We recently talked about the differences between concrete and asphalt parking lots and why asphalt just makes more sense for the bulk of the job. Asphalt is 35% cheaper to install than concrete and much easier to work with. Concrete is, however, more durable, which is why it is often used in high stress areas, such as entrances and exits, dumpster pads, and frames (curbing).
For these same reasons, most roads in Maryland – and across the country – are paved with asphalt, not concrete. Concrete road construction is a very in-depth and, thus, expensive process initially. However, in the long run, concrete tends to be the cheaper paving option.
According to the Concrete Paving Association of Minnesota, federally funded studies have shown that concrete Interstate pavements cost 13-28% less in the long run than asphalt Interstate pavements.
Additional Benefits of Concrete Road Construction
- The main reason concrete roads are cheaper – in the long run – is because they are more durable than asphalt roads and, thus, last longer. In fact, concrete roads have a life expectance of 40+ years.
- During this span, concrete roads also require fewer repairs than asphalt roads. These roads are not easily damaged by leaking oils or extreme weather.
- And the benefits of asphalt road construction also extend to motorists. According to studies, cars consume 15-20% less fuel when driving on concrete roads.
- And More!
Concrete Road Construction in Maryland
PTG Enterprises is a full service commercial pavement contractor located just outside Baltimore, Maryland. We have been in the paving business for more than a decade and have managed hundreds of pavement projects throughout the Baltimore-Washington area. Click Here to view images from our concrete road construction project at Tysons Galleria, an upscale three-level super-regional mall in McLean, Virginia.
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The Concrete Road Construction Process
The first step is to establish a good mix design – cement type, aggregate size and type, amount of water, and mineral and chemical admixtures. Without the proper mix, your concrete will not be strong enough to support years of traffic.
Next comes the support system. You see, unlike asphalt roads, concrete requires a support structure, typically rebar formed into a grid pattern. Now, all you have to do is get the concrete to the job site, which requires multiple cement mixers to keep the concrete from hardening during transportation.
Once the concrete is in place, it should be consolidated to remove large air voids developed during placement. This process is also called compacting. Then the surface is smoothed and the concrete is allowed to cure, which takes time.
All in all, concrete road construction is a in-depth and expensive process, but one that produces superior, long-lasting results.
Call us today at 410-636-8777 to learn more about concrete road construction. When you contact PTG Enterprises, you can expect a fair proposal, professionalism, and quality work. Unlike those other asphalt contractors, we care about you and your business.
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