Concrete Loading Dock

A concrete loading dock is critical in a wide variety of industries across St. Louis. It provides a strong, stable platform for trucks being loaded with goods as well as a surface for the equipment loading the trucks.

Loading docks also take a lot of abuse and are subject to extremely heavy loads. As such, it’s important to maintain a safe and durable concrete loading dock and do repairs or replacements over time.

The Value of Using Concrete

Concrete is the material of choice where strength and durability count. As a strong and rigid product, concrete is able to withstand repeated loads from trailer jacks. Using asphalt for your loading dock, which is much more pliable, could leave you with a dented surface.

Eventually, the extreme weight that this pavement supports will likely lead to cracking. Before the entire area begins to deteriorate, it’s time to think about repairing or replacing your surface.

Replacing a Concrete Loading Dock

The first step in replacing a concrete loading dock area is to remove the broken concrete or asphalt that’s currently in place. When the broken concrete or asphalt is removed, the exposed dirt (known as “sub-grade”) is inspected. Once the dirt is approved, base rock is installed and compacted to create a suitable foundation for the new concrete.

Before installing the new concrete, the remaining pavement must be drilled to accept steel pins. These steel pins will help to support your new concrete loading dock. When it comes time to pour the concrete, it’s key to choose the right type of concrete for the job. A faster setting concrete will allow you to use this area sooner but may not be as strong as a slower setting concrete.

We know choosing the right material can be a daunting task, especially when you don’t spend a whole lot of time thinking about loading docks. Ford Asphalt is one of the most experienced commercial concrete contractors in St. Louis, and we’d be happy to discuss the best way to install a durable and safe concrete loading dock in your facility.