Understanding the art and science of concrete coating systems

By Jesse Sanchez. 

From airplane hangars to residential garages, the choice of coating can make or break your concrete.   

In this CoatingsCast™, Karen Edwards discusses the intricacies of concrete flooring applications with Jeffrey Wells, director of sales for ICP's APF Polymer Surfaces group. While many associate coatings primarily with roofing, Jeffrey states that concrete coatings play a critical role across various industries, requiring careful consideration of environmental factors and intended use. 

“Concrete is everywhere. It's the largest construction product and manufacturing,” Jeffrey notes, pointing out that nearly every structure, whether it’s a residential home or a commercial facility, relies on concrete as its foundational element. From safety enhancements to aesthetic improvements, concrete coatings offer versatile solutions tailored to the specific demands of each application. 

One of the main focuses of the conversation is the unique challenges presented by different environments. For instance, airplane hangars, with their heavy aircraft and harsh maintenance chemicals, require coatings that can endure both mechanical stress and chemical exposure. “If you do have an airplane, especially if you're a private owner, you probably want that hangar to look somewhat kind of pretty. If you're doing commercial aircraft, you want it to be durable,” Jeffrey expresses. The coatings used must not only withstand the aircraft's weight but also protect against damage from maintenance equipment and caustic chemicals. 

Beyond functionality, the discussion explores the aesthetic possibilities of concrete finishes. “We can create some very unique finishes,” Jeffrey says, mentioning options that include metallic effects, natural stone looks and even wood-like textures. These decorative finishes can transform concrete floors from purely utilitarian surfaces into visually striking elements of interior design. 

Understanding the full lifecycle and environmental context of concrete coatings is crucial. Jeffrey stresses the importance of thorough planning and selecting the right system for each specific use case. “We like to take the look of the purpose, look at the outcome and then what the expectation of the lifecycle is going to be,” he explains, drawing parallels to the careful considerations required in roofing applications. 

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to learn more about the nuanced world of concrete coatings!