Month: November 2023

Concrete Services

Different Methods of Concrete Repair

Kevin Campbell

Concrete Repair Colorado Springs can be repaired in a variety of ways. The repair method chosen will depend on the type and extent of damage.

The material used for repair must make an integral bond with the base concrete to prevent shrinkage cracking. It should also be low w/c and have a high percentage of coarse aggregate to minimize chloride ingress.

Concrete Repair

Many different methods can be used when repairing concrete. The best approach will depend on the crack’s severity and the concrete type. The surface of any crack you are repairing must be clean and dry before starting the repair process. This will help the concrete patch to adhere better and last longer.

One of the most common methods for repairing concrete cracks is routing and sealing. This involves enlarging the crack and filling it with sealants. The types of adhesives used can include silicones, epoxies, or urethanes. This method is most often used for dormant cracks, but it can also be used for active cracks if the correct type of filler is used.

This is a very cost-effective method of repairing concrete cracks. However, it is recommended for use on only a few wide cracks. A drill and cutting tool are required for this method. The drilled holes are then filled with a joint sealant. A good quality concrete supply is important to ensure you get the right sealant.

Another method of repairing cracks in concrete is by using a technique called stitching. This is done by drilling holes on both sides of the crack and placing large staple-looking metal units into these holes. These units are then anchored to the concrete with epoxy. This is a very effective method of repairing concrete cracks and can be used for active and dormant cracks.

In addition to these crack repair methods, there are several ways to prevent them from coming back in the future. Proper drainage systems are important to any driveway, sidewalk, or patio. This will reduce water levels, which will stop the cracks from growing. This will also keep moisture out of the cracks, preventing further damage to the concrete.

If you are repairing a cracked concrete section, using a product specifically designed for vertical and overhead concrete repairs is a good idea. These products have a thicker consistency and create a stronger bond on vertical surfaces. They can be sanded or painted for a more attractive finish.

The epoxy injection method offers a fast and straightforward repair solution for structural cracks. Although the procedure will vary depending on the structure, it generally involves prepping the concrete surface, installing injection ports, injecting, and removing the ports. The type of injection resin required varies by the size and depth of the crack and should be low in moisture content to prevent water entry that could cause further damage or even more cracking.

Before beginning, the crack must be cleaned. A high-pressure water jet or wire brush may remove dirt and debris from the surface of the crack and the concrete beneath. The crack should then be widened to create a V-shaped profile to aid in bonding with the epoxy. The crack in a concrete slab should also be restressed with an anchor bolt or metal strapping.

Surface ports, short rigid-plastic tubes with a flat base that serve as convenient entryways for the injection materials, are installed on the concrete surface adjacent to the crack. They can be spaced an inch apart for each inch of wall thickness or, as a rule of thumb, per inch of crack width. Sealboss 4500 crack-sealer epoxy paste is applied as a surface port adhesive and topped with a clean cap.

Injection begins at the lowest port and continues until epoxy begins to ooze out of the port above it, which is a visual indication that the crack is full to that point. Then, the first port is plugged, and the injection continues at the next port until the entire crack is filled.

The primary benefits of injection are that it effectively seals the crack to prevent harmful moisture from entering and monolithically welds the rebar together. While many believe that structural welding is the most important result of the repair, the sealing properties are often just as important. This is because the process protects the reinforcing from premature deterioration.

Hydraulic cement is an ideal solution for repairing holes and cracks in concrete structures. It can be used on various surfaces, including basement walls and floors, outdoor walkways, and swimming pools. It creates a watertight seal that keeps leaks from coming through the surface of the concrete. While hydraulic cement is a useful tool in the home, if you need to repair large areas of your foundation, you should contact a professional for a permanent solution.

This type of cement sets and hardens when mixed with water in a process called hydration. Most concrete structures we come into contact with are made with this type of cement. It is also possible to modify this material with additives to improve its performance, such as greatly reduced curing and setting time, the ability to be used underwater, or increased strength.

The basic hydraulic cement is a dry powder that mixes with water to become a liquid that forms and hardens the concrete structure. It can be used in many applications requiring strong, water-resistant concrete, such as filling cavities, making casts, or anchoring bolts and equipment. The hydration process is controlled by the temperature of the water, which allows for rapid application in situations where time is critical.

Various additives can be used to alter the properties of this material, such as modifying the water content for different climates or conditions or adding plasticizers that make it more flexible. Some types of hydraulic cement are designed for use in marine environments, where they can withstand moderate sulfate attack. Other versions are used to repair concrete structures exposed to high sulfate levels, such as bridges and dams.

It is important to prepare the surface by removing any loose debris or dust when using this material. It is also necessary to blend the material well, as it should have a heavy putty consistency. The best method is to mix it in a mechanical mixer, following the manufacturer’s recommendation for water content and the addition of additives.

Concrete bonding agents are adhesives used to help different concrete layers adhere. They are applied to the old concrete surface before patching or installing a new overlay or coating. This ensures that the new layer is bonded to the old one, which makes the entire structure stronger and more durable.

Before applying any bonding agent, the surface of the old concrete slab must be completely clean. This means brushing, vacuuming, or dusting away dirt, grime, or other debris on the old layer. In addition, the concrete should be pressure-cleaned to remove any grease or oil that may be present on the surface. Finally, any steel reinforcement that may be exposed on the surface of the old concrete should be protected with anti-corrosion slurry.

Many different types of bonding agents are available on the market, each with unique properties and uses. For example, cementitious bonding agents are great for concrete repair as they offer high strength and durability. On the other hand, acrylic latex bonding agents are ideal for fiddly jobs and work well with concrete surfaces like stucco or masonry.

Applying a concrete bonding agent must first be mixed with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This is important, as the consistency of the bonding agent will determine how effective it is. In addition, it is crucial to follow the drying time of the bonding agent, as failure to do so can result in a weak bond between the concrete and the new surface.

Once the bonding agent has been properly mixed, it can be applied to the old concrete surface using a brush or trowel. It should be applied liberally and evenly, covering the entire area receiving the new overlay or coating. Depending on the bonding agent chosen, it may take a few minutes and several hours to dry. Once it has dried, the new surface can be coated or laid as desired.

Concrete Repair
Concrete Services

How to Properly Repair Your Concrete

Evelyne Carlson

Concrete repair is now much faster and less invasive than it used to be. In the past, mudjacking was the only way to raise sunken concrete areas.Concrete Repair

A successful concrete repair depends on several factors, including a thorough condition evaluation, determining the cause of deterioration, and selecting appropriate repair methods and materials. This process includes destructive and nondestructive inspections and laboratory chemical and petrographic analysis. Contact Top Coat Technicians for professional help.

The first step in extending concrete life is recognizing when it’s time for repairs. The most common signs include structural movement, cracking, deterioration, and sunken areas.

In most cases, concrete repair requires removing the damaged material without damaging the sound concrete below. The most effective removal method is a light-weight 15 lb. electric or pneumatic chipping hammer that removes only the surface of the damaged concrete to expose the sound concrete below. It’s important to use this type of tool with a chisel or similar tool to break up any re-bar or reinforcement that may be left behind.

The next step is preparing the concrete for the new repair material. The concrete surface should be cleaned thoroughly and saturated with water to ensure it is ready to accept the new material. Concrete surfaces should also be inspected and the voids, blowholes and pits noted. It’s recommended that a specialized concrete repair material be used to fill any open or active voids.

If a repair is to be made with a topical material, it’s important that the concrete is dry and free of any contamination that could prevent the topical materials from adhering or penetrating the surface. Grit blasting or other methods may be necessary to achieve this. If the concrete has corrosion, it’s critical that any reinforcing steel be cleaned to ensure the proper condition for bonding with the new repair material.

When choosing a concrete repair material, its constructability, pumpability, rheology and cure time should be considered. These properties influence the way the repair is installed, such as form-and-pour concrete, pre-placed aggregate, tremie concrete or dry pack repairs. It’s also important to consider how fast the concrete can be placed and set.

For a quick and cost-effective solution to repair sinking or sunken concrete, PolyLevel is an easy-to-use, noninvasive, aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting system. Unlike traditional methods that require injection holes, this system uses a two-part polyurethane polymer that’s injected beneath the sinking concrete through a pencil eraser-sized hole and expands into a structural foam that compacts and lifts the concrete slab to its original position. It’s quick, noninvasive, aesthetically pleasing and lasts up to 20 times longer than traditional methods.

Repairing Cracks

Concrete cracks must be repaired properly to prevent further movement and the loss of the structure. A good quality concrete repair material is required to ensure the cracks remain bonded and not loose. It is important that the conditions are right for concrete placement, including temperature and moisture levels. It is also essential that the correct type of concrete patch or concrete repair product be used for each application. The ideal concrete repair material will have a long life span, be easy to use, and provide superior durability.

The first step in the concrete crack repair process is to clean the crack area and remove any debris from the crack. Leaving any grit or gravel in the crack will inhibit proper adhesion of the repair materials and may cause the repair to back out.

Once the crack has been cleaned, a bonding agent should be applied to the entire length of the crack. A polymer-modified concrete repair material is recommended for this purpose. These products have a high bond strength and are often more durable than portland cement. They are also designed to resist oil and salts, and will typically withstand freezing temperatures.

For smaller cracks that are 1/8-inch wide or narrower, an epoxy or latex patching material can be used. These products have good adhesive properties and can be easily applied to the surface of the existing concrete.

For larger, more serious cracks, a method known as drilling and plugging is used. This is a cost-effective solution that is suitable for cracks that are running in straight lines. In this procedure, a hole the length of the crack is drilled and then grout is passed down the hole. This creates a grout “key” that locks the crack and reduces further movement of the concrete sections.

If the cracks are running vertically, they can be stabilized by using a chemical epoxy injection. This technique is expensive and requires a skilled contractor. It is not a viable solution for active cracks that are moving, however. This type of repair should be considered a short-term fix and should be followed by resurfacing the concrete to improve its appearance.

Filling Holes

Concrete repair can include patching small holes, repairing surface wear and resurfacing or levelling sagging concrete slabs. It can also involve re-colking or sealing joints and repairing spalling. It is important to address any problems with concrete as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration and avoid serious structural damage.

Thoroughly clean the area to be repaired by sweeping or vacuuming debris from the area and wiping it down with a damp rag. If the hole is deep, use a cold chisel to break up and remove any loose concrete. Then dig out the damaged section and flush it thoroughly with water from a hose.

The right mix of material is essential for the correct repair to be made. The material must be compatible with the existing concrete, able to be placed using the intended installation procedure and capable of performing the desired function without significant loss of strength, stiffness or durability. A good mix will also be easy to work with – it should flow easily and have a desirable slump. Other important properties are pumpability, rheology and cure time.

A concrete repair mix will also vary depending on the type of repair to be carried out. For example, if the structure is to be returned to service quickly, it will be important for the repair mix to have a low water content and rapid set. This will reduce the amount of mixing required and shorten the curing time, allowing the structure to be put back into service sooner.

There are many different products available for concrete repair including caulks, vinyl concrete patches and self-leveling concrete sealants. However, they will not give the same results as professionally mixed concrete. In addition, they may not last as long and they are not ideal for large areas of damaged concrete.

For example, PolyLevel is an innovative product that uses a two-part polyurethane to fill voids and lift sunken concrete. It is injected underneath the concrete through a pencil eraser-sized hole and expands to create a stable structural foam. This solution fixes the underlying problem of soil not being compacted properly and is quick, noninvasive and aesthetically appealing.

Repairing Sunken Areas

While it may seem tempting to use quick fixes like filling in cracks or using concrete patch mixes to repair sunken areas, these methods are often only temporary bandages that don’t address the underlying cause of the problem. For long-lasting results, it’s important to hire well trained and experienced concrete repair contractors that have the expertise to properly assess the damage and select the appropriate repair method.

During the concrete repair process, all existing concrete must be cleaned thoroughly of any dirt, debris or oil. This must be done before applying the patch mix or new concrete. Often this is done by brushing and scrubbing with water or a power washer. It’s also important that the area is completely dry prior to placing the concrete. Contractors don’t have the time to wait for Mother Nature to do her job so they will usually use concrete sprayers or power nozzle attachments on their equipment to speed up the drying process.

The next step is to apply a bond coat to the damaged surface. This must be done so that the repair material bonds to the existing concrete and does not loosen or fall off during the curing process. Several different types of bond coats are available, including mortar mixes with portland cement, latex emulsions mixed with portland cement or epoxy resins. Several hardware stores sell liquid chemical additives that can be added to concrete to help it bond to itself and old work.

Once the bond coat is applied and the concrete mix is placed, it’s necessary to use a vibration machine to compact the concrete. This will ensure a dense, smooth finish that is strong and durable. It’s also important to pay attention to concrete consolidation around dowel bars and along the patch perimeter. This will prevent honeycombing in the concrete that reduces its strength and durability.

The increased concrete repair activities due to concrete durability failures have escalating impacts on the environment and society worldwide. They deplete natural resources and generate massive amounts of waste and carbon emissions. Engineers have a role to play in developing eco-efficient repair systems that attain specified performance levels at lower cost and environmental impact.

Pavement
Paving

Pavement Solutions

Geraldine Darling

Pavement engineering is a discipline with a long history. Its practitioners have contributed to more innovative infrastructure that reduces maintenance needs, costs, and carbon emissions.Pavement

To reduce fatigue cracking that leads to potholes, the stiffness of pavements must be increased without inflating construction costs. By incorporating Tensar inter-layer geogrids in new pavement design, stiffness can be enhanced without increasing asphalt or granular layer thicknesses. Keep reading the article below to learn more about Pavement Solutions.

Porous pavement allows water to flow through the surface of the pavement rather than over it, reducing the volume of stormwater runoff that is carried into drains and stormwater management structures. This type of pavement is designed to replace conventional impervious pavements and can be constructed using a variety of materials, including pervious asphalt, pervious concrete or interlocking pavers. This type of paving can be used for residential driveways, sidewalks, parking stalls and bike paths, but is also appropriate for low-volume traffic areas such as alleys.

Porous paving reduces the amount of sediment that would otherwise be transported to lakes, rivers and streams. It also increases the rate at which stormwater can be absorbed into soils and can provide groundwater recharge. In addition, it can help reduce peak discharge rates and may qualify for Water Quality and Recharge Credits (up to 80% TSS removal) if the storage layer is sized to hold the required Water Quality Volume and designed to dewater within 72 hours.

However, porous paving has some disadvantages. It is more expensive to install than traditional paved surfaces and requires aggressive maintenance with jet washing and vacuum street sweepers. It is not recommended for areas that receive heavy vehicles and high speeds, as it does not have the same load-bearing capacity as traditional paving. Additionally, it is not suitable for cold climates because infiltrating stormwater can freeze below the paving, causing frost heaving and spalling damage.

Additionally, this type of paving is prone to clogging and can become inefficient when left unattended. Porous paving needs to be regularly rinsed or vacuumed to prevent the accumulation of fine aggregates that can clog pores and reduce the system’s ability to infiltrate stormwater.

Another concern with porous paving is its abrasion resistance. While most porous asphalt and concrete surfaces are durable enough for pedestrian use, it is not recommended for areas with high turning traffic or snow plows, as the abrasion can cause the surface to break down and clog the pores. Also, a porous paving system is not ideal for applications where road salt and/or deicer will be applied because the chlorides can migrate through the surface into groundwater.

Permeable Pavers

Many different kinds of paving are available, each suited to specific situations. At one end of the spectrum are lightly trafficked country roads where asphalt is best suited, while at the other are major airport runways and aprons which require highly engineered concrete. In between are pavement solutions such as paved patios, sidewalks, and driveways made from a variety of materials. Some of these are impervious while others allow rainwater to seep through them.

Permeable pavers, also known as porous pavements or green pavement, redirect stormwater runoff into the ground instead of dumping it into stormwater sewers or onto neighbouring property. This helps restore the natural hydrological balance of a site, reducing the speed at which water flows off a surface and decreasing the volume of precipitation that gets washed into drainage systems.

These types of pavements usually consist of paving stones or open pore pavers with an underlying stone reservoir. Rainwater and precipitation enters the reservoir, where it slowly infiltrates into the soil below or is drained through a drain tile system. The underlying stone acts as a filter, clearing the water of pollutants and contaminants.

In addition, the permeability of these pavements allows for the growth of grass and other vegetation. This creates a more natural and attractive appearance for the surface while helping to reduce soil erosion, especially on sloped sites. In urban areas, permeable pavements help reduce the stress of stormwater on local streams and rivers by cooling the temperature of the runoff water and allowing more of it to infiltrate.

Unlike traditional asphalt and concrete, these types of paving are generally more comfortable for bicyclists because they allow the movement of bicycle tires without creating the uneven surface that can cause discomfort. These types of paving can be used on residential driveways, sidewalks, and even commercial parking lots.

The maintenance requirements of this type of paving are somewhat higher than for non-porous pavements, because the spaces between the pavers can become clogged with dirt, dust, and other debris. It’s important to maintain the integrity of the permeability by frequent cleaning using jet washing and vacuum street sweepers, and adding joint material (such as sand) regularly.

Asphalt Overlays

Asphalt overlays are a great solution for parking lots and other surfaces that have been damaged, but do not need full reconstruction. They help to restore the surface and improve the look, as well as reduce maintenance costs by extending the lifespan of existing pavement. However, it is important to keep in mind that an asphalt overlay will not solve all issues and may create new problems if used in the wrong situation.

An overlay is a new asphalt section (generally 1.5’’ to 2’’ thick) that is placed over the top of an existing surface. Think of it like putting a new tablecloth over an old one to hide all the scratches and stains from use. This type of repair works best for minor surface distress including rutting, cracks, divots and more.

The first step is to ensure the surface is clean and free of any loose debris, especially gravel that could get stuck in the paving process. Then, a machine known as an asphalt mill is used to shave the top of the existing asphalt surface. The mill will also remove any areas that have very poor underlying base. This is done to ensure the base is able to support the overlay.

Once the surface has been prepared, a uniform coat of SS-1H is applied to ensure proper adhesion between the old and new asphalt sections. This is a very important step that many below-standard contractors fail to do.

After the SS-1H is applied, the overlay asphalt material can be put down. It is recommended to pave the overlay at a minimum of 1″ thick. If the paving is too thin, it will cause severe damage to the existing surface over time.

If the asphalt has heavy cracking, it must be corrected before the overlay is laid or the cracks will reflect through the new surface within a short amount of time. It is also not a good idea to overlay an asphalt surface if the underlying subgrade slab is compromised at a lower level.

Despite some shortcomings, asphalt overlays are an excellent option for commercial properties that want to increase the longevity of their asphalt and avoid costly full reconstruction projects in the future. With the proper planning and an experienced team, an asphalt overlay can provide a beautiful and durable surface that will last for years to come.

Sealcoating

Seal coating is a cost-effective way to extend the lifespan of asphalt. It prevents oxidation and weather damage, while also making the pavement look like new. However, it is not a permanent solution, as the seal coat will need to be refreshed every two to three years.

Before sealcoating, the asphalt surface should be thoroughly cleaned. This step is extremely important, as asphalt sealer will not adhere to dirt or mud. Professional pavement contractors will use powerful cleaning equipment, such as blowers, rotary brooms, and sweepers, to remove these substances from the surface. Additionally, any asphalt repairs, such as potholes or cracks, should be patched before the sealcoat is applied. Finally, all vehicle fluids, such as oil, should be removed from the pavement surface.

The sealcoating process involves spraying a liquid mixture of water and asphalt onto the pavement’s surface. Workers then spread this material around the entire surface, including the edges. It takes 24 hours for the sealer to dry, and cars can not be driven on it during this time. The weather will have a significant impact on how long it takes for the asphalt to cure. If it is a hot, sunny day, the sealcoat will dry much faster than if it is a cold, cloudy day with high humidity.

There are many different types of asphalt sealers, including coal tar and acrylic polymer. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, but both provide effective results. Asphalt paving professionals will be able to recommend which type of sealer is best for your project.

Once the sealcoat is dry, it creates an impenetrable barrier on the surface of your asphalt, which protects the underlying layers from the elements. This includes UV rays, which can degrade asphalt and cause it to crack and crumble. Sealcoat also helps the underlying asphalt to stay flexible, so it can expand and contract with the weather.

Despite its benefits, sealcoating does not repair large cracks or potholes in your asphalt. These issues will need to be addressed with an asphalt resurfacing or other repair method. However, sealing your asphalt every two to three years can prevent further deterioration and help you save money on costly repairs in the future.