Commercial Coatings: Learn How To Waterproof Concrete for Your Commercial or Industrial Facilities

The strength of water is remarkable. Over time, water will wear down any structure just as it can carve canyons. However, for human-built structures, the structural issues that unchecked water can cause can be catastrophic. 


While we consider water from floods and storms to be its most dangerous form, most people don’t consider how pernicious water can be even when it’s softly and quietly doing its damage. That’s why waterproofing is so essential, especially for concrete floors.

If you have commercial concrete floors, be sure to protect them from water damage. Without protection, moisture will allow mold to grow, which may cause health problems for people living or working in the building.

The solution? Commercial coatings of concrete floors offer professional, long-lasting waterproofing. Below, our team at Southeast Floor Maintenance of Charlotte, NC, provides a few coating solutions that will add a layer of security to your commercial or industrial facilities.

Rubberized Sheets

Rubberized sheets are some of the most straightforward waterproofing materials to use. They come with an attached adhesive on the back so you can easily apply them to a surface as needed. In a uniform size, these sheets are convenient and provide even coverage. However, rubberized sheets require precise installation to be fully waterproof.

Keep in mind that rubberized sheets with adhesive backing are often less cost-effective than other waterproofing options.

Crystalline Slurry Compound

If you’re not familiar with crystalline slurry compounds, this form of sealant forms crystal structures that fill any gaps in the concrete foundation. Even if water does touch the compound, the crystals will activate and seal off the area. This compound, which works on both new and old concrete foundations, is durable and provides an extra layer of security against damage.

Liquid Waterproofing Solution

Liquid waterproofing options are some of the most effective solutions to ensure that a foundation can keep water out. A gel coating works on clean cement that has had time to settle. Cleanliness is essential since unclean floors will not allow the solution to settle correctly.

While liquid or gel coating is an effective waterproofing option, applying this solution requires expertise and specialized tools. However, trained professionals can utilize this solution to great effect, making it one of the best choices for waterproofing foundations.

Bentonite Sheets

Bentonite sheets are similar to cardboard in their structure and contain clay between their layers to create a waterproof seal. While this waterproofing solution isn’t as popular as many other choices, it still does a decent job of waterproofing concrete. Ironically, these sheets aren’t waterproof until they get wet. Once the sheets come into contact with water, the clay soaks it up and expands, stopping water from damaging the foundation.

Because it doesn’t provide a constant seal, Bentonite is not as popular as other waterproofing methods.

Cementitious Waterproofing

Cementitious waterproofing involves using plaster or mortar to shore up any cracks or protrusions and keep water from settling. Utilizing this coating system is a simple and effective way to waterproof problematic areas around foundations. However, this waterproofing method is not very adaptable. When it gets colder or warmer, this material cannot expand properly and will likely form cracks itself over time. As long as you aren’t concerned with upkeep, cementitious waterproofing can be a viable option for waterproofing a foundation.

Epoxy Commercial Coatings

Epoxy is one of the most efficient and versatile methods for waterproofing all manner of foundations. Epoxy coatings utilize a polyurea base and a polyaspartic top coating, which provides the concrete foundation with a comprehensive waterproof seal.

Epoxy coatings are the best way to waterproof concrete while providing a durable coating. For any high-traffic areas, the epoxy coating will hold up exceptionally well. For customization, epoxy is second-to-none, too. Epoxy features a wide variety of color and texture options that let you get what you want from a floor.

Installing epoxy flooring does need to involve a professional commercial coatings installer, however, as it is an involved process that requires specific tools and experience.

Commercial Coatings in Mecklenburg County, NC, and Surrounding Areas

Using a concrete foundation that doesn’t have a dedicated waterproofing solution is asking for trouble. While it may work fine for some time, eventually, the bill will come due—and you’ll have to undertake massive and expensive fixes.

If you want to stay one step ahead of Mother Nature, our team at Southeast Floor Maintenance is here to help as the best company for commercial coatings in Mecklenburg County, NC. We provide a 10-year warranty on commercial waterproof coating systems.

For a free quote, give us a call at (704) 932-1122 today.

By CMC Team 17 Apr, 2024
Is your Charlotte garage floor tired, cracked, and stained? Maybe it's simply become an eyesore you dread pulling into. Whatever the reason, a garage floor coating can be a transformative upgrade, adding functionality, beauty, and value to your home. But with so many options available, choosing the right coating can feel overwhelming. Here at Southeast Floor Maintenance, we understand. We're Charlotte's trusted resource for garage floor coatings , and we're here to guide you through the entire process, from educating you on your options to flawlessly applying the perfect coating for your needs. Understanding Your Garage Floor Coating Options The first step is knowing your choices. Here's a breakdown of the most common garage floor coating types: Epoxy : A popular and affordable option, epoxy offers good durability and chemical resistance. It comes in various colors and can include decorative chips for a unique look. However, epoxy can be susceptible to hot tire pick-up and may yellow over time. Polyurea : This high-performance coating offers superior durability, chemical resistance, and faster cure times than epoxy. Polyurea is ideal for high-traffic garages or those exposed to extreme temperatures. Polyaspartic : Similar to polyurea, polyaspartic boasts exceptional strength, chemical resistance, and a very fast cure time. It's a great choice for busy garages or when a quick turnaround is desired. Choosing the Right Coating for Your Garage At Southeast Floor Maintenance, we don't offer a one-size-fits-all solution. We take the time to understand your specific needs and preferences to recommend the ideal coating. Here are some key factors to consider: Durability : How much wear and tear will your garage floor experience? Polyurea and polyaspartic offer the highest durability, while epoxy is a good choice for moderate traffic areas. Budget : Epoxy is generally the most affordable option, followed by polyurea and polyaspartic. Aesthetics : Do you have a desired color or finish? All these coatings offer a variety of options, with epoxy offering the most decorative possibilities with colored chips. Desired Functionalities : Do you need a slip-resistant surface? Polyurea and polyaspartic naturally offer more slip resistance than epoxy, which can be enhanced with additives. Cure Time : How quickly do you need your garage floor back in service? Polyaspartic cures the fastest, followed by polyurea and then epoxy. Benefits of Garage Floor Coatings Beyond aesthetics, garage floor coatings offer a multitude of benefits: Increased Durability : Coatings protect your concrete floor from cracks, chips, and stains, extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance needs. Easier Cleaning : The smooth, sealed surface of a coated floor makes cleaning spills and dirt a breeze. Improved Aesthetics : A beautiful garage floor elevates your entire home's curb appeal and value. Enhanced Safety : Certain coatings offer slip resistance, which can be crucial in a potentially wet or oily environment. Potential Increased Home Value : A professionally installed garage floor coating can be a selling point for potential buyers. How Southeast Floor Maintenance Stands Out Choosing Southeast Floor Maintenance for your garage floor coating needs comes with several advantages: Expert Advice : We don't just sell products; we offer expert consultations to guide you towards the perfect coating for your unique situation. Quality Products : We use only the highest-quality garage floor coating materials from trusted brands. Meticulous Preparation : Proper surface preparation is key to a long-lasting coating. Our experienced team ensures your floor is thoroughly cleaned, repaired (if necessary), and prepped for optimal adhesion. Skilled Installation : Our certified professionals meticulously apply your chosen coating, ensuring a flawless and durable finish. Peace of Mind : We back our work with comprehensive warranties, giving you peace of mind for years to come. Free Consultation and Quote Ready to breathe new life into your Charlotte garage? Contact Southeast Floor Maintenance today for a free consultation and quote . We'll answer all your questions, assess your specific needs, and recommend the perfect coating solution for your dream garage floor. We can even provide you with a free downloadable checklist summarizing the key points to consider when choosing a garage floor coating.  Don't let your garage floor remain an eyesore any longer. With Southeast Floor Maintenance, you're just a step away from a beautiful, functional, and long-lasting garage floor that adds value and enjoyment to your Charlotte home.
By Southeast Floor Maintenance 12 Dec, 2023
With our team's expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can trust us as the ideal partner for your garage floor project. Choose Southeast Floor Maintenance, and you'll enjoy the benefits of a beautiful, long-lasting, and functional garage floor that enhances the overall appeal of your home.
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