2015
Concrete Protection & Concrete Coating Services
Estimated Reading Time: 2 minutes, 49 seconds

After installing concrete in industrial locations, it is important to protect it from weather, temperature changes, chemicals and corrosive liquids that can break down the cement, stain or wear away the surface, or cause underlying corrosion problems. Concrete is a strong and durable product but if it is not protected appropriately it can deteriorate especially in industrial settings. When concrete becomes damaged, it can not only have its aesthetic appeal compromised, it can also compromise the structural integrity. Walls, floors and support structures will eventually collapse or break apart if they are not maintained. Take precaution and have experienced professionals properly protect concrete at the time of new construction and have old concrete that is starting to dissolve away from erosion or corrosion repaired and protected properly to avoid further damage.
So what can be done to protect concrete?
Concrete can be protected with topical treatments or penetrating sealants.
With a topical treatment, the surface pores are blocked when the topical system is applied to clean, dry concrete. Certain finishes such as epoxy or urethane can leave the concrete surface slick when wet to so it is best to add some texture to the surface. If water is the main threat, choosing a heavy duty waterproofing sealant is preferable. In certain circumstances, structures subject to heavy traffic can have a concrete overlay or even a cement based iron aggregate floor topping installed. There are many options and it’s critical that you choose the right sealant or waterproofing treatment for the situation.
Penetrating sealant provides protects concrete and steel reinforcements by plugging the pores of the concrete. Sealers can slow down the penetration of water and chloride but need to be periodically reapplied. Fortunately, there are reasonably priced protective sealers that can be reapplied when needed. They protect the underlying concrete and lengthen the life of your concrete.
Benefits of concrete protection systems provided by Vector Construction
Sealers will stop liquids like water from penetrating the surface and will not change the look of the concrete surface. They also allow moisture that is in the concrete to escape without harming the sealed coating. If you need a non-skid surface that will resist contact with chemicals or abrasive equipment, then waterproofing will increase the life of the building and is fast to apply.
You are not stuck having only natural grey concrete. Many colors can be added to create a custom look and protect from interior and exterior moisture, petroleum, motor oil, cooking oil, corrosive solvents and acids. Saving the concrete from damage will save costs in the long run which extends the lifespan.
Concrete that is used as a holding tank for liquids or comes in contact with moist chemicals will best be served with a liner to resist the effect of the damage. Concrete flooring gets a lot of wear and tear from pedestrian and vehicle traffic so it needs a resistant protective layer that can be cleaned regularly and still look good year after year.
Vector Construction staff want to ensure you have the right solutions for the problem and will work with you to evaluate the climate and conditions that your concrete will be exposed to over the duration of it’s lifespan and then protect it in the best way possible and ensure that you are satisfied with the results.