How to Repair Minor Concrete Damage

Posted on May 19, 2021 by admin

The concrete in and around your home plays an important role in your property’s curb appeal, and therefore, it’s resale value. If your driveway, sidewalks, stoops, and patios are paved with concrete, but starting to show signs of damage, it is wise to resolve concrete issues before they can take a turn for the worst. Overtime, minor concrete damage evolves into major damages, which can cost you a lot of time and money to repair. So, to abate concrete wear and tear, be sure to address minor concrete damage such as cracks as soon as they form.

Continue reading to learn which products and supplies you need, as well as how to repair concrete cracks, both working and non-working.

Indianapolis Indiana Concrete Repair Services 317-454-3612

What You Need to Repair Concrete Cracks

The most common and recommended products for repairing concrete cracks include vinyl concrete patchers, concrete patching compounds, polymer modified structural repair fillers, and advanced polymer concrete crack sealants. You can find all of these products online or at your local home improvement store. There are many brands to choose from, but a popular choice for all is Quikrete. Always be sure to clean concrete thoroughly and remove any debris prior to applying any of these products.

Working and Non-Working Cracks

Before you start applying products all over the place, you must first identify the type of cracks you are repairing. Concrete cracks are either working cracks or non-working cracks, which are also referred to as moving and non-moving.

► Working Cracks in Concrete – Working cracks form deep and wide, or have one side that is taller than the other. These cracks continue to grow larger and threaten other nearby structures. To repair working cracks, apply an advanced polymer concrete crack sealant.

► Non-Working Cracks in Concrete – Non-working cracks do not change, nor seem to pose a threat to any nearby structures. They appear in the form of thin, shallow crevices in pavement. If a non-working crack is more than a ½ inch in depth, use a polymer modified structural repair filler.

Other Types of Concrete Damage

Aside from working and non-working cracks, it is important to identify any other types of concrete damage before getting started with your repairs. Look for shallow divots or chips, as these will require a different type of concrete repair product than moving and non-moving cracks. In fact, to repair these kinds of trivial concrete damages, you will need to use a vinyl concrete patcher or patching compound. You will also need a trowel to apply these products smoothly.

Do you need some professional concrete repair for your home or business? Contact Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable concrete services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients at the most competitive prices around.

You Might Also Like:

What You Can Do to Improve a Concrete Pool Deck
Why You Should Choose Stamped Concrete to Raise Your Property Value
How to Clean Concrete Mildew

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What You Can Do to Improve a Concrete Pool Deck

Posted on July 25, 2019 by admin

Concrete pool decks are a wonderful option because they provide both beauty and function. Choosing a cooler, lighter colored pool deck is a wise choice for sensitive feet in the hot sun, while opting for a textured stamped pool deck can provide added traction and reduce slipping accidents. Not only do concrete pool decks offer safety and performance, they also offer an unparalleled level of beauty with the vast array of custom styles available. Furthermore, they are inexpensive, easy to install, long-lasting, and low maintenance! But overtime, concrete will begin to show signs of wear and tear, and thus, require a certain degree of maintenance or repair.

Continue reading to learn what you can do to improve the look and performance of your concrete pool deck.

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Concrete Resurfacing

Damages like cracking, splitting, and scaling can be remedied with professional concrete resurfacing. This type of concrete resurfacing project can be accomplished with a concrete overlay or micro-topping, depending on the size and existing condition. This is a lucrative option since it effectively covers blemishes and provides a fresh surface to paint, color, or add texture.

Concrete Etching

Concrete etching is a custom service that can both restore and enhance the look of a concrete pool deck. It is a suitable option for pool decks showing signs of discoloration, fading, and minor cracking. By engraving a pattern into the concrete pool deck, cracks and blemishes can be intentionally disguised. The process starts with concrete coloring, and then finishes using a special routing machine that cuts faux grout lines.

Concrete Recoloring

To cover ghastly blemishes, like stains, fading, and discoloration, concrete recoloring is the perfect method. Simply applying fresh color to a concrete pool deck will enhance the appearance and cover unsightly imperfections. This service can be achieved using concrete stains, color hardeners, integral pigments, and other coloring methods.

Indianapolis Concrete Contractors

Call Restoration BY L&B at 317-454-3612 for professional concrete repair and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our licensed concrete contractors offer a wide range of concrete construction services for residential and commercial, including concrete repair, installation, resurfacing, staining, and much more. Whether you require new concrete installation, or restoration for existing concrete, we retain the proper resources and skill to get the job done right in a time-frame that’s convenient for you!

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!

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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.

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.

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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

How to Care for Stamped Concrete

Posted on January 18, 2019 by admin

You’ve mostly likely seen stamped concrete before, whether at the mall, your favorite restaurant, or your friend’s new home. It is so versatile, easily and affordably mimicking higher end materials like brick, stone, hardwood, and even marble! Stamped concrete is a very popular choice for flooring, patios, and driveways because it is visually appealing, functional, cost-effective, long-lasting, and low maintenance.

That’s right! Low maintenance! But just because stamped concrete is “low maintenance” doesn’t mean it doesn’t require any care at all! In fact, it is vital that you provide a certain degree of care for your stamped concrete floors and foundations in order for them to remain strong and stunning for years to come.

Continue reading to learn how to properly maintain stamped concrete flooring and surfaces.

Indianapolis Stamped Concrete Contractor 317-454-3612

Stamped Concrete Maintenance

Stamped concrete can be imprinted, impressed, engraved, and colored to resemble an infinite array of designs, textures, and styles. This is just one reason why this type of flooring is considered such an important asset to a home or property. In order to maintain quality and performance, you simply need to make the time.

Start with daily dirt removal. Use a leaf blower, broom, or vacuum to remove dirt, debris, and other solid particles from your floors. You should also rinse with clean water on a weekly basis to reduce grime and residue accumulation.

Also be sure to stay on top of stain removal. If your flooring or foundation has scuff marks, stains, or oil spots, it is important to remove them as soon as possible. Never allow stains, dirt, or debris to sit for long periods of time on stamped concrete.

It is important to have stamped concrete seal coated to provide an extra layer of protection against dirt and damage. Routine seal coating also protects against freeze-thaw cycles, expansion, buckling, moisture, and de-icing chemicals.

It is also important to hire a professional Indianapolis stamped concrete contractor for stamped concrete installation and sealcoating services. They have the experience, equipment, knowledge, and resources to provide accurate and safe service you can trust. Just be sure to choose a company that is licensed and experienced, and can offer estimates and advice anytime.

Indianapolis Concrete Stamping and Staining

Residential and Commercial Remodeling 317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional concrete stamping and staining 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.