Dealing with potholes in your driveway can be a nuisance, but here’s how you can effectively address them:
Assess the Damage: Take a close look at the pothole to determine its size and depth. Small potholes may only require minor repairs, while larger ones might need more extensive work.
Safety First: Ensure your safety by marking off the area if necessary to prevent vehicles or pedestrians from accidentally stepping into the pothole.
Remove Debris: Clean out any loose debris, dirt, or gravel from the pothole. Use a broom or a stiff brush to sweep away loose materials.
Fill the Pothole: For small potholes, you can use a cold patch asphalt repair compound available at most hardware stores. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. For larger potholes, consider using a hot asphalt mix, which provides a more durable repair. You can either purchase the materials and DIY or hire a professional asphalt contractor to handle it.
Compact the Material: Once the pothole is filled with the repair material, use a tamper or a hand compactor to compact the material firmly. This ensures a solid repair and prevents the material from settling too much over time.
Sealcoat the Driveway: After the repair has cured (usually 24-48 hours for cold patch, longer for hot asphalt), consider applying a sealcoat to your entire driveway. Sealcoating helps protect your driveway from further damage by sealing cracks and providing a protective layer against water, UV rays, and chemicals.
Regular Maintenance: Keep an eye on your driveway and promptly address any new cracks or potholes as they appear. Regular maintenance, such as filling cracks and applying sealcoat every few years, can help extend the life of your driveway and prevent costly repairs.
Consider Resurfacing: If your driveway has extensive damage or multiple potholes, you may need to consider resurfacing or replacing it entirely. Resurfacing involves adding a new layer of asphalt or concrete over the existing driveway, while replacement involves tearing out the old driveway and installing a new one.
Prevention: To prevent potholes from forming in the future, ensure proper drainage by keeping gutters and downspouts clear and directing water away from the driveway. Avoid heavy vehicles or equipment parked on the driveway for extended periods, as this can weaken the surface and lead to damage.
By addressing potholes promptly and maintaining your driveway regularly, you can keep it in good condition and avoid costly repairs down the road.
The road less traveled is probably a lot smoother than the one with a constant traffic flow, and the road less traveled probably hasn’t had or may never need pothole repair. In Waco and Temple, TX, most of us travel a lot, and because of that, we find ourselves looking for help repairing potholes, whether on the road or even in our driveways. When you find yourself looking for this kind of repair, you probably have some questions, such as what type of material is needed to perform those repairs.
What causes potholes?
Repairs for potholes are needed due to the occurrence of three major factors. Those three factors are:
Crack Surface
Water
Vehicle Traffic
A pothole begins with a small surface crack on the roadway. Over time, that crack expands as traffic drives over it. Then, there are two ways that this small crack further deteriorates:
Rain: As it rains, or maybe water from the lawn sprinklers, and covers the road surface, the water gets into the crack and then seeps under the surface. During the winter, that water will freeze under the surface, thaw, re-freeze, and re-thaw. As traffic drives over the surface with frozen water under it, it cracks the surface more, and chunks of asphalt come out, and you have a pothole.
Traffic: Then there is the traffic factor. In dry weather, as traffic runs over the cracks, they get bigger, and small chunks of asphalt come out, and before you know it, you have a pothole.
How do you fix potholes in the road?
Every city, county, and state may have different guidelines and methods for pothole repairs, but the four most commonly used are:
Throw-and-Go Pothole Repair Method: This is the most commonly used method because it is the least expensive and the quickest. Even with debris or water in the pothole, this method is used. It is filled with patching-approved road material, tamped down by hand, and left for the traffic flow to pound it down.
Throw-and-Roll Pothole Repair Method: This is considered a superior alternative to the above-described method but uses the same technique. Workers use an approved patching material to fill the potholes, and then the roadcrew’s maintenance truck drives over them, compounding them down to make them tight.
Semi-Permanent Pothole Repair Method: This method is considered the best because it covers the full depth of the pothole and the surrounding affected area. First, all debris and water are removed from the pothole, and then the pothole is made square using hand tools. Next, the approved patching material fills the area, and workers use equipment like a vibratory plate to compact the material down.
Spray-Injection Pothole Repair: The final pothole repair patching method used is spray injection, commonly focused on repairing diagonal cracks and potholes. Before this patching method starts, debris and water must be removed, and then a tack coating of binding material is sprayed along the sides of the pothole. Then, aggregate or asphalt is sprayed into the pothole. Next, a layer of aggregate or asphalt is applied. There aren’t any compacting steps to this method of pothole repair.
What is the best material to fill potholes?
Research and plenty of experience have proven that a mixture of aggregate and asphalt cement is the sturdiest pothole repair material. It can withstand extreme wear and tear and heavy traffic. This pothole repair method does not require road closures, so there is no disruption to traffic.
What is the cheapest way to fill potholes?
Most cities, counties, and states are on tight budgets these days, so the first step is to find the fastest way to complete a pothole repair job, which means less labor expense. The second step is to use the cheapest material, and loose gravel is a common material for pothole repairs.
The downside to this pothole repair method is that the gravel works out of the pothole and scatters, so repeated trips are needed to add more gravel, requiring more labor and materials. So, is it the cheapest way? Only the finance departments can verify this.
What is the proper way to fix a pothole?
The best pothole repair method for long-lasting results is the Semi-Permanent Pothole Repair Method, followed by the Spray Injection method if extending cracks still need to form a pothole.
Prevention is The Answer
Before roadways reached the point where pothole repairs were an absolute must, the local road authorities could take preventive steps. Those steps would include surveying the pavement frequently to identify any possible risk factors, ensuring proper and adequate drainage from the road surfaces and road shoulder, and forming the budget to afford and implement preventive maintenance.
But as the public, we can do things to help prevent potholes, which can cut back on the need for pothole repairs. We can avoid driving through puddles, driving cautiously on roads we’re not familiar with, keeping a safe distance between cars, avoiding driving through potholes when possible, and just practicing safe driving habits.
Our team is always available to help if you need pothole repair in Waco and Temple, TX. For more information, call today at 254-716-8685.
Dealing with potholes in your driveway is essential to prevent further damage and ensure safety for vehicles and pedestrians. The first step in repair driveway potholes is assessing the extent of the damage caused by the potholes. Determine the size, depth, and number of potholes in your driveway to plan the necessary repairs effectively.
You’ll then need to clear debris, loose gravel, and dirt from the potholes using a broom, brush, or high-pressure water hose. Removing debris ensures better adhesion for repair materials and helps assess the full extent of the damage.
For small potholes, cold patch asphalt or cold mix can be used as a temporary solution. Simply fill the pothole with cold patch material and compact it with a tamper or shovel. For larger or more severe potholes, hot mix asphalt provides a more durable and long-lasting solution. Hot mix asphalt is typically available from asphalt suppliers and requires heating before application. Gravel or stone aggregate may be sufficient for temporary repairs. However, this solution may not provide long-term durability and may require periodic maintenance.
After filling the potholes with repair material, use a tamper or compactor to compact the material firmly and ensure proper adhesion to the surrounding pavement. Proper compaction helps prevent future settlement and deterioration of the repair. A sealant or crack filler applied to the edges of the repaired potholes helps to prevent water infiltration and further damage. Sealants help prolong the life of the repair and enhance the overall durability of the driveway.
Call eSquared Asphalt Maintenance for Pothole Repair in Waco and Temple, TX
To prevent potholes from reoccurring, practice regular driveway maintenance, including sweeping, cleaning, and sealing cracks. Address any minor cracks or surface damage promptly to prevent them from developing into larger potholes over time.
If potholes persist despite your efforts to repair them, consider consulting with a professional paving contractor for a thorough assessment of your driveway. A professional can identify underlying issues, such as poor drainage or sub-base failure, and recommend appropriate repair solutions. In Waco and Temple, TX, pothole repair is a call away. Dial 254-716-8685 today.
When a new commercial structure is built, the parking lot needs to be defined. This is done by a parking lot striping process. This process is also known as pavement marking or striping which are even, straight lines.
Other than the lines being either yellow or white, there is more to parking lot striping than most drivers realize. Read on as we answer some common questions and provide information you can file away in the “unknown facts and information” to use at the next dinner party. When you need parking lot striping in Waco, TX or any nearby cities, you’ll need a professional like those on our team to help. Bearing that in mind, here are some answers to common questions you’re likely to have about this process.
Who designs the parking lot striping?
You may question their degree, but parking lot striping designs are designed by a civil engineer. This is one of many skills they have learned and acquired. They have learned the elements needed to create a good overall site.
This task may seem to be basic, maybe below the pay grade of a civil engineer, but like anything else that will have multiple drivers depending on it, parking lot design and parking lot striping have to be accurate and with a logical purpose.
How is the layout of parking lot striping lines determined?
Each parking lot is unique, so the most effective layout in each will vary. To determine the layout of parking lot striping lines, it’s important to look at a few key elements that civil engineers use in their design process:
Entrances and Exits: They consider the direction and how vehicles will be positioned as they enter and exit the parking lot.
Traffic Flow: The civil engineers have to determine the most efficient way to direct traffic, either one-way or two-way traffic aisles.
Anticipated Capacity: The civil engineer designing the parking lot striping will examine the general population of the area and determine the number of parking spaces needed.
Safety and Spacing: The civil engineer who is designing the parking lot striping must consider the safety aspects of the parking lot. While they need to maximize the allotted space, they need to prevent overcrowding as well. This includes making sure vehicles have sufficient space to pull in, pull out, and pass each other on two-way lanes.
This includes designing the parking lot striping forangle parking, parallel parking, and perpendicular parking. The civil engineer designing the parking lot striping may use one of these three or a combination of them.
What are the dimensions for parking lot striping?
In addition to the elements we’ve mentioned, the civil engineer must follow the requirements that are standard for parking spaces within the parking lot striping. Today’s cars require a standard size of 9’ wide x 18’ long. The painted stripes that are designed to separate each space are typically between 5” and 6” wide.
What type of paint is used for parking lot striping?
The parking lot stripingprovides drivers a pictorial and sign instructions. They are easy-to-follow signs, lines for each parking space, entry points, and exit points, as well as emergency exits, and handicapped parking spaces. When drivers follow these signs and their directions, traffic flows smoothly and accidents are prevented.
Parking lot striping can be done with one of four different paint types. They have different purposes based on the material reflectance, texture, and their longevity. The four types of paint used for parking lot striping are:
Reflective: This type of paint has glass-like chards added that make it glow in the dark. This is a must-have type of paint for parking lot striping in shipping centers, hospitals, and anywhere there is nighttime driving.
Water-Based: This type of parking lot striping paint is similar to the paint that children use for crafts. They are an inexpensive option and quick to dry, which allows immediate use by traffic. Because it is water-based, it isn’t weather-resistant. Rain, ice, or snow can wash it off in a short time.
Oil-Based: With this type of parking lot striping paint, the oil is the binding ingredient and is meant for a long lifespan. Parking lot striping with this type of paint is recommended where the weather has frequent changes because it is a durable paint with a long lifespan. Even in freezing weather with ice, rain, and snow, it will not wash off.
Thermal Plastic: This is the most expensive type of parking lot striping paint. It requires being heated to melt the plastic content before use. It is a thick paint that has an elegant appearance and is incredibly durable, withstanding harsh weather conditions better than other types of parking lot striping paint.
How is the parking lot striping done?
The company that does the parking lot striping will use highly specialized equipment. This allows the crew to complete the job with accuracy and precision.
To process starts with the line locations drawn by one of three methods:
By hand
Stretching string lines
Other type of letters and markings
Next, prepping the parking lot surface is done by clearing it with an industrial blower that removes any debris, dirt, or leaves. Then the crew will prep the machine with the chosen paint which is either rolled or sprayed on using a guided mechanism that gives the strips a crisp and straight line throughout the entire parking lot.
Keeping It Bright and Straight
The parking lot striping should be reapplied every five years according to the American Asphalt Association. The type of paint you choose, the elements, and the weather can affect this recommendation. And when you need parking lot striping in Waco, TX, remember to reach out to professionals like those on our team to make sure it’s taken care of properly. You can get in touch with our team by calling 254-716-8685.
Seems like we can’t go anywhere in the Waco, Texas area, or the entire state, without dodging a pothole. Repairs of these seem to be slower than the creation of them, and the repairs don’t seem to last long either. This makes for a good discussion for many, especially if you live or work on a road that is almost like one big pothole!
How do potholes form?
There is no standard shape and size of potholes, you’ve probably noticed that as you made your way to work. When the top layer of the pavement isn’t strong enough to handle the traffic flow, it cracks. As it cracks, this allows water to get to the sub-base under that top layer, and then that water freezes, thaws, refreezes, and eventually that crack becomes a pothole. The pothole gets bigger as traffic increases going over it.
How are pothole repairs done?
There are different methods used for pothole repairs. If they aren’t done correctly, however, they won’t last long. Pothole repairs should be done by considering the season changes, the sun exposure, and other conditions that can have an effect.
The best method for pothole repairs is the full-depth patching method. This involves cutting and removing the distressed asphalt, the replace it with new materials. The steps involved in this include:
Cut and remove the loose asphalt, around and inside the pothole.
Rinse the pothole opening to remove any debris, dirt, and rocks.
Allow the pothole and surround area time to thoroughly dry.
A chalk outline is created around the cutting sections, extending into sound part of the asphalt. The outline should a minimum of 12” all around the pothole.
Remove the broken sections of asphalt and assess if additional drainage should be installed.
Level the subgrade layer with a vibrating compactor or roller.
Fill the opening with a hot-mix or cold-mix asphalt solution. If the area is larger, the mixture should be divided into 4” layers.
Using compaction equipment, spread the asphalt mixture, one full 4” layer at a time until it is even with the original road surface.
Check the level of the patch and if needed, repeat the compaction.
Why do potholes form in winter?
The winter has a higher number of potholes formed because if there are any cracks, of any size, water seeps inside them. Then as the temperature drops, the water freezes, expands, and causes the crack to enlarge. The frozen water thaws, refreezes, thaws, repeat – this keeps expanding the surface around the crack. Then as traffic goes over this crack, it creates a pothole. Repairs of a permanent stature can’t take place until the pothole and surrounding surface can dry out.
Why do potholes get bigger?
Weak subbase, weak road surface, and the daily traffic flow. That traffic can be from the smallest car to the biggest 18-wheeler. Sit in a parking lot one day and watch the amount of traffic that comes down the road you’re driving on that is riddled with potholes.
How do potholes form in warm climates?
So here in Waco, Texas, we don’t have a lot of that winter weather in a normal year. But that doesn’t mean we don’t have our share of pothole repair needs! Potholes here are created by water and heavy traffic too! We do have rain, a lot of rain sometimes. A crack forms in the surface of the road, rainwater seeps in, it freezes, thaws, refreezes, thaws, and the process repeats.
Just because the temperature in this area doesn’t always get below freezing doesn’t mean it won’t cause potholes though. That water seeps in the crack and starts eroding the sub-base, weakening the surface, and then the traffic driving over it creates the potholes.
Do potholes always cause damage?
Absolutely! When you drive through a pothole at a normal speed, it can damage your tires, bend your wheels, break the shocks, and unalign the front end. The harder you drive through the pothole, the more damage can happen to your car. Many motorists have been stranded with flat tires or a broken front end.
Does auto insurance cover damage caused by potholes?
That will depend on your auto insurance policy. Coverage is available on most car insurance policies for pothole damage if you have collision coverage. In Texas, the law states the only insurance requirement is liability. Collision coverage is extra and if you don’t owe on your car, you aren’t required to have collision coverage.
Keep On Rolling!
As a driver, there isn’t much you can do about pothole repairs, other than pay higher taxes. Therefore, your best defense is to watch your driving style, and cautiously drive through potholes if you can’t go around them. If you do have to drive through one, and you weren’t able to be cautious, use your collision coverage for the repairs on your car!
What are the differences between asphalt, cement, and concrete?
From driveways to parking lots and streets, we drive and park in the area without giving thought to what makes the surface – until it has potholes! So, is it asphalt, cement, or concrete? Admittedly, it can be a little difficult to determine what makes all three of these different, but if you’re considering asphalt overlay in Waco, TX it’s something you’ll need to understand beforehand. However, our team can be there to help. Give us a call at 254-716-8685 if you are looking for assistance.
What makes an asphalt overlay different?
Let’s review what makes up these substances that are used for driveways, parking lots, and streets:
Asphalt: A black, gummy hydrocarbon, a crude oil byproduct, that is a mixture of bitumen and aggregate. An asphalt overlay is often applied afterward.
Concrete: A mixture of an aggregate bound by cement binder that hardens and creates a rock-like appearance.
Cement: A chemical substance that hardens as it sets and adheres to other materials, like concrete, binding them together.
An asphalt overlay is just as the name implies. It is a new pavement section that is typically between 1.5″ and 2″ thick installed over the existing surface. Think of it as a tablecloth! It fills any dings and scratches, creating a smooth surface.
Is it okay to overlay an asphalt driveway?
For a homeowner, a commercial property owner, or a city, repaving a driveway, parking lot, or roadway can be expensive. An asphalt overlay can be a money saver while extending the lifespan of the original surface. An asphalt overlay will fill in any small cracks and mend minor water damage temporarily until the budget is ready for the expense of removing and replacing the entire surface.
How long will an asphalt overlay last?
An asphalt overlay that is properly installed and well-maintained can have a lifespan of up to 15 years. The amount of traffic and the day-to-day weather conditions can have an impact on that lifespan. Areas where there are significant amounts of ice and snow can shorten the lifespan to a minimum of 8 years.
Is it okay to put new asphalt over old asphalt?
This will depend on the condition of the existing asphalt surface. As long as the structural integrity of the existing asphalt surface is still strong, installing an asphalt overlay will be okay. It is recommended to fill in cracks and holes before applying the asphalt overlay.
Are there disadvantages to having an asphalt overlay installed?
Yes, there are a few that should be considered before contracting to have an asphalt overlay installed. Among those disadvantages, the subgrade has underlying problems that are not addressed such as improper drainage and other issues. Once the asphalt overlay ages, the imperfections of the existing surface will cause the overlay to crack and become unstable.
What are the benefits of an asphalt overlay?
An asphalt overlay will provide benefits that include:
A smooth surface
A consistent color similar to the original surface
Improved ride quality
Reduced noise level
Provides a longer lifespan, delaying the cost of a new surface
Is an asphalt overlay and resurfaced asphalt the same thing?
Yes, an asphalt overlay and resurfacing asphalt is the same thing. Both will repair any minor surface damages like small cracks, depressions, rutting that are caused by large vehicles, and water damage that can lead to potholes if not addressed.
How thick should an asphalt overlay be?
The recommended thickness of an asphalt overlay is 1.5 inches. Some asphalt overlays are less than the recommendation and won’t last as long, resulting in having another overlay installed.
What is an asphalt replacement?
An asphalt replacement is the process of removal and disposal of an existing surface and then installing a new layer of asphalt. Typically, this process is needed when the existing surface has serious damage like deep and wide cracks, deep potholes, or underlying issues to the base surface.
An asphalt replacement also allows the property owner to restructure their driveway or parking lot by rerouting drainage away from any structures that can improve accessibility.
Why is the surface of a driveway or parking lot important?
There are five key reasons why a driveway or parking lot should be kept in good repair:
1. Maximize Space and Overall Use
When it comes to parking lots, an asphalt overlay or repaving the space will maximize usage by allowing the ability to mark the parking lines.
2. Liability and Safety
A well-maintained parking lot with an asphalt overlay reduces liability and enhances overall safety with clear parking indicators for crosswalks, handicap spots, speed limit signs, and the parking spots themselves by making the surface better for the paint to stick.
3. Drainage and Pooling
An asphalt overlay will allow a parking lot to drain rainwater and melted ice and snow faster and better.
4. Curb Appeal and Property Value
For a private driveway or a parking lot open to the public, an asphalt overlay will improve the appearance and improve the property value.
5. Maintenance Costs
An asphalt overlay has an upfront expense, but it will minimize the maintenance expenses in the future.
In Summary
An asphalt overlay is a less expensive route to improving a driveway, parking lot, or even roadways. It can be done in less time so that the surface can be driven and parked on sooner. An asphalt overlay is an inconvenience, money, and time-saving method. And while that is a key characteristic in today’s economy, this isn’t a long-term fix, and eventually, a full reconstruction will be needed.
Maybe you’ve never been in a business with a warehouse, but, if you have been in any of the warehouse stores that are considered ‘clubs’, then you have been around warehouse line striping. Within those lines in these club stores, you’ll notice that is where merchandise is racked, shelved, and stacked throughout the store. If you have faded warehouse line striping in Waco and Temple, TX or need new striping, give eSquared Asphalt Maintenance a call at 254-716-8685.
What is warehouse striping?
Warehouse line striping inside the warehouse is done with epoxy paint or tape positioned on the floor for visual identification. There are several reasons why striping is essential to a warehouse:
Organization: Warehouses or club stores with warehouse line striping makes it clear where things belong which saves energy and time for the employees and customers.
5S Methodologies: Proper warehouse line striping that follows 5S Standards is more effective. A proper line striping job makes the warehouse safer by keeping bulk storage in a predetermined area that is organized.
Direction: Warehouse line striping promotes safety where forklifts are used by directing the operators in the direction they should travel. Warehouse line striping also advises pedestrians where to cross or not to enter.
PPE Required: In some warehouse settings, PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) is required and with proper warehouse line striping in place, employees can be made aware of those areas.
What is the best paint for warehouse lines?
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has established guidelines for warehouse line striping. This includes the colors, placement, and sizes.These guidelines are designed to help maintain a consistent protocol within each warehouse setting.
Some facilities will use vinyl tape for temporary striping, but that will wear off with forklift and foot traffic. A permanent solution for any warehouse, but especially for one that a busy environment, epoxy paints are recommended.
What are the line marking standards for warehouse line striping?
OSHA requirements are for warehouse line striping to be no less than 2” wide with consideration that larger facilities have lines between 3” and 4” sizes. The wider striping in larger facilities is to have more attention to the aisles and areas to minimize problems.
Are there color requirements for warehouse line striping?
Yes, and by OSHA requirements and standards, the following colors have been in use for several decades and have become almost 100% universal. The colors and meanings are as follows:
Yellow: Used for denoting aisleways, traffic lanes, and work cells
White: Where equipment and fixtures that haven’t been assigned another color belongs. Such as carts, floor stands display racks, machines, workstations, etc.
Blue, Green, Black: Storage for finished goods, work in progress, and raw materials.
Orange: This area is designated for inspections of energized equipment, materials, and products.
Red: Placement of 5S red flags, defects, reworks, and scraps.
Red & White: This area must be kept clear for compliance and safety reasons. This is typically found where electrical panels, firefighting equipment & supplies, safety equipment, and first aid stations are located.
Black & White: This area is to be kept clean for operational use.
Black & Yellow: Caution of health hazard areas should be avoided.
What are warehouse line striping duties?
This is the person(s) responsible for making sure all warehouse line striping is done and in good condition. After several hours (years) of a warehouse being used by forklifts and foot traffic, it is recommended to repaint the striping to keep it in line with OSHA requirements.
The actual warehouse line striping should be done by a professional contractor that specializes in this type of work. This can be the same person that stripes the dock area and parking lot.
Are there specific shapes to the warehouse line striping?
Yes, along with the standardized color choices, OSHA has established the following shapes and how they should be used:
Octagon Signs: These are stop signs painted on the floor. They advise any indoor vehicle such as forklifts to stop before proceeding further.
Arrows: The floor marking of arrows are to direct foot traffic where they should go, especially in case of an evacuation.
Exit Signage: Exit signage on the floor directs occupants to the nearest exits.
Footprints: Footstep shapes direct employees and visitors in which direction they should walk in the warehouse.
Warning Signage: The shape of a hazard or the word “warning” advised any person they should practice all safety steps in a specific area.
Success Is Only As Good As The Striping
A successful warehouse line striping should begin with each employee that works in the warehouse or has access to the warehouse having a thorough understanding of the colors, shapes, and meaning of all striping.
Each warehouse employee and member of management should be well-versed in the OSHA requirements, and warehouse management should inspect the warehouse on a monthly schedule to ensure these requirements are being met. Make sure your warehouse line striping in Waco and Temple, TX is up to speed and have our experts stripe your floors. Set up an appointment today by calling 254-716-8685.
Today, we can buy bags of concrete at the home improvement stores and handle our own small concrete jobs, like securing fence posts. But many years ago, and still, today, when it comes to large areas, like for a home or any type of structure, you need professionals that know how to pour concrete. In the construction industry, concrete pouring is done from trucks that have the concrete mixture in a drum.
That drum is constantly turning to keep the concrete from hardening until the area is ready for the concrete pouring to take place. A team of people will be ‘at the ready’ with tools to spread the wet mixture before it sets in place. For somebody having a home built, they may choose to be there and ‘autograph’ the wet cement, along with the date.
What are the steps in pouring concrete?
The concrete pouring installation process is easier than you may think, even if you haven’t ever done anything like that before, with these 6 steps:
1. PREP THE GROUND
First, the ground must be prepared before the concrete pouring can be done. How is ground prepped for concrete pouring? By removing any material or objects that can cause interference with the concrete pouring procedure. This includes shrubs, grass, old concrete, rocks, trash, trees, etc. There must be nothing but raw earth in the area being serviced.
2. BASE AND LEVEL
The area is then dug out for the concrete pouring, and for the surface to be able to drain, if isn’t sandy soil, another layer needs to be installed. What do you put down before pouring concrete? A gravel layer is poured and spread out to create a base. Then forms are built at a marginal height and nailed to a stake. The stake is tapped to reach the desired height so that a perfectly level board is in place.
3. STEEL BAR STRENGTH
Before the concrete pouring can be done, reinforcement is installed for added strength and crack resistance, using a half-inch Rebar, (a steel bar).
4. CONCRETE TRUCK PREPARATION
An inspection and review of the area are done prior to the concrete truck’s arrival for the concrete pouring to take place. This is done to avoid any mistakes, like making sure the forms are in place, level and sturdy.
5. POUR, SPREAD, FLATTEN
As the concrete pouring is happening, it will come out of the truck-mounted drum as the driver tilts the drum in slumps that are 5 to 6 inches high. At this point, the concrete mix can be moved by the crew using assorted tools to push and pull the substance to meet the leveling form’s highest point, leveling as they work.
6. SMOOTHING
As the crew smooths the concrete pouring, the slab will “bleed” water which will evaporate and vanish, allowing the concrete to harden. If the weather is hot, the entire concrete pouring process needs to be quick so that it doesn’t harden unevenly and lumpy.
How deep do they dig for a concrete slab?
The slab area is evacuated of dirt up a depth of approximately 7 inches. Thisallows for a three-inch gravel base and a four-inch layer of concrete pouring.
How long does it take to pour concrete?
For the actual concrete pouring action, it will depend on the size of the area. For a standard residential concrete slab, approximately an hour to two hours is standard, provided there is a sufficient crew and no problems. A large industrial concrete slab can take days, again, depending on the size of the area.
How long does it take for poured concrete to set?
It will “set” to full strength within twenty-eight days. By the 7th day, the concrete is 70% cured and considered to be full strength. Within 48 hours of the concrete pouring, it is considered “set”. However, it will never become fully cured. Once the concrete pouring is done, the concrete will continually harden – forever.
Can you pour concrete directly on dirt?
The short answer is yes. The long answer is yes with a few “buts” to follow. A good base is a good foundation for anything, especially for concrete pouring. Any flaws in the surface that will be covered will have a direct impact on the finished quality. Before you proceed with concrete pouring directly onto raw dirt, here are a few tips:
Frame: Without a frame, your concrete pouring is going to spread out in all shapes and sizes, it won’t be level.
Base: The base thickness will depend on the project. A driveway should have a base minimum of 10 inches, a sidewalk should have a minimum 6-inch base.
Water: Extremely dry dirt isn’t going to compact like moist dirt, but extremely wet dirt isn’t going to compact either. It needs to be at a ‘happy medium’ for successful concrete pouring results.
Compact: Once the dirt and soil are prepped, they should be compacted to form that solid base we’ve mentioned. Remember, concrete pouring will be more successful with a well compacted, clean base.
In Closing
Before you begin your concrete pouring project, take the steps to prep the area. If you’re going to spend the money and time of doing your own concrete pouring, doing it right will give you the most bang for your buck.
Give eSquared Asphalt Maintenance a call at 254-716-8685 for Concrete Pouring in Waco and Temple, TX.
If you’re placing your home on the market sometime in the future, you’re probably wondering what you can do that will increase the value. Updating the kitchen and bathrooms can bring a high ROI, but what about the exterior? Maybe give a concrete driveway installation some thought.
Does a new driveway add value to a house?
Anything you can do to the exterior or interior of your home will add value. By updating the bathrooms or the kitchen or creating an attractive curb appeal. This starts by keeping the lawn cut and trimmed, weeding the flowerbed, and maintaining the shrubs and trees. By giving your home a visual attractiveness, you’re sure to have a good first impression when placing your home on the market.
One area that is often overlooked is the driveway. When the driveway is chipped, cracked, showing its age, and has a degrading appearance can overshadow all the other things you do to the exterior. The driveway alone can turn more potential buyers away than only having one bathroom. The investment in a concrete driveway installation can bring the curb appeal up a whole level, or two!
What is the ROI on a new driveway?
Along with a manicured flowerbed, well-groomed yard, and a lit walkway, having a professionally done concrete driveway installation will give your home an inviting appearance. The actual costs of anything these days are hard to predict, including concrete driveway installation jobs. But what we can tell you is that having a concrete driveway installation job for your home can increase the property value by up to 10 percent according to real estate experts.
How long before you can drive on a newly poured concrete driveway?
The concrete contractor will stretch out warning tape at the end and around your new concrete driveway installation. Leave this in place for a minimum of 7 days, advising any delivery vehicles and visitors to park away from the drive. After 7 days, your new concrete driveway is ready for passenger vehicles, staying center-most to avoid the edges.
How do you know when to replace your driveway?
What if you already have a concrete driveway, but it may not be up to par? You should also be concerned about liability issues with a concrete driveway that is degrading. If your current driveway is showing any of the following, it is time to consider a new concrete driveway installation:
Cracking: Over time, cracks form on concrete driveways over time. While this may be ‘natural’, it leaves the driveway open to absorbing gasoline, oil, salts, water, and other substances that start deteriorating the concrete.
Potholes: Potholes in drives damage your car.
Drainage Problems: A concrete driveway that has begun to sink or slope will cause drainage issues for your lawn. Water will begin puddling in the driveway, which leads to deterioration.
Rough Appearance: Over time, sun exposure will damage your driveway, creating a rough surface. This makes it weak and susceptible to being damaged.
How often should you repair your concrete driveway?
It is nothing unusual for a concrete driveway to develop cracks. Left, unaddressed, they can become ugly, cause problems, and overall, decline the curb appeal of your home. Repairs of those cracks should be done as soon as they are noticed. To minimize the repairs, and protect your investment, experts recommend the following:
Reseal it every 3 to 5 years
Patch cracks immediately before they get too deep or wide
Don’t use salt for ice and snow, but shovel instead
Pressure wash your driveway every 6 months
Clean and remove any fluid stains immediately
How long should concrete driveways last?
The method and quality of a concrete driveway installation will determine the lifespan of the driveway. Other factors that can affect the lifespan of your driveway are the climate and environmental conditions. So, if all is ideal, is a concrete driveway long-lasting? The life expectancy of a concrete driveway is approximately 30 years with proper maintenance and upkeep.
How often should you resurface a concrete driveway?
If your concrete driveway has superficial cracking, some chipping, spalling, or has started discoloring, a resurfacing will be sufficient. That will give you approximately another 10 years before you’ll need a new concrete driveway installation.
At the End of the Driveway
Of course, after investing in a new concrete driveway installation, you want to protect it as much as possible. So, what are some damages that might happen to a concrete driveway?
There are five things that can cause damage to your concrete driveway:
1. Weight
Your concrete driveway has a weight limit, like most materials. Parking heavy vehicles on your concrete driveway, like a large boat or an RV, can cause damage like premature cracking.
2. Corrosion
We don’t have much use for laying rock salt for ice here in the Waco, Texas area, but on the rare occasions we do have that winter weather, avoid using rock salt. Other corrosives that can damage a concrete driveway are automobile fluids, like motor oil, pesticides, and storm drain runoff can cause corrosion, premature cracking, and/or sinking.
3. Roots
Trees are an upgrade to a home and provide much-needed shade in Texas summers. But if the roots get to the concrete driveway, it can cause the concrete to buckle and crack.
4. Garden Tools
Taking care of your landscaping can damage your driveway, including the edger, lawnmower, hoes, shovels, and even the weed eater.
5. Storm Protection
Keeping your concrete driveway installation investment protected can be done by applying seal coating every 3 to 5 years. This will protect it from hard rains, hailstone, UV rays, falling tree limbs, rocks, etc.
eSquared Asphalt Maintenance provides a uniform & strong concrete driveway in Waco and Temple, TX. Call 254-716-8685 to schedule services.
Well, winter has already come and gone, folks. And while this winter wasn’t anything like it was in February 2021, there was still some ice and snow. And you know that ice and snow can create potholes. Most cities, counties, and towns still haven’t gotten caught up with all the pothole repairs needed from the previous winter, much less from the past few months.
What is a pothole?
Potholes are caused by groundwater contracting and expanding under the pavement, much like when we make ice cubes in the freezer. The same thing happens when water gets under the pavement and the ground freezes with frozen ice and snow on top of the pavement. As the ice freezes under the pavement, it takes up space making the pavement expand. As it expands, it bends and cracks, becoming weak.
Then the ice and snow melt, and cars drive over the bent, cracked, weakened pavement. The weakened material gives way to that weight, and thus, a pothole is created! With the amount of traffic we have today, it is challenging for municipalities and states to keep up with pothole repairs.
Who is responsible for pothole repairs?
Pothole repair responsibilities depend on where the potholes are located. For pothole repairs on private property, like shopping centers and malls, and office campuses, the owner of the property is responsible. For public property like government and school campuses, the maintenance crews for each entity are responsible for any pothole repairs.
How do you solve a pothole problem?
Prevention is the best method of solving a pothole repair problem! This requires a consistent routine of placing specialized materials into cracks that will prevent water from intruding into the cracks and the layers of pavement.
Applying a light layer of diluted slow-setting asphalt emulsion over an aged pavement surface will reduce potholes and pothole repairs, and slow the deterioration of the pavement and cracks spreading. A thin layer of a surface treatment combined with asphalt and a fine aggregate will prevent water intrusion. Filling distressed pavement will seal the pavement and minimize cracking.
How do you repair a pothole?
It is important to try and make pothole repairs before they actually become a pothole. The longer it is left alone, the larger the pothole can get, setting the scene for damaged vehicles. For a private property owner, like a shopping center, this is leaving open the possibility of liability repairs to vehicles. The following are two pothole repair methods:
Cold-Patch Pothole Repair
Cold-patch pothole repair is the most common method for filling potholes. Durable, easy to use, and economical providing a lasting repair.
Step One – Clean the pothole of large loose rocks and debris.
Step Two – Pour and spread the cold-patch material into the pothole so that it is level and a half-inch above the surface. This allows room for the material to be compacted.
Step Three – Compact the cold patch pothole repair material using a hand tamper. You can also drive over it a few times for the same results.
Water Activation Cold-Patch Pothole Repair
There is a new water-activated pothole repair, similar to the cold-patch technology, and has a fast setting for a permanent pothole repair. This is quickly becoming more popular for maintenance crews and private property owners with a high success rate.
Step One – Clean the pothole of large loose rocks and debris.
Step Two – Pour and spread the cold-patch pothole repair material into the pothole so that it is level and a half inch above the surface. This allows room for the material to be compacted.
Step Three – Before compacting the material, spread a generous amount of water over the patch material and allow it to soak into the pothole repair material. The water activates the fast curing mechanism.
Step Four – Compact the cold patch pothole repair material using a hand tamper. You can also drive over it a few times for the same results.
What is the best method of pothole patching and repair?
The products and steps described above are a semi-permanent procedure for pothole repairs and are considered by experts to be the best procedure in place of doing a full-depth replacement to damaged areas. If a parking lot is too severely damaged, pothole repairs may not be an option.
Do cities pay for pothole damage?
While government entities are responsible for repair and safety in Texas, including pothole repairs, the law states that cities are not held responsible for any vehicle damage caused by potholes or other debris.
Can you sue for pothole damage to your car?
In Texas, you can sue the city where your car was damaged by potholes, and they may pay you for repairs to the car. However, as stated above, state law protects cities from being held responsible. You may also be wondering – can I claim for damage from a pothole, and if so, how do I claim for hitting a pothole that caused the damage?
Despite the state law, there are citizens and motorists that still want to proceed with filing a claim. To that end, the state has a formal process; the form and process are available on the Texas Department of Transportation’s website.
Closing Thoughts
The best thing a driver can do is drive with caution. Keep the recommended distance between you and the car in front of you. This will enable you to see potholes before you hit them. Slow down, and always use your headlights starting at dusk.
eSquared Asphalt Maintenance helps with pothole repairs in Waco and Temple, TX. Call 254-716-8685 today.
