Concrete pavements make more sense now than ever before. Here are just a few of the compelling reasons why concrete pavements are the right choice, right now:

Concrete pavements contribute to a stronger economy – Innovative technology allows thin panels of concrete (from 2 to 8 in.) to be placed over distressed asphalt or well-worn concrete. Why is this important to our economy? Because concrete these so-called overlays (and other types of concrete pavements) are well-suited for "shovel ready projects" called for in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). ARRA is, of course, aimed at creating and sustaining jobs that will have a direct and positive impact on the economy. The ARRA and these projects also will go a long way toward meeting the needs of the nation's crumbling transportation infrastructure.

Concrete pavements are recyclable – Concrete is the most recycled construction material in the world. For example, recycled concrete can be used to create base materials for new roadways or as ‘rip-rap,’ large pieces of concrete used for erosion control and flood prevention.

Concrete pavements help urban areas stay cooler – Concrete is light-colored and reflective to help reduce urban temperatures. Recent “thermographic” images showed the ambient temperatures an average of 15°F lower on concrete surfaces than asphalt pavements.

Concrete pavements help fight traffic congestion – Concrete pavements do not require perpetual maintenance, repair, and replacement as often as asphalt. Fewer repairs mean better investment of tax dollars and fewer construction-related bottlenecks.

Concrete pavements reduce dependency on oil imports – Vehicles traveling on concrete roadways requires less fuel because there’s not as much “rolling resistance” as with asphalt pavements. Concrete pavements also require less fuel to construct than asphalt roads do. In fact, a typical asphalt roadway requires about 5-1/2 times more diesel fuel used in construction processes than concrete.

Concrete pavements require less energy to light the way – Concrete’s naturally light color is reflective, and so, provides better visibility and less energy to illuminate.

Concrete pavements help reduce workzone dangers – Because concrete pavements need virtually no maintenance, there will be less frequent repairs and replacement. Also, because they result in fewer work zones, there’s less danger to road crews and motorists.

Concrete pavements last longer – Concrete pavements: Typically still in service on highways and roadways after 30, 40, or 50 years – and even longer! Asphalt: Typically last 20 years or less with costly repairs and maintenance in between.

Concrete pavements hold their own – Rigid concrete pavements are safer because they hold their shape, resist potholes, and offer excellent skid-resistance for vehicles.

Concrete pavements are made from abundant raw materials – Concrete is made from an abundant supply of locally-produced natural resources (essentially limestone, rock, water, and other products that are in plentiful supply)

Concrete pavements use materials diverted from landfills – Concrete pavements today often contain fly ash (from energy plants) and slag (from steel manufacturing plants).

Concrete instills civic pride – Concrete can be colored and used in decorative applications that not only allows designers and builders to show a little flair, but also makes people feel better about their community.

Concrete creates peace of mind – Concrete’s durability and quality means virtually no maintenance, fewer repairs, and less reconstruction than petroleum-based asphalt. That leads to motorists who are less stressed, have more time for important things in life, and are able to focus better when driving on concrete.

Please explore our site to find out more about these and other benefits of concrete pavements!