Question 1

Asphalt Crack Filling Basics | Houston, TX

Accepted Answer

Whether due to sloppy workmanship or the inclination of asphalt to expand and constrict during temperature fluctuations, cracks in your asphalt pavement are an inevitable occurrence. Cracks in the surface of the asphalt pavement allow water to seep down into the base and subbase, causing damage that results in potholes, a severe pattern of cracks known as alligator cracking and other deterioration. 
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Asphalt will develop cracks, but there is something you can do to minimize the potential for major damage and prolong the life of your asphalt pavement, saving money in the long run. It is very important to address the issue of cracks as quickly as possible. It is far easier and less expensive to fill cracks early than to deal with the potential major damage that a crack can cause.

– How Cracks in Asphalt Pavement Are Filled

The process of filling cracks in asphalt pavement begins with thoroughly cleaning the crack to be filled. This is often done with compressed air or a hot-air lance. All debris must be removed from the crack. A high-speed, motorized steel brush or wire wheel is often used to facilitate the process. Routing the crack with a motorized carbine-tipped flailing star may also be necessary to create an even, smooth surface for better adhesion of the crack filling material and to aid in future expansion and contraction issues.
After the crack is thoroughly prepared and cleaned, it must be dried. Compressed air is typically used to ensure that the inside of the crack is completely dry. At this point, the fill material can be inserted. There are fillers that are applied while cold, but there are also fillers that must be heated in a melting kettle or through other means of bringing the material to the required temperature. The determination to use a hot or cold crack filler will depend on the severity of the crack as well as whether it is working or non-working. Working cracks are those that are actively continuing to grow; non-working cracks are those that have reached their expansion limits.

As a full-service paving contractor, LDC Paving understands the different types of cracks that can develop in asphalt pavement as well as their usual causes. We are a Houston asphalt paving company and have the expertise to ensure that any cracks in your asphalt pavement are properly repaired so that you can prolong the life of your investment in pavement. In addition to asphalt crack repairs, we also offer asphalt and concrete paving, asphalt overlays, parking lot striping and pavement markings, sealcoating, speed bumps and bollard posts. We also install traffic signs and wheel stops. Our crews deliver superior work at reasonable rates. If you have more questions about Asphalt Crack Sealing Basics | Houston, TX, or would like to request a free quote, you can submit the online form or call (832) 640-7296.

Question 2

Paving or Sealcoating? | Houston, TX

Accepted Answer

At some point during the life of your asphalt pavement, you are going to notice that it is not as attractive as it once was. Perhaps the color has faded, leaving your pavement color an unappealing gray. 
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Perhaps you notice that there are a number of cracks that have developed in the pavement's surface. Perhaps there are low spots, soft spots or potholes. Regardless of what attracted your attention, you may be wondering whether you need paving or sealcoating.

Is Sealcoating the Solution?

Sealcoating may be the solution to your pavement woes if the damage is limited to a few small areas or your primary concern is the faded color. If the pavement does not show signs of widespread foundation destabilization, you will likely save money by having the damages repaired prior to sealcoating. Foundation damage typically manifests as potholes, alligator cracking or very wide cracks. If this type of damage is present over more than about 40 percent of the pavement, you will probably be better off to rebuild rather than repave or repair.

Is Repaving the Solution?

Widespread damage that does not point to a damaged foundation can often be addressed by repaving. One particularly noteworthy possibility is an overlay, which is a course of new asphalt that is placed over the existing pavement after repairs have been made. An overlay will look and last virtually the same as new asphalt pavement, but the cost is significantly less. Because repaired areas may be visible after sealcoating, overlays are ideal for subdivisions and commercial properties that require the best curb appeal possible.

Whether You Need Paving or Sealcoating, We Can Help

LDC Paving is an asphalt and paving contractor in Houston, Tx.  We offers a full range of pavement-related services to customers in the Houston metropolitan area and surrounding counties. Our services include asphalt sealcoating, asphalt paving and overlays, crack repair, pavement markings and parking lot striping, parking lot signs and speed bump installation. We also install and repair concrete parking lots, driveways, ramps, curbing and sidewalks. Our customers include many apartment complexes, retailers, municipalities, subdivisions, shopping centers, restaurants and hotels. We deliver exceptional results at competitive rates. If you would like to request a free quote, fill out the online form or call (832) 640-7296.
LCD Paving is the premier asphalt paving company in Houston, Tx!

Question 3

Why Your Asphalt Paving Contractor Should Be Insured

Accepted Answer

Have you ever wondered why insurance is such a thriving industry? Although there are some forms of insurance that are mandatory — such as bodily injury and property damage liability if you drive a vehicle in the state of Texas — other types of insurance are often voluntary. For example, if you do not have a mortgage on your home, you could probably skip homeowners insurance. While this could save you money, it could cost you in terms of your peace of mind. You might constantly be worrying about what would happen if you high winds damaged your roof or the neighbor's attempt to fry his Thanksgiving turkey resulted in a fire that spread to your property. The knowledge that you are protected from a financial disaster can make homeowners insurance a valuable product.

Why Your Asphalt Paving Contractor Should Be Insured- What Could Happen

Now imagine that you hire an asphalt contractor to perform work at your home or business. While working on your property, one of the contractor's workers suffers an injury, drives a piece of equipment into your building, causes an injury to one of your employees or damages a car belonging to one of your best customers. Who is going to pay for any medical bills, repairs or lost earnings that result from the actions of the contractor or his employees? If the contractor does not carry insurance, there is a very good chance that you will be the one footing the bills — one way or another. Perhaps the aggrieved party will file a lawsuit and the judge will find you liable for damages as well as the plaintiff's attorney fees and court costs. Perhaps your insurance company will cover all or some of these costs, but the company could "reward" you for not hiring an insured contractor by hiking your premiums substantially. In short, if your paving contractor is not properly insured, you could be placing your assets at risk.

Make Sure Your Contractor Has Sufficient Insurance

Although there are many types of commercial insurance that your contractor could carry, two types are vital. The first is workers' compensation; this only covers the contractor's employees, but it will pay for their medical expenses and lost earnings. The second type is general liability. General liability insurance covers a variety of events, including injuries suffered by people who are not employed by the contractor, failure of the work performed and damages to property belonging to you, your customers or your employees. Your contractor's general liability insurance should have a policy limit of at least $500,000 to provide you with sufficient peace of mind.
If the contractor has a commercial umbrella policy, consider it a bonus. Umbrella policies typically provide at least an additional $1 million in coverage and "kick in" when other types of insurance have reached their limits. For example, if the contractor's actions result in a fatality, the family could file a lawsuit and be awarded $750,000 by the judge. If the contractor's general liability policy had a limit of $500,000, the umbrella policy would cover the remaining $250,000. Without the umbrella policy, it is possible that you or your company could be liable for the difference.

LDC Paving is an asphalt paving company in Houston and we make safety a priority. Our crews take every precaution to ensure that the environment is safe for everyone, but we also carry sufficient insurance to provide our customers and our employees with the peace of mind that they need. We offer an extensive range of services, including asphalt paving and overlays, sealcoating, pavement markings and parking lot striping, asphalt and concrete repairs, speed bumps, concrete ramps, traffic sign installation and wheel stops. Submit the free quote form online or call (832) 640-7296 to receive a no-obligation estimate.

Question 4

Seal Coating: Proper Mix

Accepted Answer

The decision to select asphalt pavement for parking lots, streets, highways and driveways is a sound one. Asphalt pavement is economical and fast to install and repair, but it is also surprisingly durable and attractive. 
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However, asphalt pavement will not last forever. Corrosive chemicals, salt, automotive fluids and the sun’s rays can all contribute to the deterioration of asphalt pavement. If you want to slow the rate at which your pavement deteriorates, the best thing you can do is to ensure that your sealcoating is maintained properly. Sealcoating is not a permanent coating; fresh sealant will need to be applied periodically. Your con

tractor can tell you how often your particular pavement will require new sealcoating. However, it is equally important that your contractor uses the appropriate ingredients that are essential to a long-lasting, attractive sealcoating job.
Seal Coating: Proper Mix – Choose a Quality Sealant
Several manufacturers produce a wide range of sealants so that the correct sealant can be chosen for different needs. High-quality sealants may cost a little more, but they last longer and look better. A top-notch sealant might not be necessary if you are sealcoating a small expanse of pavement that is only used by a few pedestrians every week. However, if you are sealcoating a parking lot or the streets in a gated community, you should invest in a quality sealant. You will receive a better return on your money and the job will also be more visually appealing.
Seal Coating: Proper Mix – Make Sure Your Contractor Includes Sand in the Mix
Some people think that the addition of sand is merely an attempt to make the sealant cover more pavement, but that is simply not true. The sand is essential for a variety of reasons. It helps achieve a smoother finish, enhances traction and improves the durability of the sealcoating. However, the contractor must use the right amount of sand to make sure that the sealcoating has the proper consistency. In addition, he must choose sand with grains that are neither too fine nor too coarse.
Seal Coating: Proper Mix – Ask Your Contractor Whether Your Job Requires Additives
Sealcoating professionals can use additives for a variety of purposes. For example, additives can help ensure that the sand is distributed evenly throughout the sealant and held in suspension throughout the curing process. If the temperature of the pavement is extremely hot or nearing the minimum temperature for sealcoating, an additive can help counteract the problems presented by the temperature. Additives can be used if the relative humidity is high enough that the curing process would be adversely affected. Pavement that is in heavy shade may require the use of additives to expedite the curing of the sealcoating. Additives add little to the cost of the job, but they can make a world of difference in the durability and appearance of the sealcoating.
Is Mixing Sealant an Art or a Science?
Getting the correct sealcoating mix requires knowledge, skill, training, experience and instinct. Manufacturers issue recommendations, but these guidelines are very broad and do not cover every contingency. There is no substitute for experience when it comes to mixing sealants; the best mix can vary from job to job or from season to season.
LDC Paving is an asphalt paving company in Houston, TX and has the expertise to ensure that your next sealcoating job is of the best quality. We are a full-service paving contractor providing our services to municipalities, subdivisions, retailers, apartment complexes, restaurants, shopping centers, office parks and hotels in and around the Houston metropolitan area. We deliver exceptional work and superior customer service at affordable prices. Our services include asphalt repair, parking lot striping, asphalt paving and overlays, pavement marking and concrete repairs. We also install concrete ramps, concrete curbing, concrete driveways, concrete sidewalks and parking lots as well as traffic signs, speed bumps, wheel stops and bollard posts. If you have more questions about Seal Coating: Proper Mix, or would like a free, no-obligation quote, fill out our online form or call (832) 640-7296.

Question 5

Asphalt Paving & Dogs

Accepted Answer

The weather in Houston can be brutal in the summer. Temperatures routinely break 90 degrees Fahrenheit from June through August, and triple-digit temperatures occur fairly often. May and September often have numerous hot days as well. 
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Humans tend to take refuge in air-conditioned homes, offices and vehicles, but not every dog has that option. Unfortunately, many well-intentioned pet owners make the problem even worse by walking their dogs on asphalt pavement when the temperature is too high.
Hot Asphalt Can Harm Your Dog
A dog’s paw may look tough, but it is one of the most sensitive parts of a dog’s anatomy. The skin on the bottom of the paw is no thicker than the skin on the sole of your foot. Imagine the pain you would endure if you walked barefoot down an asphalt street on a hot afternoon in July. Your dog will suffer just as much pain, and unfortunately, its paws could suffer nerve damage that will never heal.
Asphalt Paving & Dogs – How Hot Is Too Hot?
The temperature of the air is not a reliable indicator of the temperature of asphalt pavement; the temperature of the pavement will be much hotter. For example, if the air temperature is just 77 degrees Fahrenheit, the asphalt’s temperature will be approximately 125 degrees — just short of the temperature required to fry an egg on the pavement. On days when the air temperature is in the low 90s, the temperature of the asphalt can exceed 140 degrees.
The best way to determine whether the pavement is too hot for your dog is to test it on your own skin. Try standing on the pavement barefoot or holding the back of your hand against the asphalt. If you cannot keep your skin in contact with the pavement for at least 10 seconds without discomfort, you should not allow your dog to walk on the asphalt pavement. Alternatively, you could purchase shoes for your dog to protect its paws the same way that your shoes protect your feet.
LDC Cares About Your Pets
LDC Paving is an asphalt contractor and we care about the health of our furry friends. We believe in creating a safe environment for our workers and customers as well as two-legged and four-legged visitors to the site. We are a full-service asphalt paving contractor in Houston offering a wide range of asphalt maintenance services, including asphalt paving and overlays, sealcoating, parking lot striping, concrete and asphalt repairs, grading, pavement markings and concrete curbing. We can install concrete ramps, sidewalks, traffic signs, speed bumps, wheel stops and bollard posts. Our crews take pride in delivering exceptional results at competitive rates. If you would like to request a free estimate, you can call us at (832) 640-7296 or complete our online form.

Question 6

Cost Benefits to Striping & Pavement Marking

Accepted Answer

Your parking lot is an important asset, so you probably take the appropriate steps to prolong its life. You have cracks filled quickly and have fresh 
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sealcoating applied periodically to protect the integrity of your pavement and its supporting foundation. However, if you are ignoring your pavement markings, it could be costing you money in some unexpected ways.

Annoying Your Customers or Tenants
Most humans have an innate need for order. They want to at least know the rules even if they choose not to follow them. If there are no stripes to define parking spaces, drivers will not be sure where they should park. Other drivers may park too near, making it difficult or impossible for them to enter their vehicles when they are ready to leave. Without pavement markings to direct the flow of traffic, drivers may be confused or distracted. Parking lots that lack proper markings are annoying enough, but they also increase the chances that vehicles will suffer dents and scrapes or be involved in an accident, exacerbating the annoyance that drivers feel. Annoyed customers may take their business elsewhere; annoyed tenants may refuse to renew their leases.
Cost Benefits to Striping & Pavement Marking  – You Could Be Fined or Sued
Your parking lot must be ADA-compliant and meet any local codes that are applicable. You could be fined for failure to comply. Lawsuits could arise due to your non-compliance, but you could also be sued if someone is injured on your property or has a car damaged as a result of missing pavement markings.
Cost Benefits to Striping & Pavement Marking  – You Could Be Driving Away Potential Customers or Tenants
Potential tenants or customers may judge you by the quality of your parking lot. If there are no parking spaces defined and no pavement markings, they may perceive you as uncaring or unprofessional. Unfortunately, you may never know how many people simply drove off without giving you a chance.
LDC Paving Specializes in Parking Lot Maintenance
Although LDC Paving is a full-service paving company in Houston, we specialize in parking lots of all sizes. We offer an extensive range of services, including parking lot striping, asphalt sealcoating, pavement markings, asphalt and concrete repairs, asphalt overlays, speed bumps, traffic sign installation, asphalt https://www.ldcpaving.com/services/asphalt-paving-overlays-houston-tx/, wheel stops and bollards. We deliver quality work at competitive rates. If you would like a free estimate, submit the online form or call (832) 640-7296.

Question 7

Concrete Curing Process

Accepted Answer

By weight, concrete is the most widely used man-made material in the world. 
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Its use goes back many centuries, and some of the earliest examples of concrete construction are still in existence today.

Concrete Curing Process – What Is Concrete?
The most common form of concrete used today consists of Portland cement, water and an aggregate that is usually composed of gravel and sand. The basic formula can be adjusted and further amended with chemical or mineral admixtures tailored to the intended use. Since concrete has a high compressive strength but low tensile strength, it is often reinforced with steel. The applications for concrete are varied and constantly increasing with new technology.
How Does Concrete Cure?
For concrete to achieve its maximum strength and durability, it needs to cure properly. Concrete cures through a process called hydration. During the hydration process, the cement goes through a chemical reaction that causes it to bond with the aggregate. Proper curing requires the concrete to remain damp. If concrete loses moisture too fast, the hydration process is halted and the concrete will not fully cure. Concrete that does not cure correctly will not achieve its maximum strength.
Many variables can affect the curing process, including proper mix, ambient temperature and wind. Concrete may “set” quickly, allowing it to be walked on within hours, but the curing process will continue much longer. Freshly poured concrete is often kept moist by covering it, dampening it occasionally or applying chemicals that slow the evaporation of water. In general, the slower that concrete cures, the greater its strength will be.
If you need concrete work, contact the professionals at LDC Paving. We are a full-service asphalt and concrete paving contractors serving the Houston metropolitan area and surrounding counties. Our services include concrete repair and patching, asphalt paving and overlays, asphalt repairs, asphalt sealcoating, parking lot striping and pavement markings, traffic sign installation, speed bumps and bollard installation. We are committed to delivering exceptional results at affordable rates. If you have more questions about Concrete Curing Process or would like a free quote, complete the online form or call (832) 640-7296.

Question 8

Sealcoating: Now Is The Perfect Time

Accepted Answer

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Asphalt sealcoating is an excellent way to extend the life of asphalt pavement and enhance its appearance at an economical cost. Sealants guard against premature deterioration caused by UV radiation and automotive fluids while simultaneously restoring color to faded asphalt. Because most property owners want to ensure that their pavements have a long life, many people are proactive about having sealants professionally applied, but they sometimes wonder whether there is a perfect time for sealcoating.
Sealcoating: Now Is The Perfect Time
All sealcoating manufacturers define the perfect time identically. They all state a set of ideal conditions that are rather narrow.
• Air and pavement temperatures of between 50 degrees and 70 degrees
• Wind speeds between 3 mph and 5 mph
• Overnight lows above 50 degrees
• No rain forecast for at least 24 hours following application
• Plenty of sunlight, i.e., cloudy days are not ideal
• Relative humidity of 50 percent or less
If you have spent much time in the Houston area, you are probably aware that the final condition rarely occurs. Historical weather data shows that the relative humidity in this area consistently averages more than 72 percent every month of the year. Furthermore, there are very few months with average highs below 70 degrees and overnight lows above 50 degrees.
Obviously, if sealcoating could only be applied when conditions were perfect, there would be very few asphalt pavements in the area protected by sealants. Sealcoating professionals know how to adjust to conditions that are not perfect. However, there are definitely some months that are better for applying sealcoating than others.
Which Months Are Best for Sealcoating?
In the Houston area, the best months for applying sealcoating are March, April, May, October and November. These are the months during which temperatures are closest to the ideals recommended by manufacturers. Naturally, this does not mean that sealcoating can only be applied during these months. There are occasional days in December, January and February with overnight temperatures that are sufficient.
From June through September, the opposite deviation from ideal can occur — daytime highs can soar well beyond the 70 degrees recommended by manufacturers. Of course, experienced contractors continue to apply sealcoating throughout the summer months and obtain excellent results. However, this does not mean that summer is the perfect time to apply sealcoating. It simply means that it is possible.
Why Weather Matters
The simple explanation is that sealants contain water that needs to evaporate during the drying process. Water evaporates slower as temperatures decrease, extending the curing time. If temperatures are too high, however, the evaporation process may occur too quickly.
Sunlight speeds the evaporation process. High levels of humidity slow evaporation, but a gentle breeze helps move the humid air away from the surface of the pavement to give evaporation a boost.
Proper evaporation is essential if the sealant is to look and perform as it should. The longer it takes for curing to occur, the longer you will need to restrict traffic on your pavement. In addition, the longer that the sealant remains in liquid form, the greater the chances are that the sand in the mix will fall out of suspension.
Trust LDC Paving for Your Sealcoating Needs
At LDC Paving, we understand the unique challenges faced when sealcoating in the greater Houston area — and we know how to overcome those challenges. LDC Paving is a full-service asphalt contractor offering a wide variety of asphalt and concrete services, including asphalt overlays, asphalt maintenance, crack repair, asphalt paving, parking lot striping, sealcoating and concrete repairs. We are known for the high quality of our work, our dedication to customer satisfaction and our affordable prices. If you would like a free quote, complete the online form or call (832) 640-7296.

Question 9

Commercial Asphalt Paving Requires Different Skills

Accepted Answer

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Most people would prefer to take swimming lessons from someone who could actually swim, have a veterinarian diagnose their pet’s ailment instead of relying on the opinion of an untrained neighbor or take their car to an auto shop rather than a coffee shop when repairs are needed. However, many commercial property owners assume that a contractor who can install a residential driveway will automatically have the expertise to handle a commercial asphalt paving project.
Commercial Asphalt Paving Requires Different Skills
A residential driveway will have few demands placed on it. It will not need to support a high volume of traffic and the weight of the traffic typically will be limited to passenger vehicles. Furthermore, a standard residential driveway is a relatively small expanse of pavement.
With commercial pavements, the volume of traffic will be greater. In many cases, the pavement may need to bear the weight of delivery trucks, recreational vehicles or even heavy equipment. The total square footage will also be much greater.
What all of this means is that an asphalt contractor has more to do to ensure that a commercial pavement will perform as it should. Everything from the type of soil underlying the pavement to the asphalt mix used for the surface course must be considered. There are also logistical issues to deal with, including the scheduling of the trucks delivering the hot asphalt, the deployment of the right equipment at the right time and the coordination of crew activities.
The larger the project, the more important it is to ensure that all pieces of the installation puzzle fit together seamlessly. This is the contractor’s job, but the skills required cannot be acquired without actual hands-on experience. Therefore, hiring an asphalt contractor for a commercial asphalt paving project who has never dealt with a job of comparable scope can have disastrous results.
What Are Some of the Things an Asphalt Contractor Considers for Commercial Paving Projects?
Experienced asphalt contractors know that there are many variables to evaluate when planning a commercial paving project. Here are just a few of these things.
• What type of soil will be under the pavement? Soils with high contents of clay or sand can require special attention.
• What is the best grade for the pavement? If the pavement does not have the proper slope, it will not drain properly.
• How deep should the base be? The base is the foundation supporting the pavement. If it is too weak, the pavement can sag or crack.
• What size and type of aggregates should be used for the base construction? If the aggregates are incorrectly chosen, there could be problems with water accumulating beneath the pavement or with obtaining sufficient compaction.
• How many layers of asphalt will need to be applied? Too few layers will result in the premature failure of the pavement, but too many layers will increase the costs unnecessarily.
• Which asphalt mix should be used? There are numerous asphalt mixes, including some custom mixes designed for specific functionalities.
Although all of these factors should also be considered when performing residential paving, the repercussions of getting one element wrong are much more severe for a commercial paving project. Experienced asphalt paving contractors knows how each element must perform as well as how different variations can affect the life and performance of the entire pavement.
Choose an Experienced, Reputable Contractor
When it comes to commercial asphalt paving, the most critical decision is your choice of a contractor. LDC Paving is a full-service asphalt paving company serving the greater Houston area. We have the skills and experience to deliver quality work and superior customer service at affordable prices. Our services include asphalt paving, sealcoating, asphalt overlays, parking lot markings, asphalt repairs, site work, speed bumps and concrete work. For a free estimate, call (832) 640-7296 or use the online form to submit your information.

Question 10

Sealcoating: Thick or Thin

Accepted Answer

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If you have asphalt pavement, having asphalt sealcoating professionally applied is a wise decision. Properly maintained sealcoating can often double the life of asphalt pavement. In addition, your pavement will look more attractive; seal coat covers minor imperfections in the surface of the pavement and restores faded asphalt to a rich, dark color. However, sealcoating can be a tricky material to work with, and if it is not applied correctly, the benefits can be lost.
Sealcoating: Thick or Thin
Since the earliest days of television, marketers have connected the word “thick” with product traits such as performance, luxury, durability, quality, protection and superiority. It is no wonder that many people believe that a thick layer of sealcoating would provide superior, long-lasting protection after paving asphalt. Thicker may be better when related to many products, but with sealcoating, thinner is actually superior.
Why Thinner Is Superior
The primary reason that thinner is superior when it comes to sealcoating has to do with evaporation. Sealants contain water, and this water needs to evaporate for the sealcoating to cure. Evaporation is often a problem in humid climates; the air can become so saturated with water molecules that it is difficult for additional molecules to force their way into the air. Furthermore, evaporation occurs at the surface of the liquid, so the deeper the water is beneath the surface, the longer it will take for evaporation to occur. With a thick coat of sealant, the surface may seem completely dry, but underneath, the sealcoating is still in its liquid state. This makes it prone to tracking, but it also allows the solid particles to fall out of the mix, degrading the quality of the sealcoating.
As the surface of the sealant dries, it forms a hard shell. However, under the shell, the sealant remains liquid. This allows cracks to form on the surface, and as the sealcoating continues to dry, the cracks will continue throughout the sealant. Furthermore, the sealcoating at the bottom of the layer will have difficulty bonding to the pavement. As a result, the sealcoating will be easily disturbed by rain and traffic, leaving numerous patches of pavement without any sealant. This is unsightly, but it also means that you will need to have more sealcoating applied much sooner than you should have needed a fresh application.
Sprayer or Squeegee?
The debate over whether a sprayer or squeegee allows better control of the sealant’s thickness has been raging for decades. The simple truth is that a professional can apply a thin coat with either, while an amateur can lay down an extremely thick coat with either. There are times when sealcoating professionals find that both tools are required on certain jobs to provide the best results.
Given the tricky nature of sealcoating, it is always wise to hire an experienced, reputable contractor. We have the expertise to provide our customers with quality services at affordable prices. At LDC Paving, our services include sealcoating, asphalt paving, crack repair, asphalt overlays, parking lot striping and pavement markings, speed bumps, bollard posts and pothole repair. We also maintain and repair concrete driveways, sidewalks, ramps, parking lots and curbs. Our customers include subdivisions, municipalities, apartment complexes, restaurants, retail strips, hotels and shopping centers. To receive a free quote, submit the online form or call (832) 640-7296.

Question 11

Concrete and Cement – The Difference

Accepted Answer

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People are sometimes confused by the difference between concrete and cement. In the past, both have been used for constructing roads as well as buildings. However, in the modern world, cement is no longer used for pavement, but concrete remains a popular choice.

Concrete and Cement – The Difference
What Is Cement?
Cement is typically made from clay, limestone, shale or chalk. The raw materials are crushed, heated and then mixed with certain minerals such as gypsum to adjust the properties of the cement. For example, the added minerals may enhance the finish, reduce the permeability or make the cement more resistant to sulfates. The dry mix is then shipped to vendors, job sites and concrete companies.
The history of cement is much older than the history of concrete. Naturally occurring cement has been found that is at least 12 million years old. It formed when oil shale and limestone came into contact with each other and experienced the reaction needed to become a form of natural cement. There is evidence that several ancient civilizations used cement for various purposes although their formulas varied. Cement was used for roads into the 1900s, but it was found to lack sufficient durability despite its lengthy drying time.
Today, cement is used as a component in the manufacture of concrete. It is also used in many masonry projects, including brickworks. Portland cement is often used in constructions that will be exposed to water, including lighthouses, bridges and oil rigs.
What Is Concrete?
Concrete is a mixture of cement, sand, water and aggregates such as crushed stone or gravel; additives may be used to enhance certain properties of the finished product. The typical mix is from 60 to 75 percent aggregates, between 10 and 15 percent cement and between 15 and 20 percent water. The correct ratio of cement to water is critical; if there is too little cement, the cured paved will be rough and porous, but it there is too much cement, the finished product will be prone to cracking.
Although civilizations before the ancient Romans made some use of concrete, it was the Romans who pioneered its extensive use. Many of famous landmarks, including the Colosseum, aqueducts, the Pantheon and several of the Roman baths, were constructed with concrete.
After the Roman Empire fell, the secret of concrete was seemingly lost for several centuries. The first known instance of modern concrete occurred in 1756; a British engineer added pebbles and crushed brick to cement for a structure he was building. Portland cement, the primary type of cement used in modern concrete, was developed in 1824. The next major development in the concrete industry occurred in 1867 when a patent was issued in France for reinforcing concrete by imbedding metal in the liquid concrete. The use of rebar allowed concrete to support heavier loads without cracking or chipping. Some of the earliest uses of reinforced concrete in the United States included the construction of the Grand Coulee and Hoover dams as well as numerous bridges and skyscrapers. Although the technique has been refined, it is still the basic process used today.
If You Need Concrete Services
LDC Paving provides an extensive range of concrete services to customers in the Houston metropolitan area and nearby counties. Whether you need ADA-compliant ramps, concrete sidewalks, curbs, driveways, parking lots or general concrete repair, our crews have the expertise to deliver exceptional work at competitive rates. We also provide a full range of asphalt-related services, including overlays, paving, repairs and sealcoating. If you have more questions about Concrete and Cement – The Difference, call us at (832) 640-7296 or use the online form.

Question 12

Sealcoating & Houston Weather

Accepted Answer

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Many customers wonder why sealcoating professionals pay so much attention to the weather before scheduling a job. The reason is that there are four weather-related factors that play an important part in the outcome of the job. These factors influence the sealant’s drying time as well as its curing time. Sealcoating & Houston Weather is unique!
Sealcoating & Houston Weather – The Temperature
When planning a sealcoating job, contractors are concerned with two temperatures. The air temperature, also called the ambient temperature, is one measurement. The other is the ground temperature, which is the temperature of the surface on which the sealant is to be applied. Early in the morning, the ground temperature may be significantly lower than the air temperature, but during evening hours, the reverse may be true.
Temperatures play a role in evaporation, so the warmer it is, the faster sealants will dry. However, if the temperatures are too high, the sealant will dry before it has time to bond to the surface of the pavement.
Sealcoating & Houston Weather -The Humidity
If you live in the Houston area, you are probably very familiar with the concept of humidity, which is simply how much moisture the air is holding. Humidity slows the rate of evaporation, and if the humidity is high, liquids take much longer to evaporate because the air is too saturated to hold any more moisture. This is why evaporative coolers work so well in desert towns such as Tucson and so poorly in areas that are near the coast. Sealcoating manufacturers warn against applying their products if the humidity is 90 percent or above.
Sealcoating & Houston Weather – The Wind
Wind speed can be a factor in how quickly sealants will dry. Air flow creates room for water molecules to go from the sealant into the air. If there is no wind, the moisture in the sealant will be trapped next to the pavement, reducing the rate of evaporation and extending the drying time. If the air is circulating, the moisture-rich air gets blown away, leaving air that has room to absorb the moisture next to the surface. Most sealcoating professionals prefer wind speeds of at least 5 mph, and under most conditions, it is even better if the wind speed is higher.
Sealcoating & Houston Weather – The Sunlight
Sunlight is the most complex and misunderstood factors involved in a successful sealcoating job in Houston. Sunlight warms up the surface when the asphalt pavement absorbs heat from the sun, and throughout the day, sunlight will continue to renew this warmth. At night or on a cloudy day, the surface temperatures will not increase as much as they would on a sunny day. The reduced temperatures slow the evaporative rate, which means that drying times are extended.
Sunlight also plays an important role in how quickly sealants cure. Although many people use drying and curing interchangeably, the two terms are not quite the same. Sealants dry from the top down, which means that the surface may feel dry to the touch and ready for pedestrian traffic, but it may not have completed the curing process that establishes a strong bond with the pavement. Once the sealant has dried thoroughly and formed the bond, it is cured and ready for vehicle traffic. UV rays from the sun speed up the curing process, so areas that are in heavy shade may not cure as quickly as areas that receive several hours of direct sunlight.
To Learn More
If you would like to learn more about sealcoating or have questions about other asphalt-related services, contact the professionals at LDC Paving. We are a asphalt sealcoating and asphalt contractor that offer a wide range of services to customers in Houston and throughout Harris County.  Our services include asphalt paving and overlays, crack repair, parking lot striping, sealcoating, pavement markings, bollards and concrete repair. We deliver quality results at affordable rates. If you would like to request a free quote, you can submit our online form or call (832) 640-7296.
We also serve all cities in the Houston TX Metro.

Question 13

Property Management And Asphalt Paving

Accepted Answer

If you manage a property with a crumbling, cracked or faded parking lot, you might be curious about how the asphalt pavement got into such a sad state. In almost every case, it is because your predecessor did not adhere to a routine maintenance schedule or failed to budget appropriately to make sure that the parking lot achieved its full service life. If you are interested in enhancing the appearance of your parking lot and prolonging its life, here are some things you need to know about asphalt pavement.
Property Management And Asphalt Paving
Asphalt Pavement Is Durable
Asphalt pavement can last for decades if it is cared for properly. However, it is not eternal. If your pavement is in poor condition, you might want to determine its age. Most parking lots have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years, so if your pavement’s age indicates that it is nearing the end of its life, you might want to start planning to have it resurfaced rather than repaired. If certain areas are still in good shape, it might be possible to resurface the worst areas first. By delaying the other areas, you have more time to ensure that you have a budget in place.
Some Maintenance Procedures Are More Important Than Others
Certain maintenance procedures are critical, but others can have a lower priority. For example, fresh pavement markings might be nice, but your asphalt pavement will not self-destruct without them. On the other hand, applying sealcoating periodically and have cracks filled promptly can help protect your asphalt pavement and prolong its life.
Water Is Your Pavement’s Worst Enemy
Considering the excellent waterproofing qualities of asphalt, it may be surprising to learn that water can damage your parking lot. Water will not dissolve asphalt pavement, but if it finds a way to penetrate beneath the pavement, it can wreak havoc on the pavement’s foundation. An eroded foundation will not be able to give the pavement the necessary support, so you can wind up with a hefty repair bill to rebuild the foundation and replace the pavement.
Let LDC Paving Help as Your Maintenance Partner
LDC Paving is a full-service paving contractor offering a wide variety of services to property managers in the greater Houston area. Some of our services include asphalt paving, asphalt sealcoating, parking lot striping, crack filling, pothole repair and traffic sign installation. We are driven to deliver quality work at competitive rates. If you would like to receive a free estimate, you can submit our online form or call 832-640-7296.

Question 14

Puddles Can Damage Your Asphalt Paving Parking Lot

Accepted Answer

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If there is one thing that you can count on in the Houston area, it is that there will be plenty of rain. Naturally, in the middle of a thunderstorm, you cannot avoid having puddles in your parking lot. Once the rain has stopped, however, the puddles should disappear quickly. If the puddles linger, you should take steps to resolve the underlying problem to prevent potential damage to your asphalt pavement.
Puddles Can Damage Your Asphalt Paving Parking Lot – Possible Causes
For a puddle to form, there must be a low spot in the pavement. Low spots can be caused by a number of different issues. Heavy equipment or overweight vehicles such as buses or trucks can compress your pavement beyond its limits. Allowing a car to remain stationary for several days can lead to depressions, especially during a sweltering Houston summer. If spills are not cleaned in time, transmission fluid, gasoline, oil and other automotive fluids can soften your pavement, making it easier for low spots to develop. Clogged or inadequate storm drains can allow water to accumulate on the surface of your pavement. Improper compaction of the asphalt or base when your pavement was installed can allow low spots to form. Ground movement that allows the soil to subside can cause low spots. If the base has become destabilized due to water penetration, low spots can develop in places where the pavement has sunk.
Dealing with Puddles
The cause of the puddles determines the best method to eliminate them. You should ask a dependable contractor to locate the cause and recommend the appropriate action. It may be possible to eliminate puddles by patching low spots, improving your drainage system or replacing damaged pavement. You can help prevent the formation of low spots by banning overweight vehicles, ensuring that heavy loads are not allowed to remain stationary, cleaning fluid leaks promptly, maintaining your sealcoating and keeping drains and catch basins clean.
Let LDC Paving Help
LDC Paving is a full-service asphalt paving provider specializing in the repair, maintenance and marking of parking lots. We have been delivering quality work at reasonable prices to customers in Houston and its surrounding areas since 2009. Our services include asphalt overlays, crack repairs, sealcoating, grading, speed bumps and pavement markings. If you would like to receive a free estimate, you can complete our online form or call 832-640-7296.

Question 15

Decide on Asphalt Paving Over Concrete

Accepted Answer

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Throughout history, some inventions have withstood the test of time, but others have disappeared after a short period of popularity. Laptop computers belong in the first category; floppy discs belong in the second group. A third group consists of products that have a relatively long history but little current use; the manual typewriter is one such example. The point is that just because something was invented first, its longevity does not automatically make it the best choice for most applications. Concrete pavement is an excellent example. It has been used for centuries, but it is no longer the best choice for every purpose. Asphalt pavement has become the most popular paving material used in the United States for all of the following reasons.
Decide on Asphalt Paving (https://www.ldcpaving.com/services/asphalt-paving-overlays-houston-tx/)Over Concrete – Why?
Asphalt Pavement is Faster to Install and Repair
Although there are numerous factors that determine installation costs, installing asphalt pavement will typically cost 35 to 40 percent less than installing concrete pavement. Savings can be an even higher percentage when repairs are needed. Most asphalt repairs require little or no removal of existing pavement, but concrete normally requires the complete removal of the damaged pavement.
Asphalt Pavement can be Placed in Service Sooner
Before pavement can be opened for traffic, the material must be sufficiently cured. It can take a week or longer for concrete to dry enough to support the weight of traffic. Asphalt pavement seldom needs more than 48 hours to cure; repaired areas can often be re-opened the following day. This minimizes the disruption to traffic flow, and it reduces any inconveniences that the closure might cause for your visitors or employees.
Asphalt Pavement is More Visually Appealing
When it comes to aesthetics, asphalt pavement is the clear winner. The best that can be said about concrete pavement’s appearance is that it is bland. Concrete cannot compete with the dark, rich color of asphalt pavement. Even the pavement markings look crisper and more vibrant on asphalt than they do on concrete.
Contact Us to Learn More Reasons for Choosing Asphalt Pavement
LDC Paving is an asphalt contractor (https://www.ldcpaving.com/services/asphalt-paving-overlays-houston-tx/)offering a full range of asphalt services to clients throughout the greater Houston area since 2009. Our goal is to provide all customers with exceptional quality at reasonable rates. We offer asphalt driveway (https://www.ldcpaving.com/services/asphalt-paving-overlays-houston-tx/)and commercial paving, sealcoating, parking lot striping, asphalt repairs and many additional services. You can call 832-640-7296 to receive a free estimate, or you can submit our convenient online form.

Question 16

Choosing the Right Asphalt Paving Contractor

Accepted Answer

One of the most important factors that determines the longevity and beauty of your asphalt is choosing the right asphalt paving contractor. Improperly installed asphalt pavement will not look as good as it should, and it will likely fail many years before it should. Although price is always a factor when selecting a contractor, the lowest bid may not be the one you should accept. Here are some other factors you should consider when selecting an asphalt paving contractor.
The Reputation Of Your Asphalt Paving Contractor
You should always do your homework before hiring an asphalt paving contractor. Go online and research the company. Ask for references and check them; you want to know whether recent customers were satisfied with his product, his crew’s performance and his availability to resolve any issues that might have arisen. Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if he is a member, and if he is, check his rating. Pay special attention to the way he resolved complaints; avoid contractors with a history of ignoring issues.
Experience
You want to select a contractor with extensive experience in the type of work you need. If you need a paving for the parking lot at a large mall, for example, you want a contractor who has done more than residential driveways. The logistics are much different; you need a contractor who understands how to schedule asphalt deliveries and work crews for a large project. Otherwise, your job could be delayed — and the quality could be substandard. You should also inquire about the experience level of the crew that will be performing the actual work on your site.
Insurance
The contractor should be able to show proof that he has workers’ compensation insurance for all employees who will be on your property. He should also prove that he has liability insurance.
Equipment
The equipment needed to install asphalt paving successfully is not cheap, but it is necessary for quality results. The equipment should be properly maintained and in good working order. Breakdowns on the site can cause completion delays as well as cause problems with the pavement’s appearance or quality.
Quote
You should obtain three or more quotes. Compare them carefully to ensure that each contractor is quoting the same thing. Look for the scope of the project, incidentals such as fees for asphalt deliveries and the time required to complete your project. There are also varying levels of quality when it comes to the asphalt itself; as a rule, the greater the percentage of recycled material, the lower the cost of the material. However, you might want to choose asphalt with a lower percentage of recycled material as this normally provides a longer-lasting, more attractive pavement. Be sure to compare the quality of the material that each contractor is quoting.
LDC Paving
LDC Paving provides a full range of asphalt paving services to customers throughout the Houston metropolitan area, including locations in nearby counties. We can help with all of your asphalt paving, repair and maintenance needs whether you need a parking lot striped, sealcoating or a driveway paved. We are committed to delivering superior results at reasonable rates. You can request a quote by completing our online form or calling 832.640.7296.

Question 17

Parking Lot Striping and ADA Design Guidelines

Accepted Answer

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Whether you are planning a new configuration for your parking lot, installing a new lot or planning to have your spaces repainted, you must ensure that your design conforms to the specifications contained in the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA is quite specific in stating the requirements to make your lot compliant.
Guidelines – What’s Important
• The ADA specifies the number of handicapped parking spaces your lot must offer. The minimum is one if there are no more than 25 total spaces. The minimum number of parking spaces increases, based on the total spaces contained in your lot. For example, if you have 201 spaces, you must have a minimum of seven, but if you have 100 spaces, you are only required to provide four or more handicapped parking spaces.
• The ADA states that the handicapped space nearest your door must conform to the requirements for vans. All handicapped parking spaces must be 96 inches or more in width, but spaces for vans must have access aisles on each side that are also 96 inches or more in width. For cars, these aisles are only required to be 60 inches or more in width. The pavement on these aisles should be marked to prevent parking in them.
• All handicapped spaces must be identified by a permanently affixed sign bearing the international symbol representing accessibility, which is a stylized wheelchair against a solid blue field. Spaces for vans must have signs that include the words, “Van Accessible” as well.
• Your door and the handicapped spaces must be connected by the most direct path, which should not follow behind any parked vehicles. If there are curbs along the path, curb ramps must be present, and if any lanes of traffic must be crossed, proper crosswalks must be readily identifiable.
• Accessible spaces and the adjacent aisles cannot have a change in grade, and the rise cannot exceed 1 inch for every 4 feet of width or length.

LDC Paving is a full-service asphalt contractor serving the Houston metropolitan area and nearby towns. Whether you need asphalt paving, parking lot striping, traffic sign installation, asphalt repairs or sealcoating, we have the experience to deliver outstanding results at competitive rates. If you would like to request a free quote, simply complete our online form; you can also reach us by phone at 832-640-7296.

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