In industrial settings, concrete floors are subject to chemical, thermal, and mechanical stresses, usually caused by very low and high temperatures, friction, impact, abrasion, and various substances, for example, alkalis, acids, and salt solutions. Because untreated concrete is porous, and thus susceptible to damage due to moisture, tear and wear, chemicals, and others, finding a means of protecting concrete structures from deterioration is much crucial in extending their service life. One can lower or even eliminate the danger of damage to concrete floors by adding special additives and aggregates to the concrete mixture or by using sufficient concrete coatings to safeguard against concrete-detrimental elements. In this article, we will look at the things to pay attention to when choosing concrete coatings for your floor.
Look at the state of the concrete slab. Examining the current state of the slab before selecting a coating system is vital. This is because the methods and materials used to make renovations and prepare the concrete surface for fixing will have some bearing on the choice of coating. For example, if you select a thick coating before making the needed repairs, which at times means adding a new coat of concrete to the current slab, the floor might end up being extremely high.
Anticipate exposure conditions. Knowing the operating conditions anticipated, such as usual wear and tear, thermal shock, chemical exposure, and more, will enable you to select a concrete coating that has the required chemical and physical properties to operate optimally under certain conditions.
Be keen on durability. Because no concrete coating will endure forever, it is crucial to pay attention to the real service for the life of potential solutions before making any payments. However, the anticipated life expectancy of a coating can be prolonged through regular maintenance.
Put into consideration where you intend to install concrete coatings. Your product selection wholly depends on where you plan to install it. For example, if you plan to install concrete in a warehouse, it will be different from the one you intend to use in redesigning the floor of your retail space or office. You should make yourself aware of which concrete coatings work best for your intended location.
Reflect on aesthetics. As the role of concrete coatings is not only for protecting your surfaces against deterioration but to make your place of work appear more professional as well, it would be good that you select products that complement existing d?cor. When choosing concrete coatings for an industrial setting, compliance with the suggested colour coding standards is crucial in ensuring a safe workplace.
Last but not least, pay attention to the price. Concrete coatings cost different at different stores. While you want coatings that will help you lower your budget, it is crucial to know that cheap could imply low-quality products. However, costly concrete coatings might not be of the highest quality. This makes it vital to look at comments from past clients to know which coatings are of superior quality. Compare the prices of such concrete coatings so you can make a learned choice.