In order to lengthen the lifespan and maintain the quality of your flooring, correct surface preparation is key. Surface prep done right can ensure the proper bond of the new coating, increasing durability and maintaining aesthetics. With older and existing industrial floor coatings, there are a few steps that need to be taken when conducting surface preparation.
Prepping the Existing Floor Coating
Cleaning away dirt, debris, and other surface materials, will most likely be the first step in preparation for older industrial floor coatings. Then, to get rid of oil from the substrate of the flooring, the existing coating will need to be degreased. In doing so, the floor will be removed of any contaminations that could compromise the strength of the new coating’s bond.
These steps are especially important for facilities that process any food goods or materials, as oil and grease can contain contaminants. Not only can these contaminants put the food at potential for harm, it can affect the floor coating. If surface preparation is not done properly and grease is left behind, floor coatings can crack and peel, causing a danger to the employees and their products.
Removing the Existing Coating
It doesn’t necessarily matter if the existing coating was epoxy, urethane or specialty - it will have to be removed before the new coating can be installed. These remains can get in the way of applying a new coat, which can then result in decreasing the integrity of the flooring.
Specific tools, such as shot blasters and walk-behind sanders, will be used by professionals in order to remove the existing or old industrial floor coating. As most industrial floor professionals are equipped with these tools, they would be able to remove almost any type of coating.
After the coating has been removed, the floor should be cleaned again of any remaining dirt, dust or debris. This will leave the floor with a surface upon which a new coating can be placed, as now the new coating’s bond can stick to the surface of the flooring and not the previous coating.
Ensuring the Flooring’s Condition
Before a new coating is installed, the structural integrity of the existing industrial floor should be examined. While coatings like epoxy can be placed on older floors, any pre-existing issue in the flooring could lead to problems later on. Professionals will have to check for foundation issues and deteriorating subfloors. If repairs do need to be made in order to complete the job, they will have to be addressed.
Once the floor’s condition is determined sound, and surface preparation is complete, you and your industrial flooring professional should decide on what coating would best suit your facility. If you believe it is time to replace your older and existing industrial floor coating, contact us today to find out more about our services.
