January 20, 2012 by Patrice Beaulieu

Who is Beaulieu Industries?

Beaulieu Industries is a family owned and operated general contracting company. We call Maine home and are based out of the city of Lewiston. Established in 1973, our name may have changed over the years from Beaulieu Logging to Beaulieu Brothers to Beaulieu Industries, but our hard work and loyalty to our customers hasn’t budged.

Beaulieu Industries prides itself on being an honest, fair, hardworking, and competitive general contractor. We are classified as a small business which makes us more readily available to you. That means you deal directly with the foreman/boss, Roger Beaulieu, from your free estimate, to the beginning and completion of your job. We primarily do business in central and southern Maine, which keeps us local.

What Beaulieu Industries Can do for You

Beaulieu Industries specializes in topsoil  and Excavation. We provide Loam, Clay, Gravel, Screened Gravel, and Sand from our own pits. That eliminates the middleman and keeps prices of materials more affordable to you, our valued customer. We will deliver any of these materials locally at your convenience or schedule a pick-up time for you to come by and get loaded.

Services Offered but Not Limited To:

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Beaulieu Industries Topsoil Price List 2012

Beaulieu Industries delivers to Androscoggin and its surrounding counties. We have loam and other topsoil for sale by the yard. If you need less or want to come pick it up yourself from our business in Lewiston, Maine call ahead for a date and time.

Our topsoil is now available for delivery or pick up. Loam for sale is screened and contains no fillers.

Commercial Snow Plowing Services

Beaulieu Industries has 30+ years of experience when it comes to snow plowing, sanding, and snow removal. We are currently accepting commercial snow plowing  jobs. Our list of references includes the city of Lewiston and its municipalities and schools. No general contracting job is too big or too small.

Private/Residential, Commercial, & Municipalities

We accept Private/Residential, Commercial, and Municipal jobs. Contact us for a list of references, with questions, to set up a time for your FREE ESTIMATE, or for full contact information*.

Contact Beaulieu Industries

Email:  @ BeaulieuIndustries[@]gmail.com

Tel: Roger Beaulieu 207-240-4499 

Remember, “We’ll dig anything but your wallet!”

May 17, 2012 by Patrice Beaulieu

Though a foundation typically isn’t seen, it shouldn’t be forgotten. Foundations are extremely important during and after the construction of new buildings. The foundation transfers the weight of the roof, walls and floors to the ground below. It is “the lowest load-bearing part of a building, typically below ground level.” (Google)

Types of Building Foundations (Common in U.S.)

• Crawlspace: Common in areas with heavy clay content in the soil. Offers little room between the soil and first floor.
• Full-Height Basement: Common in cold climates. Offers more head room between the soil and the first floor.
• Slab on Grade: Common in areas with a high water table. No room between soil and first floor. A concrete slab is poured on top of the grade.

Here in Maine, we experience frost and freezing and thawing temperatures. Foundations in our area need to be below the frost line to prevent damage as frost comes out of the ground.

Also, all foundations must be built to code. This means following the requirements and codes set by the city/town where the work is to be performed.

Benefits of Sound Foundation Design

Sound foundation design and installation are critical because it saves homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs in the future by avoiding serious structural problems.

Other benefits include:

• Energy Savings (Insulated – reduced utility bills)
• Water/Moisture Control
• Termite Control
• Radon Control (In areas where this is a concern)
• Prevent Structural Damage (Related to faulty foundation)
• Creation of Useable Space

Overview of Foundation Design

Several aspects go into the design of a foundation, some of which are left to the discretion of the homeowner.

• Choose Foundation Type (Listed Above)
• Use of Basement (Heated or Cooled)
• Select Construction System (Concrete/Masonry/Wood)
• Insulation Placement/Amount
• Finalize Construction Details
• Finalize Plans/Documents

Foundation Work in Central Maine

Contact Beaulieu Industries of Lewiston for a free on-site assessment and estimate of foundation work in central Maine. With 40+ years of experience in the construction industry, we’ll get the job done right and up to code at a fair cost.

About Beaulieu Industries

Beaulieu Industries Topsoil List 2012

Image: ClawzCTR, on Flickr

May 15, 2012 by Patrice Beaulieu

Basically, excavation work involves digging up the ground and removing dirt and debris to make a hole. Residential, commercial and municipal excavation plays a large role in the construction industry.

Not all excavation work is the same; some jobs are larger than others and require more heavy machinery and labor to get the job done – something reflected in the cost of the job.

Examples of Excavation Work in Construction

These examples involve installing a new structure or construction materials.

Before undertaking excavation work, it’s important to hire an experienced general contractor with the right knowledge and training to get the job done. OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, has strict safety guidelines in place which must be followed at all times.

A qualified general contractor should offer the following before beginning any excavation work on your property.

• On-Site Walk Through
• Free Estimate (Includes materials, machine rentals & labor)
• Dig-Safe (Make sure no underground utilities are located on excavation site)
• Which Permits are Required (These are needed before the job can begin)

Excavation Work in Central Maine

Beaulieu Industries is a qualified general contractor based out of Lewiston, Maine with over 40 years experience in the construction industry. Some of our most recognizable references involving excavation work include the City of Lewiston, Bates College and Camp North Star (formally OMNI Camp). Our references also include countless private residences.

Contact Beaulieu Industries today for your free estimate.

Image: billjacobus1, on Flickr

May 10, 2012 by Patrice Beaulieu

A driveway is essential to the home. It’s the main connection between the residence and city street. Like all things, driveways need maintenance and repair to keep them functioning and visually appealing.

Sometimes, when new property is purchased and a home constructed, the installation of a new driveway is a must.

Common Types of Driveway Materials

Driveway materials are placed in 2 categories: solid surface and aggregate surface. A solid surface is smooth and seamless while an aggregate surface is loosely compacted.

Solid Surface Materials

• Concrete
• Asphalt
• Concrete Pavers

Aggregate Surface Materials

• Crushed Stone
• Gravel
• Surface Treatment (mix of tar and gravel)

Common Driveway Repairs/Maintenance

• Fix Drainage Issues
• Fill Potholes
• Grade Aggregate Surfaces
• Application of New Materials
• Demolition of Existing Driveway (solid surface)
• Resurfacing

Considerations for Installing a New Driveway

There are some factors to consider before installing a new driveway. These factors mainly influence the type of driveway material to be used. Some materials, such as those in the aggregate surface category, require more maintenance.

The Cost

The cost of repairing or installing a new driveway varies depending on the area of the driveway, materials used, labor and equipment rentals. Not every job is the same, so it’s best to contact a trusted general contractor for an estimate.

Central Maine Driveway Installation and Repairs

Need a new driveway or driveway repairs in central Maine? Contact Beaulieu Industries out of Lewiston for a free on-site walk through and estimate. We’ll listen to your needs, evaluate the site and provide you with a free estimate that includes labor, materials and equipment rental fees.

About Beaulieu Industries

Beaulieu Industries Topsoil Price List 2012

Image: Gregs Landscaping, on Flickr

Every yard and landscape is different. Here in Maine we have many streams and babbling brooks, lots of snowmelt and driving spring rains. Eventually, the excess water in and around our yards must go somewhere or we’re left with flooding and standing water. This is why we need and benefit from outdoor drainage.

Outdoor Drainage to the Rescue

An outdoor drainage system carries water from one area to another. The system, comprised of different types of pipe, is buried underground – out of site. Landscaping is not a problem over properly installed drainage systems.

Common Types of Outdoor Drainage

• French Drains: A shallow trench running underground that carries water from one area to another through pipe
• Culverts: A tunnel carrying a stream under a road. Allows streams to flow uninterrupted
• Drainage Ditches: Ditches that carry away excess water

Why Outdoor Drainage is Needed

• Poor Soil
• Erosion
• Water Pooling
• Flooding
• Excessive Rainfall
• Snow Melt

Homes without proper outdoor drainage can suffer from a series of damages. Water can leak into the basement resulting in mold, rot and structural damage.

If standing water accumulates on the lawn, plant disease can set in and the area underwater is useless. Also, water that runs from a higher elevation to a lower one can cause standing water problems as well as erosion.

Common Drainage Problems and Solutions

• Standing Water on Lawns: French Drain
• Water Runoff: French Drain
• Successive Flooding: French Drain
• Road/Landscape Washouts: Drainage Ditch
• New Roadway Over Stream: Culvert

Central Maine Outdoor Drainage Work

For those looking for a solution to their outdoor drainage needs, Beaulieu Industries of Lewiston can be of help. Contact us today and we’ll come up with a solution to your drainage problems. Free estimates available upon request.

Image: Toa55 / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Demolition work is often used in construction. In some cases, an old structure must come down before a new one can go up. Much like cities and towns, some homeowners are in need demolition work as well.

Who Needs Demolition Work?

Municipalities, businesses, and private residences all benefit from demolition work. In some cases, a structure has been condemned and must come down. In other cases, a homeowner may want a shed or garage torn down and removed from their property.

A developer may have purchased property with an existing structure and want to build something new. The reasons for demolition work go on and on.

Types of Demolition Work

• Industrial
• Commercial
• Residential
• Environmental Remediation

Why Demolition Work is Needed

Demolition work is needed when a structure must be demolished out of necessity or preference. Sometimes, partial demolition work is needed when only a portion of a structure comes down.

• Condemned Structures
• Removal of Structures
• Construction of New Structures
• Renovations
• House Flipping

Types of Structures Commonly Demolished

• Houses
• Garages
• Structures
• Sheds
• Barns
• Buildings
• Swimming Pools
• Underground Tanks
• Asphalt/Concrete

Safety First

People hire companies like Beaulieu Industries for demolition work is because safety is an issue. Only those with experience should take on demolition work because they have the expertise and equipment to get the job done safely, legally, and on time.

Permits and Regulations

Permits are required in most towns in cities in the State of Maine before any demolition work can be started. Cities and towns have their own Code of Ordinances and permit fee schedules.

Central Maine Demolition Work

If you live in central Maine and need demolition work, contact Beaulieu Industries about our demolition services. Here’s what we do for you:

• Walk Through of Demolition Site
• Free Estimate
• Apply for Necessary Permits
• Contact Dig Safe etc.: Needed to make sure no utilities are buried on demolition site. If utilities are on site we have them properly disconnected before beginning demolition work
• Inspection: Inspections are required mostly in older homes and structures to ensure there are no hazardous materials like lead paint or asbestos in the structure. These must be properly removed and disposed of as regulated by the state
• Demolition
• Removal of Debris

About Beaulieu Industries of Maine

Image: Tobo, on Flickr

Curbing work has come along way over the years and is now a rising trend in landscaping. Curbing does more than define city streets and let people know where they should and shouldn’t park. Though its popularity was slow to take of in the U.S., curbing is now used as decorative boarders which serve a purpose and add aesthetic appeal to landscaping.

Commercial Benefits of Curbing

• Indicates where to park
• Creates safe pedestrian areas
• Stops erosion
• Aids in drainage
• Adds aesthetic appeal to landscaping

Curbing work helps to transform the outsides of commercial buildings, taking them from drab and barely noticeable to eye-catching. Adding curbing elevates existing landscaping. It can be used to clearly define parking areas and walkways as well as create clean landscaping borders that naturally blend in or standout.

Residential Benefits of Curbing

• Stops erosion
• Aids in drainage
• Defines borders (gardens, walkways etc.)
• Adds aesthetic appeal to landscaping
• Cuts down on yard maintenance

Curbing work added around the home can be used to dress up the landscaping as well as serve a purpose. Curbing is an aesthetically appealing way to put a stop to erosion, disguise drainage areas, and define gardens and walkways.

What’s New is Curbing Work

Curbing is no longer limited to concrete and granite. Curbing is now available in many different colors, textures and designs. Have a look at the photo gallery on tygarmfg.com to get an idea of which types of curbing are available to suit your commercial or residential needs.

Types of Decorative Landscape Curbing

• Concrete Blocks
• Granite
• Brick
• Landscape Timbers
• Steel/Plastic Edging

Is Curbing Work DIY?

Many types of landscape curbing can be installed DIY. Concrete and granite curbing is a bit trickier than adding a decorative border around shade trees and gardens. Depending on the type of curbing used and size of the project, a general contractor may be needed.

Hiring a General Contractor

Here at Beaulieu Industries, we’re experienced in curbing work. We have found that many businesses and homeowners in our area (Androscoggin County, Maine) hire professionals to install concrete and granite curbing. When it comes to decorative landscape curbing, many homeowners take the project on themselves.

If you’re in need of curbing work at home or your business and live in central Maine, contact Beaulieu Industries for a free estimate, advice, and answers to any questions you may have.

Image: Ann Rafalko, on Flickr (Creative Commons License)

April 26, 2012 by Patrice Beaulieu

Standing water on the lawn is caused by poor drainage as a result of water runoff from higher elevations, lawn depressions, and poor gutter installation. There are ways to fix a drainage issue starting with identifying the problem.

Identify the Problem

Where is the standing water coming from and why won’t it drain away? That is the first question you need to ask and answer before attempting to fix the issue.

Your lawn should have a continuous slope away from your home to allow water to drain properly. This is done in a way that is hardly noticeable.

A lawn that slopes toward the house will collect water near the foundation. Couple this with poorly installed gutters and downspouts, and you’ll have a real problem on your hands when it comes to water leaking into your basement.

Notice how this lawn slopes towards the pathway. Water is most likely to collect near the pathway after a heavy rain or snow melt. 

Fix Depressions in Lawn

If your lawn has a depression where standing water collects, this can be fixed by adding topsoil to the depression. Make sure to add the right topsoil such as loam to reseed the area. Other soils like gravel and sand will easily wash away and prohibit grass from growing.

Install Better Drainage

In some cases, a French drain is installed to add efficient drainage to the lawn. A French drain is installed underground and is used to divert water away from the foundation. Instead of pooling, water is diverted to a drainage area such as a pond or ditch away from the lawn. Lawns can be reseeded or landscaped over the buried French drain.

Properly Installed Gutters

Make sure gutters have been installed properly and the downspouts allow water to drain away from the foundation. Keep your gutters clean to prevent blockage and damage and to ensure water drains properly.

Additional Reading

French Drain Definition
French Drain to the Rescue: When Your Yard Drains Where It’s Not Supposed To
French Drain How To: What to Expect
DIY French Drain System Materials List

Image: thisreidwrites, on Flickr