Concrete is a popular flooring solution in business and commercial buildings due to its durability and strength. However, concrete is not impervious to all damage. Certain natural and manmade elements can cause it to buckle, crack, chip, and deteriorate. When that happens, repairs are essential. Even the smallest blemishes can allow other elements, such as water and dirt, to get into the floor and worsen the problem. Repairing a small problem now can save you quite a bit of money over replacing the whole slab in the future. Here are the most common concrete problems and how they can be solved.
1. Incorrect Installation
Concrete installation requires attention to details such as ratios for mixing, moisture level in the ground, and air temperature while the project dries. If any of these factors is off, the concrete will not dry evenly. This will result in bubbles and cracking. The floor may need complete replacement if damage is extensive. In many cases, the cracks can be filled and the floor resurfaced. When there is too much moisture in the ground, a clear coating can be applied to prevent it from surfacing.
2. Chemicals
Concrete floors are an excellent choice in places where chemicals, vehicle oil, and other hazardous materials are common. With the right finish, concrete is one of the most durable options. However, when not finished with chemical-resistant coatings, spills can lead to discoloration and eventually pitting. This problem can be solved through resurfacing to remove damage and the addition of concrete coatings. If stains are a concern, coloring can be added to create an even finish.
3. Moisture Cracking
Too much or too little water can damage concrete. In most cases, the result is crazing, tiny interconnected surface cracks. This is primarily a cosmetic problem, as the cracks will not become deep. However, it can be indicative of another problem. If there is too little moisture in the air, the surface of newly installed concrete can be watered. If there is too much moisture in the ground, it may be necessary to seal the surface to prevent bubbling.
4. Freezing Temperatures
Concrete spalling is recognizable because the outside layer becomes flaky and peels off in large chunks. It is common in areas where winter temperatures are often below freezing. Water inside outdoor concrete freezes, expands, and thaws in cycles. The addition of deicing chemicals worsens the problem because it allows for more water to permeate the surface. The most practical solution is the application of a polymer-modified cement overlay and a waterproofing sealer. A safer method for preventing ice hazards on outdoor concrete is a light application of sand.
5. Impact
Although concrete is strong, it can become cracked by frequent heavy loads, particularly in the form of blunt force. Depending on the extent of the damage, a basic solution may be appropriate. Often the concrete can be resurfaced with grinders and polishing pads. Cracks are cleaned with a router and filled. This will be followed by a concrete coating, which can reduce future damage.
Contact Us About Concrete Problems and Solutions
ICS has over a decade of experience solving concrete floor repair problems for businesses and commercial facilities. Our team of contractors has installed and repaired thousands of square feet of concrete floors, including many big-name corporations. We have contractors throughout New Hampshire, Maine, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New York, and Connecticut. Keep up with us by subscribing to our newsletter in the right sidebar. If you are interested in a free evaluation, send us your project plans through the Got a Project form and we will be in touch to let you know how we can help.
Regardless of the types of concrete problems you’re experiencing, we can provide you with the proper concrete flooring to help make sure you avoid further damages and potentially dangerous work environments. You’ll see the benefits of working with us as soon as we’ve completed a flooring installation.
Concrete Flooring Service Area
ICS provides concrete and epoxy solutions to all of the northeast. Here is a small list of cities and towns where we have completed many industrial and commercial concrete flooring applications.
| Portland, Maine | Bangor, Maine | Augusta, Maine |
| Nashua, New Hampshire | Manchester, New Hampshire | Portsmouth, New Hampshire |
| Boston, Massachusetts | Worecester, Massachusetts | Springfield, Massachusetts |
| Burlington, Vermont | Montpelier, Vermont | St. Johnsbury, Vermont |
| Providence, Rhode Island | Warwick, Rhode Island | Cranston, Rhode Island |
| Hartford, Connecticut | New Haven, Connecticut | Stamford, Connecticut |
| New York | New Jersey | Pennsylvania |