When it comes to durable materials, perhaps there is none better known than concrete. From holding up foundations to acting as pillars of strength for roads, concrete is a versatile material that endures weathering and the passage of time with extreme durability. However, concrete is not immune to eventual deterioration. Depending upon the local climate and other various factors, concrete can actually suffer greatly from corrosion and other forms of deterioration.
If you are utilizing concrete in a major build or you have noticed the slow breakdown of existing concrete applications, it is worth taking the time to invest in a better system of protection. Here at IXS Coatings, we provide a unique polyurea coating that can be easily applied to concrete for added protection. This can help to combat the normal erosion of concrete over time while guarding against mitigating factors, such as chemical exposure and extreme weathering.
If you are interested in the addition of IXS Coatings for your concrete structure, reach out to our team. We will work with you to create a personalized solution for your concrete application. Check out the following information about how concrete deterioration works and what advantages a coating can offer.
UNDERSTANDING THE DETERIORATION OF CONCRETE
While concrete is an extremely tough material, it is still a porous material and subject to an array of deterioration defects. For concrete that is exposed to the outdoors, this is particularly true. In cold climates, the ever-changing weather can also play a huge role in how well concrete weathers the test of time.
Check out some of the basic and most common forms of concrete deterioration to better understand the importance of investing in protection.
DISINTEGRATION
As concrete sits exposed to the elements, the slow but steady process of disintegration can begin. In many cases, this breakdown of the concrete is due to the freeze and thaw cycle. As the concrete is repeatedly frozen and thawed out, it causes weaknesses in the material, which eventually leads to the concrete disintegrating into small pieces. Other causes of disintegration can be due to chemical exposure, such as those utilized in the process of de-icing.
EROSION
While concrete is often utilized to combat normal erosion, it can also fall prey to this form of deterioration over time. As water and particles wash over concrete repeatedly, they can cause the material to break down and erode. The end result is a weakened structure.
CORROSION
In many cases, concrete is reinforced with steel. As time passes, the steel can begin to corrode. Eventually, the corrosion of the steel leads to damage to the concrete. Once the corrosion has reached a certain point, the rusting steel might wind up being completely exposed.
CRACKING
Very frequently seen in concrete foundations, cracking can develop over time or at the initial stages of pouring the concrete. If the concrete is not set properly, there can be cracks from the start. If it is set properly, cracks can develop over time. This can be due to the freeze-thaw cycle or due to the uneven settling of the ground. Once cracks form, it creates an even greater risk for further deterioration as the cracks are left exposed to the elements. Water can enter these weakened areas and as freezing and thawing occur, the cracks widen and deepen.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF POLYUREA COATINGS
As you can see, while concrete is intended to be a solid and enduring material, it is not immune to the effects of the elements and other deteriorating factors. Whether the concrete is holding together a structure or acting as the foundation for something else, it is vital that you protect it adequately to prevent major deterioration from occurring.
By implementing a high-quality spray-on polyurea protective coating, you can help ensure that any exposed concrete is safeguarded against many forms of deterioration. A polyurea coating can be easily applied to almost any concrete structure, slab, or other utilization of this material.
The process for implementing a polyurea coating from IXS Coatings in simple.
1. We discuss the application.
First, you will reach out to our team so we can get to work designing the right solution for your needs. We will start by talking with you about where the spray coating will be applied. Whether this is a concrete floor in a warehouse or a slab that faces the elements, we can determine what specific industrial coating is ideal for your needs.
2. We find the right solution.
Once we know more about how the coating will be utilized, we can get to work pairing you with the ideal solution. We have engineered a variety of coatings and will work to determine whether or not an existing solution meets your needs. If not, we can design something specifically for you.
3. You apply the coating directly to the concrete.
After the right coating has been chosen, it will be sprayed onto the concrete directly. This allows for a perfect fitting barrier of protection.
4. You enjoy the benefits of protected concrete.
Finally, say goodbye to deterioration and other issues concrete normally faces. Our coatings protect against abrasion, corrosion, and erosion. This allows your concrete to endure longer with less maintenance required.
Are you interested in investing in a spray coating for concrete? We can help! Reach out to our team today at IXS Coatings to learn more about how a polyurea coating could be the ideal solution for protecting your concrete against the damages of nature and various hazards.