Concrete floors are durable and sturdy, making them a popular choice for commercial properties looking for hard-wearing and long-lasting flooring. But they are not entirely resistant to damage. This article will discuss common problems with commercial concrete flooring and ways to deal with them.

What Are Common Problems With Concrete Floors?

Concrete floors are known for their durability and long lifespan. They can last for decades if properly installed, sealed, and maintained. But issues can still arise for many reasons, like improper installation, steel bar corrosion, and overloading.

Here are some common commercial concrete flooring issues you may face.

Moisture Problems

Moisture can build up on a concrete floor's surface when warm and humid air comes in contact with the cold floor. This problem is also called sweating slab syndrome (SSS). It can happen in buildings with poor air circulation and air control, improperly installed vapor barriers (or none at all), and frequent temperature fluctuations. Those are just some of the possible causes of moisture accumulation.

The moisture on the concrete floor can increase the slipperiness of the surface, posing a safety risk to workers. Additionally, the damp condition of the floor promotes mold and mildew growth, which is a serious problem for storage rooms.

The solution to SSS generally depends on the cause. An experienced concrete flooring contractor will know the best way to fix the problem.

Cracking

Cracking is also a common occurrence with concrete flooring. It can happen when the contractor lays the concrete on an uneven soil surface and puts more water in the concrete mix than necessary. The risk of cracking also increases when concrete curing is not completed properly. Other possible culprits for cracking include tree roots and increased pressure.

There are many different types of cracking. Shrinkage cracks occur due to improper curing, which you can fix by applying a concrete filler. Another type is crazing, which is a network of surface-level cracks. This occurs when concrete is not properly finished. If the foundation shifts, there could be settlement cracks.

No matter the type of cracking in the concrete floor, you should make sure these cracks are addressed immediately, especially in commercial facilities. Cracks can be a sign of a foundation issue. While they can also be just superficial, you should not take any chances and make sure you fix the problem as soon as possible. Since there are various possible root causes of cracking, it's best to call an expert for reliable repair.

Spalling

Another common issue with concrete flooring is spalling, where the surface concrete falls off and exposes the steel bars underneath. This can happen for many reasons, like using subpar-quality concrete, poor finishing techniques, or improper curing.

Like most problems with commercial concrete flooring, spalling requires immediate attention. The crumbled area can stick out like a sore thumb and ruin the experience of anyone conducting business on the property. Aside from being an aesthetic issue, spalling may indicate a much more serious problem with the building.

If the problem isn't severe enough, resurfacing concrete or applying a thin cement overlay may be enough. It's a less expensive way of restoring the appearance or durability of the concrete. Make sure to follow the proper procedure if you choose this option. But if the corroded rebar is already showing, hiring a contractor would be your best option.

Settling or Warping

Concrete floors can also start to warp, lift, or settle due to many factors, like thermal shocks and shifts in the earth. These can make floors hazardous.

If you encounter this problem with your concrete floor, don't wait for further damage before taking action. Also, it is best to avoid settling with a temporary solution like resurfacing. Contact your trusted local contractor to help you determine what's causing the bumps and to make sure it gets repaired. More often than not, a new floor is needed.

Stains and Discoloration

Many factors can cause stains and discoloration in your commercial concrete flooring. It can be due to inconsistencies in the concrete mix, adding water at the job site to make finishing operations practical and easy, or inefficient mixing. A blotchy appearance can also occur if the contractor uses cement replacement or added calcium chloride during construction. Concrete floors in warehouses with heavy machinery may also develop stain problems from tire marks.

Minor concrete floor flaws, like scratches and minor cracks, can be fixed with proper patching material. But for more serious concerns, always contact a trusted local contractor. They can help nip the problem in the bud, preventing further damage to your property.

Take Preventive Measures to Ensure Lasting Concrete Floors

Since many problems with concrete floors happen because of improper installation, hiring a skilled contractor can prevent all the issues we discussed. Make sure to hire commercial concrete floor contractors who have your best interest in mind and do not take shortcuts to save on costs and generate more profit.

As a business owner or facility manager, you likely have a lot on your plate. You can leave all concrete flooring installation-related tasks to your contractor. Unfortunately, not all contractors are the same. They differ when it comes to skills, services being offered, prices, and many other variables.

If you want concrete flooring that lasts for decades without any issues, choose your contractor carefully. Ensure they use only quality products, are experts in their craft, and have years of experience.

Proper concrete flooring maintenance is also vital. While concrete floors are known for being one of the most low-maintenance flooring solutions, you should still give them the care they need.

So, what is the necessary maintenance on a concrete floor?

When cleaning concrete floors, use clean water and a pH-neutral cleaner. Cleaning products that contain harsh chemicals like ammonia and bleach may etch the surface. Also, remove debris by regularly mopping, sweeping, or vacuuming.

For stained concrete floors, apply a good floor sealer. This product gives the concrete surface an added layer of protection, helping it resist abrasion, stains, and dirt. These products can also add sheen and improve your floor's color. You can also apply good commercial-grade floor wax to help preserve the sealer.

Even bare concrete floors still need proper maintenance. It is essential to clean the surface, remove stains, and powerwash if needed.

Penntek Coating for Your Commercial Floor Problems

Coating your concrete floor improves its durability while making maintenance easier.

Penntek coating is a highly durable material you can use on your commercial flooring. It features superior flexibility and composition, giving the product an edge over the competition. The product is also easy to install and maintain.

Penntek coatings are slip-resistant, a valuable feature for properties with high foot traffic. Additionally, it can handle nearly all types of weather.

There are many reasons to choose Penntek coatings. If you're ready to use them on your property, find certified installers to do the installation, guaranteeing that you get the most out of your new floor. Experienced and skilled Penntek floor installers can complete the task within a day.

Anderson Painting for Quality Concrete Floors

Whether you need help fixing a concrete floor issue or are searching for "contractors that handle commercial flooring near me," you can count on Anderson Painting.

Anderson Painting is a fully licensed, insured, and bonded family-owned business. Our team uses the latest technologies to give you the best service at a price that won't break the bank.

For more information on our concrete floor services, please don't hesitate to contact the team.