an eye out for any irregularities in level or cracks in the pavement. Imperfections in commercial paving can be caused by poor preparation, improper materials, and inadequate drainage systems.

2. Check for Cleanliness: Poorly executed commercial paving projects can often look messy, with chunks of asphalt and dirt all over the area. If you notice any disorganization or uncleanliness in the commercial paving project, chances are it was done carelessly.

3. Take a Look at the Sub-Base: The sub-base is an important part of commercial paving projects because it creates a solid foundation for the pavement. If there is insufficient preparation work done on the sub-base, it can lead to instability and further damage in the future. Make sure to check that the commercial paving project includes a solid and well-prepared sub-base before moving forward with any repairs or improvements.

4. Watch Out for Shoddy Edges: Poorly done commercial paving projects can have edges that are not properly sealed, leaving gaps and cracks. Inspect the pavement for any unfinished or faulty edges and make sure they are addressed before the commercial paving project is complete.

Look for Skilled Commercial Paving Service in Indiana

By being aware of these potential problems with commercial paving workmanship, you can save yourself time and money by avoiding costly repairs and other risks. If a commercial paving project does not meet your standards, it is best to consult with an experienced Indiana commercial paving contractor who can help you achieve the desired results.  With the right commercial asphalt and concrete contractors on your side, you can be sure that your commercial pavement job will last for years to come.

Are you looking for a trustworthy commercial pavement and road construction company in the Central Indiana area? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 to speak with a licensed and insured paving contractor about commercial pothole repair and cold patching in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the state.

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What Causes Soil Instability and How Does it Affect Paving Projects?

Paving contractors can never really know what lies beneath their feet until their project begins. At the start of excavation, contractors can start to learn about the soil, dirt, and clay, and whether or not they foresee running into problems or obstacles. One common problem is unstable soil. This basically means that the dirt is too soft to provide a sufficient foundation for pavement installation. When this happens, pavers must find an alternative solution to get the job done right, and in a safe and reliable manner. Continue reading to learn what causes soil instability and how it affects a paving installation or excavation project.

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Unstable Soil or Dirt

There are three main issues that cause unstable soil. Decomposing plant life and other organic matter loosen soil and diminish its stability. This is more prevalent when soil is near a body of water or some other source of water.

Another cause, or quality, of unstable soil is reduced compaction or lack of compaction capability. This means that the dirt cannot press into itself, making it stronger and more compact. This is especially common for hills and raised areas that were filled-in with dirt. If the soil is not compacted in thin layers, it cannot present a uniform and even appearance, nor provide a stable foundation for pavement.

The third, and most common, reason for unsteady soil is its make-up or composition. Mineral and element imbalances in dirt can inhibit its ability to compact or provide secure surfaces for asphalt. Soil requires a certain balance of air, water, minerals, and organic matter to be at its most stable. For example, if too much water or moisture is present, then soil becomes mud, which cannot be paved on; and it can take several days and even weeks for mud to dry. Not only would this cause extensive delays in construction, it would cost more money too.

The cause and solution for instable soil largely depends on the circumstance. All cases are different, and it is possible to find several different types of dirt in an excavation. Soil that is not usable must be fixed before any paving can occur.

Here are some solutions that have worked in the past to cure unstable dirt:

• Double-Check for Drainage Problems
• Use Drainage Tiles to Relieve Excess Moisture
• Till Soil to Expedite Drying Time
• Install Soil Separation Fabrics to Reduce Contact with Base Materials
• Install Geo-Grids
• Replace Soil with Proper Base Material in Subgrade
• Chemically-Treat the Soil to Enhance Stability
• Use Foam Asphalt Injections
• Contact a Licensed Asphalt Paving Company for Advice

ACI Asphalt and Concrete in Indianapolis

Parking Lot Paving

Parking Lot Paving 317-549-1833

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

Learning About Road Surface Markings

We drive over them, alongside them, behind them, and we obey them. Surface stripes and pavement markings serve a very important purpose in traffic and road systems, and play a major role in the organization, functionality, and safety of drivers and pedestrians. But many drivers are unsure about the different colors, applications, and meanings behind the most common pavement stripes and markings. It is important to know this information so you can be safer on the road. To improve your driving acumen and security, continue reading to learn about pavement stripes and marks.

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Road Stripes and Markings

Road surface markings and striping is any material or device used to assist or convey official information to motorists and pedestrians. They are either mechanical, non-mechanical, or temporary, and used in several applications, including parking lots, roads, highways, toll booths, school zones, pedestrian crossings, and more. And today, there are new innovative technologies available for road marking systems, such as retro-reflectivity, that lasts longer and costs less to apply. So we can count on reliable traffic and pedestrian surface markings for years to come. Below is a review of some common road markers, and the purpose they serve.

Mechanical Markers

Botts’ Dots – A type of mechanical non-reflective marker that is raised off the ground in the form of small mounds, or “dots.” They are used to indicate the edges of traffic lanes and are commonly used in combination with raised reflective markers. Botts’ dots are also used to alert motorists of highway toll booths, school lanes, and speed limit reductions. Since they are easily damaged by snow plows, they are usually used in areas with warmer climates.

Rumble Strips – If you have ever accidentally veered off the road, then you have probably experienced driving over rumble strips. They are repetitive troughs carved into the pavement (generally 1 cm deep and 10 cm wide) on the edges of roads to alert or awake drivers that are falling asleep or not paying attention. When you drive on rumble strips, your vehicle shakes and vibrates as it moves over the deep ridges.

Raised Reflective Markers – Also called road studs, these markers are reflective, making them more visible at night and in poor weather. They are raised off the ground, usually in the form of dots or small squares, and used as travel lane dividers, median markers, exit slip-road markers.

Non-Mechanical Markers

Paint – The most common form of non-mechanical road markers is paint, sometimes containing retroreflective glass beads. The primary colors of road paint depend largely on locality, but generally include white, yellow, red, blue, and orange. Paint markers are used for a wide variety of purposes in terms of road systems and pavement, including driving lanes, parking lots, handicap parking, no-parking zones, time-restricted parking, loading zones, and much more.

Yellow Lines – Yellow lines are used to mark the center of two-way streets that have two-way traffic lanes. If the center yellow lines are dashes instead of solid lines, you can pass on a two-way street with two-way traffic. However, if they are solid, you cannot. So this means you cannot drive to the left of these lines.

White Lines – White lines are applied in the center and on the shoulder of a two-lane road to advise traffic traveling in your direction. If the lines are solid, you cannot legally pass on the road. If they are broken up into dashes, you can legally pass other vehicles if the way is clear.

ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc.

Parking Lot Paving Indianapolis Indiana

Indianapolis Paving 317-549-1833

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc. at 317-549-1833 for professional pavement installation and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Lindsey Lewis, and his team of licensed and insured pavers, are fully-equipped to manage any size pavement application or installation project for commercial, industrial, and municipal properties. We provide road striping services, as well as, pavement repair, pavement installation, pothole patching, and more. Call 317-549-1833 to speak with a knowledgeable Indianapolis paving contractor, today.

Should Interlocking Pavement be Installed by a Professional?

It is advised to check out some vital information about DIY pavement repair and installation before deciding to install interlocking stone or pavement on your own. Even if you intend to hire a pavement contractor, it is important to review the step-by-step process to better understand what type of project you are outsourcing and what to expect.

Continue reading to learn exactly what you need to know about this type of pavement installation process.

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833
Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Interlocking stones or pavement is like a jig-saw puzzle; they all start as pieces that ultimately fit together just right. It is different than laying tile because tile jobs require a non-flexible surface and mortar for application. In contrast, interlocking pavement uses special sand as a bonding component and an interconnecting process that creates strong friction between the stones to thwart slipping or movement.

Interlocking Stone Installation

The time, effort, and industry knowledge it takes to achieve a proficient interlocking pavement job is extensive. This is the main reason why it should always be done by a professional paving company, or a person that is experienced in concrete, stone, and asphalt paving.

Many problems can arise during interlocking stone installation that cannot be predicted or foreseen in any way. A professional retains the training, knowledge, and tools to handle any dilemma or obstacle that may arise during installation. They also are likely to offer protection packages, warranties, and satisfaction guarantees on their work.

For newcomers to interlocking pavement world, check out this quick guide to interlocking stone and pavement installation:

• Current Surface Material is Excavated and Removed
• Ground or Soil Underneath is Dug Down to the Required Depth
• A Woven Geotextile Fabric is Fitted and Installed
• A Layered Base Rock and Sand Bedding Foundation is Built on Top
• Stones are Cut and Fitted
• Interlocking Process Takes Place
• Drying Time

A motif of designs and carvings can be implemented in the stone laying and fitting; or a standard look can be done as well. On the topic of designing and fitting the interlocking stone, a professional can be helpful because they are experienced in stone laying and retain tools and equipment to assist them. To get the finish you have in mind, be sure to ask a professional for advice and information that can help you make the best and most cost-effective choices for interlocking pavement installation.

Interlocking Pavement Services in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial pavement repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our team of licensed and insured contractors provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete paving services for commercial, industrial, and municipal properties. Don’t choose a rookie concrete company! Instead, trust our licensed commercial pavers to meet all your pavement needs. Request a free estimate, today!