12 Tips for Applying Concrete Floor Coatings in Commercial Buildings
In the world of commercial spaces, it’s crucial to have flooring that does not last long and holds up well but also looks great. When durability meets aesthetics, you create a working environment that’s both functional and visually appealing. That’s where our focus lies. On commercial concrete floor coatings, REPOX-FC from KwikBond, which has the power to transform commercial building floors into strong and beautiful masterpieces.
The Strength of REPOX-FC in Commercial Concrete Floor Coatings
Industrial floors undergo usage, chemical spills, and mechanical wear on a basis. It is in these demanding conditions that REPOX-FC truly excels. As a two-component epoxy polyamide coating system it is designed to provide a finish that resists chemicals and abrasions effectively.
Tips for Applying Concrete Floor Coatings in Industrial Commercial Buildings
Preparing the Surface
Getting the concrete floors ready for applying floor coatings is a step to ensure that the coating adheres well and performs effectively in the run. Proper preparation of the surface helps prevent issues such as peeling, blistering and inadequate adhesion. Here is a detailed guide, on how to prepare floors:
Clean the Surface
- Remove all loose debris using a broom or vacuum.
- Clean any grease, oil, or contaminants. Commercial degreasers or concrete cleaners can be used for stubborn stains.
- Ensure the concrete is free from any previous coatings, sealers, or curing agents as they can prevent the new coating from adhering properly.
Repair Cracks and Defects
- Use a concrete repair productor epoxy filler to fill any cracks, holes, or imperfections.
- Allow any repair products to be cured as per manufacturer’s recommendations before proceeding.
Test for Moisture
It’s important to ensure the concrete is dry before applying coatings. One common test is the plastic sheet test: tape a plastic sheet to the floor and wait 24 hours. If there’s condensation under the sheet, the concrete is too damp. A calcium chloride test is also a method and gives quantitative results.
Acid Etching (if necessary)
This involves applying a mixture of muriatic acid and water to the concrete to roughen the surface.
- Ensure you wear protective gear and follow safety precautions.
- After etching, rinse the floor thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
- Neutralize any acid residues with a baking soda and water solution.
Diamond Grinding or Shot Blasting
These are mechanical methods of surface preparation, especially for larger areas or when acid etching is not preferred. They provide a roughened texture ideal for coatings to adhere.
- Diamond grinding uses rotating diamond-impregnated disks to abrade the surface.
- Shot blasting involves propelling steel shot at the concrete surface to create a textured finish.
Vacuum and Clean
- After mechanical preparation, thoroughly vacuum the area to remove all dust and debris.
- Some professionals recommend a final wash with a phosphoric acid-based cleaner to ensure the concrete is free of any residues.
Check Surface Profile
Ensure the concrete has the right texture (often described as similar to medium grit sandpaper). A roughened profile improves the adhesion of coatings.
Apply a Primer (if recommended)
Some coatings might require a primer to be applied first. This can improve adhesion and provide a more uniform finish.
Allow Concrete to Dry
Before applying the coating, ensure the concrete is completely dry. Waiting times can vary based on the method used and ambient conditions.
Applying REPOX-FC
- Mixing Components:Thoroughly mix both components to activate the epoxy coating.
- Application Instructions: Apply the coating evenly to achieve a finish that not only looks great, but also withstands chemicals and is durable.
Curing Time
- Extended Pot Life: Take advantage of an 8-hour window for application after mixing allowing plenty of time for an application.
- Achieving a Glossy Finish: Let the coating cure completely revealing a finish.
Where REPOX FC Shines
Warehouses and Factory Floors
With its hardness and durability REPOX-FC can handle heavy foot traffic and mechanical wear common in these environments.
Electronic Manufacturing Areas
In areas to chemical spills these coatings chemical resistance makes it highly valuable.
Food Processing and Pharmaceutical Plants
Safety and hygiene are paramount in these settings. REPOX-FC is chemically resistant, easy to clean and maintains its finish aligning with the hygiene standards of these industries.
Choosing REPOX-FC
Opting for REPOX-FC means selecting a combination of durability, aesthetics, and chemical resistance. Applying this coating is a step towards creating a floor that can withstand the challenges of time traffic volume and chemicals while enhancing the working environment. Each application reflects the synergy between formula engineering and practical functionality.
In a world where the longevity, functionality and visual appeal of your floor depend on the choice of coatings REPOX-FC emerges as the clear winner. It represents top notch quality, durability, and stunning aesthetics. Experience how REPOX-FC is revolutionizing the standards for commercial concrete floor coatings. Elevate your building floors from ordinary to extraordinary where durability meets impeccable aesthetics!
If you have any questions about our company’s products feel free to reach out to the Capital Industries team at (631) 298-6300.
Capital Industries, Inc. is a leading supplier of commercial and industrial concrete repair products. For over 30 years, we have proudly serviced contractors, factories, warehouses and distribution centers for industrial, institutional and commercial customers. We carry a full range of concrete repair materials, including those specifically designed for low temperature areas such as freezers and coolers. Our floor repair products are rapid hardening, allowing you to reopen repaired areas with minimal downtime. All of our products are designed to be used by in-house maintenance personnel and come with an ironclad 100% guarantee of satisfaction.