Clearing Away Dirt and Stains from Your Patio

Posted May 6, 2022 by Bergen Mobile Concrete & filed under Concrete Maintenance.

It’s easy to forget about your concrete patio when it comes to cleaning your outdoor living space before the summer hits. However, you want your concrete patio to look its best for the season of outdoor enjoyment, so now’s the time to remove any leftover debris, clear away any mud or dirt and take care of any caked-on gunk or blemishes. Your patio is a social area, so it is important to make sure these areas are clean and clear of debris. But how should you go about cleaning your concrete patio? Here are two different ideas to consider.

Chemical Cleaner

Using chemical cleaner is a common option for cleaning concrete areas, but there are a few different things to consider when it comes to selecting a solution for cleaning. If you have areas that do not have embedded dirt in them, use a pH-Neutral cleaner. If you have dirt or other more acidic stains, consider an acidic cleanser.

For grease staining – such as a section of your patio where your grill dripped grease – try using an alkaline cleaner. These types of cleaners essentially loosen the grease, and you should lift the stain off the concrete using rags or a wet-dry shop vacuum. Finally, Concrete Network notes that bacterial or enzymatic cleaners are very good at removing protein stains, like those caused by pet or animal wastes. If your pup has been using the back patio as a bathroom through the winter, this type of cleaner can lift any stains and restore the good look of your concrete.

Power Washer

A cleaner is great for targeting specific areas in need of a deep clean, but a power washer can quickly blast away dirt and mud from your whole patio or any other hard surfaces outside the home. For most residential applications, a cold-water washer makes the most sense, hot-water units can help clean more quickly and are much better at rinsing away oil or grease.

In terms of water power, most power washers contain a fan-like nozzle, although there is also a rotary nozzle that can be used to increase pressure. The rotary nozzle forces the water out of the hose faster than a standard fan nozzle, says Concrete Network, so if you’re working with a heavy-duty stain, using the rotary nozzle can help clear away dirt, debris and stains much faster and more effectively.

Bergen Mobile Concrete Delivery Services

This is the perfect time to get your patio ready for the warmer weather ahead, and that includes planning any new projects. Whether you’re building your first patio, adding on to extend your space or doing any other concrete pour, Bergen Mobile Concrete in New Jersey offers concrete delivery with mobile concrete mixer trucks available to come to your home that can mix exactly what you need. Check out the concrete calculator to determine exactly how much concrete you need or call us at 201-797-7550 today to learn more or to schedule a delivery.

Preparing the Patio: Getting Ready for a Concrete Patio Pour

Posted April 7, 2022 by Bergen Mobile Concrete & filed under Concrete Buggy, Concrete Delivery, Concrete Patio, Concrete Sidewalk, Concrete Walkway, Pouring Concrete, Uncategorized.

Are you thinking about adding a patio to your backyard this summer? Now is the perfect time to start preparing for it so that you can get your concrete poured as soon as it starts to get a little bit warmer outside. By taking the right steps to prepare now, you can make sure your patio construction goes smoothly so that you can start enjoying your patio as soon as the springtime rolls around.

Location of Your Concrete Patio

The first thing you’ll need to do when prepping for a patio is determine exactly where you want to put it. The size of your patio will ultimately determine how much concrete you will need, so you’re going to want to come up with some dimensions for it. You are also going to want to find out if there are any local codes that will prevent you from making your patio the size you want it. It’s always good to find that out before you get too deep into planning, since you might have to start from scratch if you wait until the end to learn about the codes and find out there are limitations to how large your patio can be.

Preparing Your Area

Once you have settled on exactly where to put your patio and how large you want it to be, you should rope off the area with stakes and string and remove all of the weeds, roots and topsoil from the patio area. Make sure you check to see if there are any underground utility lines or septic tanks located in the area, since that could affect how deep you can dig and where you may be able to pour.

After that is finished, you should lay down a base by compacting the earth and adding a layer of either gravel or crushed rock on top of it. You should also cut wood to make a frame that will go around the perimeter of where your patio will go. This frame will be used to contain the concrete once it is poured.

Professional Concrete Pour

At that point, you will be just about ready to complete your concrete patio pour – except having concrete, of course! Bergen Mobile Concrete can deliver the exact amount of concrete that you need to your home. We can handle night time and weekend deliveries, as well, and get you set up with the concrete you’ll need to finish off your patio project in time for the spring. Call us at 201-797-7550 today to schedule a delivery.

Save Money and Time with Our Mobile Concrete Mixer

Posted January 28, 2022 by Bergen Mobile Concrete & filed under Concrete Buggy, Concrete Delivery, Concrete Designs, Concrete Driveways, Pouring Concrete, Uncategorized.

There are few mistakes more annoying than paying for a product or service that you don’t need. Instead of regretting the money you wasted, Bergen Mobile Concrete wants to make sure you keep your hard-earned money. That’s why we offer our mobile concrete mixer service that allows you to pay for only what you end up using.

Even if you’re just planning a small construction or remodeling project, you often don’t know the exact quantity of materials you need until the job is over. Accounting for waste, spills and other unknowns often means overordering, meaning you buy too much and end up wasting money. You could go conservatively, but that could also mean you buy too little and have to make multiple purchases along the way to obtain everything you need – often costing even more. Both these scenarios are annoying, and a big turn off for anyone who is working on a project.

Avoid these scenarios altogether, you can overplan without worry by using our mobile concrete service. Our truck can deliver up to 11 yards of concrete per delivery, and you simply need to let us know how much you think you’ll need. If you end up needing less than you originally specified, don’t worry – you’re only ever charged for every increment of one-quarter yard that you use after we mix the concrete.

Most project managers recommend overordering by 10 percent of what you think will be needed just in case you need extra. While this isn’t a bad idea, it means you’re wasting 10 percent more money if your original projections are correct. This may not seem like a lot of money after just one project, but it quickly adds up over time. Avoid this issue altogether by taking advantage of our mobile concrete mixer service.

Get in touch with a member of our team today to learn more about how we can help!

Make Your Pour Easier with Our Concrete Buggy

Posted January 3, 2022 by Bergen Mobile Concrete & filed under Concrete Buggy, Concrete Delivery, Concrete Designs, Concrete Driveways, Pouring Concrete, Uncategorized.

If you’ve ever transported concrete before using a wheelbarrow, then you probably know how heavy it can be. With ready-mixed concrete that’s made to pour, it’s important each load gets transported safely and quickly. Fortunately, the invention of the concrete buggy has made the lives and jobs of concrete contractors much easier.

What’s a Concrete Buggy and How Does It Work?

A concrete buggy is a brilliant invention designed to help workers get concrete to where it needs to go in a much more convenient and fast way. This all-wheel drive machinery connects behind concrete trucks where the concrete pours right into the container. Once the buggy is full, it can be driven to where it needs to go. It can drive on flat land as well as up steep hills and through narrow spaces. Concrete buggies are much more convenient to use compared to wheelbarrows as the buggy does all the heavy lifting for you!

By utilizing this machinery you can save yourself overtime charges and extra labor. You can also save your workers from feeling sore and tired at the end of the day. Why suffer from a backache after a hard day’s work, when you don’t have to? When concrete is freshly poured directly from the truck to the buggy, all you need to do is drive it and pour it where you need it. This machinery is perfect for concrete jobs on steep hills or behind a narrow access, including decks, patios, walkways and driveways. The concrete buggy will change the way you work with concrete forever!

Never Let a Load of Concrete Go to Waste Again

The concrete industry has come a long way over the years, from wheelbarrows to concrete buggies; there are always way to improve job efficiency. Transporting loads of concrete from the truck to the final destination has never been easier with our concrete buggy

Learn more about our concrete buggy and schedule a delivery for your next concrete project today by calling Bergen Mobile Concrete at 201-797-7550.

What Is Concrete Spalling and How Can You Prevent It This Winter?

Posted December 12, 2021 by Bergen Mobile Concrete & filed under Concrete Driveways.

Concrete driveways are known for being extremely durable and long-lasting, but they can still be damaged in extreme weather conditions. In the winter, when temperatures fall below freezing and snow accumulates on surfaces, concrete driveways can be more likely to experience environmental damage.

One fairly common type of damage that can occur during the winter is called spalling.

Also known as scaling, spalling occurs when the thin top layer of concrete chips or flakes away from the rest of the paved surface. When scaling becomes widespread, it can eventually expose the aggregate and leave the driveway vulnerable to further damage. In the past, you may have noticed this spalling phenomenon on worn concrete sidewalks that haven’t been repaved in a while.

The good news is, there are steps you can take to prevent spalling on your driveway this winter.

You can start by sealing your driveway to add an extra layer of protection in harsh weather. Sealing products are a great investment that can extend the lifespan of your driveway and prevent environmental damage such as spalling and cracking.

You should also try to limit your use of rock salt and other de-icing chemicals on the driveway. These products do a great job of melting ice on surfaces, but their harsh chemical compositions can accelerate wear on concrete driveways. Instead, use gentler alternatives such as sand, cat litter or alfalfa meal to increase traction on your driveway without causing damage.

All it takes to prevent spalling is a little preparation! Need a hand with your next concrete paving project? Give us a call today to get started!

Quick Fixes for Cracks in Your Driveway

Posted November 23, 2021 by Bergen Mobile Concrete & filed under Concrete Driveways.

Concrete is used the world over because of its strength, durability and good looks, but even it sometimes needs repair.

One area where small problems can sometimes occur is on driveways. Concrete driveways take a ton of abuse from heat and cold to sand and salt, not to mention the in and out of traffic of cars. Over time this traffic and changing weather conditions can cause small cracks to appear, but luckily they are something most homeowners can repair themselves. If caught early, these cracks can be easily and economically fixed with a few simple steps.

First remove any loose particles with either a screwdriver or a chisel. Follow over the cracked area with a wire brush or a chisel to get rid of anything that may have gotten left behind. You’ll also need to buy a small supply of concrete patching compound or masonry crack filler – something easily found at any major hardware store.

The easiest solution is to put the masonry crack filler into a caulking gun and apply it to the cleaned crack in the driveway, using a putty knife to smooth out any access. After the compound cures, spread a sealer over the patched area to prevent the crack from growing larger.

This repair can be done with any crack found on your driveway and can stop them from growing larger, which could lead to larger problems and repairs that require an expert to fix.

If you do find yourself in need of hand or face a project that is out of your scope of knowledge, contact Bergen Mobile Concrete. Serving Bergen County since 1990, Bergen Mobile Concrete provides dependable service regardless of the size of the delivery. We can deliver short or large orders, using metered trucks that can save you money by allowing you to pay only for the concrete that is used. Let our team bring you the supplies you need for your concrete-related projects – both large and small. Call us today at 201-797-7550 to learn more or to schedule a delivery.

Increasing Traction on Concrete Surfaces

Posted November 2, 2021 by Bergen Mobile Concrete & filed under Concrete Buggy, Concrete Delivery, Concrete Designs, Concrete Driveways, Concrete Maintenance, Concrete Walkway, Pouring Concrete, Uncategorized.

There are a number of benefits to having a concrete driveway, but just like many other types of surfaces, concrete can quickly become slippery in the winter. As snow and ice piles up in the coming months, your driveway can become a safety hazard.

However, there are a few preventative measures you can take to increase the traction on your driveway and any other concrete surfaces you may have around your property.

One of the most effective methods to increase traction is to apply a friction coating. To do this, you’re going to first need to choose a specific type of friction coating. There are several options available, each of which may be more or less suited to your specific driveway.

For example, there are friction coating products made with everything from aluminum oxide beads to polyethylene, so make sure you ask for help before making a final selection.

Once you’ve chosen a specific type of coating, it should be applied to your concrete driveway on a day with moderate temperature and no rain. Make sure your driveway is closed off so nobody steps or drives onto it while the coating is being applied.

Before getting started, your driveway should also be as clean as possible to ensure that the coating adheres well to the surface. If you aren’t working with a new driveway, you may need to use a degreasing cleaner to get rid of some deeper grime and roadway oils.

There are other methods of improving traction on concrete services, including broom finishing. This technique can be done immediately after concrete is poured, adding a series of small lines in the concrete that can add some additional traction. However, it’s not ideal for any concrete surfaces that have decorative markings, and it can only be done during the construction of a new driveway.

Regardless of which method you use, stay safe this winter and take the necessary steps now to prevent slippery driveways in the future.

At Bergen Mobile Concrete, we can help ensure that your driveway is prepared for all seasons. With comprehensive concrete delivery services – including night and weekend availability – we’re available when you need us.

For more information, call us today at 201-797-7550.

The Rising Popularity of Concrete Floors

Posted October 12, 2021 by Bergen Mobile Concrete & filed under Concrete Buggy, Concrete Delivery, Concrete Designs, Concrete Driveways, Concrete History, Uncategorized.

It’s no surprise that people are discovering the benefits of concrete floors. Their cost effective, easy to maintain, and are simply cleaned. Concrete slays in the face of its competitors. Rugs are easily outdated, consume odors, and trigger allergies for many homeowners. Tiles can accumulate mold and mildew in the grout that lies between them. Wood, while beautiful, is temperamental. The list could go on and on.

Concrete is a functional and economical material. They are easy to sweep and mop, becoming particularly important for families with children or pets who shed. They also compliment designs in a unique way. Concrete in its simplicity becomes a base to the vibrant, edgy, or classic personality of your home. The cost of concrete is also very low in comparison to other flooring materials. It’s variety of finishes offers you the chance to create your own masterpiece and make your house a home. Subtle cracks and tonal differences in the pour add flavor to any home.

The last and possibly most important benefit of concrete floors is its longevity. Concrete can last for years to come without any major repairs or fixes. It can also be swapped out at a later time for any of the aforementioned materials. However, after reading up on the benefits of concrete why would you choose any other materials?

Temperature and Concrete: Know How Weather Affects Your Pour

Posted September 21, 2021 by Bergen Mobile Concrete & filed under Pouring Concrete.

Concrete is such a common material for foundations, slabs, sidewalks and other construction projects that it is easy to forget it needs to be poured under the right circumstances. The weather, and particularly the temperature, plays a significant role in allowing concrete to set properly. Here’s how the weather affects your pour.

Cold weather presents a number of challenges to pouring concrete. Freezing temperatures, heat loss between the time the concrete is mixed and when it is poured, and snow or ice can wreak havoc on your concrete installation.

Freezing temperatures are a significant problem when pouring concrete. The concrete must harden to a strength of at least 500 psi before freezing. Newly poured concrete that freezes before it has adequately hardened may be irreparably damaged as a result. In fact, concrete that freezes can lose as much as half of its intended strength.

Frozen ground is also a problem when pouring concrete. Even if the air temperatures are above freezing, ground that is frozen will likely cause trouble. Frozen ground can increase the time needed for the concrete to set. Further, the ground may also settle and reposition after a thaw, causing the concrete to shift and crack. Pouring concrete onto frozen ground requires first taking steps to thaw the ground.

Snow, ice or standing water are also common at construction sites during the cold weather. Pouring concrete on top of this moisture can lead to problems, as it may affect the rate at which the concrete sets or introduce too much moisture into the concrete mixture, impacting the cured concrete’s final strength.

Concrete that is mixed at a plant and then transported to a job site will lose heat during transport in cold weather. A general rule is that the concrete temperature will decrease by about one-fourth the difference between the mix temperature and air temperature for every hour of transport. During winter weather this could easily amount to 5 or more degrees per hour. Fortunately, at Bergen Mobile Concrete, we use a fleet of state-of-the-art, metered mobile concrete mixer trucks to deliver concrete throughout northern New Jersey. With our ability to mix on-site, you can get exactly the volume you need and without the risk of temperature loss.

We aim to provide dependable, reliable service on every delivery, regardless of how much concrete you need. To learn more, call us today at 201-797-7550 and request a quote for your next project.

Safety Tips for Working With Concrete

Posted August 31, 2021 by Bergen Mobile Concrete & filed under Concrete Buggy, Concrete Delivery, Concrete Designs, Concrete Driveways, Concrete Maintenance, Pouring Concrete, Uncategorized.

Are you planning on pouring a new concrete driveway, patio or walkway outside your home or business? Concrete is an excellent option for all these applications and more. But before you start a DIY paving project, it’s important to take the proper safety precautions. Here are a few general guidelines that you should follow at all times.

Wear personal protective equipment.

When you work with wet concrete, you can sustain skin irritation and even burns if you aren’t careful. To reduce the risk of these issues, you should always wear personal protective equipment such as waterproof gloves, a dust mask, goggles and tall boots that cover your ankles.

Lift concrete carefully.

Whether you are removing slabs of old concrete or transporting wet concrete to your work site, be careful to lift properly so that you don’t injure yourself in the process. This means doing the bulk of the lifting with your knees, rather than your back. Our all-wheel-drive buggy can help you transport concrete safely as well.

Avoid exposure to concrete dust.

These paving projects can generate a lot of airborne concrete dust. When tearing up old concrete, you can keep dust to a minimum by wetting the surface before you start sawing or grinding. Be sure to wear your goggles and a dust mask or respirator as well to prevent dust from getting in your eyes, nose and mouth. Once you’re done working, take a shower to remove any residual dust left on your body. Launder your work clothes separately from other items to prevent cross contamination.

Need a hand with your next home improvement project? At Bergen Mobile Concrete, we’d be happy to help. Give us a call today at (201) 797-7550 to get started!