Most Common Concrete Coating Problems: How Floor Shield Helps

Have you ever looked at your garage floor, patio, or driveway and wondered why it's not as pristine as it once was? Cracks, discoloration, and peeling seem to appear out of nowhere, transforming your once flawless concrete surface into a patchwork of imperfections. You're not alone in this frustration. Many homeowners share the same concerns, asking questions like:

• "Why is my concrete coating cracking?"
• "Can anything be done about the moisture ruining my garage floor?"
• "How can I prevent my patio's color from fading?"

At Floor Shield, we've heard your calls for help, and we understand the underlying fears and frustrations. As industry experts in concrete coatings, we're here to guide you through these challenges, ensuring you walk away with actionable knowledge to protect and enhance your concrete surfaces.

1. Why Does My Concrete Coating Crack and How to Prevent It

Concrete is often perceived as solid and unyielding, yet it's surprisingly dynamic. It expands and contracts with temperature changes, leading to the number one problem homeowners face: cracking.

Why Cracks Form:

• Natural Movement: Concrete "breathes" with the environment, moving more than other materials.
• Temperature Sensitivity: Both heat and cold cause significant expansion and contraction.
• Solution: While no coating is immune, latex paint coatings offer better elasticity, making them suited for bridging minor cracks. However, their durability is a concern, with signs of wear appearing within the first year.

2. Solving Moisture Problems in Concrete Coatings: The Ultimate Guide

Moisture trapped beneath the surface can cause coatings to peel or bubble, an issue known as efflorescence.

Key Points:

• Latex Paints: These allow moisture to pass, reducing the risk of trapping water.
• Epoxy and Polyurea Coatings: Less permeable, can lead to moisture buildup and delamination.
• Floor Shield Solution: Many companies will install a moisture barrier between the concrete and the coating. These moisture barriers adhere well to the concrete and don’t delaminate when exposed to excess moisture. At Floor Shield, we use one of the most robust moisture barriers on the market to safeguard your 15-year warrantied investment. Most moisture barriers are rated for about 15 pounds of moisture, ours is 25 pounds.

3. How to Strengthen Residential Concrete Against Cracks and Damage

Not all concrete is created equal. In many homes, especially in the South, concrete lacks structural durability due to:

• Larger pore size that makes it softer and less durable.
• No rebar reinforcement. This makes it more susceptible to cracking and damage over time. Main slabs will have rebar but it is rarely used on exterior concrete.

4. Best Practices for Cleaning and Maintaining Your Concrete Coatings

Maintaining the appearance of your concrete coating isn't just about aesthetics; it's about longevity.

Considerations:

• Chemical Resistance: Polyaspartic coatings like Floor Shield resist common chemical damage.
• Cleaning Practices: Use the right cleaners to avoid discoloration and deterioration.

5. Preventing Peeling and Blistering in Concrete Coatings

Improper application and high humidity are the culprits behind peeling and blistering.

Floor Shield's Approach to Prevention:

• Thorough Surface Preparation: Our process begins with a comprehensive assessment of your concrete surface. We meticulously prepare the surface by cleaning it thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, or existing coatings. This includes repairing cracks and smoothing out any imperfections to ensure a uniform application surface. Our preparation aims to create an optimal bonding surface for the coating, significantly reducing the risk of peeling and blistering.
• Moisture Testing and Control: Moisture trapped within the concrete can lead to blistering and peeling of the coating. We conduct precise moisture tests to ensure that the moisture levels are within acceptable limits before application. If necessary, we employ moisture mitigation techniques to address any concerns, laying the groundwork for a durable, long-lasting coating.
• Optimal Application Conditions: The timing of the application is crucial. Floor Shield professionals are trained to apply coatings under the best possible conditions, avoiding high humidity levels that can interfere with the curing process. By monitoring weather conditions and adjusting our schedule accordingly, we ensure that the coating adheres properly to the concrete, minimizing the risk of peeling and blistering.
• High-Quality Coating Materials: We use only the highest quality coatings, which are formulated to withstand the specific challenges of your environment. Our products are selected for their strong adhesion properties and resilience, providing a robust barrier against wear and tear.
• Expert Application Techniques: Our team of experts applies each coating with precision, ensuring even coverage and optimal thickness. This attention to detail prevents the formation of bubbles or uneven areas that could lead to peeling or blistering in the future.

6. Dealing with Hot Tire Pick-Up on Concrete Coatings: What You Need to Know

The Challenge: After a long drive, your vehicle's tires heat up significantly. When parked on a coated concrete surface, this heat can soften the coating, causing it to stick to the tires. When the car moves, it may pull part of the coating off the concrete, leading to damage known as hot tire pick-up.

Preventative Measures:

• Choose the Right Coating: High-quality, hot tire-resistant coatings are specifically designed to withstand this kind of heat without softening. Floor Shield offers such solutions, ensuring your garage floor remains intact and pristine, even under the stress of daily vehicle use.
• Routine Inspection and Maintenance: Regularly checking your garage floor for signs of wear and addressing them promptly can help mitigate the risk of hot tire pick-up.

7. Alleviating Color Fading and Discoloration in Concrete Coatings

Over time, you might notice your vibrant, colorful concrete coating losing its luster, fading under the harsh rays of the sun or discoloring due to spills and stains.

The Culprits:

• UV Exposure: Just like how the sun can damage our skin, it can also fade and discolor your concrete coating, especially if it's not designed to resist UV rays.
• Chemical Reactions: Certain substances, when spilled on the coating, can react chemically, leading to unsightly stains and fading.

Solutions:

• UV-Resistant Coatings: Opt for coatings that are designed to resist the damaging effects of UV radiation. Floor Shield provides a coating that is 100% polyaspartic and completely resistant to solar rays.

• Regular Maintenance: Clean spills promptly and use appropriate cleaning agents to prevent stains and discoloration.

For Daily Cleaning:

• Mild Soap and Water: A gentle cleaning solution can be made by mixing mild dish soap with water. This is ideal for everyday dirt and grime and is safe for most types of concrete coatings.
• Microfiber Mop or Soft Cloth: Use a microfiber mop or soft cloth to apply the solution, avoiding abrasive tools that could scratch or damage the coating.

For Stains and Spills:

• pH-Neutral Cleaners: For tougher stains, a pH-neutral floor cleaner is recommended. These cleaners are designed to tackle spills without damaging the coating's integrity.
• Specific Stain Removers: For oil, grease, or chemical spills, use a cleaner specifically designed for that type of stain. Ensure it's compatible with your concrete coating by checking the product recommendations or consulting with your coating provider.

Avoid Using:

• Harsh Chemicals: Avoid cleaners with harsh chemicals such as ammonia, bleach, or acid-based cleaners. These can degrade the coating, leading to discoloration and damage over time.
• Abrasive Scrubbers: Steel wool, hard-bristled brushes, and abrasive scrubbers can scratch and wear down the coating. Stick to soft cloths and non-abrasive pads.

Conclusion

At Floor Shield, we understand that your home or business is a significant investment, and you want it to look its best for as long as possible. That's why we understand our 100% polyaspartic solution might not be the perfect fit for everyone. For instance, individuals looking for a temporary or significantly low-cost option might find that Floor Shield, with our focus on long-term durability and performance, doesn’t align with their immediate needs or budget constraints.

Our Commitment to You:

• Expertise and Experience: With years of experience in the industry, we bring expertise and dedication to every project, ensuring the best possible outcome for your concrete surfaces.
• Quality Materials: We use only the highest quality polyasaprtic coating, designed to withstand the challenges that concrete surfaces face, from weather and UV exposure to chemical spills and heavy traffic.
• Professional Service: Our team of professionals is trained to prepare your surface meticulously and apply coatings correctly, ensuring a durable, beautiful finish that lasts.

Choosing the right concrete coating involves weighing various factors, including cost, longevity, maintenance, and aesthetics. If you decide that Floor Shield is not the right choice for you, we still encourage you to pursue a solution that meets your requirements and expectations. Our goal is for you to be educated so you can be confident in your concrete coating decision, knowing it will serve you well for years to come.

If you’d like a free, no-obligation quote for a Floor Shield concrete coating, you can fill out the form below.