All posts by Griffin Contracting

How To Design An Accessible and Appealing Parking Lot

Designing an accessible and appealing parking lot requires a great deal of planning to ensure that it meets the needs of all users. A successful design should consider lighting, signage, accessibility for those with disabilities, lane widths, and other considerations to create a safe and user-friendly environment.

Additionally, integrating trees and plants into the layout can add beauty while providing much-needed shade on hot days. Using asphalt in Savannah to pave your parking lot is also important. It is a durable material that will last a long time with proper maintenance.

Are you trying to iron out the details of your parking lot? If so, consider the information below.

 

Consider The Layout

When designing a parking lot’s layout, several factors must be considered to ensure safety and accessibility. Traffic flow should be well-thought-out, including lanes wide enough to accommodate vehicles safely and comfortably. Providing ample space for drivers to turn around and leave the area is also important.

Accessibility for those with disabilities should be a priority, including providing clearly marked handicapped parking spaces and wide pathways accessible with wheelchairs or other mobility devices. Additionally, any ramps should have a gentle slope to ensure safe navigation.

 

Consider The Surface Material You Want To Use

The right surface material is critical to creating an accessible and appealing parking lot. Asphalt is a popular choice due to its durability and many other benefits. Here are some of the advantages of using asphalt in Savannah for your parking lot:

  • Durability: Asphalt is extremely durable
  • Cost-Effective: Asphalt is one of the most cost-effective paving materials, offering excellent value.
  • Easy to Repair: Asphalt can be easily repaired without replacing large sections or the entire surface if minor damage occurs.
  • Quick Installation: Asphalt can be quickly and easily installed

Griffin Contracting is here to help you with your asphalt paving needs.

 

The Right Lighting is Crucial

Adding lighting to a parking lot is essential for visibility and security at night. The lighting system should be designed to provide a safe environment for users and deter criminal activity.

When choosing lights for the parking lot, you should consider energy-efficient LED lights that are highly luminous yet require less power than traditional ones. The lights should be chosen based on the parking lot’s size and strategically placed to ensure adequate illumination.

 

Invest in Barriers and Fences For Your New Parking Lot

Fences or barriers around a parking lot’s perimeter are important when designing a safe and secure parking area. Installing fencing or walls around the perimeter can help to keep out undesirable activity and protect vehicles from vandalism.

Different fencing materials can be used to meet a parking lot’s specific needs and requirements. Chain-link fences are economical, while walls or decorative railings can provide more security and aesthetic appeal.

 

Need Assistance With Asphalt in Savannah?

Do you want to pave your new parking lot with asphalt in Savannah? If so, our team is here to help!

 

5 Reasons To Use Rebar For a Concrete Foundation

Rebar, or reinforcing steel bars, is essential to constructing a concrete foundation that will last for years. Rebar helps provide additional strength and stability while increasing durability and resistance to environmental factors. It also proves to be more cost-effective than other materials used in foundation construction.

Millions of homes and businesses are constructed on concrete foundations every year. If you need a new concrete foundation, you must ensure the right materials are used.

An experienced concrete contractor will understand the importance of putting rebar under your new foundation.

Here are some benefits of using rebar for your concrete foundation.

A Strong and Durable Building Material

Rebar is a form of steel reinforcement used in concrete foundations to improve the strength and stability of the structure. It is highly resistant to corrosion, wear and tear, and other environmental factors.

This building material is manufactured from strong, durable steel alloy bars twisted together to create a lattice-like pattern. This ‘lattice’ structure provides the foundation with added strength and stability, making it more resistant to seismic activity and other external forces.

Provides Strength To Concrete Foundations

Rebar is essential in providing concrete foundations with the strength and stability they need to withstand vibration and other external forces. The steel alloy bars are twisted together to form a lattice-like pattern that reinforces the structure of the concrete, making it stronger and more resistant to wear and tear, corrosion, and other environmental factors.

The combination of steel and concrete creates a stronger foundation that can withstand seismic activity and other external forces.

This Material Helps With Weight Distribution

Rebar helps distribute weight evenly throughout a structure, ensuring the foundation can withstand seismic activity and other external forces. This is particularly important for taller structures, as the steel alloy bars are designed to absorb shock better from vibrations that are stronger at higher levels.

Rebar helps support a structure’s weight by providing an even force distribution. This helps reduce the risk of structural damage and increases the foundation’s longevity.

Comes In Various Shapes and Sizes

Rebar can be used in various shapes and sizes to create a strong and stable concrete foundation. It is available in standard sizes, such as 6mm, 10mm, and 12mm bars, and custom-made shapes that allow for more intricate layout designs.

The use of rebar can also be adjusted to suit the needs of a particular project. For example, a concrete contractor in Savannah can use smaller bars for lighter foundations or larger bars for heavier structures.

Rebar Installation is Less Labor-Intensive

Rebar installation requires less labor than other materials used in foundation construction. The steel alloy bars are twisted together, eliminating the need for welding or bolting to secure them.

Moreover, the bars come in various shapes and sizes, which can be easily adjusted to suit the particular needs of a project. This reduces the labor required for installation and makes it easier for a concrete contractor in Savannah to complete the job quickly and efficiently.

Ready To Hire a Concrete Contractor in Savannah?

Working with professionals is the best way to ensure your concrete foundation project is handled correctly. Hire a reputable concrete contractor in Savannah today!

 

Great Tips For Protecting Your New Asphalt Driveway

Having an asphalt driveway installed in Savannah can provide years of enjoyment and durability. But if you want to ensure that your asphalt driveway looks great and lasts as long as possible, it is important to take proper care of it.

Millions of homeowners in the United States opt for asphalt driveways because they are durable and provide tons of curb appeal. As a homeowner, you must keep this important part of your home’s exterior pristine.

Below are some things you can do to keep your recently installed asphalt driveway in good shape.

Power Wash Your New Driveway

Cleaning the asphalt driveway regularly with a power washer is essential to maintaining its pristine look. It helps remove dirt and debris that have collected on the asphalt surface over time, preventing them from affecting the asphalt’s integrity and prolonging its life. Power washing your asphalt driveway regularly can also help reduce the risk of developing cracks and damage due to the elements.

Have Your Driveway Sealcoated Every Two Years

An asphalt driveway needs to be sealed every two years to protect it from the elements and prevent water from seeping into the asphalt. Applying the sealcoat will help protect the asphalt surface from oxidization, ultraviolet rays, and other environmental factors that can cause asphalt deterioration.

It is important to choose a quality asphalt sealer that is designed for the climate in your area, as this will ensure optimal protection and longevity of your asphalt driveway. Applying the sealcoat should be done when temperatures are between 50-90 degrees Fahrenheit to get the best results.

Avoid Using De-Icing Chemicals

De-icing chemicals on asphalt driveways is not recommended as it can cause damage and reduce the asphalt’s lifespan. De-icers are often too harsh for asphalt, and using them regularly can lead to cracking and other costly repairs.

De-icers contain salts that remain on the asphalt driveway surface even after they have been washed away by rain or melted by the sun. Over time, these salts can break down asphalt and cause it to crack or crumble.

Fill Asphalt Cracks Immediately

Cracks in asphalt driveways can occur due to environmental factors such as heavy rainfall, temperature changes, and extreme sun exposure. As soon as you notice any cracks in your asphalt driveway, they should be repaired immediately. Left unchecked, these small cracks can quickly spread and cause more severe damage to the asphalt.

A special crack filler is the best way to repair asphalt cracks. This material is designed specifically for asphalt driveways. It will provide an excellent seal that prevents water from seeping into the asphalt.

Use Non-Petroleum Based Cleaning Products

Using non-petroleum-based cleaning products on asphalt driveways is essential to maintain their appearance and prolong their lifespan. Petroleum-based products have an ingredient called asphalt cutback, which can damage asphalt. This is because asphalt cutback contains petroleum solvents that break down asphalt binders over time.

As a result, asphalt driveways may become weakened and more susceptible to cracking, crumbling, and other costly repairs. Non-petroleum-based products are designed to be safe for asphalt surfaces and do not contain asphalt cutback.

Protect Your Investment

By implementing the tips in this article, you can prolong the life of your new asphalt driveway.






3 Risk Factors That Can Damage Concrete Foundations

The main thing a commercial building or home needs to remain structurally sound is a good foundation. Construction professionals painstakingly install concrete foundations to ensure they are solid and damage-free. However, external sources can lead to the foundation under a home or business getting severely damaged. 

Millions of dollars are spent on foundation repairs in the United States annually. If you’re the owner of a home or commercial building, your main goal should be to avoid serious foundation repairs. The only way to accomplish this goal is by learning about the problems that commonly damage concrete foundations. 

The following are some risk factors that can damage concrete foundations. 

1. Drainage Issues Can Damage a Concrete Foundation

Perhaps the most common cause of foundation damage is inadequate drainage. When rain starts to collect around the exterior portion of a home or business, it can cause serious foundation issues. The sad reality is that most buildings don’t have adequate drainage systems attached to them. If a home is without downspouts and gutters, it is only a matter of time before soil oversaturation becomes a problem. 

Ongoing problems will cause soil oversaturation that can lead to the foundation becoming extremely unstable. This instability will usually lead to cracks forming in the foundation. This is why investing in gutter systems and proper landscaping is so important. 

2. Plumbing Leaks Are Common

The plumbing system in a home or commercial building is extremely complex. These systems feature many components that carry water in and out of the structure. If the main line pipes of a home or business have ruptured, they will allow a lot of water to leak into the soil underneath the foundation. Soil that remains saturated with water will allow the foundation to shift. 

This shifting can severely damage a concrete foundation. The main issue that home and business owners face regarding these plumbing leaks is that they are hard to find. There are many instances when main line plumbing leaks go unnoticed for months. 

If there is a main line leak, you will notice things like unpleasant odors, high water bills and unusual sounds. When these issues are discovered, you need to get them repaired immediately to avoid damage to your foundation. ‘

3. Intrusive Tree Roots

Having large and well-manicured trees around a home or business can add a lot of curb appeal. However, if the roots of these trees start to grow underneath the foundation, they can do a lot of damage. This root overgrowth can result in foundation cracks. 

Having the trees on your property inspected routinely can help you stay a step ahead of these problems. Experienced landscapers can detect problematic roots and give you some information on how to address them. The money paid for this professional help is worth it due to the foundation problems it can help you avoid. 

By steering clear of the risk factors covered above, you can keep your concrete foundation damage-free.

Important Information About Concrete Removal and Replacement

Using high-grade materials during a construction project is crucial. When using quality materials, you can avoid short-term repair issues and problems. As time goes by, even the most durable building materials will start to show signs of wear. 

There might come a time when a concrete slab or foundation needs to be removed and replaced due to damage. Every year, over 600 million tons of construction and demolition debris are produced in the United States. A large portion of this debris is concrete. 

If you are looking for more information about the concrete removal and replacement process, you’ve come to the right place. 

What Conditions Call For Concrete Removal?

Most home and commercial building owners are familiar with things like concrete patching compounds and resurfacing products. While these elements can be used to fix minor concrete repair issues, they are ineffective against serious problems. There are many conditions where patches and resurfacing products will act as a short-term solution. 

Rather than spending money on the wrong solutions, you need to remove and replace severely damaged concrete. The most common conditions that have to be fixed with concrete removal and replacement include:

Seeking out the second opinion of a concrete professional is the best way to choose the best method to fix the problems you’re experiencing. 

Methods Used To Demolish Concrete

If you and a concrete professional decide that removing your existing concrete is a good idea, selecting the right method to use is the next step. The methods used to demolish concrete surfaces include:

  • Hydraulic Breakers- Boom-mounted hydraulic breakers are used to demolish things like concrete bridge decks, pavement and structure foundations. 
  • Pressure Bursting- This method provides a dust-free and quiet concrete demolition process. Once the surface is split, mechanical components are used to widen the cracks and break up the concrete. 
  • Dismantling- This process involves cutting the concrete and removing the pieces with a crane. Things like water-jetting and thermic lancing are used to carry out this method of concrete demolition. 

The method used for your concrete demolition project will depend on many factors. By working with a concrete professional, you can assess the best way to accomplish your demolition and removal goals. 

DIY Demolition is a Bad Idea

One of the worst things you can do when confronted with severe concrete problems is handle them on your own. Some people think that a sledgehammer is all they need to remove a concrete surface. In reality, this process requires specialized equipment and in-depth knowledge. Without these two elements, you will be at risk of injury. 

The best thing you can do is to hire a professional to handle this work. They will have the tools and experience needed to get the results you want in no time. 

If you are in need of assistance with your concrete project, the professionals at Griffin Contracting are here to help.

What To Know About Pile Driving

To a lot of people, especially those in younger generations or with less experience in building, it just sounds like some old-school activity that’s fairly ambiguous. But in the heavy construction and excavation industries, pile driving is a useful part of foundational work.

 

We accomplish these kinds of tough jobs, in partnership with stakeholders like big companies and municipal offices. But why do people need to take on pile driving projects?

 

What is Pile Driving?

 

Pile driving is essentially an age-old process that involves pounding heavy materials into soil, in order to create structural foundations.

 

This technique is as old as the Roman society where ancient bridges were built using pile driving techniques. Some common foundational materials included wood and stone, where now, more modern types of materials are often used, like pre-formed concrete or metal/alloy installations with other materials added. 

 

Examples of Pile Driving Projects

 

Pile driving is useful for various kinds of construction projects.

 

For instance, modern companies might use pile driving to set up foundation components for a bridge.

 

In other cases, the pile driving is being done to create foundations for solar mounting projects. As solar energy offers more and more of a viable energy alternative for residential and commercial properties, experts are finding that pile driving is a way to set up the infrastructure to mount solar panels locally. That’s important for the safety and long term use of these excellent energy provisions. 

 

Pile driving can also be useful for some kind of high-density building projects, according to the specifications of new subdivisions and housing projects. 

 

Techniques for Pile Driving

 

Techniques for pile driving include the basic process of hammering structural elements into excavated soil, as well as the use of Kelly rods and tubes. We can consult on the best pile driving techniques for a particular project, from a position of experience and knowledge of how the industry has evolved these types of building and maintenance processes. 

 

Considerations with Pile Driving

 

In pile driving, you have to consider how to shore up various amounts of poundage according to project requirements.

 

Metrics like load ratings may be important in planning these projects and implementing them well. Safe foundations are built on specific calculations and precise excavating and other work.

 

For example, many pile driving projects require driving the piles into contact with a hard soil layer. That means professionals have to pay attention to the termination level and how that depth is achieved.

 

That’s a little bit about this type of service, which is one of our types of foundation work that we do frequently with businesses and other parties.

 

Take a look at the website for more on our implementations and our search for local businesses and economic partners in the Georgia, Florida and Carolina regions.

 

 

4 Types Of Concrete Cracks and What They Mean

One of the main concerns you should have when building a new structure or adding onto an existing structure is using high-quality materials. While high-quality materials tend to cost more, they are worth the investment. Concrete is one of the most popular building materials in the world

Correctly pouring and finishing a concrete surface can be incredibly difficult. One of the worst things that can happen to a concrete surface is the formation of cracks. Knowing the cause of these cracks is the only way to develop a plan to fix them. 

Read below for more information on the types of concrete cracks and what they mean. 

1. Cracks Caused By Concrete Settling

In some cases, outside forces will lead to cracks forming in a concrete surface. The ground located under a concrete surface can start to settle and shift over time. If there is a void between the concrete surface and the ground underneath, settling cracks are bound to happen.

Dirt that isn’t compacted before a concrete surface is laid on top of it will definitely shift. Rather than dealing with the damage these cracks can cause, you need to work with professionals to prep your site before the concrete is poured. DIY concrete pouring is usually the main cause of imperfections and cracks in a concrete surface. This is why hiring professionals to perform this difficult job is so important. 

2. Concrete Cracks Caused By Plastic Shrinkage

Before concrete begins to harden, it will be in a plastic state. The concrete is filled with water in this state. As the water dissipates during the hardening process, big voids will form between solid particles. These voids will make certain parts of the concrete surface weaker and prone to cracking. 

If the concrete mix being used is excessively wet, lots of plastic shrinkage cracks will begin to form. Inexperienced concrete mixers have a tendency to use too much water in their mix. If you want to keep these types of cracks out of your concrete surface, you have to work with seasoned concrete mixing and installation professionals. 

3. Premature Drying Cracks

If you notice cracks on your concrete surface that resemble spiderwebs, this is a result of premature drying. When concrete loses moisture too quickly, these types of cracks will start to form. These types of cracks are unappealing but pose little to no threat to the structural integrity of the surface. A quality mix and proper site preparation are effective ways to avoid drying cracks. 

4. Expansion Concrete Cracks

Expansion cracks are very common in concrete surfaces. Over time, concrete will expand and crack if expansion joints aren’t installed. These joints are made from things like rubber or asphalt and act as shock absorbers. Taking the time to install these expansion joints can help you avoid damage to the concrete surface in the future.

Are you trying to get a concrete surface constructed the right way? If so, the team at Griffin Contracting Inc. is here to help.

The Top Considerations When Pouring Concrete in Cold Weather

When it is cold outside, you may dread the thought of a concrete project. After all, you know cold weather makes this job harder and takes longer. While that’s true, you shouldn’t be deterred. There is some information that may help. 

Concrete and Curing Time

If you have worked with concrete before, you know it takes time to cure. On the micro-level, the cement’s hydration increases the mix resistance. When cold weather moves in, the cement paste will take longer to reach the level of strength needed and may cost you time. You must wait long enough to ensure it is safe to remove the formwork and move forward with your project. 

If you aren’t prepared, the internal temperature may reach critical limits, which can cause irreversible structural damage. The worst-case scenario is that you must demolish and repour. 

While monitoring the air temperature is important, keep an eye on the wind speed and humidity. These can also impact the internal temperature and evaporation rates of concrete. 

Dangers of Frozen Concrete 

If plastic concrete is exposed to sub-freezing temperatures, the final strength may be reduced by up to 50%. Damage can occur when the water freezes and expands. This creates ice crystals and a porous microstructure. Because of this, you must keep the concrete warm until it reaches the resistance level of 500 psi. However, excessive heat can compromise the ultimate level of resistance. You must find the right balance. 

Reaching the proper strength is a part of the goal; however, it’s also important to avoid damage to the concrete. Cold weather and frozen concrete increase the risks of shrinkage and thermal cracking

Equip Yourself to Ensure Your Construction Project Keeps Moving

Investing in concrete protections, specialty admixtures, and technology to monitor the concrete remotely in cold weather is recommended. Stopping your operations is expensive, even if you are waiting for better conditions. 

To avoid this, make sure you are prepared and have what you need on hand to combat the elements

One way to reduce damage and other issues is by controlling the concrete temperature. This can also help you save time and money. You can warm up the aggregates or water or use accelerating admixtures to do this. With this in place, you may be able to avoid cases of cold weather concrete damage. 

When pouring the concrete, be sure it isn’t placed on frozen ground. If this happens, it will likely freeze and crack before it is fully cured. There may also be a void under it once the soil thaws and recedes, which can cause cracking. If necessary, warm the ground before pouring the concrete. 

Ensuring Success with Winter Concrete Projects

As you can see, there’s a lot that can go wrong when it comes to pouring concrete in the winter. Because of this, you need to take steps to ensure your project is successful. The tips here will help; however, hiring a professional service is also wise. This will ensure that no serious issues arise.

The Impact of Rain on Asphalt Parking Lots and How to Prevent Issues

One of the best ways to prevent issues with your commercial parking lot is by investing in preventative asphalt maintenance. When you take steps to prevent issues, rain won’t cause as many issues. 

Unfortunately, if you wait to invest in maintenance or skip it completely, small cracks, potholes, and depressions can occur. 

Why Does Rain Damage Asphalt Parking Lots?

Water will weaken the bond between the asphalt binder and aggregates in the parking lot. When the asphalt cracks, it is vulnerable to the elements – especially water. As time passes, the water can begin to erode unprotected asphalt and weaken the structural and supportive layers present. 

Excess water in your parking lot isn’t unlikely in areas susceptible to drastic weather fluctuations. Unfortunately, standing water is susceptible to the freeze and thaw cycle, which will shrink and expand the water molecules. When this happens, stripping occurs, which is when the aggregate and binder debond. When this happens, the binder will deteriorate and weaken the pavement, which makes it more vulnerable to damage in the future. 

If you don’t treat a small crack quickly, it will get bigger and cause even more damage. Over time, the entire parking lot will be covered with alligator cracks, which are unappealing and unsafe.  

Solutions for Ensuring Asphalt Surfaces Aren’t Damaged by Rain

There are a few options to help ensure your asphalt parking lot isn’t damaged by rain. These include:

Sealcoating

It’s possible to protect asphalt surfaces from water penetration with sealcoating. This process adds a thin layer of liquid over the surface to protect it from damage caused by vehicle fluids, snow, rain, and UV rays. Adding sealcoating will prevent cracks from forming, to begin with, and extend the asphalt’s lifespan. 

It’s smart to invest in sealcoating once every three to five years to protect the investment you make. 

Drainage 

Proper water drainage is essential when the asphalt is installed. When constructing a parking lot, the contractor must take advantage of any grassy areas and inlets where water is easily directed with curbing and slopes. 

Porous pavement lets rain drain through the surface into the stone recharge bed. It’s then filtered into the soil below. This is an effective way to manage water drainage and may even result in tax cuts for your business. 

Invest in Preventative Maintenance 

Rain and standing water can cause weaknesses in an asphalt surface. Fixing small cracks is much easier to manage and repair than larger ones, so you must get them fixed right away. 

Hiring professionals to help with this will pay off in the long run. Make sure you put time and effort into preventative maintenance to minimize issues and ensure your asphalt surface doesn’t cause liabilities for your business. Making sure that your parking lot remains in good condition may not seem like a big deal, but failure to do this will cost you a lot of money and frustration in the future.

Why You Should Avoid DIY Concrete Pouring

Before you can construct a new commercial building, you will need a strong foundation. When building a foundation, you will need to use durable materials to ensure it lasts the test of time. Concrete is one of the most used materials during the foundation construction process. 

Over 101,000 metric tons of concrete are used in the United States every year. Mixing and pouring concrete is not nearly as easy as most people think. One of the worst mistakes a home or business owner can make is attempting to pour concrete without the help of professionals. 

Below are some reasons why DIY concrete pouring is always a horrible idea. 

Mixing Concrete is Very Difficult

If you want concrete to last, then you need to make sure it is properly mixed. One of the main things you need when mixing concrete is the right amount of water. Using improper amounts of water in the concrete mixing process is one of the main mistakes amateurs make. This usually results in the concrete mix becoming either extremely chunky or runny. Ideally, you want your mix to be malleable and smooth. 

Getting the concrete mixture process wrong will only lead to ongoing durability and appearance issues in the future. Most people try to take on their own concrete pouring because they have a desire to save money. In reality, you will waste more money in the long run by taking a DIY approach to concrete mixing and pouring. 

This is why working with a reputable company like Griffin Contracting Inc. is so important. With this professional help, you can rest assured that your concrete is properly mixed before it is poured. 

Failure to Create a Solid Base

When trying to get a strong and long-lasting concrete surface, you will need to establish a solid base. The construction of a solid base will start with the compacting of the soil. If the soil under the concrete isn’t properly packed, it is only a matter of time before it starts to shift. This shifting process will result in the concrete getting cracked. 

Not only does the soil need to be packed, it also needs to be leveled. The average home or business owner doesn’t have the knowledge needed to do this type of work. Instead of dealing with cracking and crumbling concrete, you need to leave the site preparation work to the professionals. 

DIYers Don’t Have The Right Tools

One of the main things you need to have a successful concrete pouring experience is the right tools. Most DIYers don’t have the tools needed to pull this job. Trying to use sub-par tools to perform this job can lead to long-term damage. Professionals have access to things like concrete mixing, concrete groovers and a variety of other tools needed to properly pour concrete. This is why paying them to perform this type of work is a great idea. 

As you can see, DIY concrete pouring is something you need to avoid at all costs.