Latest news with #concrete
Washington Post
11 hours ago
- Automotive
- Washington Post
Do I really need to seal my driveway?
Q: Do I really need to seal my driveway, or is that a racket? And can I do it myself? A: There is considerable debate about whether it's truly necessary to seal asphalt or concrete driveways, but there is also general agreement about the benefits of doing it. Both concrete and asphalt are mixtures of sand, gravel and a binder that holds everything together. In concrete, the glue is Portland cement. In asphalt, it's petroleum-based oil. Both types of paving, if installed correctly with drainage factored in, can last for decades as-is. But both types can also absorb — or be broken down by — spills. Acids and salt are big enemies for concrete; dripping oil from a vehicle can break down asphalt. Ultraviolet rays and heat from the sun can bleach colored concrete and degrade asphalt by making it more brittle and prone to cracking under pressure. And water is one of the worst foes for both types of paving. Where temperatures dip below freezing in the winter, the surfaces can crack when water seeps in and expands. Sealers help keep water from penetrating into the paving. Some have other benefits, such as blocking UV or protecting against stains. And all sealers help a driveway look like it's well cared for. For concrete, you can use a penetrating sealer, which seeps into the minute pores that were left when water in the original concrete mixture evaporated; or a topical sealer, which sits on the surface. For a driveway, the best choice is generally a penetrating sealer with siloxane and/or silane, such as Foundation Armor SX5000. It won't change the look of the concrete or make it more slippery, but it should block water and salt — and all of the problems they cause — for seven to 10 years before it needs to be reapplied. The manufacturer warns, though, that because it isn't a surface coating, it won't block stains. Nor does it resist spilled brake fluid, gasoline or many other solvents. To get more protection against stains (though still not against brake fluid, gasoline and solvents), you would need a surface sealer, such as Foundation Armor AR350, which would give the surface more of a wet look. By darkening the color, it would also help bring out any color added to the concrete, and it would protect against UV, which can cause colorants to fade. You could also mix in color to change the look of your driveway; Armor Foundation sells color packs that result in an opaque coating, like paint. But a surface coating would make the concrete slippery when it is wet, so for a driveway, you'd probably want to use an anti-slip additive or buy a sealer with that feature built in. Also be aware that a surface sealer typically doesn't last very long. You'd need to commit to ongoing maintenance, and you would need to reapply it in one to three years. If your driveway is asphalt, you'll probably want a water-based asphalt sealer. (Coal tar sealers are still sold in parts of the country, but some states have banned them because of concerns about toxic substances in the runoff.) The most challenging part isn't applying the sealer, usually with a squeegee; it's cleaning the surface and filling all the cracks. Pricier sealers include fine sand and other aggregates to help fill tiny cracks (wider cracks and any holes still need to be patched beforehand) and they are likely to last longer than their less expensive counterparts. Black Jack Drive-Maxx, sold at Lowe's and Ace Hardware, comes in formulas labeled 200, 400, 500, 700 and 1000; the 200 type is expected to last two years — probably good only if you're about to put your house on the market, given that all the preparation steps are the same. The 1000 sealer is expected to last 10 years. To decide whether you should seal your driveway yourself, read the technical data sheet, often referred to as the TDS, for the sealer and make sure the steps seem like ones you're able to follow precisely. Details about surface preparation, the application process, the weather and even the time of day really matter, and they vary by product. For example, with its topical sealer, Armor says to work after 5 p.m., when the temperature is dropping and the driveway isn't likely to be in direct sun. For Black Jack Drive-Maxx 1000 asphalt sealer, though, you should work when the temperature is rising. With concrete sealers especially, apply the product in a small test area before you coat the whole driveway. That way you can avoid unexpected problems, which can occur if an earlier sealer is incompatible with what you are applying, or if the driveway isn't clean and dry — or damp, the requirement for some asphalt sealers. Calling a pro might be especially helpful if you don't know what care your driveway has received in the past. Family Handyman has a good step-by-step guide for installing asphalt sealer, including tips about the main ways people mess up, such as by trying to stir a bucket of thick, gooey sealer with a stick instead of with a paddle powered by a drill. The guide author's answer to the question of whether asphalt sealers are really necessary? 'It's true that driveway sealer can't replace the liquid asphalt (oil/tar) that oxidizes and bakes out of the mixture from heat and sun exposure. But a high-quality sealer can dramatically reduce future heat and UV damage. Plus, it seals the pores to prevent aggregate breakup damage caused by water penetration, freeze/thaw cycles and chemicals. So it really does extend the life of your driveway.' Have a problem in your home? Send questions to localliving@ Put 'How To' in the subject line, tell us where you live and try to include a photo.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
SAINT-GOBAIN ENHANCES ITS DIGITAL CONSTRUCTION CHEMICALS PLATFORM WITH THE ACQUISITION OF MATURIX
PARIS, June 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Saint-Gobain announces the next step in the expansion of its digital construction chemicals platform with the acquisition of Maturix, based in Denmark, a leading provider of real-time monitoring solutions for the concrete industry. Maturix offers cutting-edge wireless sensor technology which allows remote real-time monitoring of concrete properties during the curing and hardening process, enabling contractors to optimize their operations and ease traceability requirements. This reduces the duration of the concrete construction cycle by up to 50% and improves job-site efficiency, all while improving concrete quality and ensuring a high level of structural performance. Maturix and Saint-Gobain have successfully collaborated since 2019. This acquisition enhances Saint-Gobain's digital solutions offering across the concrete and cement value chains, enabling the Group's customers to reduce overdesign and optimize operations. Saint-Gobain spearheaded the digital transformation of the concrete industry initiated by GCP with Verifi®, its market-leading digital in-transit concrete management suite, deployed across three continents (North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific). Verifi® uses real-time monitoring to reduce waste, improve operational performance and drive cost efficiencies. Maturix perfectly complements Verifi® in optimizing concrete placement on site. The two companies are already working on a joint offering. The acquisition of Maturix demonstrates the Group's commitment to expanding its offer of integrated digital solutions for its customers. Sid Singh, CEO of Verifi®, comments: "By combining the data and digital expertise of Maturix and Verifi® with Saint-Gobain's leadership in concrete admixtures, we will unlock new use cases for the Group's customers. We will provide them with personalized recommendations to manage their operations with increased visibility and precision to reduce their costs and environmental impact." About Saint-Gobain Worldwide leader in light and sustainable construction, Saint-Gobain designs, manufactures and distributes materials and services for the construction and industrial markets. Its integrated solutions for the renovation of public and private buildings, light construction and the decarbonization of construction and industry are developed through a continuous innovation process and provide sustainability and performance. The Group, celebrating its 360th anniversary in 2025, remains more committed than ever to its purpose "MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER HOME". - €46.6 billion in sales in 2024 - More than 161,000 employees, locations in 80 countries - Committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 For more information about Saint-Gobain, visit and follow us on X @saintgobain Contacts: Patricia Marie - Laure Bencheikh - Yanice Biyogo - View original content: SOURCE Saint-Gobain Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Associated Press
a day ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Orion Group Holdings Awarded $100 Million in New Contracts
HOUSTON, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Orion Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ORN) ('Orion' or the 'Company'), a leading specialty construction company, today announced new Marine and Concrete awards for a total value of approximately $100 million. In addition, Orion's Chief Executive Officer and General Counsel were honored with executive leadership awards. Management Commentary 'We are proud to be recognized with new contract awards that reflect the trust our partners place in us. These achievements are a testament to the strength of our team, our commitment to the highest safety standards, and the progress we are making in expanding our business development pipeline,' said Travis Boone, Chief Executive Officer of Orion Group Holdings, Inc. 'Our strong delivery and consistent execution have enabled us to successfully expand our client relationships and Port Tampa Bay is a good example. For many years, we have been their longstanding partner for maintenance dredging and new construction projects. We are pleased to play a role in their expansion initiatives aimed at enhancing the port's capacity and efficiency.' Boone continued, 'In our Concrete business, we continue to see strong demand, supported by the next phase of a large data center project and several projects in our home state. With our strong reputation and robust pipeline, we are well positioned for continued growth.' New Contracts Orion's Marine business recently secured $67 million in new wins. For Weyerhaeuser Company, Orion Marine was awarded the Longview Export Dock Replacement project. This work involves removing the existing timber Berth A structure and replacing it with a new concrete structure supported by large-diameter steel pipe piles. The project is expected to last 12 months and will begin in the third quarter of 2025. In addition, Orion Marine won two projects with the Port of Tampa Bay. The first award is a 3-year maintenance dredging contract for the Port, estimated to begin work in September 2025. The second contract is for the Port Redwing Berth 301 Wharf project – a crucial project given the rapid population growth in the Tampa Bay region and the increasing demand for construction and bulk materials. Orion Concrete won $33 million in new contract awards, including a data center project in Iowa, the Harris County Sheriff's Office Complex in Houston as a subcontractor for Durotech, Inc., and the foundation of a cold storage facility for U.S. Foods. These projects will commence in the third quarter of 2025 with an estimated duration of one year. In addition, the Company was recently awarded a contract with the City of Ingleside wastewater treatment plant as a subcontractor to Associated Construction Partners. This project is expected to begin in December of 2025 with a duration of 12 months. Executive Leadership Awards Orion's executive leadership team was recently recognized for outstanding achievements. Travis Boone, Orion's Chief Executive Officer, was named a finalist for the EY Entrepreneur of The Year® 2025 Gulf South Award, presented by Ernst & Young LLP. This prestigious recognition honors visionary business leaders who are driving innovation and growth across industries. Chip Earle, Orion's General Counsel, won the Lexology North America Award for in-house general counsel in the construction industry. In association with the Association of Corporate Counsel, Lexology recognizes the outstanding achievements of the world's leading legal practitioners across various practice areas and sectors. About Orion Group Holdings Orion Group Holdings, Inc., a leading specialty construction company serving the infrastructure, industrial and building sectors, provides services both on and off the water in the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii, Canada and the Caribbean Basin through its marine segment and its concrete segment. The Company's marine segment provides construction and dredging services relating to marine transportation facility construction, marine pipeline construction, marine environmental structures, dredging of waterways, channels and ports, environmental dredging, design, and specialty services. Its concrete segment provides turnkey concrete construction services including place and finish, site prep, layout, forming, and rebar placement for large commercial, structural and other associated business areas. The Company is headquartered in Houston, Texas with regional offices throughout its operating areas. Forward-Looking Statements The matters discussed in this press release may constitute or include projections or other forward-looking statements within the meaning of the 'safe harbor' provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, of which provisions the Company is availing itself. Certain forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as 'believes', 'expects', 'may', 'will', 'could', 'should', 'seeks', 'approximately', 'intends', 'plans', 'estimates', or 'anticipates', or the negative thereof or other comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy, plans, objectives, intentions, estimates, forecasts, guidance, outlook, assumptions, or goals. In particular, statements regarding our pipeline of opportunities, financial guidance and future operations or results, including those set forth in this press release, and any other statement, express or implied, concerning financial guidance or future operating results or the future generation of or ability to generate revenues, income, net income, gross profit, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, or cash flow, including to service debt or maintain compliance with debt covenants, and including any estimates, guidance, forecasts or assumptions regarding future revenues or revenue growth, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements also include project award announcements, estimated project start dates, ramp-up of contract activity and contract options, which may or may not be awarded in the future. Forward-looking statements involve risks, including those associated with the Company's fixed price contracts that impacts profits, unforeseen productivity delays that may alter the final profitability of the contract, cancellation of the contract by the customer for unforeseen reasons, delays or decreases in funding by the customer, levels and predictability of government funding or other governmental budgetary constraints, and any potential contract options which may or may not be awarded in the future, and are at the sole discretion of award by the customer. Past performance is not necessarily an indicator of future results. Considering these and other uncertainties, the inclusion of forward-looking statements in this press release should not be regarded as a representation by the Company that the Company's plans, estimates, forecasts, goals, intentions, or objectives will be achieved or realized. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. The Company assumes no obligation to update information contained in this press release whether as a result of new developments or otherwise, except as required by law. Please refer to the Company's 2024 Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed on March 5, 2025 which is available on its website at or at the SEC's website at and filings and press releases subsequent to such Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional and more detailed discussion of risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our current expectations, estimates or forecasts. Contact: Margaret Boyce Orion Group Holdings, Inc. [email protected] 312-402-6980 Source: Orion Group Holdings, Inc.
CBC
3 days ago
- General
- CBC
Expired joints, cracked pipes: new details emerge about leaky LRT tunnel at St-Laurent
After a series of incidents in which loose concrete fell from Ottawa's St-Laurent LRT station last year, CBC News has learned more details about how the city is addressing chronic water infiltration in the former bus tunnel, including fixing leaky joints — some of which had passed their life expectancy. According to engineering reports, some of those joints had not been replaced in nearly four decades — including in areas where concrete chunks fell onto the train tracks in January 2024. CBC has also learned of an ongoing leak near another tunnel joint, which the city said it hopes to address next year. The tunnel, which was built for buses in the 1980s before being repurposed into an LRT station, has been suffering from water leakage for decades. Last spring, city officials couldn't say what was causing the persistent leaks, which are deteriorating the concrete by causing "delamination" and "spalling" — when concrete pieces break off the main slab. During planned maintenance this month, the city plans to further inspect the tunnel, scale down more loose concrete and address other issues identified during the 2024 Ontario-mandated inspection — a regular checkup that was largely skipped in 2022 due to major construction at the bus station above the tunnel. Leaky expansion joints In 2018, a year before the LRT station opened, two engineering firms investigated and laid out multiple possible sources of the leaks. They also suggested potential temporary and permanent fixes, according to reports CBC obtained through a freedom of information request. According to a report by engineering firm Morrison Hershfield, the tunnel's expansion joints appeared to be a hot spot for water infiltration, damaging the concrete and ceiling framing and corroding pipes. Expansion joints connect concrete sections of the tunnel and contain flexible material such as a sealant, allowing the structure to contract and expand with temperature changes and other factors. Without properly working joints, stress from those fluctuations can cause cracking and leaks, compromising the durability of the concrete. "Joint intersections are common sources of water leakage due to the difficulty of manufacturing a continuous … seal," reads the report. The estimated life expectancy of an expansion joint is 15 to 30 years, while the seals themselves are expected to last five to 15 years, according to the report, which cites a manual from Ontario's Ministry of Transportation. While six joints in the St-Laurent tunnel were replaced in 2009, two others identified in the report as joints G and H hadn't been replaced since 1986. When the report was compiled in 2018, these two joints were already 32 years old. "It is noted, however, that these joints are not leaking as severely as [others]," the report states, rating them in "fair operating condition." But by 2020, an inspection found water had been actively leaking from Joint G. "Majority of expansion joint seals are leaking," reads the provincially mandated inspection report obtained by CBC. The city said joints G and H were finally replaced in 2023. By that time they were 37 years old, well past their life expectancy. Then, in January 2024, concrete chunks fell onto the tracks below joint G. That May, concrete debris was found to have "disrupted" ceiling tiles above passenger platforms, and more loose concrete was discovered in October, once again halting LRT service at the station. If it's performing, why take it out? - Susan Johns, director of asset management After that May incident, an internal city email revealed staff had again "found extended delaminated area at expansion G over the track." According to the city's director of asset management Susan Johns, replacing the joint didn't address the leakage problem. "When the expansion joint work was completed, which should eliminate leaking, there was still leaking," Johns told CBC. Crews then found a "new source of water," Johns said — drainpipes in the tunnel roof were cracked and leaking, including over Joint G. This has now been fixed, Johns told CBC. Regarding the life expectancy of the joints, Johns said the city monitors its structures regularly and prioritizes replacement based on performance. "If it's performing, why take it out?" she said. 'Permanent solution' recommended In addition to replacing all the expansion joints at the St-Laurent station, engineering firm Paterson Group recommended in 2018 installing a new permanent membrane to waterproof the concrete slab above the tunnel. "Once the permanent solution is in effect, it's expected that most of the leaks within the St. Laurent Station would be reduced significantly," the report concludes. The city told CBC partial waterproofing of the roof slab was done during the 2023 repairs, as well as plugging some utility ducts and electrical boxes. Remaining work to mitigate leakage, including more waterproofing and replacing outstanding sections of expansion joints, is scheduled for 2026 and 2027, the city said. There's also an outstanding leak near expansion Joint D, the city added. It's now being investigated and will be fixed during the 2026 project. Despite these ongoing issues, Johns said the tunnel is safe. "It's in very good condition. It does not pose a risk to our passengers, to our staff or to our trains," she said. Water 'to be avoided': engineer "We need to avoid, as much as possible, water from concrete structures," said Leandro Sanchez, a concrete durability expert and engineering professor at the University of Ottawa. Asked about the lifespan of expansion joints, Sanchez explained that if they're not properly maintained they can become more rigid, allowing water to seep through and cause further deterioration. "Then you start having durability-related issues," he said, adding photos of the station published by CBC showed signs of that. Sanchez agreed that performance, not age, is key to determining the viability of an expansion joint. "But you know, all of the materials, they have some lifespan — all of them, including concrete. And the harsher the condition, the lower the life expectancy," he said. Sanchez stressed regular assessments, as well as early rehabilitation and maintenance, are "really, really crucial" when it comes to concrete tunnels like the one at St-Laurent.
Associated Press
3 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Bison Concrete Unveils New Website to Improve Access to Residential and Commercial Concrete Services
06/17/2025, Oklahoma City, OK // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // Bison Concrete, a trusted name in the Oklahoma construction industry, is proud to launch its new website, designed to better showcase its full range of residential and commercial concrete services. This digital transformation marks a major step in its mission to provide a seamless and user-friendly experience for homeowners and businesses alike. The newly launched website— —features intuitive navigation, quick quote request forms, high-resolution project galleries, and comprehensive service descriptions. Built with both functionality and aesthetics in mind, the platform makes it easier than ever for customers to connect with top-notch residential concrete contractors and commercial concrete contractors in Oklahoma City. 'Our customers want more than quality concrete—they want a partner who communicates clearly, delivers on time, and makes the process simple from start to finish,' said a Bison Concrete spokesperson. 'This new website reflects our dedication to that level of service.' Whether a homeowner is looking to upgrade their backyard with a new patio or a business owner is managing a large-scale commercial pour, the website is tailored to meet the growing demand for skilled and transparent concrete services. Each service page outlines the project scope, typical timelines, and key benefits, helping users make informed decisions before scheduling a consultation. Visitors can easily explore its specialties, such as concrete sidewalk repair, driveway installation, patio construction, foundations, slabs, and more. The site also emphasizes Bison Concrete's commitment to educating and supporting its clients. The detailed FAQs section addresses common concerns like installation timelines, surface durability, maintenance expectations, and pricing—all essential factors when choosing reliable concrete professionals. Additionally, the blog shares helpful tips and insights into the world of concrete, making it easier for customers to understand the process and the value of quality work. One of the standout features of the site is its immersive project gallery, which showcases real results from past residential and commercial jobs. From stylish backyard patios to durable warehouse floors and detailed concrete sidewalk repair work, the gallery offers an honest look at the quality and versatility Bison delivers across every job site. Prospective clients can assess Bison's workmanship, structural integrity, and design variety before even picking up the phone. 'When people see the craftsmanship in our patios or how we've handled large commercial foundations, they understand why so many choose Bison,' the spokesperson added. 'Transparency builds trust, and that starts from the moment they land on our website.' The new site is mobile-responsive and optimized for fast loading, ensuring customers can explore Bison Concrete's offerings on any device. Whether you're at home planning a backyard improvement or on-site managing a commercial build, information is readily available at your fingertips. With this digital upgrade, Bison Concrete solidifies its position as a reliable, client-focused patio contractor in Oklahoma. From the initial website visit to the final concrete pour, every touchpoint has been thoughtfully designed to offer convenience, trust, and clarity. To learn more about Bison Concrete's services or to request a personalized quote, visit its new website at About Bison Concrete Bison Concrete is a trusted provider of concrete services, offering tailored solutions in concrete repair and flatwork for residential and commercial properties in Oklahoma City. With expertise across concrete sidewalk repair, decorative installations, and concrete driveway repair, the company guarantees precision and long-term value. Located in Warr Acres, OK, Bison Concrete continues to serve the metro area with results that speak for themselves. ### Media Contact Bison Concrete Address: 5920 NW 56th St, Warr Acres, OK 73122 Phone: (405)-254-8370 Website: newsroom: Source published by Submit Press Release >> Bison Concrete Unveils New Website to Improve Access to Residential and Commercial Concrete Services
