Have you ever paid attention to the curbs and gutters when you’re parking your car at a retail center or office building? How about while driving down a freeway? Concrete curbs and gutters often go unnoticed, but don’t overlook their complexity and importance; Concrete curbs and gutters play an integral role in managing water runoff from paved surfaces and sidewalks.

Installing these structures requires a certain level of expertise, and as a commercial business owner, property manager, contractor, public works manager, or city planner, it’s helpful to know the basics of concrete curb and gutter installation before hiring a team for your project. If you have questions about installing concrete curbs and gutters, contact Bituminous Roadways today.

This guide provides essential information about concrete curbs and gutters – from the installation process to the benefits – that will help you make informed decisions.

Benefits of Concrete Curbs & Gutters

Concrete curbs and gutters offer several benefits. They channel water and other debris off-site, helping to prevent flooding and erosion. Curbs and gutters also add to the aesthetic appeal of a property and serve as a physical barrier for vehicular traffic.

If your curbs and gutters have deteriorated, it could be contributing to water issues that damage pavement over time. Not to mention, they can be a real eyesore.

BR’s expert concrete crew can perform flatwork for sidewalks, repair curbs and gutters, and install proper ADA slope requirements where necessary.

Designing & Planning Curbs & Gutters

Before installing concrete curbs and gutters, it's essential to plan and design the layout of the site. This includes determining the slope of the pavement and the direction of the water flow.

Proper planning and design help to ensure the concrete structures funnel water correctly to prevent pooling on the pavement, which can cause irreversible damage to the asphalt, and damage to nearby buildings or infrastructure. Consider installing catch basins, as they act as large drains to collect surface runoff water.

Our company can provide various drainage services, including catch basins, slope corrections, draintile, and permeable pavement.

Hiring a qualified professional contractor will ensure the installation meets all necessary requirements. And our concrete team is talented and knowledgeable.(Check out some of our reviews here!)

Types of Concrete Curbs & Gutters

There are a few main types of commercial concrete curbs and gutters. The type of concrete curb you'll need depends on the purpose of the area.

Understanding the various curb options will help you determine which is suitable for your business or government paving project. Here are the basics!

Barrier Curbs

Barrier curbs are durable and used for most commercial projects. These curbs are ideal for creating a barrier between a road and a sidewalk. They make a vertical concrete barrier that keeps vehicle tires from crossing onto the curb.

Barrier curbs usually require a concrete gutter so water doesn't accumulate along the roadway.

Surmountable Curbs

These curbs are more sloped or rolled, with a slight dip on one face. They are ideal for areas near driveways and parking lot openings, as they are easier for vehicles to drive over and for pedestrians and those on wheels to cross safely on or off the sidewalk.

Monolithic Curbs

Also known as an integral curb, this option stays flush with the road so vehicles can drive over it. This type of curb is typically constructed with the road and offers a smoother transition compared to other curb types.

Site Preparation for Curbs & Gutters

Once the design and planning are complete, the next step is site preparation. This involves clearing the site of any soil or debris and grading the surface to conform to the pavement slope.

Special attention should be given to the subgrade, for it supports the curbs and gutters, and failure to prepare it adequately can compromise the integrity of the structures.

The Installation Process for Curbs & Gutters

The installation process itself requires skill and expertise. Generally, curb and gutter installation goes like this:

  • Ensure the soil is level, graded to the desired slope, and compacted.

  • Design the curb with the regulations in mind for the area and type of lot.

  • Set up the formwork and pour the concrete.

  • Cut joints to the proper length to control cracking.

  • Spray newly laid concrete with a curing agent as soon as forms are taken out to help strengthen the concrete.

  • Make sure the concrete can cure properly.

To go a bit more in-depth: Forms must be set up to contain the concrete and provide the desired shape. Reinforcing steel is installed to strengthen the structure, and the concrete is poured and leveled. Once the concrete cures, the forms are removed.

The curing process is critical to ensure the longevity of the structures, and contractors should follow specific guidelines as to when the curbs and gutters are safe to drive or walk on.

While installing a concrete curb with a gutter is more complicated than installing a concrete slab, the process is somewhat similar. When you partner with paving experts like the team at Bituminous Roadways, we ensure every step of the process is done to the highest standards.

Cost Considerations for Concrete Curbs & Gutters

The cost of installing concrete curbs and gutters will depend on the size and scope of the project, local labor rates, and materials costs. It's essential not to overlook the long-term benefits of installing these structures.

Concrete curbs and gutters add value to the property, reduce maintenance costs, and prevent damage to the pavement and nearby infrastructure.

Get a Quote for Concrete Curbs & Gutters in Minnesota

Proper installation of concrete curbs and gutters requires planning, preparation, and expertise. Investing in quality work will save you time and money in the long run. At the same time, the structures will help prevent flooding and erosion and add to the property's visual appeal.

Hiring a professional and experienced contractor is key to ensuring the job is done right. At Bituminous Roadways, we have more than 75 years of asphalt paving experience.

Whether you need concrete curbs and gutters for your government project, commercial building, or any other reason, we can assist. Contact us at 651-686-7001 to request a consultation.