Concrete Coating How 2

What to consider when choosing a resurfacing system

There have been many improvements in the area of protecting concrete over the last several years. There are many different reasons why you would choose to apply a concrete coating. Some of the top motivators for applying coatings include protecting a slab from deterioration, appearance, chemical resistance, non-skid performance, and ease of maintenance.

Concrete surfaces usually end up taking lots of abuse and it makes sense to do what you can to protect them. Concrete floors are usually porous and more vulnerable to abrasion, impact, and chemical stains. No matter where the concrete is located chances are it will need some type of protection. The real dilemma will be figuring out which type of protection will work best.

Choosing

Your first task will be to assess the condition of your concrete. No matter what type of coating you select your concrete surface will need to be structurally sound and free from any contamination that could impact the ability of the coating to bond with the concrete. Before applying a coating you will want to patch or repair any areas that need it.

Your next task is to determine which types of abuse your concrete will most likely be exposed to, as this will impact which type will work best for you. Some of the main impacts faced by concrete include chemicals, abrasion, impact, and thermal shock.

Other factors that will influence which type is right for you include appearance, installation requirements, desired life expectancy of the surface, and your budget. When assessing your budget be aware that often low-cost systems do not provide the type of protection you really need and may end up costing you more in the long run.

Types

When it comes to installing a concrete coating you will have many different options. The most commonly used polymers for coating concrete are epoxies and polyurethanes. While each product will have its own pros and cons, in general urethanes have a reputation for providing superb abrasion and wear resistance, good gloss retention, and good resistance to both stains and chemicals. Urethanes have a very low permeability so make an excellent choice if you are looking for waterproofing abilities. Most urethanes will contain solvents.

Epoxy coatings are solvent free and work great for chemical and abrasion resistance. They are a good choice for crack repair, toppings, and overlays. Newer formulations are made from an epoxy urethane hybrid which provides superior thermal and stress relief and excellent impact resistance and leveling characteristics.

Once you have chosen the right material for your coating you will need to determine the adequate thickness, from thin film to toppings. The right thickness for you will depend on the product you choose and your application. It is also important to determine whether or not you expect the floor to be decorative and if you want a smooth or textured finish.

Before concrete is coated it has to be clean, dry, and free of any dirt, oil, paint, or any surface defects such as cracks, chips, or spalling. The thick elastic film of elastomeric coatings permit moisture within the concrete to escape thus prevents patches, or blistering. These coatings are available in several different textures as well as a wide variety of colors. Concrete block surfacers are used to enhance the surface of the concrete by providing a stable, uniform foundation.

Coatings help to improve the longevity and strength of the concrete, while making it an investment that will outlast many other flooring options.