If you have parking lots on your property, it is essential to make sure they are as appealing as possible. A well-maintained and visually appealing parking lot can help increase the value of your property. This blog post by Surface Solutions will provide you with tips on enhancing the appeal of your parking lots!
How to Repair & Maintain Parking Lot?
Seal coating and asphalt patching are two standard methods to repair and maintain parking lots.
Seal coating involves applying a sealant to the surface of the asphalt to protect it from weather damage and ultraviolet light.
Asphalt patching is the process of filling in cracks or holes in the asphalt. This can be done with a cold patch, a temporary fix, or a hot mix, a more permanent repair method.
Seal coating and asphalt patching are essential for maintaining a parking lot in good condition, extending its lifespan, and preventing further damage.
6 Handy Tips on Enhancing the Appeal of Your Parking Lots
You can do several things to enhance your parking lot’s appearance. Here are a few handy tips:
- Keep the parking lot clean and free of debris. This includes sweeping up leaves and litter and power-washing the asphalt to remove any built-up dirt and grime.
- Fill in any cracks or holes in the asphalt. This can be done with a cold patch, a temporary fix, or a hot mix, a more permanent repair.
- Seal coat the parking lot to protect it from weather damage and UV light. This will help to keep the asphalt looking new and prolong its lifespan.
- Asphalt patching is another essential way to keep your parking lot in good condition. This is a repair that should be done by a professional, as it involves heat-sealing the affected area.
- Maintaining proper drainage is critical to the longevity of your parking lot. Ensure that there are no low spots where water can pool and that the gutters and drains are free of debris so they can adequately channel water away from the asphalt.
- Line striping is aesthetically pleasing, but it also helps maximize your parking lot’s efficiency. Make sure to use bright, visible paint so that drivers can easily see where they should park.
If you have a parking lot that needs repair, contact a professional paving company for a free estimate. They will be able to assess the damage and recommend the best course of action. Asphalt companies offer various services, including seal coating, asphalt patching, and hot mix repairs. With their help, your parking lot can look its best and last for years.
Surface Solutions serving Seaford DE can help enhance the appeal of your parking lot by asphalt seal coating, asphalt patching, and crack filling. By regularly maintaining your pavement, you can prevent minor problems from becoming big ones. You can also avoid costly repairs.
When choosing an asphalt emulsion for your pavement, there are several factors to consider: the type of surface you’re paving, the climate, and even how heavy traffic will be on the road.
In this blog post, Surface Solutions will give you a rundown of the common types of asphalt emulsions, and we’ll tell you how each one ranks in terms of eco-friendliness. Let’s get started.
What is an Asphalt Emulsion?
Asphalt emulsions are mixtures of water and asphalt, and they’re used in various applications, including road construction, roofing, and even as adhesive. They are created by combining two substances that usually wouldn’t mix (like oil and water) with an emulsifier. This makes a stable mixture that can be used in various ways.
Types of Asphalt Emulsions:
Various types of emulsion are created by changing the proportions of water and asphalt and the type of emulsifier used. The most common types of asphalt emulsions are:
Cationic – In a cationic emulsion, the asphalt particles are charged with positive ions. This emulsion type is typically used for cold weather applications because it tends to break (or separate) at lower temperatures.
Anionic – In an anionic emulsion, the asphalt particles are charged with negative ions. This emulsion type is typically used for hot weather applications because it tends to break (or separate) at higher temperatures.
Non-ionic – In a non-ionic emulsion, the asphalt particles are not charged with positive or negative ions. This type of emulsion is typically used for chip seal applications.
The Most Frequently Used Material:
Petroleum-Based Asphalt Emulsions
Different projects will require different asphalt emulsions, but tar’s the most frequently used material. It is a by-product of the petroleum refining process, and it gives asphalt its black color. Tar is also the heaviest and most viscous type of asphalt, making it ideal for paving projects requiring a lot of traffic.
The downside of using tar is that it is carcinogenic; it can cause cancer. It is also difficult to remove from the environment once spilled. Moreover, the emissions from tar-based asphalt are among the most harmful to the environment.
Acrylic-Based Asphalt Emulsions:
These are an excellent alternative to tar-based products. They are made from petroleum, but they do not contain any carcinogens. Acrylics are also much lighter than tar, making them easier to remove from the environment. However, they are not as durable as tar and can be more expensive.
When considering the eco-friendly benefits, it is essential to remember that these products have a limited life span. Once they have been used, they must be disposed of properly to avoid harming the environment. It is vital to research eco-friendly asphalt emulsions to make the best decision for your project.
Water-Based Asphalt Emulsions:
Water-based asphalt emulsions are made with a water-based polymer derived from renewable resources. Water-based emulsions are eco-friendlier than their petroleum-based counterparts because they emit fewer greenhouse gases. They are also less likely to leach toxic chemicals into the environment.
Water-based emulsions are more expensive than petroleum-based emulsions, but they are more durable and have a longer life span.
Ending Note:
Using eco-friendly asphalt emulsions is a great way to save the environment while still doing the job. They help reduce pollution and conserve resources, and they can also extend the life of your pavement.
Schedule a free estimate with Surface Solutions in Cambridge, MD, to see how we can help you go green!
Your Roadmap To Asphalt Maintenance This Spring
Spring is here! It means cleaning up our properties after a long winter for many of us. But before you start power washing your deck, there are some asphalt maintenance tasks you should tackle first. Check out this roadmap by Surface Solutions to get your property in good shape for the spring and summer months!
Inspect the Pavement
Once the snow melts, take a good look at your asphalt. Look for cracks, potholes, or other damage over the winter months. You need to repair them as soon as possible to prevent cracks from widening and snow from melting in the cracks.
Clean it Up
After inspecting your asphalt, sweep away any dirt, leaves, or debris accumulated on the pavement. You can also power wash the asphalt to remove any built-up grime. Use a cleaner specifically designed for asphalt, as using a pressure washer with too much power can damage the surface.
Sealcoat if Needed
If you notice any cracks or other damage while inspecting your asphalt, you may need to sealcoat it. Sealcoating helps protect your asphalt from the elements and can extend its lifespan. While you can also use DIY sealcoating options, it’s better to leave this job to the professionals.
Clear the Edging
The edging around your asphalt may have shifted over the winter. Use a shovel or other tool to clear any dirt, debris, or plants growing into the asphalt. Check for cracks in the edging itself and repair them as needed.
Fill Cracks
Even tiny cracks can cause significant damage to your asphalt if left unaddressed. Fill any cracks you see with an appropriate sealant. Again, this is something best done by professionals.
Check Your Drainage
If water isn’t draining properly from your asphalt, it can cause big problems. Check gutters and downspouts to ensure they’re clean and functioning correctly. A blocked drainage system encourages water accumulation causing water to penetrate the surface and wreak havoc on the foundation.
Maintain a Regular Cleaning Schedule
It’s essential to keep your asphalt clean year-round, but it’s crucial in the spring. All the pollen and other debris sitting on your pavement all winter can cause staining and other damage. Pressure washing your asphalt is a great way to remove this build-up and keep your pavement looking its best.
This spring, following these asphalt maintenance tips will help you keep your pavement looking great and lasting for years to come. If you have questions or need help, contact a professional.
Spring is a time for renewal; it includes taking care of your asphalt driveway or parking lot. Surface Solutions offers residents of Ocean City professional asphalt maintenance and repair services this spring. We use superior asphalt paving and maintenance technology to deliver quality results. Schedule a free estimate with our team today and give your asphalt pavement the boost it desperately needs.
Deicers: The Technique, The Reasons, And The Debate
We all recall that dreaded feeling – stepping outside and seeing our car covered in a thick layer of ice. Every winter, the weatherman predicts one or two feet of snow, yet somehow, our driveway always turns into an icy tundra. You may be tempted to use salt on your driveway, just like the rest of us. But is it really safe to use salt on your driveway before you do? Can you recall how much salt you did use this winter? Let’s talk.
What is De-Icing?
When winter weather arrives, one of the initial steps to take is de-icing your property. De-icing is removing snow and ice from surfaces such as pathways, driveways, and parking lots. It is essential to de-ice these areas to prevent accidents and injuries.
The Importance of De-Icing:
Asphalt and concrete are both very durable materials, but they can be damaged if exposed to ice and snow for an extended period. Ice can cause the surface of these materials to crack, and snow can cause them to become covered in a layer of ice. This ice can be very heavy, and it can damage the material’s surface if it is allowed to stay in place for too long.
Ice can also make the surface more dangerous. It might cause people to slip and fall, as well as make it difficult for cars to drive on the surface. De-icing is vital in order to avoid these incidents and injuries.
Another factor to keep in mind is the road blockage caused by significant accumulations of snow. A plow can remove the snow from the road, but it cannot clear away the ice. It is occasionally required to dissolve the ice and clear the snow using salt.
The Technique:
There are a few different ways to de-ice your driveway. The most common technique is to spread salt on the surface. The salt will melt the ice and produce a slush that may be removed. You can also use a snowblower to clear away the slush or wait for the sun to thaw it.
Road salt trucks drive around and spread salt on the roads. It helps to keep the roads clear and safe for drivers.
Some More Techniques:
There are other ways to de-ice your driveway, but they are not as common. You can use a shovel to remove the snow and ice. This is a very time-consuming process, and it can be difficult to do if the ice is thick.
Another approach is to use a hose to spray hot water on the driveway. The ice will be melted and turned into a slush, which can then be swept away.
The Debate:
There is some debate over whether salt is safe to use on driveways. Some people believe that salt can corrode concrete and can damage asphalt. However, research has shown that salt is safe to use in limited quantities, and it is still the most effective way to clear ice from a driveway.
Ending Note:
The best way to ensure safety and avoid damage is to schedule regular maintenance visits from a professional paving contractor like Surface Solutions. Although snow removal is too far gone now, we will be around come winter. Meanwhile, sample our excellent asphalt paving, seal coating and crack filling services in Pocomoke City, MD.
Concrete Failure: Causes And Mitigation
Concrete is a popular choice for paving construction. It is strong, durable, and relatively inexpensive compared to other materials such as steel or masonry. However, concrete can also fail if not properly installed or maintained to combat environmental conditions.
Causes of Concrete Failure
Surface Solutions will look at the causes leading to substantial loss. We’ll also discuss ways to mitigate these problems and ensure that your paving construction project is successful!
1. Carbonation
A common cause of concrete failure is carbonation. It occurs when the concrete combines with carbon dioxide, which reacts with the calcium hydroxide in the concrete to form calcium carbonate. This process can weaken the concrete and lead to cracking or spalling. To prevent this from happening, it’s essential to use a good-quality sealer on your concrete paving project. It will protect the pavement from carbonation contributing factors like moisture and oxygen.
2. Chloride Contamination
Another cause of concrete failure is chloride contamination. Chlorides are present in many materials used in construction, including salt, seawater, deicing chemicals, and some types of aggregate. When these chlorides come into contact with concrete, they can corrode the reinforcing steel bars or rebar. It can cause the pavement to crack and crumble. To prevent this from happening, it’s essential to use chloride-resistant materials in your concrete paving project.
3. Fly Ash
Fly ash is another material that can cause concrete failure. Fly ash is a byproduct of coal combustion, and it can be present in both ready-mixed concrete and precast concrete. When fly ash gets wet, it expands and can damage the concrete. To prevent this from happening, it’s essential to use fly ash that has been treated to resist moisture expansion.
4. Additives
Additives for setting are another potential cause of concrete failure. These additives are used to speed up the hardening process of concrete, but they can also make the concrete more susceptible to cracking. It’s essential to use the right amount of setting additives and carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid it.
5. Rebar Corrosion
Rebar corrosion is another common cause of concrete failure. Rebar is made of steel, and when it erodes, it can cause the concrete around it to crack and crumble. It’s essential to use corrosion-resistant rebar or coat the rebar with a protective material to prevent this from happening.
6. Design Failure
Design failure is another possible cause of concrete failure. It happens when the design of the substantial paving project is not strong enough to support the weight of the traffic that will be using it. It’s essential to work with a qualified engineer who can help you create a design that will be strong enough to support the traffic you expect.
Ending Note
So, there you have it! Concrete can be an excellent material for your paving construction project, but it’s important to consider the potential causes of failure and how to mitigate them. If you’re in the Ocean City area and would like more information or a free estimate, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Surface Solutions.
We look forward to hearing from you soon!
Bollards are a vital part of security for any commercial property. They provide a physical barrier to prevent unauthorized access. Installing bollards is a job best handled by professionals like Surface Solutions.
What are Bollards?
They are short and vertical posts that block vehicular or pedestrian access to an area. Bollards are usually made of metal or plastic and can be permanent or removable.
You can find bollards in various settings, including parking lots, sidewalks, driveways, and even inside buildings near elevators and stairwells. There are three primary types of bollards:
- Removable bollards: used for temporary work zones provide a visual and physical barrier. They inform drivers and pedestrians of the area’s restrictions and are easy to remove when the work is complete.
- Fixed bollards: these are permanently installed and cannot be moved. They are used to restrict access to a particular area or prevent collisions, such as shopping plazas in traffic-heavy areas.
- Collapsible bollards: built into the ground can be easily retracted or lowered to allow access when needed. Otherwise, they are hidden, making them less of an eyesore.
Why Bollards?
Safety bollards are a common sight to see, and there are several good reasons for that. Here are just a few:
Decorative Additions
On a commercial property, you can utilize decorative bollards to enhance the look of your building or plaza. There are a variety of styles to choose from, so finding the right ones for your space is easy. And, since they can be made to match almost any color scheme, they’ll perfectly complement your existing décor.
Protection
They’re not called “safety bollards” for nothing! Bollards can provide a significant amount of protection for your property and employees. In an accident or attack, they will help to redirect traffic and minimize damage.
Lighting
You can customize your safety bollards to include lighting, making them even more effective. This is especially useful if your property is located in a dimly lit area or if you have evening events.
Why Not Bollards?
Safety bollards are not everyone’s cup of tea, and we can understand that. Here are a few considerations to remember before you rush into a decision:
Expense
You might assume that safety bollards can be an unnecessary expense, especially if your property has an existing boundary wall or fence. However, when you consider the potential damage you could suffer without them, the price is likely worth it.
Legal Procedures
Yes, you’re probably glad we mentioned that. In some cases, you may need to get planning permission before installing bollards. Check with your local Building Code Department to be sure.
The Takeaway
Safety bollards are an effective and necessary way to protect your property, but they’re not necessarily for everyone. If you’re on the fence about installing them, weigh all of the pros and cons before deciding.
At Surface Solutions, we offer reliable service and quality installation of safety bollards for commercial properties in Salisbury, MA.
4 Ways To Manage Your Cracked Concrete Driveway
If you’re like most people, your concrete driveway takes a beating during the winter. Snow and ice can quickly damage concrete, leading to unsightly cracks and potholes. If you’re looking for a way to repair your concrete driveway, read on!
Surface Solutions will discuss some tips for fixing cracks and holes in your driveway in this blog post.
What Causes Damage to a Concrete Driveway?
Your concrete driveway is constantly exposed to the elements, which can cause all sorts of problems.
The most common culprits for damage to a concrete driveway are:
- Freeze/thaw cycles: Water expands when it freezes, putting pressure on the concrete and can cause cracking.
- Inadequate concrete mix: If it is too weak, it won’t withstand the weight of cars and trucks driving over it.
- Improper installation: If the concrete is not installed correctly, it can settle and crack.
- Subgrade problems: An improperly compacted subgrade can lead to cracking and settlements.
Should You Repair?
If you find cracks or holes less than a 1/4 inch wide in your driveway, you can probably repair them yourself. You can stock up on materials from your local hardware store and patch or fill the cracks or holes following the instructions on the packaging.
However, keep in mind that these crack fillers are not waterproof, so they may not be a long-term solution. Also, too many patchwork jobs will ruin the aesthetics of your driveway.
Should You Resurface?
For issues such as large cracks more expansive than a 1/4 inch, significant settling, or a change in the level of your driveway, it is likely time for a resurfacing job. This involves removing the old concrete and replacing it with fresh material.
You will need to hire a professional for this job. It’s a complicated process that requires proper training to avoid further damage. You can follow the same procedure for problems like spalling, which is the flaking or chipping of concrete.
Should You Slabjack?
Do you feel like your concrete driveway is sinking beneath your feet? This can result from poor compaction when the driveway was first installed, or it may have been caused by shifting soil or erosion over time.
Slabjacking is a process in which we inject a mixture of cement, sand, fly ash, and other additives under the concrete slabs. This raises the slabs and restores the level surface.
Should You Replace?
You can only put up with a run-down concrete driveway for so long. If it has suffered damage to the point where it is no longer level or safe, you may need to restructure the entire pavement.
From the moment you begin noticing large cracks in the concrete, a few alarm bells should be going off in your head. This is a sign that the driveway is no longer structurally sound and needs immediate replacement.
Conclusion
Did you find this simple guide helpful? If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Surface Solutions.
We specialize in concrete repair in Seaford, DE, and would be happy to help you get your driveway back into tip-top shape!
Indicators Of A Much Needed Pavement Restriping
Chances are, if you’re a property owner, you’ve noticed the lines on your pavement starting to wear thin and fade. You may even have experienced a few “close calls” when driving or walking on your property. It’s time for pavement restriping!
If you’re lucky, these signs will appear before the pavement becomes too deteriorated and needs to be replaced entirely. Property should recognize these common symptoms to save money and time.
Take help from this post by Surface Solutions, a trusted and experienced provider of pavement markings and maintenance services, to know the top indicators that your pavement needs to be restriped:
Flaked and Chipped:
When the paint on your pavement begins to chip and flake, it’s a sign that the surface is no longer protected. It exposes the asphalt beneath and causes it to deteriorate more quickly. The leading cause of this is usually improper surface preparation before the initial painting.
Preparing a surface is key to a good paint job – it can be done by power washing or sandblasting the surface to remove any dirt, oil, or other contaminants. This step allows the paint to better adhere to the pavement and creates a smoother finish.
Faded:
The lines on your pavement act as important visual cues for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. When they start to fade, it can be difficult for people to know where they’re supposed to go. It can lead to accidents and injuries.
The sun’s ultraviolet rays can cause the paint on your pavement to fade and become less visible. It might be difficult to tell that the lines need to be repainted just by looking at them – sometimes, they’ll look like faded patches on the ground.
Call a professional if you’re not sure whether or not your lines need to be repainted. They’ll be able to assess the situation and let you know for sure.
Worn:
Another indication that your pavement markings need to be refreshed is if they appear worn. It is usually most evident in high-traffic areas, where the lines have been rubbed away by car tires over time.
The wear and tear could be due to the paint used or simply because the lines are old and need to be redone. Weathering, traffic, and other environmental factors can also play a role in how quickly the lines wear away.
What Should You Do?
If you notice any of these things happening on your street, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local government officials and let them know that you would like to see a pavement restriping project scheduled in your neighborhood!
If it is your private property, you can also contact a paving company to come and restripe your road.
It may take some time and effort, but it will be well worth it when your road looks revitalized and welcoming.
Surface Solution is your safest and most effective option for pavement restriping and markings. We offer a complete range of services to keep your parking lots, roadways, and private streets in Cambridge, MD, looking their best.
How Does The Sun Affect Your Asphalt Driveway?
The sun is a massive ball of gas that generates heat, light, and energy. And while it fills us with warmth during the day, exposure to intense solar radiation can affect asphalt surfaces in ways that are not so positive.
While asphalt is coated with special additives that protect it from UV exposure, these protective barriers will be worn off with time. When the coating wears away, exposure to intense sunlight will have specific effects on untreated asphalt driveways.
Surface Solutions will help you look at what those effects are and how you can prevent them or fix them if they happen anyway.
Loss of Flexibility and Potholes Formation
Sun rays are harmful to asphalt as they break down the tiny particles that bind asphalt together, making it more susceptible to cracking and breaking apart. The effects may not be visible overnight, but the driveway will become less flexible and more likely to develop potholes over time.
Prevention: Gravel base under asphalt layer and proper project planning.
Loss of Aesthetics & Discoloration
Sun rays can cause color pigmentation for black or grey asphalt surfaces. Over time, the surface will lose its color and start looking faded. As a result, your once beautiful black asphalt driveway will look like a gray slab with no shine at all!
Prevention: Ensure that sealcoating is done every 2-3 years or as needed.
Sun Rays & Altered Surface
The heat generated by sun rays can cause certain parts of your asphalt driveway to expand and contract at different rates. Eventually, this causes the surface to become uneven, leading to cracks and potholes formation.
Prevention: Seal your asphalt driveway every two years.
Discoloration & Degradation of Bitumen
As if the discoloration is not enough, sun exposure can also lead to bitumen degradation, causing it to lose its ability of adhesion to aggregate (rocks/gravel). This process may vary depending on various factors like material used, type of sealer applied, local weather conditions, etc.
Prevention: Ensure that your asphalt driveway gets sealed every two years or as needed and use high-quality bitumen.
Internal Damage to the Asphalt Surface
Exposure of your asphalt driveway to UV rays can lead to oxidation that can cause internal damage to the material. This is one of the leading causes behind fading and loss of sheen, which makes it look unattractive and weakens its ability to support the weight.
Prevention: Seal your asphalt driveway every two years or as needed to prevent these harmful effects and look after its external and internal integrity.
If you’re looking for a professional service to help with your asphalt driveway in Pocomoke City, MD, reach out to Surface Solutions and get a free quote now!
Crack Filling – DIY or Leave It To The Pros?
Have you recently glanced out into your driveway and noticed it could use crack filling? Crack filling will be required if you want to keep your driveway in good condition for as long as possible.
It will give your driveway some added protection by covering any small cracks with the potential to turn into large cracks. Plus, sealcoating will prevent water from seeping into the driveway and protect the asphalt from UV rays and spills from gasoline and oil.
There are benefits to filling the cracks in your driveway, but should you do-it-yourself or leave it to the professionals in Ocean City, MD?
This blog post by Surface Solutions compares the pros and cons of both options so you can make the right decision:
Pros and Cons of DIY Crack Filling
The biggest advantage is that you can save a significant amount of money because you don’t need to employ anybody to do it. You’ll simply need to purchase the necessary equipment and materials. This could be a good option for those individuals on a tight budget.
Since you’re relying on yourself, you don’t have to be concerned that the contractor will not arrive on time or at all.
Of course, there are certain drawbacks to DIY crack filling. You’ll need to learn if you have never done it before. Furthermore, it will take time and effort. If you don’t have the extra time to fill the cracks in your driveway, you could end up rushing and not doing a proper job.
Pros and Cons of Professional Crack Filling
The contractors will have the necessary skills and experience to do the project effectively and in the least amount of time. Employees will be well-versed in the procedure and the materials and equipment that should be used to do the task correctly. They can tell you how long it will take, how much it will cost, and when you will be able to use your driveway.
Furthermore, you’ll discover that you’re not only paying for the materials but also for the time and experience of the professionals. Indeed, this will be more expensive than doing it yourself. However, at least you can be confident that the job is done correctly.
When hiring a contractor for crack filling, you’ll have to put in the time and effort to find the right contractor. After all, you’d want to ensure they have the experience and reputation needed to do a great job.
Wrapping Things Up!
If you don’t have the time or experience to fill the cracks in your driveway, leave it to us. At Surface Solutions, serving Ocean City, MD, our professionals can give your driveway the high-quality attention it deserves.
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3523 Meadow Bridge Rd, Eden, MD 21822
410-896-1651
MHIC# 133266
Opening Hours
| Monday | 7:30AM - 8:00PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30AM - 8:00PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30AM - 8:00PM |
| Thursday | 7:30AM - 8:00PM |
| Friday | 7:30AM - 8:00PM |
| Saturday | 10:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Sunday | 9:00AM - 5:00PM |