How To Choose Protective Coatings for Precast Concrete Structures

There are many protective coatings for concrete structures. Though concrete is a versatile construction material, this versatility has drawbacks. Because concrete is a popular choice, it can also be damaged after some time due to exposure to different factors. Precasters need to know about these factors to be able to take care of your product.

Selecting Protective Coating

There are numerous concrete protection treatments for concrete structures. These treatments have different attributes, good and bad, and have different uses.

The success of concrete coatings relies on two factors. The first is the kind of environment the coating will be used in. The second is the application procedure. Understanding both will help you protect your concrete well.

Environment

According to concrete coating experts, different environmental conditions like acidic and alkaline reactions as well as chloride-induced and sulfate deterioration lead to the degradation of concrete. Coating may not adhere properly to alkaline concrete that contains moisture. Precast manufacturers can choose water-based and alkaline resistant coating classes like acrylics, epoxies, and urethanes. Though polyurea does not have these qualities, it can work just as well.

There are two kinds of environments wherein choosing the right protective coatings for concrete can be difficult. In manufacturing plants, coated structures need to withstand daily exposure to different kinds and concentrations of chemicals. In agricultural facilities, certain activities, runoffs, and fertilizers can be aggressive to coatings.

Applying Coating

Before applying coating for concrete protection, the concrete needs to be prepped properly. Several factors can affect the adherence of coating to concrete. One factor is laitance. Other factors include a concrete imperfection called “eggshell”, the removal of rods or snap ties, release agents, curing agents, and the glossiness of the concrete.

There are several methods of surface preparation, like dry abrasive blasting, wet blasting scarifying, and high-pressure water jetting. Penetrating materials like grease and oil need to be stripped prior to preparation.

The interior environment also needs to be considered before applying coatings. Water-based coatings can be affected by low temperatures, while bonding can be affected by high temperatures. Regulations in different states can also affect which concrete coatings can be used. It’s best to have a thorough knowledge of materials and regulations before going forward.

Coating Variables

Knowing environmental conditions well affect your choice of coating and the successful application of the coating. Understanding, knowledge, training, and collaboration with concrete coating experts are all critical in making sure that your choice of protective coatings for concrete is successful.