The Importance of Floor Preparation

Floor preparation is a crucial step before applying a coating on concrete. Proper floor preparation ensures the best adhesion, durability, and performance of the polyurea coating. Most DIY concrete coatings fail over time due to the concrete not being professionally prepared and installed. Here are some important reasons why floor preparation is essential:

• Surface Cleaning: Before applying a concrete coating, the concrete surface needs to be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt, dust, oil, grease, or other contaminants. These contaminants can interfere with the adhesion of the coating and compromise its performance.
• Removal of Existing Coatings: If there are any existing coatings or sealers on the concrete surface, they should be completely removed. Polyurea needs a clean and bare surface to adhere properly. Failure to remove old coatings can result in poor adhesion and premature coating failure.
• Repairing Cracks and Imperfections: Concrete floors often have cracks, spalling, or other imperfections that need to be repaired before applying polyurea. These flaws can affect the appearance and performance of the coating. Repairing them ensures a smooth and even surface for the polyurea application.
• Mechanical Profiling: To enhance the adhesion of the polyurea coating, it is important to mechanically profile the concrete surface. This can be done through methods such as shot blasting or diamond grinding, which roughen the surface and create a suitable profile for the polyurea to bond with.
• Moisture Testing: Moisture in concrete can negatively impact the performance of polyurea coatings. Conducting moisture testing before applying the coating helps determine if there are any moisture issues that need to be addressed. Moisture mitigation measures, such as moisture barriers or primers, may be required to prevent moisture-related problems.

Proper floor preparation ensures a strong bond between the concrete and the polyurea coating, improves the longevity and durability of the coating, and helps achieve a high-quality, aesthetically pleasing finish. Fortress Floors Virginia have the expertise and equipment to ensure that your concrete floor is properly prepared for it’s new coating.