Protect your floors with concrete coatings from Rush and Reef Concrete Coatings today! Concrete is one of the strongest, most durable, and long-lasting building materials. However, concrete cracks affect its strength and appearance, and you must prevent this from happening for your concrete’s longevity.
The professionals at Rush and Reef Concrete Coatings explain why you must protect your concrete, what causes cracks, and how a coating can mitigate these issues. Continue reading to learn more.
Why Does Concrete Crack?
Concrete comes from combining the following ingredients:
- Aggregates such as sand and gravel
- Water
- Cement powder
When wet, concrete provides a pliable, workable mixture that can spread out or create a shape easily and cheaply. When it dries, it becomes a solid, long-lasting building material we’ve used for centuries.
However, if improperly mixed, concrete will crack. Concrete shrinks during its setting stage or because of temperature fluctuations; when the force of the shrinkage grows stronger than the concrete itself, it breaks.
What Makes Concrete Crack?
Several factors dictate whether concrete will break or not. Most commonly, concrete will crack due to improper installation. Concrete workers need expertise and training to understand the mixing requirements thoroughly. Many rules apply when working with concrete, such as the following:
- Only use the required amount of water, no more
- Do not over mix
- Thoroughly mix the mixture until the concrete remains uniform in texture
For optimal results, request help from an experienced professional to eliminate cracks in your concrete. The following explains some more reasons your concrete may crack.
Heavy Load Impacts
Once the concrete sets, you must prevent unnecessary damage as much as possible. Concrete provides a durable and secure option for heavy machinery and tools, but use care. Concrete mixes come in varying strengths depending on your use; before pouring, ask a specialist which strength you prefer.
Regardless of the strength of the concrete, use caution when setting down heavy equipment. Every concrete has a maximum load, and dropping something heavy will crack even properly installed concrete.
Temperature Fluctuations
Both very hot and freezing temperatures will affect your concrete. When pouring, ensure the ground’s temperature remains above 35 degrees Fahrenheit and that it’s compacted properly. Try to pour concrete on a clear, moderate day for optimal results.
Sealing the concrete or adding concrete coatings can protect against these fluctuations once the concrete sets.
Lower-Quality Materials
Pour concrete to an adequate thickness for optimal results. Only use high-quality materials with the preferred aggregates to minimize shrinkage and thoroughly mix the ingredients.
If you need help selecting the best concrete for your needs, reach out for help.
Too Much Water in the Mix
Poorly mixed concrete will not set correctly. Adding too much water makes working with wet concrete easier and helps pour the concrete. However, with the correct amount of water, your concrete will last much longer and provide a stable and secured base.
Working with a thick concrete mix requires more people and effort, but the results are worth it.
Types of Concrete Cracks
Many types of concrete cracks exist, with varying degrees. The following explains some common damages you may experience:
- Structural cracks: These cracks run through the length or width of the concrete. They require repair or replacement and may grow in size.
- Shrinkage cracks: These cracks appear due to improper setting or mixing. Try to avoid these by opting for professional installation.
- Settlement cracks: You can prevent these cracks through proper tamping before installation. They appear because of shifting concrete or the ground sinking or settling below the slab.
- Hairline Cracks: Most hairline cracks prove harmless, but consider repairing them when you notice them growing or they become annoying. They can make a floor less sanitary by collecting dirt and bacteria.
Contact an expert to identify and repair any cracks you see for optimal results. Not every crack requires repair; a professional can help you decide your next steps.
How Does a Concrete Coating in Dallas Prevent Cracking?
Concrete cracks for many different reasons, and eliminating them is challenging. However, installing a concrete coating can significantly reduce your chances of cracking. A coating on your concrete floor will seal the concrete, adding strength and durability.
Many types of coatings exist, and with the right flooring system, you can protect your concrete from hot tires, temperature fluctuations, and more.
Benefits of Floor Coating Systems
The right flooring installations will boost your concrete floors in several ways and add the following benefits:
- Impact resistance
- Water resistance
- UV protection
- Chemical resistance
- A more attractive surface
Chemical and water resistance will keep your concrete at the preferred balance of water to concrete, eliminating its chance of drying out, which causes cracking. Impact resistance helps protect the concrete if you drop heavy machinery or tools on the floor. UV protection ensures even outdoor concrete remains safe from direct or indirect sunlight.
A coating prevents cracking from several instances and can significantly benefit a property owner. Remember that not all coatings have the same quality; floor paint will not protect as well as an epoxy or polyurea coating.
Contact Rush and Reef Concrete Coatings
A coating can provide an attractive flooring option, protect your concrete, and offer an easy maintenance floor that benefits your home or business.
If you need concrete coatings to help maintain your concrete floors, contact Rush and Reef Concrete Coatings at 469-389-5807 and request an estimate in Dallas, TX, today!
