When in good condition, concrete provides a durable and appealing surface that can withstand high traffic, ensuring a safe and attractive environment for customers and employees. Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of the concrete, reducing long-term repair costs.
Conversely, poorly maintained commercial concrete can become a serious safety hazard, leading to potential accidents and liability issues. Neglected concrete surfaces can deteriorate quickly, resulting in costly repairs and an unprofessional appearance of the property. Use this ultimate guide to commercial concrete maintenance to preserve your property’s value, safety, and aesthetic appeal.
Clean the Concrete Frequently
Keeping your concrete clean helps maintain its appearance and prevents long-term damage. Start by sweeping away debris and dirt that can cause abrasions and wear over time. Regular cleaning is particularly important in areas exposed to heavy foot traffic and vehicular use.
To clean more thoroughly, consider pressure washing the concrete to remove stubborn stains and grime. Be sure to read the pressure washer manufacturer’s instructions to prevent problems and clean efficiently.
Generally, you should use a wide-angle tip and maintain a consistent distance from the surface. Avoid using excessive pressure or narrow tips that can etch or chip the concrete. Work cautiously around edges and corners to avoid causing damage.
Inspect the Surface Regularly
Regularly inspecting your concrete is crucial for early detection of potential problems. Inspection should be thorough and consistent, focusing on high-traffic areas and spots exposed to harsh weather conditions.
During your concrete inspections, you might notice hairline cracks that can indicate underlying structural issues or settlement problems. Additionally, spalling, where small pieces of concrete break off the surface, may suggest freeze-thaw damage or poor installation. Signs of wear, such as uneven surfaces or areas with visible deterioration, could indicate a need for resurfacing to restore smoothness and prevent water intrusion.
Signs of Chemical Spills
Depending on your business, you may have to protect your property’s concrete surfaces from chemical spills. These spills could occur due to accidents during industrial processes, storage mishaps, or improper handling of hazardous substances. Additionally, regular use of cleaning agents, automotive fluids, or chemicals in manufacturing processes can lead to spills that damage the concrete surface over time.
Discoloration, fading, or corrosion on concrete surfaces may indicate chemical spill damage. Additionally, you might observe a rough texture, pitting, or bubbling on the surface where the chemical interaction occurred. In some cases, patching or resurfacing techniques can restore the concrete. However, severe damage may require partial or full replacement of the affected concrete.
Apply a Concrete Sealer
Applying a concrete sealer every few years protects the surface from environmental degradation. Sealers act as barriers against moisture, chemicals, and UV radiation, which can all contribute to concrete deterioration. Reapplying the sealer periodically ensures ongoing protection.
To seal a concrete surface effectively, begin by thoroughly cleaning the area to ensure optimal sealer adhesion. Select the appropriate sealer based on the concrete type and conditions, then apply it evenly in multiple coats and allow adequate drying time between applications. Finally, cure the sealer as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Avoid De-Icing Chemicals
De-icing chemicals are commonly used to manage winter conditions, but they can be detrimental to concrete surfaces. Chemicals containing ammonium nitrate or ammonium sulfate accelerate deterioration, so opt for more concrete-friendly alternatives like sand or magnesium chloride.
If you’re in an area that experiences heavy winter precipitation, clear snow and ice manually as much as possible to reduce the need for chemical de-icers. If you must use chemicals, apply them sparingly and follow up with thorough rinsing to minimize residue buildup. Referring to the de-icing chemical manufacturer guidelines can help you select an effective yet safe agent.
Repair Damaged Areas Promptly
Addressing damaged concrete areas as soon as they appear simplifies commercial concrete maintenance by preventing further degradation. Cracks and holes can quickly expand, leading to more extensive and costly repairs if left untreated. Prompt repairs take care of the issues and maintain a safe environment for employees and visitors.
If you need a long-term solution for settling or sinking concrete, call URETEK for concrete lifting in Houston. We use polyurethane foam injections to lift and stabilize concrete slabs. Our non-invasive repair method will correct uneven surfaces, prevent trip hazards, enhance the underlying soil’s load-bearing capacity, and mitigate the risk of further damage.
How Polyurethane Injections Work
Our slab-lifting process begins with a certified technician drilling penny-sized holes into the concrete. The technician then injects the polymer into these holes. The foam’s two-part chemical formula undergoes a reaction that causes the foam to expand, fill voids in the soil, exert corrective pressure on the concrete, and gently lift the slab back into a more level position.
This method doesn’t require tunneling or excavation because we can efficiently inject the polyurethane foam where needed. Because of this, you won’t have to deal with noisy machinery deterring customers or interrupting your workflow. Even better, our patented, structural-grade polymer cures to 90 percent strength in just 15 minutes. We can complete most repair projects within a day, and you may be able to resume using the affected area like normal by the time our technicians leave the site.
Use Protective Landscaping
Regularly trimming vegetation near concrete areas helps prevent root intrusion, which can cause cracking and heaving. Install and maintain drainage systems to divert water away from concrete surfaces and reduce the risk of erosion and water-related damage. Additionally, strategic placement of landscaping features, such as retaining walls or mulch beds, can shield concrete from excessive moisture and soil movement, preserving its structural integrity over time.
Establish a clear perimeter around concrete structures to prevent plant overgrowth that could impact the surface. Inspect landscaped areas routinely to identify and correct any vegetation encroachment or drainage issues. You can utilize landscaping materials like gravel or pavers to create buffer zones between greenery and concrete, enhancing protection against root penetration and water saturation.
As this ultimate guide to commercial concrete maintenance shows, you can keep up your property’s concrete surfaces with regular cleaning, thorough inspections, protective sealing, and prompt repairs. Avoiding harmful de-icing chemicals and utilizing protective landscaping can significantly extend the lifespan of your concrete surfaces. Implementing these practices ensures a safer environment and preserves property value.
Addressing any damage immediately prevents larger issues from developing down the line. For prompt and long-lasting repairs, call URETEK for polyurethane foam injections that bring sunken or uneven concrete to a flatter plane. Our time-tested solution works faster than traditional methods that require excavation. Call us to restore the appearance and functionality of your business’s concrete surfaces.