What You Need to Know about Coatings and Concrete Challenges
It’s spring so they say. However, not everyone is seeing it. In some parts of the country, someone is looking at their concrete walkway with real concern. Has snow and ice permeated the surface? Can coatings bring some relief to prospective challenges with concrete?
There are two major objectives when it comes to using polyurea coatings on concrete surfaces. First, they work well as a sealant when the concrete is originally laid down. Next, polyurea is excellent at repairing cracks and stopping them from further damage.
Concrete on its own seems hard and durable. It’s the reason it is used in walkways, patios and outside floors. Concrete is also poured into driveways as it is considered long-lasting and cost-effective. Some buildings are even constructed of concrete. However, a sealant is key to ensuring longevity and durability.
Let’s start with the science of concrete. If you’re really interested, you can read a monograph on the subject. For now, we’ll just go through the basics. Cement is one of the components of concrete mixtures and starts off as a powdery substance. It acts as the glue in the process. The other materials that combine to make cement are water, aggregate (rock, sand, or gravel), and Portland cement.
More than likely, you know that concrete starts off as a liquid and is poured into forms. It is then left to harden or cure. On its own, concrete is durable. However, it is not waterproof. And, that’s where the problems may start.
First, by its nature, concrete is porous. It acts like a sponge to the surface. As water seeps through, concrete can start with small cracks. Mold and mildew may form. The cracks in the concrete are not just unsightly. Ultimately, they could cause major problems.
Most contractors are keenly aware of issues that can occur with concrete. For one, it can shrink after it is poured. It can also crack if it dries too quickly. And, even if it doesn’t crack, there’s still the nagging concern. Concrete on its own has no waterproofing capacity. This becomes an even bigger issue in climates where the weather goes from freeze to thaw.
Therefore, it just makes sense that a sealant is applied once the concrete has cured. Polyurea gets the job done right. It adds a protective shell and even more durability. It is also weatherproof. Polyurea is versatile and works to keep out air and moisture. It’s the ideal solution to waterproofing concrete to avoid the risk of cracks to the surface.
All is not lost if the sealant was not initially used. Polyurea coatings are also helpful when it comes to repairing cracks. Of course, it is important to treat small cracks before moisture seeps in and causes chaos. And, then there’s the issue with blemishes.
The beauty of using protective coatings are not only that they repair and seal off moisture and air seepage. They also make the surface look new. Meanwhile, it’s not like using paint that may fade or chip.
If you are concerned about challenges with concrete, Marvel Coatings can provide you with assistance. Give us a call!
There are two major objectives when it comes to using polyurea coatings on concrete surfaces. First, they work well as a sealant when the concrete is originally laid down. Next, polyurea is excellent at repairing cracks and stopping them from further damage.
Concrete Needs Protective Coatings
Concrete on its own seems hard and durable. It’s the reason it is used in walkways, patios and outside floors. Concrete is also poured into driveways as it is considered long-lasting and cost-effective. Some buildings are even constructed of concrete. However, a sealant is key to ensuring longevity and durability.
Let’s start with the science of concrete. If you’re really interested, you can read a monograph on the subject. For now, we’ll just go through the basics. Cement is one of the components of concrete mixtures and starts off as a powdery substance. It acts as the glue in the process. The other materials that combine to make cement are water, aggregate (rock, sand, or gravel), and Portland cement.
More than likely, you know that concrete starts off as a liquid and is poured into forms. It is then left to harden or cure. On its own, concrete is durable. However, it is not waterproof. And, that’s where the problems may start.
First, by its nature, concrete is porous. It acts like a sponge to the surface. As water seeps through, concrete can start with small cracks. Mold and mildew may form. The cracks in the concrete are not just unsightly. Ultimately, they could cause major problems.
Polyurea as an Initial Sealant
Most contractors are keenly aware of issues that can occur with concrete. For one, it can shrink after it is poured. It can also crack if it dries too quickly. And, even if it doesn’t crack, there’s still the nagging concern. Concrete on its own has no waterproofing capacity. This becomes an even bigger issue in climates where the weather goes from freeze to thaw.
Therefore, it just makes sense that a sealant is applied once the concrete has cured. Polyurea gets the job done right. It adds a protective shell and even more durability. It is also weatherproof. Polyurea is versatile and works to keep out air and moisture. It’s the ideal solution to waterproofing concrete to avoid the risk of cracks to the surface.
Concrete Coating and Repair
All is not lost if the sealant was not initially used. Polyurea coatings are also helpful when it comes to repairing cracks. Of course, it is important to treat small cracks before moisture seeps in and causes chaos. And, then there’s the issue with blemishes.
The beauty of using protective coatings are not only that they repair and seal off moisture and air seepage. They also make the surface look new. Meanwhile, it’s not like using paint that may fade or chip.
Contact Us
If you are concerned about challenges with concrete, Marvel Coatings can provide you with assistance. Give us a call!