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In the Mix with Cemstone’s Business Development Engineers
John Lee, P.E. & Jim Grothaus, P.E.
January 31, 2024
Concrete paving in the United States dates back to 1891, when the inaugural concrete pavement was laid on a street in Bellefontaine, Ohio. The historic marker on the street reads, “This is the first Portland cement concrete street built in the United States … Here started the better roads movement which has given our citizens from coast to coast swift and sure transportation.” And that’s exactly what concrete paving has done for over 130 years.
Concrete is a mixture of natural sand and stone that is glued together with Portland cement, supplementary cementitious materials, water, and admixtures, all of which are all natural resources, so they can be recycled and reused. Paving with concrete involves precisely placing and finishing concrete to create roadways, parking lots, etc.
So then, what are the benefits of choosing concrete – in place of other materials – for paving?
• Affordability: An investment in concrete saves money through low maintenance and rehabilitation costs. Concrete’s lighter color increases reflectivity resulting in more efficient, cost-effective lighting and lower annual energy costs.
• Strength & Durability: Concrete pavement can take many years of use with fewer repairs and less maintenance. Concrete resists fuels, oils, solvents, and extreme weather, and supports heavier loads.
• Safety: Concrete’s rigid surface provides greater skid resistance for safer driving in inclement weather. And its bright, reflective nature makes roads and parking lots safer at night.
• Aesthetics: The clean, bright appearance of concrete makes a strong first impression and creates a sense of quality. With the ability to be fashioned in an array of decorative textures, patterns, and colors, concrete allows designers and owners to be as creative as they want.
• Environmental: Research shows that concrete pavement can reduce fuel consumption by 3-17%, resulting in significant cost savings and a reduction in CO2 emissions.
Across our communities, cities, and states, a multitude of locations feature the utilization of concrete pavements due to its durability and longevity. Concrete pavements are widely embraced for:
To learn more about concrete paving and to see if it’s the right fit for your project, contact Cemstone’s Business Development Engineers. Jim Grothaus, P.E. and John Lee, P.E. will use the latest industry tools to analyze your specific site and offer you thickness and construction recommendations with the goal of creating a successful, cost effective, long lasting pavement.
