Keeping your concrete floors in excellent condition ensures operational efficiency, employee safety and establishment longevity. As these structures support the hefty daily operations of machinery, equipment and workers, they are prone to cracking and spalling from constant wear and tear. If you’re looking for solutions for repairing damaged concrete floors in factories, keep reading.
Identifying common causes of concrete floor damage in factories
Understanding the root causes of concrete floor damage is the first step to effective repair. Here are some of the most common causes of concrete floor damage:
Heavy machinery and equipment impact: In heavy manufacturing, forklifts, pallet jacks, cranes and other enormous machinery are constantly moved across concrete surfaces. Over time, the weight and impact of this equipment cracks and erodes flooring.
Chemical spills and exposure to harsh substances: Spills and exposure to harsh substances, such as acids and solvents, lead to concrete surface deterioration, corrosion and weakening.
Temperature fluctuations and thermal shock: Concrete naturally expands and contracts with heat and cold, but it cracks or weakens when exposed to sudden fluctuations.
Poor initial installation or low-quality materials: Sometimes, the problem stems from inadequate installation. When a contractor installs concrete flooring incorrectly or uses low-quality materials, floors are more susceptible to cracking and other damage.
Assessing the extent of damage
Before proceeding with repairs, assess the damage properly. Knowing the severity of the issue helps manufacturers choose the right repair method and stay within budget.
Visual inspection is the first method to spot surface issues, such as cracks or spalling. Sounding tests detect hollow areas under the surface for deeper assessment. Core drilling is another option that provides more detailed information about the structural integrity of the concrete.
Minor cracks or surface wear often do not require extensive repairs, while untreated deeper structural damage typically becomes costly if left unrepaired. Once you assess the damage, you’ll know whether you need a professional.
Repair options for damaged concrete floors in factories
Concrete repairs in heavy manufacturing environments take many forms. Here are some effective repair options that address common damage types.
Patch repair for minor cracks and surface damage
Minor cracks and surface damage are the easiest and cheapest to repair. Contractors often use epoxy, quick-setting cement, or polyurethane for quick fixes.
Here’s a quick guide to patch repairs:
Clean the damaged area thoroughly to remove any debris, dust, or oil that could prevent adhesion
If the crack is deep, apply a bonding agent to help the patching material adhere to the existing concrete
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the epoxy or quick-setting cement
Carefully fill the crack with the patching material, using a trowel to smooth the surface
Let the material cure according to the product’s instructions, which typically takes a few hours to a day
Resurfacing for widespread surface wear
Resurfacing products, like self-leveling overlays or concrete resurfacing, are often sufficient to restore your floor’s smoothness. These products bond with the old concrete, providing a new, durable finish.
Here’s your quick guide to floor resurfacing:
Clean the floor thoroughly to remove grease, dirt and loose concrete
Apply a bonding agent or primer to ensure the resurfacing material adheres properly
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the resurfacing compound
Pour the mixture onto the floor and spread it evenly using a squeegee or trowel
Allow the re-surfacer to cure for the recommended time and apply a sealer for added durability
Professional resurfacing tends to cost significantly more, from $8 to $28 per square foot.
Joint repair for expanding cracks
Expanding cracks often lead to water infiltration and other catastrophic damage if left untreated. Repairing expansion joints is essential to preventing these issues.
Manufacturers offer several affordable joint fillers and sealants, such as silicone or polyurethane-based products, which are flexible and durable enough for heavy manufacturing environments. If you want to DIY your joint repair, take note of these steps:
Remove any debris, old sealant, or loose concrete from the joint
For deep joints, insert a foam backer rod to fill the gap partially before applying the sealant
Use a caulking gun to fill the joint with the chosen sealant, making sure it’s flush with the surface
Let the sealant cure for the time specified by the manufacturer
Preventive maintenance to avoid future repairs
Implementing preventive maintenance strategies is the best way to protect your investment in concrete floor repairs. Regularly cleaning and inspecting your floors removes potentially damaging substances and keeps you aware of any forming damage.
Applying a protective coating, such as epoxy or polyurethane, helps shield the concrete from impact, chemical spills and moisture. These coatings add a durable layer to the surface, extending the floor’s lifespan.
Placing mats or barriers in high-traffic areas, predominantly where heavy machinery operates, reduces the impact on the concrete and prevents cracking. Employee education on floor maintenance also helps prevent negligent accidents that cause floor damage.
When to consider hiring professional help to repair damaged concrete floors in your factory
A quick DIY repair on minor and manageable issues is fine for many repairs. But if the damage is deep, widespread, or affects the floor’s structural integrity, you must leave the job to a professional.
Professional repairs may seem expensive upfront, but they save money in the long-term by addressing the root cause of the problem and preventing repeated and costly band-aid fixes. Our team at Rio Flooring Systems offers an effective and efficient solution to keep your concrete floors strong against the daily demands of heavy manufacturing.
Budget solutions aren’t out of reach
Understanding the nature and extent of your concrete floor damage is essential to fix it cost-effectively. Implementing a regular preventative routine is also excellent for maintaining the condition of your concrete floors and addressing minor issues before they escalate.
Budget-friendly strategies don’t always mean ineffective solutions. With the right provider, you get the best outcome for your budget.
Give us a call
If you need professional help to repair damaged concrete floors in your facility, contact Rio Flooring Systems today for an efficient and affordable solution to your damaged concrete floors. Get in touch to learn more.