CONCRETE SERVICES

New Concrete Construction

A new concrete parking lot offers a level, stable surface for both vehicles and pedestrians. With its durable and long-lasting material, it is able to withstand heavy traffic, weather conditions, and general wear and tear.

The smooth surface provides a visually appealing look that makes a great first impression on visitors. Although upfront costs may be greater than asphalt, the cost and ease of maintenance and repairs more than make up for it in the long run. Overall, a new concrete parking lot is a practical and reliable addition to any commercial property.

Crack Filling & Expansion Joint Caulking

Two essential maintenance practices for concrete parking lots are crack filling and expansion joint caulking. Cracks and expansion joints allow moisture to penetrate the underlying layers, resulting in damage to the concrete and eventual pavement failure.

To protect the underlying structures it is important to inspect for any cracks or gaps in the expansion joint on a regular basis. This will prevent water, debris and dirt from getting trapped in the cracks and causing further damage. These practices are cost-effective and can extend the service life of the concrete parking lot significantly.

Grinding, Shot Blasting & Sandblasting

Grinding, shot blasting, and sandblasting are all common methods of preparing a concrete parking lot for resurfacing or coating. Grinding is a service we perform to smooth out uneven surfaces or rough spots on concrete, and is a useful method in preventing trip hazards. This is usually done with a machine that uses rotating blades to grind away the concrete, thus creating a smooth and level surface for the parking lot.

Shot Blasting can be an effective method for preparing a concrete parking lot, warehouse floor or parking garage surface by using steel shots to remove any dirt, stains, and roughness, leaving a clean and even surface behind. Our self-contained Shot Blasting System is a dust-free solution to ensure the highest environmental standards are adhered to.

Sandblasting uses high-pressure streams of sand or other abrasive material to strip away any existing coatings or stains on the concrete. This can be extremely helpful for line removal if you are needing to modify the parking lot markings you currently have in your lot. Depending on the condition of the concrete and the desired final result, any of these methods can be effective in preparing a concrete parking lot for repair or renovation.

Removal & Replacement

Although it can be a complicated and time-consuming process it may be more cost efficient in the long run to remove and replace your parking lot with a newer and better-quality surface. The first step involves breaking up the existing concrete and removing it from the site. This usually requires the use of heavy machinery such as jackhammers, excavators, and concrete saws.

Proper grading and leveling is the next step and is essential to ensure proper drainage. After the site has been prepared it is time for the new concrete parking lot to be poured. This involves laying a base layer of gravel or crushed stone, followed by a layer of concrete that has been mixed and poured into place. Another essential step is to make sure the concrete is leveled and smoothed to ensure an even surface.

After the concrete has been poured, it is necessary to allow it to cure for a period of time before any markings can be added and it can be safely used for pedestrians and parking. With proper planning, preparation, and installation, a new concrete parking lot can provide years of use and benefit to a property owner.

ADA Modifications & Installation

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) stipulates specific requirements for accessible parking spaces, including the number of spaces needed, signage, striping, and slope ratios. These modifications require careful planning and adherence to regulations.

When modifying an existing parking lot, it’s important to ensure that the spaces meet the ADA standards. In addition, installation of a new concrete parking lot requires proper grading, sub-base preparation, and concrete placement to ensure a level, durable surface. Hiring experienced contractors familiar with ADA regulations and concrete installation techniques can help ensure a successful project.

Benefits of a Concrete Parking Lot

Durability

Concrete is one of the most durable materials available. When constructed properly, it can withstand heavy loads, harsh weather conditions and frequent use for years and even decades without deteriorating.

One of the most significant advantages of concrete is that it has a compressive strength that far exceeds that of asphalt and other paving materials, making it a suitable choice for accommodating heavy traffic and commercial vehicles. By choosing a concrete parking lot, owners can expect a long-lasting and durable surface that can withstand the test of time and the pressure of regular use.

Low Maintenance

Concrete parking lots are known for their low maintenance requirements compared to other materials. Unlike asphalt parking lots, concrete does not require frequent seal-coating or repaving.

This can save time and money in the long run. Concrete also offers superior resistance to natural elements like rain, sunlight, and snow, making the need for repairs less frequent than other materials. This low maintenance requirement translates to cost savings for property owners and managers in terms of repair and replacement costs, as well as reduced downtime during repairs.

Enhanced Safety

Concrete parking lots offer enhanced safety features like better lighting, clear signage, and better visibility for drivers. They also offer enhanced safety due to their strong, durable surface that resists the wear and tear of constant traffic.

Unlike asphalt parking lots, concrete remains stable and leveled for a longer period of time which eliminates the potential hazard of potholes and cracks.

Additionally, concrete can be stamped or colored to provide a non-slip surface to prevent accidents caused by slipping. The increased safety provided by concrete parking lots overall makes it a great option for property owners looking into ways to enhance the safety of their parking lots.

Environmentally Friendly

Concrete parking lots are environmentally friendly in several ways. For starters, they are incredibly durable and have a long lifespan, thereby reducing the need for raw materials and energy consumption in the long run.

Additionally, concrete parking lots have high solar reflectance, meaning that they can reflect more sunlight and reduce urban heat island effect. This can help mitigate the impact of climate change and improve air quality in surrounding areas.

Lastly, concrete is a porous material that allows rainwater to seep through, reducing stormwater runoff and the risk of flooding. This also helps recharge groundwater and maintain healthy water systems. Overall, concrete parking lots offer a greener alternative for urban spaces.

A carefully thought out and well installed concrete parking lot can last several decades. While the upfront cost may be higher, the low maintenance cost and reliability of concrete make it a solid option for your parking lot. Adding parking lot striping to the lot can also improve organization and safety for drivers and pedestrians.

With proper maintenance, a concrete parking lot can continue to serve its purpose long into the future. From new concrete parking construction to complete removal and replacement, Firemans Paving Contractors is here to help with all of your concrete parking lot needs. Contact us today for a FREE estimate.