Concrete and C-Stores

When an environmental investigation is completed, the property should be restored, to the greatest extent practicable, to its original condition. This includes properly plugging and abandoning all monitoring wells, filling any ruts, re-planting grass, and, when necessary, conducting surface restoration.

Monitoring wells used during the investigation and remediation process can compromise asphalt and concrete surfaces. Repairs to these surfaces are reimbursable expenses under the Indemnity Fund.

During a recent site restoration project, I consulted with David Dutton Concrete, based in Shawnee, OK, for expert advice on protecting concrete at C-Stores.

Here's what David shared:

Q: How long have you been working with concrete, and what is your service area?

A: I’ve been pouring concrete for over 30 years, and I provide services statewide.

Q: What are the most common concrete problems you encounter at C-Stores?

A: The most frequent issue is the failure to use expansion joints and proper doweling. Sidewalks and other concrete surfaces naturally expand and contract. Without expansion joints, the surfaces buckle, creating trip hazards, particularly in areas like store fronts.

Q: If you could give C-Store owners one piece of advice about concrete, what would it be?

A: Thickness is critical. For high-traffic areas, especially those used by fuel tankers, I recommend a minimum concrete thickness of 8 inches with 1⁄2-inch rebar. Proper maintenance is essential too. When performing repairs, ensure you have a stable base and use dowels at least every 2 feet with 1⁄2-inch or larger rebar. Without these measures, the patched area may settle, allowing water to seep into cracks. If the base material is sand, it will act like a sponge, leading to water intrusion and undermining a larger area. Professionally, I prefer gravel bases over sand for better stability.

Q: Do you have any tips for maintaining concrete?

A: Avoid using salt for snow and ice removal—it destroys concrete surfaces. While salt initially melts ice, it refreezes overnight and hardens further, much like the process of making

homemade ice cream. Instead, use granular substitutes, such as kitty litter or other non-salt

alternatives, to improve traction without causing refreezing or surface damage.