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Omaha Snow and Ice Management: Commercial Properties

What is Snow & Ice Management?

Snow and ice management uses a mixture of snow plowing equipment and de-icing chemicals. When Midwest winter weather strikes, snow removal operators will remove snow in places where it can be a potential danger. Although many people love snow, nobody wants the snow to cost their business thousands of dollars in repairs or accident claims.

Why is Snow & Ice Management Important?

Snow and ice management helps ensure the safety of both employees and customers. Failing to manage winter storm conditions can lead to physical injuries, vehicle accidents, and even structural damage to your property.

For Omaha businesses, snow and ice management is also part of annual corporate responsibility to the community and environment. Companies should make sure their snow and ice management is done sustainably.

What is Sustainable Snow Management?

Don’t just pick any snow management contractor. Sustainability is important, both for your company and the environment. Sustainable snow management practices include the use of non-toxic chemicals that won’t cause harm to people, animals, the environment, or the property.

Older, non-sustainable de-icing chemicals contained ingredients such as antifreeze. However, modern de-icing chemicals contain less toxic ingredients that will not harm the environment. Make sure your ice management contractor cares about the environment just as much as you do.

What is Used for Commercial De-icing?

Commercial de-icing uses chemicals that will have a minimal impact on the environment. Environmentally responsible methods of de-icing rely on mixtures of salt and chlorine over heavy chemicals like antifreeze. Does your snow and ice removal contractor advertise as sustainable? If so, they should be able to provide you with a full list of what they will use on the job.

How Do You Choose a Snow Management Contractor?

There are many snow and ice management contractors in the Omaha area. Yet, this doesn’t mean all companies are worth hiring for your commercial de-icing needs.

Choose a snow and ice management contractor with:

• High-rated service
• Provable certification
• Professional communication

Commercial de-icing puts a lot of trust in the company that you hire. If your contractor can prove good service with high-rated reviews and certification, they are more likely to be on the nice list. However, if your contractor has bad (or zero) reviews, can’t provide paperwork, or refuses to provide all the information about the job, they might go on the not-so-nice list instead.

What is ISO Certification?

ISO Certification is a label that you will see on some snow contractor websites. For commercial reasons, ISO Certification guarantees that their equipment and products have been tested and meet safety standards.

How important is ISO Certification?

Professional, registered contractors are more likely to provide this certification. However, unprofessional contractors with little experience are less likely to have this certification.

What Are Signs of a Bad Contractor?

Contractors aren’t all created alike. For every registered business, there is also a scam or low-quality contractor who will cut corners (or just run off with your cash). Signs of a bad contractor include not providing information when you ask, inability to give feedback on time, and failing to adhere to environmentally friendly standards.

What Are Signs of a Good Contractor?

Reliable snow management contractors will provide quotes in a timely manner, and will always communicate with the client about the job at hand.

Does your contractor ignore your correspondence for days or weeks? If so, that’s a good reason to find a new snow and ice management company. Registered snow and ice removal contractors are backed by reviews and as good as an open book.

Choosing a Snow Removal Service in Omaha, NE for Your Property

Choose the best snow removal contractor for your needs (or snow and ice management could cost you more!).

If you want your customers and employees to stay safe during the winter, snow and ice management is an essential service that you can’t afford to go without.

Additional Reading: Nebraska Plow Tracker

TR Concrete Construction – Commercial Snow Removal Omaha, NE

This industry takes a lot of heavy machinery and tough labor, but it also requires as much or more planning, critical thinking, and fine touch to get a quality finished product. It is a very rewarding career and keeps you constantly on your toes being that 2 days are never the same. It is a profession that has been around for a long time and is ever-evolving and still remains a very vital staple in today’s economy.

As a reputable business with over 25 years of concrete construction experience, TR Construction has expertise with projects large and small to include:

• commercial snow removal
• commercial building concrete
• footings
• paving
• remove, and replacement of concrete
• industrial projects
• special projects for clients

TR Construction can deliver Concrete Excellence on your next project. Contact us today by filling out the form or give us a call at (402) 238-2599.

The post Snow and Ice Management: Commercial Properties appeared first on TR Concrete Construction.

What is Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC)?

An Intro to Ultra-High Performance Concrete

Ultra-High Performance Concrete is an alternative building material that can be thought of as next-level concrete due to its strength and durability. UHPC contains all the best qualities of traditional concrete, but almost none of its drawbacks. UHPC is less prone to environmental damage over time and settles faster than traditional forms of concrete. Ultra-high performance concrete also cuts project costs.

Why Choose Ultra-High Performance Concrete?

Ultra-high performance concrete is stronger than traditional, regular concrete mixtures. UHPC can handle the pressure of up to 22,000 psi. Pre-mixing specific fibers (including PVA and glass) into UHPC gives the concrete the ability to hold together more effectively. The use of UHPC is already common in more industries thanks to its durability and strength. UHPC can bring the costs of your overall building project down. Conversely, in some cases, the use of traditional concrete can cause the costs of other projects to skyrocket.

How Does UHPC Work?

UHPC is made in the same way as traditional concrete. Most brands on the market simply require mixing a powder concrete mix together with water. Individual instructions provide more information regarding the specific ratio. However, there’s one difference that separates UHPC from regular concrete. Where traditional concrete buildings require a frame, ultra-high performance concrete can hold its strength even without.

What Fiber Types Are Used for UHPC?

The different fiber types in ultra-high performance concrete are part of what enhances its tensile strength. Depending on the brand, the mix of UHPC might contain PVA, glass, carbon, or a combination of several.

What Makes UHPC Better than Traditional Concrete?

UHPC is Environmentally Friendly

Ultra-high performance concrete is better for the environment. Producing regular concrete can leave behind a huge carbon footprint. Regular concrete materials don’t move around environmental factors like heat as well, therefore, leading to more resource waste.

Not only does UHPC reduce the footprint left during construction, but UHPC is also better for the environmental friendliness of the building as well.

UHPC is Cheaper to Produce

Ultra-high performance concrete is cheaper to produce and leads to lower costs. Switching to UHPC for your building project can almost guarantee saving money on your final quote.

UHPC is Stronger

Simple concrete slabs can handle the pressure of up to 5,000 psi. Compare this to ultra-high performance concrete, which is measured at a strength of 17,000 to 22,000 psi.

Judging the compressive strength of UHPC, it’s not difficult to see why professionals consider this type of concrete the new market standard for better building.

UHPC is More Durable

Ultra-high performance concrete has enhanced durability. Constructions made from UHPC can last much longer than ones made from traditional concrete.

UHPC is Time-Saving

UHPC is made to be stronger and last longer than traditional concrete. However, there’s one more aspect that makes it worth your consideration. UHPC dries faster than traditional concrete. As a result, building times can be cut drastically.

UHPC is Recyclable

Traditional concrete has finite recyclability, whereas UHPC can be put through the cycle several times. This only further helps to reduce its overall carbon footprint. When its lifespan has reached the end, UHPC can be used as part of a mixture that completes roads.

UHPC is Easier to Work With

With UHPC there is no need to frame under the bulk of your construction.

Conclusion

After all, it is called ultra-high performance concrete! UHPC is one of the best alternatives to traditional concrete in almost every way you can think of.

The use of UHPC can reduce building costs, and guarantee sustainable and environmentally friendly buildings for years to come.

Why settle for regular concrete when there are better and cheaper options out there that can guarantee better and stronger results? Consider UHPC for your next project and see how much better it goes.

Additional Reading: Ultra-High Performance Concrete (FHWA)

TR Concrete Construction Omaha – Commercial Concrete Contractors

This industry takes a lot of heavy machinery and tough labor, but it also requires as much or more planning, critical thinking, and fine touch to get a quality finished product. It is a very rewarding career and keeps you constantly on your toes being that 2 days are never the same. It is a profession that has been around for a long time and is ever-evolving and still remains a very vital staple in today’s economy.

As a reputable business with over 25 years of concrete construction experience, TR Construction has expertise with projects large and small to include:

• commercial snow removal
• commercial building concrete
• footings
• paving
• remove, and replacement of concrete
• industrial projects
• special projects for clients

TR Construction can deliver Concrete Excellence on your next project. Contact us today by filling out the form or give us a call at (402) 238-2599.

The post What is Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC)? appeared first on TR Concrete Construction.

Role of Concrete in Building Our Infrastructure

Design Flexibility

Designers favor concrete because it is extremely flexible. Workers are able to mold it into any shape and mix it to various degrees of strength. When used in tandem with other construction materials like reinforcing bars, designers can shape and bend the concrete. Most importantly, the nature of concrete allows it to be used as a solution for overcoming design problems. Concrete has a fresh and clean finish which is both timeless and modern. Furthermore, it is suitable for painting and attaching other finishing components to it.

The load-bearing properties of concrete reduce the need for (and thereby the cost of) additional building materials to support raised floors. This is because the properties of concrete are conducive to longer and wider floor spans. What’s more, with fewer supporting columns required, floor space plans can be more creative and efficient. Another wonderful property of concrete is that it is virtually soundproof. This makes it excellent for high-density urban areas.

Versatility

Engineers and developers embrace concrete for a number of reasons. Concrete is the cornerstone of infrastructure construction. In addition to being environmentally friendly and low impact, it offers true structural integrity when used correctly. Different jobs require different strengths and consistencies. Adding sand and stone chips in various quantities can improve the strength of concrete. Another advantage of concrete for engineers is its density and mass. In high wind and seismic environments, engineers prefer concrete for building taller structures due to its lateral stiffness and resistance to horizontal movement.

Cost-effectiveness

There are a number of reasons why concrete is cost-effective, besides being cheaper than other materials. Unlike steel and wood, concrete is typically never in short supply. Therefore, there are rarely delays in construction as a result of concrete. The finish on concrete reduces the need to add other finishes to it and it doesn’t need to be coated.

Precast concrete panels can reduce labor costs on site. All workers need is a crane to lift them into place. Another benefit of precast panels is that they are made in a standardized mold. Therefore, precast panels fit together without too much alteration or work on-site. Furthermore, precast concrete panels are fairly airtight and weather-resistant. This helps by reducing the time and cost of overlaying sealants.

Concrete endures for decades and even centuries because it is so durable. This makes it even cheaper as it is low maintenance. Maintenance crews are able to fix any minor defects or weaknesses quickly, easily, and cheaply. There is seldom a need for early replacement or reconstruction. A further value proposition is its ability to mimic other materials like stone, which is becoming increasingly more rare and expensive. Another big advantage of concrete is that construction can start before plans are finalized or changed because concrete is easy to alter. Getting an early start means saving time, and time is money for developers.

Green concrete

Concrete is energy efficient. Concrete has the advantage of thermal mass, therefore, it renders a good energy performance. At night, concrete will release the internal heat that it absorbs during the day back into buildings. However, in warmer periods, it works in reverse. This helps make concrete a low-cost, efficient, and sustainable source of energy.

Additional Information: ‘Green’ concrete could be game-changer for construction industry

TR Concrete Construction – Concrete Companies in Omaha, NE

This industry takes a lot of heavy machinery and tough labor, but it also requires as much or more planning, critical thinking, and fine touch to get a quality finished product. It is a very rewarding career and keeps you constantly on your toes being that 2 days are never the same. It is a profession that has been around for a long time and is ever-evolving and still remains a very vital staple in today’s economy.

As a reputable business with over 25 years of concrete construction experience, TR Construction has expertise with projects large and small to include:

• commercial snow removal
• commercial building concrete
• footings
• paving
• remove, and replacement of concrete
• industrial projects
• special projects for clients

TR Construction can deliver Concrete Excellence on your next project. Contact us today by filling out the form or give us a call at (402) 238-2599.

The post Role of Concrete in Building Our Infrastructure appeared first on TR Concrete Construction.

Cracked Concrete And What To Do About It?

Yes, you can DIY repairs for cracked concrete, however, we strongly suggest hiring concrete professionals for better results and to save you time and money. Don’t let those imperfections linger, here’s how to fix them!

How To Fix Cracked Concrete

Here’s what you’re going to need:

• Hammer
• Chisel
• Wire brush
• Putty knife
• Concrete repair mix
• Mason’s trowel

If you have everything, then you’re all set for the following steps!

Step 1: Decide which concrete repair product to use.

You will want to use a concrete repair mix to repair cracked concrete slabs. You can easily find the concrete mix online or at home centers nearby.

Other options include epoxy patching compounds, latex patching materials, and mortar mixes. Mortar mixes are suitable for big cracks while the other two options are better for small cracks.

Step 2: Prepare the area.

Knock away the loose concrete by using a small hammer and chisel. Use a wire brush to remove all the loose and lingering particles.

At this point, expect the project to get messy. That said, we suggest spreading a tarp around the concrete patch and using protective gear for your safety.

Step 3: Fix it!

Now, you’re all set to fix the cracked concrete using your selected concrete repair product. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure the complete repair project is completed properly.

If you’re using the mortar mix, make sure to smoothen the concrete patch to level with the surrounding concrete. Leave it for 2 hours and cover the area using a plastic sheet to keep it moist. Experts recommend sprinkling water on the patch every day for a few days until the surface hardens.

Concrete Crack Repair Methods

There are several methods that you can use to repair cracked concrete. It is essential to evaluate the type of crack to choose a suitable fixing method. Types of concrete cracks include shrinkage cracks, hairline cracks, expansion cracks, heaving cracks, settling cracks, overload cracks, crazing cracks, and crusting cracks.

Here are a few methods that work:

Epoxy Injection

This method is best for cracks that are as narrow as 0.05 mm. The epoxy injection method involves sealing cracks by injecting epoxy under pressure. In fact, the epoxy injection method is one of the easiest ways to repair cracks on various structures as it works on any application. The process is pretty simple. All you need is a piece of injection equipment, capping paste, an injection port, and injection resin.

Stitching

The stitching method involves drilling holes on both sides of the crack and grouting in U-shaped metals to hold the concrete together. You can use a non-shrink grout or epoxy resin-based bonding system to anchor the legs of the staple on the holes. Keep in mind the length, location, and orientation of the staples should vary. As a result, tension is distributed on the concrete and not on a single plane.

Routing and Sealing

The routing and sealing repair method is suitable for flat horizontal surfaces such as floors and pavements. This concrete repair method involves enlarging the crack and having it filled and sealed using a joint sealant. This method is relatively simple compared to the procedures used in epoxy injection methods. Moreover, routing and sealing are also suitable for patterns and larger isolated cracks. The routing and sealing method can also be used to waterproof a concrete surface.

Drilling and Plugging

The drilling and plugging method is recommended for cracks that run in reasonably straight lines and are accessible on the other end. This type of repair method is commonly used to repair retaining walls with vertical cracks. To repair concrete properly using this method, drill a hole that’s 50 to 75 mm in diameter centered on the crack. Then, use grout to prevent movement of the sections that are adjacent to the crack. Note that it is essential to fill the hole with resilient material for better support.

Final Say

It can be easy to fix cracked concrete as long as you plan and know the right procedure. Understand the best repair method, find the right concrete repair product, and use the exact tools needed to make the work easier for you.

The basic concrete crack repair steps are pretty easy to follow. However, it is strongly advised that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. There are several repair methods to use depending on the type of crack. Carefully examine the cracked area to come up with the right fixing method and to save resources too.

Contact an Omaha Concrete Contractor

Finally, don’t hesitate to consult with concrete companies near you to ensure things are done correctly. Failure to properly repair cracks in concrete can result in having to completely replace concrete patches in the future.

Additional Reading: Types of Cracks in Concrete and Typical Causes

Related Blog: Why Does Concrete Buckle In Heat?

TR Concrete Construction – Omaha Concrete Repair

This industry takes a lot of heavy machinery and tough labor, but it also requires as much or more planning, critical thinking, and fine touch to get a quality finished product. It is a very rewarding career and keeps you constantly on your toes being that 2 days are never the same. It is a profession that has been around for a long time and is ever-evolving and still remains a very vital staple in today’s economy.

As a reputable business with over 25 years of concrete construction experience, TR Construction has expertise with projects large and small to include:

• commercial snow removal
• commercial building concrete
• footings
• paving
• remove, and replacement of concrete
• industrial projects
• special projects for clients

TR Construction can deliver Concrete Excellence on your next project. Contact us today by filling out the form or give us a call at (402) 238-2599.

The post Cracked Concrete And What To Do About It? appeared first on TR Concrete Construction.

When to Hire Snow Removal in Omaha, NE

Hiring A Service When You Are Sick

Plowing or shoveling snow takes a lot of time and effort. While it may be cheaper to do it on your own, sometimes physically it just isn’t possible. Viruses and colds are more common in the winter, instead of pushing yourself or your workers to spend time outside, hire a professional snow removal service to help instead.

Hire Help If You Will Be On Vacation

For those who plan to be away when the winter season rolls around, professional plowing is the best option. You can hire a no-contract snow plowing service that will come by your business and keep the ground clear while you are away. This will make traveling in the area easier for those around your business property.

Professional Snow Removal For Heavy Snowfall

Mild snowstorms are easy to keep up with. However, most people in the Omaha area know, heavy snowstorms can bury you in a flash. The best way to keep your sidewalks and parking lots clear is by contracting a professional snow removal service. Most companies offer contracts that will cover plowing for certain levels of snow or a specific number of times per day. When heavy snowstorms arise, a professional snow removal service in Omaha can keep you from being trapped inside your business with no way out.

When You Don’t Have Time

These days everyone is busy. Perhaps you spend most of your time away from your business and would rather relax instead of plowing or shoveling the property. Whatever the reason, hiring a professional snow removal service when your schedule is packed can take the stress of snow maintenance off of your shoulders. Full-service snow removal professionals are able to shovel and plow your commercial property quickly and with expert precision. Their services can include salting the ground to help slow the buildup of new snowfall.

Commercial Snow Removal Services

For business owners, not only is regular snow removal essential for your business esthetic, it is also critical for customer and staff safety. While an employee may be able to shovel snow from in front of your store, regular parking lot and property snow removal by snow removal professionals in Omaha can come in handy. An experienced snow removal service can keep all areas in and around your business free from excessive snow. They can also salt the walkways around and leading up to your business to make it easier for customers and staff alike to move about safely.

When You Want To Avoid Property Damage

Shoveling snow is not overly difficult. But, it does require the right technique if you want to avoid damaging your property. Improper shoveling or snow plowing can result in cracked pavement, split pavement, and chipped walkways. In some cases, improper snow disposal can even lead to water damage. Hiring a professional snow removal service in Omaha, NE will ensure that the right methods and the proper equipment are used to keep your property free from snow and ice during the winter season.

Keep Your Property Free From Ice & Snow With Professional Snow Removal

Shoveling snow on your own is great for light snow or small areas. However, when you need help, professional removal services are the best option. Not only will your Omaha property be expertly maintained, but your walkways and parking lots will also be salted to prevent snow buildup.

Related Blogs:

Snow Removal Business Responsibilities

How Much Does it Snow in Omaha?

TR Concrete Construction – Commercial Snow Removal in Omaha, NE

This industry takes a lot of heavy machinery and tough labor, but it also requires as much or more planning, critical thinking, and fine touch to get a quality finished product. It is a very rewarding career and keeps you constantly on your toes being that 2 days are never the same. It is a profession that has been around for a long time and is ever-evolving and still remains a very vital staple in today’s economy.

As a reputable business with over 25 years of concrete construction experience, TR Construction has expertise with projects large and small to include:

• commercial snow removal
• commercial building concrete
• footings
• paving
• remove, and replacement of concrete
• industrial projects
• special projects for clients

TR Construction can deliver Concrete Excellence on your next project. Contact us today by filling out the form or give us a call at (402) 238-2599.

The post When to Hire Snow Removal in Omaha, NE appeared first on TR Concrete Construction.

How Much Does it Snow in Omaha?

The largest city in the state of Nebraska, Omaha sits on the Missouri River and about 10 miles north of the Platte River. A world-class zoo, shopping, theater, restaurants, nightlife, and outdoor adventure abound in Omaha. The city is also home to some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet and has a rich cultural heritage that’s infectious. Needless to say, Omaha is definitely a hidden gem.

Whether you’re thinking about planning a vacation in Omaha, you’re taking a business trip to the city, or you’re moving to Omaha, there’s no doubt that you want to learn as much as you can about the city before you arrive. If you’re a developer, knowing the climate trends will help you make important decisions as you plan your build.

If you’re going to be there in the winter, it’s a good idea to learn how much snow Omaha receives, so that you can plan accordingly. Of course, there’s no way to accurately predict the weather far in advance. In Omaha, weather can certainly change at a moment’s notice. However, by looking back at past winters, you can get some insight into the average amount of snowfall Omaha receives.

How often does it snow in Omaha?

Being that Omaha is situated in the Midwest, it gets quite cold in the winter and can receive ample amounts of snow. The following is a breakdown of the average snowfall that the received over a 10 year period, from 2010 to 2019:

• January – 2.1 days – 6.2 inches
• February – 2.8 days – 25.1 9.9 inches
• March – 0.4 days – 2.4 inches
• April – 0 days – 0.2 inches
• May – 0.2 days – 0.3 inches
• October – 0.5 days – 1.3 inches
• December – 1.5 days – 5 inches

Combined, that’s a total of 25.6 inches of snow per year.

While these averages don’t illustrate how much the snowfall in Omaha was from year to year, it does give you some insight about the amount of snowfall that occurs yearly. Overall, December, January, and February tend to receive the most snowfall. However, that doesn’t necessarily guarantee that you’ll get the most amount of snow during these months, as big snowstorms have hit at other times of the year.

When are the first and last snowfalls in Omaha?

Typically, the first snow arrives in Omaha in the month of November. Once in a while, it will snow as early as mid-October. Usually, the last snowfall in the city occurs in March. However, on occasion, there have been substantial snowfalls of a few inches or more in the month of April.

How frequently does Omaha receive snowstorms?

Usually, snow days in Omaha aren’t huge. In fact, they tend to be nothing more than a skiff that amounts to an inch or less of fresh snow. With that said, for a total of 9 days per year, on average, the amount of new snow totals an inch, at least.

More substantial snowstorms during which amounts of five inches fall in a day usually occur about once or twice a year. Blizzards – that is, snowstorms that dump 10 inches or more in a single day – are not the norm in Omaha.

How much snow accumulation does Omaha receive?

An estimated 1/3 of winter days in Omaha see a minimum of one inch of snow on the ground. Snow usually starts accumulating on the ground in January. Generally speaking, there are six days in January that receive snow totals that reach approximately five inches. In the months of December and February, days where five inches or more of snowfall can occur, too.

Does Omaha get a lot of snow?

As you can see from the information mentioned above, while Omaha doesn’t receive substantial amounts of snow, it definitely does see snowfall throughout the year. If you manage a property, it is helpful to know this data as you plan your snow removal budget and contracts.

Check out our related blog: Snow Removal Business Responsibilities

TR Concrete Construction – Commercial Snow Removal in Omaha, NE

This industry takes a lot of heavy machinery and tough labor, but it also requires as much or more planning, critical thinking, and fine touch to get a quality finished product. It is a very rewarding career and keeps you constantly on your toes being that 2 days are never the same. It is a profession that has been around for a long time and is ever-evolving and still remains a very vital staple in today’s economy.

As a reputable business with over 25 years of concrete construction experience, TR Construction has expertise with projects large and small to include:

• commercial snow removal
• commercial building concrete
• footings
• paving
• remove, and replacement of concrete
• industrial projects
• special projects for clients

TR Construction can deliver Concrete Excellence on your next project. Contact us today by filling out the form or give us a call at (402) 238-2599.

The post How Much Does it Snow in Omaha? appeared first on TR Concrete Construction.

Snow Removal Business Responsibilities

Some employers may simply consider asking employees to take care of snow removal. It is important, however, to be aware that snow removal itself is risky, too.

Those with heart conditions, smokers, and people who have ingested any alcohol are at risk of injuring themselves while shoveling snow. Believe it or not, the risk of having a heart attack is many times greater while shoveling snow. However, these more vulnerable groups are not the only ones who are at risk. Shoveling snow is also dangerous if you are even mildly dehydrated or underdressed. It can also be a potential hazard to employees who are not familiar with safe snow removal techniques.

Simply said, employees might be risking their own health by engaging in snow removal duties. Therefore, companies asking ordinary and unequipped employees to shovel snow could face serious liability issues.

Hiring a Professional Snow Removal Service

This is why hiring a professional snow removal service is the best way to deal with extreme winter weather conditions. What are the precise responsibilities of a snow removal business, you ask? The duties of the snow removal company you engage will be defined in the contract you sign. Unless you cover all your bases, that means you may still remain responsible for the remaining snow removal tasks. Therefore, you may want to specify that you want the snow removal business you hire to:

• Ensure that walking surfaces, such as sidewalks and walkways, are free of snow and ice. Salt should be applied to make the surfaces less slippery. This should be done anywhere on the property where people may walk, including areas not open to the public.
• Shovel, plow, and de-ice parking lots.
• Monitor roof and gutters and take steps to ensure that snow, ice, and icicles do not fall on visitors, potentially causing injury.

Snow Removal Contracts

Business owners should outline the precise areas you need to have shoveled, plowed, and de-iced in any snow removal contract. The snow removal business has the responsibility to be transparent about the equipment they use to manage extreme weather. They must also clarify the time frame within which they will carry their obligations out, as well as how often their services will be performed. The company will remove snow from areas in which people frequent and will move it somewhere on your property until it melts. In some cases, however, the snow removal company hauls the snow that accumulated on your property off when they are finished with snow removal.

Even the best snow removal companies may not be able to take care of all your state-mandated snow removal responsibilities. You may have to fix your sidewalk and fix your gutters to face away from the property. Business owners who spot ongoing threats need to put up clear signs to warn their customers that ice is present or icicles may fall. In most cases, it is best to barricade off any especially hazardous areas. This, too, is something a snow removal business can help you with.

Additional Reading: City of Omaha Public Works – Snow Removal

TR Concrete Construction in Omaha, NE

This industry takes a lot of heavy machinery and tough labor, but it also requires as much or more planning, critical thinking, and fine touch to get a quality finished product. It is a very rewarding career and keeps you constantly on your toes being that 2 days are never the same. It is a profession that has been around for a long time and is ever-evolving and still remains a very vital staple in today’s economy.

As a reputable business with over 25 years of concrete construction experience, TR Construction has expertise with projects large and small to include:

• commercial building concrete
• footings
• paving
• remove, and replacement of concrete
• industrial projects
• special projects for clients

TR Construction can deliver Concrete Excellence on your next project. Contact us today by filling out the form or give us a call at (402) 238-2599.

The post Snow Removal Business Responsibilities appeared first on TR Concrete Construction.

Concrete and Cement: What Is the Difference?

Concrete is the most used material on earth after water. It’s a composite made of multiple materials – one of which is cement.

Cement and concrete (made with cement and a few other materials) are both used in construction all over the world.

What is cement? How is concrete made from cement?

Cement is a limestone-based compound. Here’s how the whole process works:

1. Limestone is extracted out of the earth.
2. The limestone is then mixed with a source of silica, such as fly ash or industrial byproducts.
3. This mixture is fired in a kiln – 2,700 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. After this process, we get clinker – solid, round pebble-like pieces.
5. Cement plants then grind clinker down until it becomes a fine powder.
6. A few additives are mixed in to make it less volatile so that it doesn’t quickly solidify in air. This powder is cement.
7. Now, this cement is mixed with water on construction sites, thus creating cement paste.
8. Sand is then added into the cement paste – mortar.
9. Stone aggregates (or gravel or crushed stone) are added to the mortar. This is the final step in which concrete is created.

In many ways, concrete is an evolution of cement. Cement or mortar itself are both used in construction as well. Concrete, however, has its own identity and a separate use case.

The use of cement vs. concrete

Cement solidifies when it’s mixed with water and kept in the air for a while. For example, two bricks can be attached to each other permanently with mortar between them. This is how brick walls are made.

Cement undergoes a chemical reaction when it mixes with water. A process called hydration dissolves the clinker into basic calcium. This calcium, in the presence of water, combines with water and silica. This ultimately forms a molecule called calcium silica hydrate or CSH. CSH molecules form supertight bonds among them. When sandwiched between two materials, CSH paste will solidify and dry soon to lend them strength and affinity. Solidified cement is surprisingly largely porous – 96% of the pores inside cement are connected. Cement has excellent strength despite its porosity.

Mortar isn’t the only way in which cement is used. Though mortar is used in bricklaying and other construction jobs, concrete is what makes most of the life we see around ourselves (precisely why we call cities concrete jungles). As we know, mortar is mixed with stone aggregates to make the composite we call concrete. These stone aggregates further improve the strength of the composite that mortar is. Concrete is used in larger construction jobs such as buildings, bridges, and entire skyscrapers. The porosity of cement can be reduced further to improve its strength. Research into this field led to the development of “high-performance concrete,” or HPC, in the 1980s.

No cement sidewalks

To the ire of many, cement is used to define concrete more often than not. For example, it’s common to hear terms such as “cement sidewalks”. While in fact, the sidewalk is made of concrete, of which cement is an ingredient. Building something out of cement paste (only cement and water) would be very expensive because you’d need lots of cement. That’s why sand is thrown into the mix, quite literally, which adds additional hardening into the mass.

The cement + water + sand combination, called mortar, is only used for smaller tasks. Large-scale construction work where strength is key to endure storms and extreme weather always uses concrete – mortar mixed with gravel or crushed stone. Concrete is extremely tough when hardened. Concrete is used in the pillars made for the tallest of buildings in the world and the base of the largest of bridges carrying the heaviest of loads.

The next time you mention a sidewalk, say what you mean – a concrete sidewalk and not a cement one!

Additional Reading: 17 Striking Concrete Buildings Around the World

TR Concrete Construction – Omaha Concrete Contractors

This industry takes a lot of heavy machinery and tough labor, but it also requires as much or more planning, critical thinking, and fine touch to get a quality finished product. It is a very rewarding career and keeps you constantly on your toes being that 2 days are never the same. It is a profession that has been around for a long time and is ever-evolving and still remains a very vital staple in today’s economy.

As a reputable business with over 25 years of concrete construction experience, TR Construction has expertise with projects large and small to include:

• commercial building concrete
• footings
• paving
• remove, and replacement of concrete
• industrial projects
• special projects for clients

TR Construction can deliver Concrete Excellence on your next project. Contact us today by filling out the form or give us a call at (402) 238-2599.

The post Concrete and Cement: What Is the Difference? appeared first on TR Concrete Construction.

Why Does Concrete Buckle In Heat?

What causes concrete to buckle?

When there’s an extreme change in temperature, concrete will most likely respond to it. This extreme change will either cause the concrete to expand or contract. If the expansion occurs at a crack or joint, the pavement may buckle or warp. If water seeps into the pores of the concrete for a period of time, this insulated hydration will heat the concrete and cause it to grow. This is typically caused by sprinklers and rain or snow. When it comes to excessive heat, the culprits usually consist of water pipes, electrical wiring, the ground itself, vehicles, and even buildings.

When a structure heats and cools unevenly, buckling will occur wherever there are weak spots. Furthermore, larger structures are more commonly affected as the density allows for more heat to be stored. Some factors that may make certain concrete structures expand or contract more easily are their age and what kind of material it is (shale, limestone, or gravel). When it comes to roads, because they are built in segments and layers, there may not be enough room when the material wants to grow. This may result in little speed bumps on the highways.

Preventing buckling before it occurs

The good news is that all hope is not lost when it comes to concrete. There are preventative measures that can be taken to avoid this phenomenon. Planning properly with smart engineering practices will get you prepared. By incorporating expansion joints, being aware of weather patterns, and determining tensile strength, you can make sure that there won’t be problems down the line. Ever notice that soft glue-looking material in between slabs of concrete? This is an expansion joint. It’s a pliable material that allows the material to grow without it affecting nearby slabs. The concrete can move around freely without getting damaged.

Tensile strength showcases how much your structure can handle. It is how well a structure can avoid being elongated and compressed. Tests can be performed to measure things like movement, saturation, and compression.

Weather is huge when you’re working with concrete. How wet, dry, hot, or cold is the area you’re looking to build on? One thing you’ll want to make sure of is that you keep the structure out of direct sunlight. When a concrete structure is being built, it requires a curing process. This process can take up to 30 days. If the sun is shining directly on it during this time, water will evaporate prematurely and cause overall weakening. If you cannot avoid the sun entirely, you can water it and cover it to prevent buckling.

Preventing and fixing pre-existing structures

Fortunately, there are precautions that can be taken and fixes that can be made if the structure is already up and running. Some of these precautions include keeping the internal and external temperatures as close as possible, surrounding the structure with thermally insulating materials, or incorporating buttresses. Buttresses will essentially help lighten the load.

When it comes to repairing, one of the simplest ways is to just remove what is no longer in place. Taking these pieces out and applying adhesive caulk to fill them in is more than possible. It’s important to note that the structure most likely won’t be as strong as it was initially. This is essentially just a band-aid fix. If the structure has been altered significantly, it would be best to remove the whole section and pour in the brand new slab. Make sure you bear in mind the preventative measures of buckling this time around.

Concrete in the heat

Now that we’re aware of how and why concrete buckles in the heat, we can do what we can to prevent it. Whether it’s checking weather patterns, adding expansion joints, or calculating the tensile strength, don’t let your concrete buckle and suffer in the heat.

Additional Reading: Placing Joints in Concrete Flatwork: Why, How, and When

TR Concrete Construction in Omaha, NE

This industry takes a lot of heavy machinery and tough labor, but it also requires as much or more planning, critical thinking, and fine touch to get a quality finished product. It is a very rewarding career and keeps you constantly on your toes being that 2 days are never the same. It is a profession that has been around for a long time and is ever-evolving and still remains a very vital staple in today’s economy.

As a reputable business with over 25 years of concrete construction experience, TR Construction has expertise with projects large and small to include:

• commercial building concrete
• footings
• paving
• remove, and replacement of concrete
• industrial projects
• special projects for clients

TR Construction can deliver Concrete Excellence on your next project. Contact us today by filling out the form or give us a call at (402) 238-2599.

The post Why Does Concrete Buckle In Heat? appeared first on TR Concrete Construction.