How to Clean Concrete Mildew

Posted on June 21, 2019 by admin

Mildew growth is a troublesome discovery for any business or property owner. Many people want to know how to remove such mildew from concrete walls and flooring in order to avoid larger and more costly repairs or renovations down the road. This is especially true for decorative concrete surfaces since aesthetic appeal is their number one purpose. Fortunately, anyone can learn to efficiently and effectively remove mildew from concrete floors, foundations, walls, and more.

Continue reading to learn some simple tips and tricks to doing just that!

Indianapolis Concrete Services 317-454-3612

How to Get Rid of Mildew

The culprit behind mildew development is moisture. Moisture can navigate the interior channels and pores of concrete, leading to such accumulation. Even with moisture barriers like sealcoats in place, water can still finds its way if these barriers are worn out or weakened. This is why routine sealcoating is so important for concrete surfaces. For mildew to grow, moisture and darkness must collaborate. This is why concrete walls and floors are common targets.

When it comes to getting rid of mildew growth on concrete walls and floors, health and safety is the top concern, which is why immediate remediation is necessary. Right below health and safety is property appeal and preventative maintenance. These reasons and more are why mildew removal is vital for a property’s overall structural integrity.

Where to Start

To get started, be sure to gather all the necessary components, products, and supplies before you get ready to begin. The process, once underway, should not be interrupted; it must be completed in one sitting. Preparation is helpful so that you do not have to stop in the middle of a mildew removal project to locate additional supplies. You will need clean water, bleach, scrubbing brushes, a clean bucket, and rubber or waterproof gloves. You can also purchase pre-mixed mildew removal products at your local home improvement or department store as well. OTC solutions are equally effective as bleach and water, but they are best suited for smaller surface areas.

Here’s a basic guide to mildew removal for concrete surfaces:

➀ Collect the necessary ingredients and items.
➁ Put on your rubber gloves.
➂ Open doors and windows for safe ventilation.
➃ Mix 1 part bleach with 4 parts water.
➄ Dip your brush or sponge in bleach solution.
➅ Vigorously scrub the infected area.
➆ Continue scrubbing with force until the mildew is all gone.
➇ Dry the area entirely (you must do this step or the mildew will return).
➈ Consider professional sealcoating services to prevent additional mildew growth.

Indianapolis Concrete Restoration and Repair

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional concrete restoration and repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. We offer a full-range of concrete construction services and related developmental management services for all properties and residences. No matter how small, large, or complex your concrete needs may be, our skilled and experienced contractors can deliver the proficient results you expect using innovative designs, quality materials, and professional service. Request an estimate, anytime.

A Comparison of Various Flooring Options on the Market

Posted on June 13, 2019 by admin

If you are on the market for flooring replacement options, you will find that there are many materials to choose from, all ranging in quality, dimensions, color, styles, textures, and more. For those looking for a cost-effective flooring option, decorative concrete is a popular choice among residential and commercial property owners looking for a cost-effective and modern upgrade.

Although you have several other options to choose from, there are many reasons to choose the concrete for your new floors.

Indianapolis Flooring Contractors 317-454-3612

Choosing Decorative Concrete Flooring

Not only is decorative concrete flooring inexpensive and easy to install, it can be customized to mimic any style, texture, color, or look. Decorative concrete flooring can be stamped, stained, colored, died, treated, scored, polished, and so much more. This means that it can be designed to mimic higher in materials like tile, marble, cobblestone, brick, and slate, but cost less. The options are virtually endless, and only limited by your own imagination and creativity.

More Quality Flooring Comparisons

Tile:

Tile is expensive, and the options of styles and colors are limited. Also, tile requires a stricter care regiment in order to protect the grout lines and prevent cracking. If you are looking for high maintenance and high prices, tile flooring is right for you.

Brick:

Sure, brick is beautiful. In fact, it’s quite stunning; however, brick is incredibly high maintenance and prone to a long list of damages. This makes it a poor fit for an interior flooring option.

Natural Stone:

Cobblestone and other types of natural stone materials commonly used for flooring are high maintenance and high-priced. They are more prone to cracking and crumbling, and require strict care regimen in order to maintain clean grout lines.

Linoleum/Vinyl:

Linoleum and vinyl flooring are common options for both residential and commercial properties because they are inexpensive and low maintenance. On the other hand, linoleum and vinyl are often viewed as outdated, so many potential buyers are turned off by such flooring. This isn’t good for anyone who wishes to sell their property in the future.

Carpet :

Carpeting is highly susceptible to several types of damages, especially staining and foot traffic. It is also more of a challenge to clean and keep clean. Carpets also retain dander and dust and other types of allergens, which can be irritating to those who suffer from upper respiratory illnesses and implications.

Wood :

Not only is wood expensive in its natural state, it is a challenge to maintain. Wood is a natural element, therefore it susceptible to scratches, scrapes, and discoloration, so often times, it needs restoration after a few years.

Indianapolis Floor Replacement Contractors

Call Restoration By L&B, LLC at 317-454-3612 if you are looking for licensed Indianapolis flooring contractors you can trust. Our general contractors provide a wide range of residential and commercial flooring services at the most competitive prices around. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition!

Stamped Concrete is a Great Choice for Driveways

Posted on May 31, 2019 by admin

If your driveway has seen better days, it might be time for some restoration. After all, it is the very first thing guests see when they visit your property! To make a really good impression of your home without spending a lot of time or money, just choose stamped concrete for a brand new driveway. There are several reasons why stamped concrete is such a popular selection for home and business owners, and it would benefit you to learn them all!

Continue reading to learn why stamped concrete is a great choice for driveways.

Indianapolis Stamped Concrete Contractors 317-454-3612

Benefits of Stamped Concrete Driveways

Stamped concrete can be applied over existing concrete (so long as it’s in decent condition), or poured as a brand new foundation. The color, style, and texture options are virtually endless, and only limited by your own (or your designer’s) imagination! It delivers a custom, unique look that gives your property an instant update! Here are some more reasons why stamped concrete is so great for driveways:

? Cost-Effective
? Quick Installation
? Low-Maintenance
? Robust and Highly-Durable
? Long-Lasting
? Endless Colors, Textures, and Designs
? Mimics Higher-End Materials at Lower Cost
? Never Shifts or Buckles
? Instant Exterior Update
? Popular Stamped Concrete Looks

Stamped concrete is one of the most popular driveway trends. It comes in an array of colors, patterns, textures, and more, making the customizing part easy to do. A few common choices for stamped concrete driveways include natural stone looks, such as slate or field stone, as well as, brick, cobblestone, and colors like brick reds, dessert oranges, grays and earth tones.

It is also very common to incorporate a flowing stamped concrete design around the entire home. For instance, your stamped concrete could extend from the driveway up to the sidewalk and front porch, and then also continue around the side of the house to the back patio or pool deck. It would be one continuous flow of beautiful, customized stamped concrete!

Indianapolis Stamped Concrete Contractors

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional concrete installation and repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. We offer a wide range of residential and commercial concrete services, ranging from concrete stamping and staining, to repair, overlays, pressure washing, and much more. Best of all, we retain the proper resources, skills, knowledge, and equipment to accurately implement a flawless concrete staining project in a time-frame that’s convenient for you. Get started today by requesting an on-site estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Concrete Overlays

Posted on May 16, 2019 by admin

If you have old, existing concrete foundations on your property, it is likely that they are in need of a little restoration or repair. One of the most cost-effective and easy options for old, existing concrete improvement are overlays. Concrete overlays are installed directly on top of existing foundations, which means there is little to no demolition or excavation necessary. They are great options for sidewalks, patios, driveways, and more.

Continue reading to learn some answers to the most frequently asked questions about concrete overlay application, performance, appearance, and maintenance.

Indianapolis Concrete Contractors 317-454-3612

Where Can Concrete Overlays Be Applied?

Any existing concrete surface that is in sound condition is a good candidate for overlay installation. A few cracks here and there are not usually an issue, but if the foundation is heaving, crumbled, or full of crevices, it is not a good candidate. A professional concrete contractor can provide an assessment to determine if your property is a good candidate for concrete overlays. Everything from sidewalks and driveways, to patio, pool decks, and more can be overlain with a fresh layer of concrete. Overlays are a great option for stained or discolored surfaces.

Are Concrete Overlays Durable?

Concrete can last a long time with good care. And with proper installation and sealcoating, an overlay can last for several years. It is important to have concrete surfaces re-sealed every few years to prolong this level of longevity and protection. They can also be polished to a smooth, even finish. This adds more protection, especially in high-traffic areas. Polishing is a great option for surfaces that are blemished, discolored, or stained.

What Does a Concrete Overlay Look Like?

The great thing about concrete is its versatility. It can be polished, stained, colored, stamped, and more. These options can give standard grey concrete a decorative appearance, and can even mimic higher end materials like brick, tile, cobblestone, and marble. This makes it an extremely cost-effective alternative to these materials and more. Concrete is also easier to clean and care for, making it less labor-intensive for the property owner.

How Do I Maintain Concrete?

Routine sweeping, occasional power washing, and bi-annual re-sealing is all concrete needs to maintain its fresh appearance. Keep in mind that concrete is not meant to last forever, so eventually, you will need to overlay it, or have new concrete installed.

Indianapolis Concrete Contractors

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional concrete installation and repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. We offer a wide range of residential and commercial concrete services, ranging from concrete staining and stamping, to repair, overlays, pressure washing, and much more. Best of all, we retain the proper resources, skills, knowledge, and equipment to accurately implement a flawless concrete staining project in a time-frame that’s convenient for you. Get started today by requesting an on-site estimate.

Do You Need to Repair or Repave Your Tennis Court?

Posted on May 9, 2019 by admin

With the weather becoming more and more amicable as the weeks go by, people everywhere are preparing for all their spring and summer outdoor activities. One popular outdoor activity for sunny weather is tennis. If you own a tennis court or complex, whether residential, commercial, or municipal, it is important to provide regular maintenance in order to keep them safe and functional for years to come. But even with the best care, after sometime, tennis courts to begin to show signs of wear and tear. In this case, you would need to determine whether or not your tennis court needs to be repaired, or entirely repaved.

Continue reading to learn more about restoring the look of your tennis courts, including where to get a trusted bid for your pavement renovation needs.

tennis court under construction in the sportclub.

Tennis Court Wear and Tear

The most obvious sign that a tennis court needs some repair are cracks. When a tennis court begins to develop cracks that only enlarge as time goes on, it is a strong indication that the pavement needs some attention. However, the appearance of cracking is not a problem in itself; it is a sign of another underlying issue that must be resolved in addition to repairing the surface cracks.

Another common sign of wear and tear are dips in the surface of a tennis court, known as “birdbaths” since they tend to collect rain water and double as a puddle for days at a time. This is common on older tennis courts, or courts that were installed improperly. Additional signs that point toward needed repair or replacement include sandy spots, slick spots, line fading, pavement crumbling, or if you hear players saying the court is “playing too fast.”

Tennis Court Repair and Replacement

The general rule of thumb in the local industry is to resurface a tennis court every 3 to 5 years. However, this depends on several factors. So to accurately determine whether or not you need tennis court repair, resurfacing, or replacement, you will need to contact a licensed Indianapolis paving company for an on-site assessment. They will provide you with a detailed written estimate that same day so that you can get started on making the best decision for your property.

Standard Tennis Court Restoration Services:

☑ Excavation and Base Installation

☑ Asphalt Installation

☑ Surfacing and Coloring

☑ Fencing, Poles and Net Installation

☑ Line Striping

☑ Post-Service Checkups

When to Get Started on Exterior Property Renovations

Getting started now on tennis court renovations is smart since spring is here and summer is just around the corner. You can get your project done in time to enjoy the rest of the season! Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable exterior property renovations in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. Our general contractors provide a wide range of services for residential, commercial, and municipal properties. Request an estimate, today!

The 4 Mistakes to Avoid When Pouring a Concrete Slab

Posted on April 23, 2019 by admin

There are several reasons why it is important to hire a professional for any type of concrete slab work. In fact, the most common mistakes made by those who choose the “do-it-yourself” approach are the reasons why professional concrete service is so critical to the outcome of a concrete slab project. So if you are a property owner who is considering a DIY concrete slab project, be sure you are fully informed before getting started.

Continue reading to learn the top four mistakes made when pouring concrete slab on your own. You might decide that professional concrete installation is the best route to take.

Common Concrete Slab Mistakes

Even the most experienced handyman or home improvement buff is better-off hiring professional concrete service for their slab work needs. Without the proper resources, a person can have a lot of trouble pouring concrete on their own, and a low chance at achieving quality results. This includes the proper tools and materials, specialized equipment, and a sufficient team of helpers. In addition to the proper tools and resources, adequate training and hands-on experience is essential to pouring concrete slabs skillfully.

Here are the top 4common mistakes made when pouring concrete:

❶ Site Preparation

Pouring concrete is a complex job that requires a significant amount of preparation. Those without experience often overlook the importance of proper site preparation. For concrete can be poured, the site must be perfectly level and thoroughly compacted. In most cases, this requires preliminary site excavation work. Depending on the quality of your work site’s surface, various adjustments may be needed to achieve a good outcome.

❷ Concrete Mixing

Another common mistake made by novice concrete installers is improperly mixing the concrete or using the wrong type altogether. Even the mix is only slightly off balance, it is worthless and shouldn’t be used. Also, not all concrete projects call for the same type of concrete mix, so it is important to differentiate products from one another. Using the wrong concrete would be disastrous to your project, not to mention a huge waste of your money and effort.

❸ The Weather

Very few people consider the weather before starting a concrete installation job, which is highly influential to the overall project. If weather is hot, cold, or wet, certain precautions and adjustments must be made in order to achieve the proper results. So failing to check the weather report before scheduling a concrete slab work day can be a huge setback.

❹ Finish Work

It is very common to forget the finish work required for pouring concrete slab. Before it’s finished, it needs to be screeded, edged, and floated. Failing to do so will result in a bubbly, uneven surface. If this is not completed, then the entire project is essentially a waste of time, money, and effort. This goes for any project that is only done halfway.

Indianapolis Concrete Contractors You Can Trust

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable concrete pavement work in Central Indiana and its surrounding areas. Our Indianapolis general contractors provide a wide range of services for both commercial and residential properties, all at the most competitive prices in town. Request an estimate, today!

Tips for Cleaning Concrete Counters

Posted on April 10, 2019 by admin

Everywhere traditional countertops are installed, concrete can be used in its place. Decorative concrete countertops are increasingly becoming a more popular alternative for kitchens, bars, bathrooms, garages, restaurants, salons, factories, and more. Whether you are just considering a concrete countertop addition, or have already had your concrete countertops installed, you need to know how to clean and care for them to protect your investment and prolong your enjoyment!

Continue reading to learn some important and helpful tips for cleaning decorative concrete countertops.

Benefits of Concrete Countertops

Decorative concrete countertops are highly admired for their plethora of unique qualities and benefits. Not only are the incredibly durable and long-lasting, they are resistant to heat, stains, scratches, fading, and discoloration. But the number one reason why so many people are opting for decorative concrete countertops over traditional materials is the cost-effectiveness and quality ratios they offer. Decorative concrete countertops can be customized to mimic any kind of texture, material, color, or pattern, including higher end materials. And compared to higher end materials, like marble and granite, concrete is much cheaper, easier to install, and easier to maintain.

Maintenance for Concrete Counters

In terms of cleaning and maintenance, there is really no difference. Concrete counters can be cleaned much in the same way as standard vinyl or laminate ones. Daily cleaning should simply involve warm water and mild dish washing liquid. Just be sure to use a soft washcloth or rag, and not a wire mesh pad or anything equally abrasive. You also want to avoid harsh soaps and cleaners. These can remove your sealant and leave behind scratches. You can also use store-bought cleansing cloths that are marked safe for concrete counters.

Some professionals recommend a routine waxing for period concrete countertop maintenance. Once a month, add a new layer of wax to ensure its level of resistance to heat, staining, scratches, and more. The proper method for waxing your concrete countertops will vary depending on several factors, so it is important to discuss these individual needs with your Indianapolis concrete contractor.

Indianapolis Concrete Contractors

Restoration By L&B, LLC offers superior decorative concrete installation and replacement for both residential and commercial properties in Indianapolis and its surrounding towns. Whether you are a home or building owner, our qualified and insured general contractors can provide a wide-range of tile flooring services; including replacements, removal, repairs, installations, and more. You name it, we can do it! Best of all, we offer the most competitive pricing around! Contact us at 317-454-3612 to request an estimate, today.

Why You Should Pressure Wash Your Driveway

Posted on April 5, 2019 by admin

Pressure washing is a common method for keeping the exterior of your home clean. But pressure washing can do much more for the aesthetic appeal of your property. It is also highly-effective at cleaning exterior concrete, especially driveways. Pressure washing delivers several benefits that support investment protection and structural longevity. Continue reading to learn these benefits, and who to call for professional pressure washing services you can trust.

Driveway Maintenance

It is important to keep your concrete driveway clear of damaging elements and products, such as grease, oil, grime, salt, and chemicals. Routine driveway cleaning will protect your concrete from premature wear and tear, which is good for your wallet and your vehicles. Pressure washing is one of the best strategies for driveway cleaning because it is quick, uncomplicated, and effective. All of this adds both beauty and value to your home. In fact, regular pressure washing can increase your property value by thousands of dollars!

Power Washing Service

It is wise to hire a professional company to provide pressure washing service for your driveway. Not only do they have the training and experience to implement the job efficiently, they already retain the proper tools and equipment to get the job done right the first time around. They also have the proper resources to meet the state’s pressure washing disposal requirements.

Power washing a driveway includes the use of eco-friendly chemical-free cleaners, brighteners, and low pressure washing strategies. Surfaces are generally pre-treated with a concrete brightener, saturated with concrete cleaner, thoroughly rinsed with a power washer, treated once again with an eco-friendly cleaner, and then given a final pressure rinse. This practice effectively removes dirt, grime, stains, discoloration, and more.

Indianapolis Concrete Restoration and Repair

The 2 Primary Types of Concrete Stain

Posted on March 27, 2019 by admin

Decorative concrete is achieved through concentrated techniques that transform plain, grey concrete into something unique and beautiful. One of the most common and well-known processes for decorative concrete is staining. The process of concrete staining uses dyes and colors to add versatility and design to plain concrete. There are various types of materials used for concrete staining, including acrylic stains, integrated colors, dyes, and more. But the two primary types of stains used for decorative concrete are acid stains and water-based stains.

Continue reading to learn more about these two concrete stains, and who to call for professional concrete staining services you can trust.

Stained Concrete Contractors 317-454-3612

Acid Stains

Probably the most common of the two would be acid stains. These are known to provide a rich, deep color that is lustrous and long-lasting. When acid stain is applied to cured concrete, the chemicals within react in a way that transforms the pigment of the concrete permanently. This transformation is best described as a marbleized or grainy leather look; but of course, no transformation is the same as another.

They are all unique since you can’t entirely control the way the chemicals react inside the concrete. But this is simply one of the many alluring traits of concrete staining. It is important to note however, that concrete stains do not cover blemishes and imperfections and concrete very well. The transformation is more translucent and sheer in comparison to integrated colors and dyes.

Water-Based Stains

Water-based stains are applied similarly to acid stains, however they produce a much different outcome since there is no chemical reaction involved. The transformation rendered by water-based stains are best described as semi translucent, since the stain seeps into the concrete pores much like a dye. In fact, water-based concrete stains are commonly called concrete dyes because the coloring processes are similar.

Water-based stains produce a more uniform look, offer a much broader range of colors, and they last much longer since they are penetrated within the pores of the concrete. There’s no risk of the color “flaking off” or chipping at any point in time. But keep in mind, they are similar to acid stains in that they do not completely cover surface blemishes and imperfections because they provide semi translucent finishes.

Indianapolis Concrete Staining Contractors

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional concrete staining in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. We offer a wide range of residential and commercial concrete services, ranging from concrete staining and stamping, to concrete repair, overlays, pressure washing, and much more. Best of all, we retain the proper resources, skills, knowledge, and equipment to accurately implement a flawless concrete staining project in a time-frame that’s convenient for you. Get started today by requesting an on-site estimate.

FAQS Regarding Concrete Resurfacing

Posted on March 14, 2019 by admin

Are you a homeowner who is convinced that a cost-effective solution for repairing old, cracked, concrete surfaces does not exist? If so, you are in the right place! Because we are here to tell you that there ARE options, many of them, for restoring old concrete floors, driveways, sidewalks, patios, pool decks, and more. And best of all, they do not require a complete demolition, removal, and replacement of your existing concrete surface! This makes the price more affordable since the need for labor is reduced.

Continue reading to learn answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about concrete work and more!

What are the Different Concrete Resurfacing Options Available?

The most common methods for concrete resurfacing include concrete overlays, concrete coatings, concrete staining, and concrete stamping. These options provide infinite possibilities to mimic higher-end materials like brick, cobblestone, tile, marble, and more, as well as, customize colors, hues, seals, and finishes. You can even choose to have concrete engraved or printed with a custom emblem, symbol, logo, or picture.

What Makes Concrete Acceptable to Resurface?

Any underlying concrete surface must be sound in order to be resurfaced successfully. So unfortunately, if a concrete surface has structural implications such as several cracks, heaving, crumbling, or freeze/thaw damage, it is not a safe candidate for resurfacing. Also, soil quality is a factor in determining the suitability of concrete resurfacing. Non-structural cracks, like shrinkage and crazing cracks, can be sealed prior to resurfacing. Talk to a contractor to assess the quality of your concrete surfaces.

Which Surfaces Can Be Resurfaced?

As long as concrete passes the test for soundness, many surfaces can be resurfaced. This includes the more common areas, like driveways, patios, sidewalks, walkways, and garage floors. But it also includes unique areas like kitchen floors, basement floors, pool decks, fire pits, decks, and more. The options are virtually endless!

What is the Most Important Priority in the Concrete Resurfacing Process?

The most important factor in terms of the concrete resurfacing process is proper preparation. The underlying concrete substrate must be thoroughly cleaned and prepped before the resurfacing process can ensue. Preparation includes cleaning, crack filling, profiling, and more.

How Long Do Resurfaced Concrete Floors Last?

Decorative concrete is known for its longevity benefits, as well as its low cost and low maintenance. If you refinish your concrete floors, you can expect to enjoy the results for as long as you can foretell. Simply take care of them and they won’t let you down! A quality sealant is a big help as well.

Where Can I Find Skilled Concrete Contractors in Indy?

Residential and Commercial Remodeling 317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 when you need professional concrete contractors in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Our highly trained, qualified and insured general contractors provide services for complete project management and development, planning, design and build coordination, pre-construction services, and more. And as a trusted source for concrete installation, we guarantee to beat any competitor’s price! Contact us at 317-454-3612 to request a written estimate, today.