INSTALLATION PROCESS
The technology utilized simplifies the laying of concrete curbing and walkways by use of extrusion at high compression, eliminating the need for forms or extensive preparation and heavy equipment. The technology provides a high quality product as well as elegance, which contributes to increased property value. Trained professionals execute the installation process with non-intrusive equipment that will not damage the existing landscape. The installation crew begins by placing a string line or paint along the curve or line that will be edged. Smooth flowing curves around landscaping will help soften the sharp, straight lines of most structures.
Next, the ground below the curb will be leveled to a uniform width and depth required by the type of curb installed. Usually, 1-1/2 inches deep by 8 inches wide. Sod will be removed, if necessary. This is accomplished with a gasoline bed edger or by hand shoveling. The foundation is then compacted. We have the right equipment for what ever the site conditions call for.
Next, the concrete is mixed on a self-contained trailer. Our custom engineered concrete is superior to our competitors, who use standard recipes provided by their equipment manufacturers. The mixture is a dry mix (zero slump), and resembles the look of wet sand. Color additives may also be used to increase versatility and beauty. You can also add reinforced fibers to increase strength and stability.
The concrete mixture is then transported to the worksite. Our gasoline powered wheelbarrow (ATB) is very stable and easily controlled. The weight of a 300 lb. batch of concrete is well distributed, reducing potential lawn damage. Our competitors use conventional wheelbarrows that concentrate the load on one wheel, resulting in deep ruts. Conventional wheelbarrows are also easily turned over.
The concrete is then fed into a concrete curb extrusion machine one shovel at a time.
The machine extrudes a beautiful continuous concrete border into its place. Garden beds and landscape areas are gracefully installed with a radius as small as 24 inches.
The concrete is then smoothed to the desired finish with hand trowels or rolled and stamped for a more decorative look.
As an added precaution to ground movement, control joints are cut into the curb approximately every 2 to 3 feet to add flexibility to a very strong reinforced curb. We also offer a "through curb" drain system for those areas that require it.
If the concrete is colored, it should receive a coat of concrete sealer. This improves the curing process, dust proofs the curb, and provides UV protection to slow color fading. Older, faded colored concrete is easily restored with a coat of our sealer.
Since there is no form work and no landscape damage, clean up is minimal. The process is often completed in one day.
