Micro-Rebar is a newer method of concrete paving that applies to not just driveways, but other building applications, too. Here’s how Helix can improve your paving and make your concrete projects last longer—with less money than conventional pouring methods. What is Helix/Micro-Rebar? Helix Micro-Rebar is a reinforcement technology that replaces rebar and mesh in the concrete. The Helix material is a three-dimensional element that: Increases shear strength Enhances durability Promotes ductility Provides pre-crack capabilities For over a decade, construction experts have used Micro-Rebar in buildings, driveways, foundations, slabs, walls, suspended structural concrete, and even tunnels. Helix Micro-Rebar Stats Helix Micro-Rebar[Read more…]

Throughout the United States, you’ll find concrete in driveways for its durability and lasting aesthetic. Even though many homeowners who have this material sitting on their properties believe it can withstand almost anything, that isn’t the case. The reality is regular concrete driveway maintenance must occur to keep it in good shape. Despite one of the best attributes of a concrete driveway being how little routine care it needs, that doesn’t mean forgoing these tasks. We’re going to discuss concrete care and maintenance tips in this guide. Clean Concrete and Reapply Sealer Keeping your driveway looking its best is every[Read more…]

When using concrete as the material for your driveway, you expect it to be sturdy and long-lasting. The main reason is that, in addition to being affordable, it’s known for its durability and versatility. Not only can you customize concrete to achieve the look you want, but you can count on that look lasting for years. However, throughout your driveway’s lifetime, maintenance will need to occur. Situations may arise where you may wonder if you should resurface your concrete driveway or complete concrete driveway repair. Those are both reasonable concerns, which we’ll address in this guide. Assess Your Concrete Driveway[Read more…]

It isn’t uncommon to find asphalt driveways gracing the properties of many homes throughout the country. At the same time, many of these homeowners are facing similar problems asphalt driveway repair and maintenance. No matter if it’s cracking, corrosion, puddle formation, or surface depression, driveway issues can present themselves. When they do, they result in unnecessary headaches for homeowners. We’re going to discuss some tips for asphalt driveway maintenance to help prevent these headaches from occurring. What is Asphalt? You may hear asphalt referred to as blacktop, and it’s unnecessary the same thing. It’s a combination of concrete rubble and[Read more…]

It’s almost that time of year again. Most of us are hesitantly putting away our summer shorts and grabbing the good old snow pants as we prepare for winter. Hopefully, this year will be good to us and our driveways. However, there’s no way to tell. That gives us only one option — prepare. We don’t want to leave our asphalt driveways out in the cold, so there are some steps you’ll need to take to preserve their look and lifespan. You’re probably already starting your winterizing routing, insulating certain areas, and putting weathering strips around windows. So, while you’re[Read more…]

All pavement goes through wear and tear, weathering, and general damage over time. Parking lots are no different. Maintenance steps need to be taken to lengthen the lifespan and the investment of parking lot pavement. A variety of proactive measures, treatments, and repairs can keep parking lot pavements from looking rough and dated. So, what kind of pavement are we working with here? Well, did you know that 90% of parking lots here in the U.S. use asphalt? Unfortunately, asphalt isn’t invincible. Over time, weathering and damage will start to take its toll and make parking lots unsafe and unsightly.[Read more…]

The idea behind concrete has been around for a long, long time. The world we live in is filled to the brim with concrete roads, structures, features, and beyond. One widespread use for concrete is residential driveways. The modern mix that we have grown to use and love today is relatively new and uses Portland cement as a central ingredient. A Brief History of Concrete The truth is, the science and methodology behind concrete mixes are ancient. As we mentioned, today’s concrete mixes are made using Portland cement, aggregates, and water. You may be thinking, “wait, concrete and cement are[Read more…]

When it comes to driveway surfaces, it usually comes down to the big two: concrete and asphalt. This tale as old as modern pavement has been debated over and over again — and we’re here to help guide your decision. Whether you’re in the process of renovating or building a new home, you’re more than likely looking at these two surfaces for your driveway. So which one is better? Well, the answer to that question isn’t necessarily black and white (or in this case, black and gray). Sure, both concrete and asphalt will function as a driveway —  there’s no[Read more…]

Minnesota winters may be off putting to most who are unable to bear the frigid tundra, and often we true Minnesotans end up asking ourselves, “Why do I stay here?”. Is it the Caribou Coffee? Or because we can never leave the home of the Juicy Lucy? It’s not completely clear, but the one thing ALL Minnesotans can agree on is that we may have one of the best summers and for that, we can somehow get over the 9 month long winter. Here are a few of the best things about a Minnesota summer. The Lakes: Whether you like to[Read more…]

Do you remember that gratifying feeling of riding your bike or rollerblading down a freshly paved road? Or how about drawing big murals across a smooth driveway or sidewalk? Well, it’s that time again! Richfield Blacktop & Concrete is giving YOU the opportunity to get a new driveway. Re-sealing or repaving a driveway can seem like quite the daunting task, not to mention expensive, but with this contest the weight could be lifted off your shoulders! Nobody wants to enter a giveaway that requires you to share their photo on 15 different social media sites and send the message out[Read more…]