How To Prepare A Concrete Floor For Concrete Coating?

Why You Should Prepare Your Concrete Floor

Preparing a concrete floor for coating is important because it helps to create a secure bond between the coating and the concrete. It also removes contaminants and debris that could cause adhesion issues and helps to prevent premature flaking or peeling of the coating. Finally, proper preparation will guarantee that the floor is level and smooth, providing a better-finished product.

How To Prepare A Concrete Floor For Concrete Coating

Ensure The Concrete’s Structural Soundness

There are tests you can conduct to assess whether your concrete flooring is structurally sound. The water vapour transmission rate test, for example, determines how well the concrete holds moisture. Concrete can absorb ground moisture, so it is important to test this as the coating will not adhere if there is too much moisture. This test can be conducted with a relative humidity meter, or a specific moisture meter tool. Concrete should have a moisture reading of around 3.5 to 4.5 per cent.
 
Alternatively, a DIY method to test the moisture levels in your concrete can be conducted using some plastic sheeting and Sellotape. Simply cut the plastic sheeting into a large square, and Sellotape the edges to the concrete. If, after 48 hours, the underside of the plastic is damp or foggy, this shows the concrete is emitting moisture.
 
If there are any problems with the moisture in your concrete, it is best to resolve this before applying a coating as it could affect the structural integrity of your flooring.

Create A Clean Surface

Debris can affect the adhesion of the concrete coating, so the surface must be properly cleaned. This can be achieved by removing any furniture from the floor, sweeping and hoovering up all dirt, and using a pressure washer to clean the floor. Just make sure that any water from the pressure washer has completely dried before moving on to the next step.

Choose Your Method Of Preparation

Acid washing is a particularly popular method for preparing a concrete floor. It helps the coating to stick, opening the pores of the concrete so the sealer can penetrate and create a stronger bond. Another option is the use of a diamond grinder, which can be more effective at removing glues, mastics, caulk and stains that may be marring the surface of your floor.
 
There are benefits to both methods. Acid washing is more accessible and affordable than diamond grinding. However, diamond grinding can open the pores of the concrete more effectively and creates a smoother surface by levelling imperfections. It’s essential to consider that acid washing will leave moisture behind in your concrete also.
 
Either option is an effective method of preparing your concrete floor, but it’s important to weigh up which is the best for your situation. A professional would be able to advise you on the right method to suit your particular needs. Once you know what this is, and you've followed the steps above, you're free to go ahead and prepare your concrete.

Speak To Concrete Colour Solutions Today

Preparing concrete is vital for its durability and to prevent you from lengthening the process of laying and coating the floor. At Concrete Colour Solutions, we will make sure it’s done right to ease any complications. Contact us today for further information on preparing your concrete floor for its concrete coating.