Concrete surfaces are prepared before laying down a topcoat not only for superficial reasons but also for mechanical reasons.  Construction work requires surface preparation prior to installing floor coating in industrial and commercial applications in order to create long-lasting hold and durability.  The texture of the existing concrete is an important consideration when laying down floor coating or resurfacing materials.

Concrete overlays and coatings need proper bonding. Construction professionals see to it that the surface has the right concrete surface profile or CSP.  The International Concrete Repair institute has developed benchmark guidelines to help contractors.   CSP is a measure of average distance from the peaks of the surface to the valleys. The peak ranges from CSP 1 – nearly flat – to CSP 9 – very rough.  The ruling states that the thicker the overlay or topping, the higher the CSP should be. To achieve higher ranges the substrate often needs roughening by shotblasting or scarifying.

Planning stage

Here, contractors and the property owners get together to determine the sope of work.  The following needs to be determined:

• timetable
• work schedule
• clean up process
• safety measures
• acceptable noise levels

Job specifications

The general job specification for surface preparation is that the surface should be “sound, free from surface defects, dry and clean.”  It is important that everyone concerned with the general construction work aligns all requisites so there are no expensive errors.  Specifications should clearly state how uniform, clean and at what strength the substrate should be prior to a coating or overlay installation.

Survey the current state of the concrete surface

The contractor must conduct an assessment of the concrete surface. The assessment should include a check on the top layer of the cement and whatever needs to be removed from the concrete surface.  The surface should also be checked for existing sealers, curing materials, grease, oil or dirt that has to be removed.

Cleaning the concrete surface

Chemicals, oil and grease should be removed from the concrete surface. Everything that is on the surface should be taken off. Chemicals can be removed using high-pressure washing. Oil and grease needs heavy-duty degreasers and scrubbers. Shotblasting and scarifying can be utilized on floors to take a layer off the top.

Roughen or “profile” the surface

The texture or “profile” of the concrete is a very important characteristic to acheive.  Depending on the scope of the project, roughening the concrete by mechanical profiling works but for some acid etching is also convenient.  Mechanical profiling is usually for large areas of floor coatings in industrial or commercial applications.

Surface defects should be repaired

The contractor, having evaluated everything, should now know what repair materials to have on hand.  Chips and protrusions found in the concrete greater than 1/16” should be ground down and refinished to match the rest.  Unstable concrete, bubbles and holes should be assessed and filled up with epoxy or other filling agents and refinished to match the rest.

Resurface the concrete

Having done all preparations, the concrete is now ready for resurfacing.

The above is just a simple overview of the techniques used when doing surface preparation.  The process is best left to a professional like Champion Coatings who will assess the situation of existing concrete and determine the scope of work to ensure good overlay, bonding, longevity and performance.

Basement walls and floors trap moisture which in turns accumulates and causes mold and mildew.  This is apparent from the musty smell of basements – a tell-tale sign that there is mold growing.   This is a normal occurance as the building ages and the basement starts allowing the seepage of water through cracks in the concrete after a downpour or as snow melts. If you are using the basement as a storage place then this can prove disastrous when mold grows on furniture, carpet, paperwork and other storage items. Your first order of business is to schedule waterproofing for your basement. By sealing the basement against moisture you are protecting your investments of the property, furniture, archived paperwork, and your staff's health.

It is likely for basements to have water seepage.  The initial seepage would be intermittent after heavy rain or snow melt down which raises the groundwater level.  Over time, the water seepage becomes obbvious even if there is no apparent reason.

Water seepage is caused by cracks in the concrete. Stress cracks occur in all concrete structures. The floor to wall joints open up and floor cracks appear.  There is also a possibility that the exterior waterproofing done when the house was constructed has deteriorated and the drainage system has failed.  The hydrostatic pressure then pushes water through the cracks.

Thus, the basement can be the source of moisture in in your building, as these rooms have been known to let in over 15 gallons each day in the event of serious seepage - a problem, that if untreated, can cause structural damage to your property.

A wise property owner should be aware of this moisture problem. Having concrete as a foundation is not an assurance that you will be problem-free.  Concrete is porous and deteriorates as the years pass by.  Just like wood, it needs protection from water.

Waterproofing should be considered before finishing a building's construction.  Particularly, the basement should be sealed, including the walls and the slab.  It is crucial to protect what is most prone to water seepage.

For a project like waterproofing,  seeking professional services will prove to be most advantageous. Professionals can assess the issues and determine the best action to be taken, where to seal and what chemicals to seal it with.

Contact Champion Coatings for your waterproofing needs.

The foundation of a property must be kept as dry as possible. When moisture content is high, cracks, mildew, wet basements, and rot are the result and this can mean significant damage to the foundation, ultimately affecting the well-being of the rest of the structure.  There are various different foundation waterproofing options that can be implemented in order to protect your property from costly problems.

Advances in technology have made waterproofing methods more effective and less expensive.  There is no reason not to have protection - especially if there is any intention of selling the building in the future.  Foundation problems will force the asking price downward.

Chemicals can be sprayed or painted on the walls to completely seal your foundation from water. There are professional foundation waterproofing specialists who can do this work for you properly.

The leading causes of foundation damage are condensation and leakage.  Once the cause is determined it is best to implement the proper solution quickly, saving time and money.

When the problem is due to condensation, a simple option is to purchase a system that removes moisture from the air.  There are whole house dehumidifiers and other equipment that can aid in remedying the situation.  But if the moisture is significant, steps must be taken by a professional to seal the foundation.

Foundation waterproofing for leakage or seepage of water can get tricky.  Be sure to be aware of the direction and flow of water during heavy downpours.  If the flow is towards your foundation it should be redirected. If the water does not flow and just sits near the foundation  it can seep through the soil and get into the foundation.  Part of waterproofing is about redirecting water away from the property.  Sometimes this means changes must happen to the sloping and landscaping around the property, and sometimes modifications must happen to the edges of the structure itself to redirect the flow.  Once the water has been redirected, oftentimes the next step is to spray a sealant. This is not always the only prevention method needed, however, so it is best to have a professional assess the situation - they may be able to suggest additional methods that would more adequately lock out the moisture.

Prevention is always better than having to mend the whole foundation.  Even if a problem is not apparent, it pays to protect your structure with foundation waterproofing.

Industrial flooring methods focus on delivering results that are robust and reliable to sustain heavy traffic and load. This is important for warehouses and loading areas that need floors that will not crack and will uphold the safety of men and equipment.

Resin flooring installation provides a lot of benefits for commercial and industrial companies. Below are the reasons why it is becoming a popular choice:

Stronger than Concrete

The material has been found to be stronger than concrete. It also results in a smooth, seamless finish. Resin is produced by a chemical reaction between polymers. These are then absorbed by the concrete foundations and base flooring which results in a rock-solid and continuous floor surface. The surface will not flake, peel or come loose through time.

Tough and Durable

This type of industrial flooring is extremely tough. Flexibility is also one of its features, making it ideal for industrial and commercial use. Factories and warehouses can benefit most from this durable material. The strength of the resin prevents impact damage and increases the load bearing capacity of the floor.

Low Maintenance and Sanitary

Resin floors are ideal for schools, hospitals and kitchens because it provides a resistant floor finish. This type of floor can be washed, disinfected or even steam-cleaned to ensure sanitation without losing its robust properties. These floors can also withstand acids, alkalis, solvents and petrol without damage.

Slip Resistance and Safety

Industrial flooring contractors can include graded aggregates to create a more slip resistant floor for wet or greasy situations. Employers have less liability, and employees feel safe.

Colors can be added to the resin to result in flooring that can synchronize with the structure's paint scheme. This type of industrial flooring material is good for schools, food production areas, hospitals, warehouses, pharmaceutical production plants, bathrooms, marine environments, car parks and workshops.

An industrial flooring specialist like Champion Coatings can provide the installation service for your resin flooring needs.

Read more:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resin
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laminate_flooring

A tenant improvement contractor as well as their clients should know that in 2012 the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will have changes. Affected locations are restaurants, hotels, hospitals, stores, factories and warehouses. This update was made by Rocky Mountain ADA Center, which is one of the 10 regional centers funded by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research. The changes will have full implementation for new construction or alterations after March 15, 2012.

The ADA changes are the following:

• Social Service Center Establishments - access to beds and roll-in showers.
• Housing at Places of Education- application of provisions for transient lodging and for residential facilities, and kitchen access and accessible circulation within units.
• Assembly Areas - additional criteria for the location and dispersion of wheelchair spaces and companion seats in assembly areas, including stadium-style movie theaters.
• Medical Care Facilities - dispersion of accessible patient bedrooms.
• Residential Dwelling Units - coverage of dwelling units designed, constructed, or altered by state and local governments for sale to individuals.
• Detention and Correctional Facilities - enhanced scoping (3%) for accessible cells, dispersion, and coverage of altered cells.
• Places of Lodging - application of scoping provisions to sites with multiple facilities, alterations, and exclusion of residential-only units.

Rob Gilkerson, Architectural Information Specialist for the DBTAC Rocky Mountain ADA Center said the revised standards are closely based on the ICC/ANSI A117.1-2003 and the updated ADA and ABA (Architectural Barriers Act) Accessibility Guidelines (2004) published by the U.S. Access Board, but the DOJ’s regulations implement the additional provisions above. When these standards go into effect on March 15, 2012, they will set new minimum requirements – both scoping and technical – for new construction and alterations of the facilities of more than 80,000 state and local governments and more than seven million businesses. Until the 2012 compliance date, entities have the option to use the revised standards to plan current and future projects so that their buildings and facilities are accessible.

These changes would have to be considered by a contractor should  projects fall on or after the implementation date.

A  contractor must now review implementation rules and guidelines before starting any project design, construction or renovation.  It is emphasized that the failure to follow the ADA implementation can lead to more expenses due to rebuilds.  Lawsuits and penalties would also be imposed to the business owner and sanctions issued on the contractor.

Read More:
http://www.ada.gov/2010ADAstandards_index.htm
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/cpps/ada/adachanges.asp

If you are living in a concrete jungle then it's certain that you have noticed cracks on concrete walls or steps. Cracks are common, and unfortunately property managers don’t seem to take those cracks seriously.  Concrete services providers cannot emphasize enough that this is an indication of a structural problem and should be addressed as soon as possible.

Expert advice is required to assess cracks, and often building managers assume that such advice is expensive. Many concrete services firms will assess the situation for free - all it takes is a little effort to contact these firms.  “It is important to accurately assess structural cracks to determine what is significant and what is not,” says John Duntemann, a principal at consulting engineering firm Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates Inc. (WJE), Northbrook, Ill. “You have to properly identify the extent and cause of cracking before you can implement the right repair solution.”  Solutions to such problems cannot be implemented unless the concrete is evaluated by a specialist.

There are a number of reasons why cracks occur. Thermal expansion and contraction, sub grade settlement, load applied to the concrete and even earthquakes can cause cracks. Internal and external stress can make small cracks larger and further destabilize the structure.

There are two types of cracks in concrete: structural and non-structural.  The structural cracks have an effect on the stability and durability of the structure.  Examples are cracks in support beams, columns, and those areas with heavy load.

The non-structural cracks are not dangerous to structures.  They are addressed mainly for aesthetic reasons. Property owners should also take measures to prevent cracks from growing bigger over time, which could cause damage to the structure.

Tiny or hairline cracks are not so problematic and may not even be noticed. However, the specific location is critical. If hairline cracks have high occurrence then there can be an underlying stress issue that needs to be looked into.

As the size of the openings increases, property owners should be increasingly concerned.  A rule of thumb by concrete services specialists is that cracks 0.15 inch or larger should be evaluated immediately. Experts say that the larger the width, the greater possibility of lost aggregate interlock. Repairs can be made on 0.005 inch crack, but it's desirable to catch it before this point.

Cracks that trail in random directions are not as critical as those found on beams, columns and load-bearing areas. Other warning signs of deteriorating structural integrity are closely spaced cracks or repetition of cracks at the same location on each floor of a building.

When there are cracks on walls or any portion of a building, contact a concrete services provider.  Champion Coatings is an experienced contractor for such services nationwide.

Read More:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concrete

When selecting the type of industrial flooring that best suits your needs, the first step is to determine the different stresses and deterioration that will be acting on your floor.  This is measured in the following categories: mechanical, physical, chemical, biological, and electrical.  Industrial flooring mechanical stresses to consider are abrasion, erosion, impact, and vibration, while physical stresses would be liquid and temperature concerns such as humidity and frost.  Chemical is concerned with acids, oils, greases, and gas, while biological concerns arise where micro-organisms may need to be eradicated, and electrical concerns arise in clean-room or static-sensitive situations. Industrial flooring materials should be bassed on the usage of the floor, as determined above, it is important to consider each possible material’s properties of durability, composition, quality, and the maintenance it requires.  Consider the amount of labor and possible experience needed to care for the floor, as well as the experience and quality control standards expected of the installer.  In designing the floor, critical assessment of any necessary standards or specs of the industry is crucial.

At best, the contractor should be able to help in having the proper solution to the requirements. Thus, it is also important to hire a firm that is able to give advise as well as do the project. Once a reliable contractor is found then the requirements should be discussed. The next step is to choose the most appropriate design and material for the flooring requirements. The factors discussed should also be considered along with recommendations from the contractor.

One professional company to call on such need is Champion Coatings. They are experienced in supply and installation of industrial flooring.  Ask for a quote and compare with other contractors and notice the difference.  Check out the site projects page for the work they have done.

Military bases undergo rigorous wear and require a number of  industrial flooring systems with various attributes to meet the demands of different circumstances in this sector.  Waterproof coatings, chemical resistant coatings, antibacterial coatings, and ultra-durable traffic coatings are a few of the systems that can be provided for the diverse zones of the base environment.

Examples of  Industrial Flooring Applications:

• Aircraft Hangars
• Aircraft Runways
• Loading Docks
• Machine Shops
• Control Rooms (ESD)
• Classrooms
• Barracks
• Locker/Shower Rooms
• Garages
• Kitchens
• Mess-halls
• Assembly Areas
• Ship Decks
  

Our floor coating specialists can help you choose what coating is best for your situation.

Read More:
Military Construction Specifications, Regulations, and Mandates -  http://www.wbdg.org/ccb/ccb.php

Industrial flooring for food manufacturing facilities must adhere to detailed specifications to ensure the health and safety of consumers and laborers.  The United States has standards set forth by the USDA that cover concrete quality, porosity, material surface and much more, to ensure cleanliness and purity in situations where flooring is subject to food byproducts like fats, bloods, and acids that lead to the growth of bacteria.  There are many options when choosing a hygienic and seamless flooring system – most surrounding the issues of materials, downtime, temperatures, and aesthetics.  For a more in-depth review of these considerations click on the link at the bottom of the article to read “Floors Fit for the Food Industry“ at FoodManufacturing.com.

Here are some examples where an appropriate protective industrial flooring system can be applied for certain areas of a food manufacturing company:

• Bottling Lines
• Meat Packaging Areas
• Kitchens
• Packaging Lines
• Coolers
• Splash/Spill Zones
• Dairy Rooms
• Sterile/Gowning Areas
  

Professional services for protective flooring systems can be provided by Champion Coatings. Use the quick quote form for any immediate need.  View the Protective Coatings Gallery for their work.

Read More:
http://www.foodmanufacturing.com/scripts/ShowPR~RID~8133.asp

Warehouses have a lot of different uses, but typically they are high-traffic areas with heavy machinery and heavy product being stored on the floors.  It is not unusual for the floor to get soiled by oil spills or other greasy lubricants from machines or forklifts.  Uncoated floors are difficult to clean and even more difficult to maintain. Coating the warehouse floor will make it easier to maintain and will reduce future spending on crack and joint repair.

Epoxy floor coating will allow for the absorption of any oil-based material and stains will not stay as easily as on other coatings.  Since epoxy bonds well with concrete it results in a further-hardened surface. This adds to the durability and resilience of the concrete floor.

Another material used for floor coating is polyurethane which does not discolour or turn yellow.  Like the previous paint, polyurethane hardens the surface. It also results in a very shiny gloss. This coating needs an epoxy primer before it is applied to the warehouse floor.

Latex floor coating is the cheapest option.  This coating needs at least 72 hours to dry. The result for this type of paint is an antique look that some contractors can even make resemble stone or leather.  The disadvantage when using this product is that it needs a protective coating to make it last longer. Exposure to sunlight can cause damage to a latex coated floor.

The decision of which product to apply to the warehouse floor depends on many factors, but there is no question that floor coating is important for the longevity of the floor. Some warehouse managers prefer the cheaper option. The epoxy floor coating is preferred by the majority of managers due to its durability and maintenance.

For help deciding what type of product to apply to your warehouse floor, call a floor coating expert. Contact Champion Coatings.

There are different types of floor surface preparation that concrete service contractors use to start any project.  For the flooring installation to be successful the contractor must have experience in carrying out the proper flooring preparation process. Each method has specialized equipment and requires specific techniques. The floor surface preparation process is a vital step in laying down industrial flooring.

The most common surface preparation processes are:

1. Shot Blasting also know as Captive or Dust Free Shot Blasting

This is the most commonly used method because it is the most effective and cheapest of all preparation methods.  The machine used is attached to a dust extraction unit. This prevents dust from circulating in the area and will not disrupt what is going on around the work area.

2. Scarification

This is a mechanical process wherein the deteriorated surface of the concrete is removed or “scarified”.  The objective is to get to a sound substrate on which the flooring system can be placed.  The process can be of two methods – diamond grinding and STR machines. Scarification removes thick mill coatings, overlays, and as much as ½ inch of concrete with several passes.  The equipment ranges from 8, 12 and 13 inches wide and is powered by electric power or by gasoline.  They are always equipped with a dust collector.

3. Scabbling

The scabblers are used prior to shot blasting weak industrial flooring substrates. This is a more time consuming process but good for removing thick flaky coatings & oil contaminated floors.

4. Grinding

The floor preparation process may take more than one method to complete, depending on the condition of the existing floor. Another method that is often used is the grinding process.   Floor Grinders have the ability to remove coatings, glue, and other particles while leaving the surface clean, smooth & ready for the application of thin mil coating & stains.

5. Acid Etching

Etching is when the area to be prepared is hosed carefully with acid. This is a two-man process where one man operates a nylon grit brush and the other is responsible for pouring the acid evenly and working with a broom. This is a risky process so only experienced contractors should utilize such a method. Never attempt to do this yourself to avoid accidents and improper application of the acid.

It is important to do the research and gain knowledge of the different industrial flooring surface preparation processes, as it is a vital step in prepping the floor so that the processes-to-come  are as successful as possible. If you want a reliable concrete service provider to handle your industrial flooring requirements, contact Champion Coatings.

Why is utilizing high-density polyurethane in concrete leveling more popular than the leveling or lifting methods that some concrete services use?

Below are the advantages of the polyurethane method used today in concrete leveling:

Cheaper than other methods

Since the concrete does not have to be removed or replaced, this is 75% cheaper. The cost of removing and replacing, as well as the longer waiting period, drives up cost significantly.

Efficiency

This method is 80% more efficient in terms of work time and curing time. The materials used will harden in minutes which mean the project can be completed in a matter of hours instead of days. This make concrete services provide completion of project faster.

Much Less Down-Time

Due to the fast acting materials there is no longer a need to stop the usual work flow for days or weeks on end. The project can be done in a matter of hours, enabling people to get back to their usual work quickly.

Durability

Polyurethane is known for its compressive strength which results in solid and dense products. But another surprising feature is that it is also a flexible material. Its tensile strength and elongation properties allow pliability making it tough yet flexible for demanding conditions.

Conformability

High-density polyurethane expands 20 times its liquid volume and fills up spaces wherever it is poured. It also takes on the shape and size of those gaps which completely supports the pavement with precision.

Ability for compaction

Since the material is able to fill-in subspaces, it bleeds into the sub base and actually binds soil, rocks or loose concrete. This adds more strength to the substrate and therefore increases the durability of the floor's surface.

Material is lightweight

Polyurethane material only adds 3-5 pounds per cubic foot to the sub base compared to the 100 pounds or more that mud jacking grout may add.

Structural integrity

Concrete pavement injection holes are only 5/8” in diameter which is lesser than the diameter  of 3” or more that other methods require. The method is easier for concrete services providers to use.

Resistant to moisture

Most polyurethane materials are designed for wet conditions. They have hydrophobic properties which displace water in the sub base. Being that the material is not affected by moisture, as long as the substrate is prepped correctly, no adverse reaction should arise in conditions where moisture is commonplace.

With all the above reasons, those who use high-density polyurethane for concrete leveling can expect infrastructure reliability for a long time. This saves time and money.  Concrete Restoration providers such as Champion Coatings are familiar with such techniques and are qualified to handle your project's needs.

After waterproofing your deck with a urethane rubber decking system, you will notice that visitors take a second look at the area. The finish and neatness of the deck easily attracts attention.  What viewers may not be aware of is that the aesthetics of the deck are secondary to why the deck has undergone waterproofing.

Protection is the utmost reason for the application of a urethane rubber decking system.  With such protection, the durability of the deck is insured for many years to come.  A professional provider who has experience in applying the system could assure you of quality and an easily maintainable finish. Thus it is imperative to get a reputable installer to do the work for you.

Auto and pedestrian deck systems have two key ingredients: the tough elastomeric waterproof coating and textured granules.   The first ingredient's job is to assure the deck remains water resistant. The second ingredient is traction or slip-resistance, and protection from scratches.

Urethane waterproofing is colour-stable. There are a number of colors that can be chosen to make the deck correspond with your colour scheme.  The coating is also elastomeric which means that it will stretch when it is warm and cools through. The coating's physical flexibility traits that withstand weather conditions prevent cracking which leads to water damage.

Another feature of the urethane rubber decking system is that it is slip resistant.  Decks are expected to be high-traffic locations, especially for business establishments. The application of this kind of floor coating aids in accident-prevention because of its slip resistant quality.

The texture granules on the coating are very rough and are anchored in place by the coating. As well as providing great traction, this prevents premature wear and tear when loose dirt granules grind into the coating surface.  These traits allow for long-lasting waterproofing deck systems.  The texture will wear evenly and will not compromise the floor coating by coming loose.

With a urethane rubber decking system in place, you will enjoy durability and reliability. In terms of aesthetics, this waterproofing adds to the beauty and neatness of your deck area. There is no need for extensive maintenance because the floor coating does not need special equipment or chemicals to remain clean. You save money when you have this kind of deck system installed.

Choosing the right concrete protective coating is important especially when the floor is subjected to high-traffic, abrasive chemicals, constant cleaning, and varied temperature conditions.  Industries such as food processing and preparation have a wide variety of needs that must be met when it comes to floor coatings.  What the floor needs is a heavy duty, corrosion resistant, anti-skid and sanitary floor covering.

A urethane concrete floor coating can endure severe conditions like:

• corrosive chemicals
• abrasions
• varying temperatures

This type of concrete coating is able to absorb hard impact by distributing the shock throughout the concrete floor.  A urethane concrete protective coating has many traits that make it an effective solution.

This floor is also easy to maintain, seamless and does not have any odor, therefore it's safe for people who have allergic reactions to odor or chemical components.  Food industries and industrial kitchens will find this coating acceptable to handle strenous work. Companies that comply with USDA standards have a long list of needs that urethane concrete floor coating is an effective tool in satiating.

Champion Coatings specializes in customized floor coating solutions. Contact us for a quote.

You notice cracks in your floor and pay no mind to them. But beware, because this may be an indication of serious structural deficiencies.  Some cracks may have vital consequences.  Unless you are a professional in concrete services, you may not be able to tell the difference between which ones need immediate attention and which are superficial.

It is crucial to have a professional assess structural cracks to determine what is significant and what is just on the surface level.  Concrete services personnel can properly identify the level and cause of cracking and can give the appropriate repair measures.

There are a variety of reasons why structural cracks happen. Thermal expansion and contraction, sub grade settlement, the load on the structure and even earthquakes can be some of the causes.  The bottom line is that the concrete has external and internal stress and this is shown through both large and small cracks.

Once you notice cracks on the walls or floor contact a concrete services professional to do an assessment.  Their job is to tell you whether or not the cracks are significant to affect structural integrity.  It is not advised to do a DIY solution unless it is an apparent surface crack.  There are too many factors involved in structural engineering and chemical formulation to leave anything to chance.  Remember that the right solution can only be made once an understanding of the cause is determined.

You can call on Champion Coatings. We have professionals who can evaluate the situation and resolve the issue.  Call us or use the Contact Form for an inquiry or a Quote.

The floor is one of the most noticeable features upon entering a building. This part of your restaurant, retail store, office, or even warehouse can make a lasting impression on visitors. No matter the location, when the floor is polished and shiny, it looks very neat and sophisticated. An unfinished floor looks unmaintained, uninviting, often dirty, and elicits no attention from visitors.

To make a restaurant or office more appealing and make it look warm and inviting, a floor coating should be applied. Aesthetics are a benefit, but this is also for the durability of the floor. Foot traffic, furniture, machinery, and automobiles can take a toll on a floor. A floor coating will protect the concrete and can hide the wear and tear of the concrete floor. It can also make the floor much easier to clean.  These industrial-style floors have become popular in restaurants and offices because of their clean but industrial style, durability, and ease of cleaning and maintaining.

There are various types of floor coating but the two most popular are epoxy and polyurethane.

The epoxy floor coating is the most durable and long lasting. This type is best for patios, garages, basements, industrial or commercial concrete. The epoxy is composed of two components: the resin and the hardener. These components are separate and only mixed within minutes prior to the process of curing.  The floor needs a number of hours before it is totally cured and can be walked over. For heavier traffic areas like warehouses or garages, it needs three days before auto traffic can be moved on the new floor.

Polyurethane floor coating is very tough and is more elastic than epoxy.  This application comprises of two processes: the application of a primer and then the application of polyurethane. Available in both solvent and water-based, polyurethane provides a seamless high-gloss seal with excellent resistance to abrasion and chemicals as well as excellent UV stability.

Champion Coatings provides floor coating services to commercial and industrial clients nationally.  Use the Quote Form for questions or price quotes. Check out the Protective Coatings Gallery for actual work done.

The most important document in undertaking design-build or tenant-improvement projects is the contract. Why is it so important? The first reason is obviously a matter of legal safeguard for everyone involved, but furthermore, a written agreement is a means everyone concerned is on the same page. With this document both parties know exactly what is to be done, for what cost, and when. Discrepancies may arise over the matter of labor cost or completion deadlines. The client and contractor can come to an agreement on what needs to be done, and they are able to make adjustments to the scope of work together depending on the needs and skills of each party.

It is important to remember that the contract must include a degree of flexibility, as changes may happen after the contract is legalized. Schedules might be affected by bad weather, there may be a delay in arrival of materials, permits may not be approved in a timely manner. Construction is not without its many trials, so a little flexibility will likely be required. A professional Contractor can schedule in a little leeway for incidents, and change orders will be considered with the client.

Make your life easier by hiring a professional. A professional Contractor always uses a contract and will sit down with you to make sure the scope of work is understood. Signing a contract with a Contractor is much easier when you feel that everything has been covered to the satisfaction of both parties.

Champion Coatings, a San Diego contractor,  has completed many successful private as well as military jobs in the last 15 years.  We pride ourselves on putting forth a fair contract and collaborating with the client to come up with the best possible project.

One area of a property that is always involved in high activity is the floor. As a rule, it is this part of the building that must be cared for. The floor bears the brunt of furniture, machines and foot traffic so it is easily damaged and cracked. There is a way to make your floor tidy and fresh-looking as well as add to its longevity by improving its durability.

To strengthen your floor, the use of floor paints and coatings is highly recommended. Two of the most commonly used are epoxy floor paint and latex floor paint which differ in both quality and material.

Epoxy floor paint is tough and sturdy, and it lengthens the durability and value of your floor. With a powerful adhesive capacity, it has more resistance to heat, oil, water, and chemicals. It is often found in large establishments and factories. In the office, the best areas to apply epoxy floor paint are high-traffic floors, roofing and bathrooms.

Latex floor paint uses the suspension of rubber or plastic polymer particles in producing adhesives, emulsion paints and other products. Latex floor paint is less odorous and toxic compared to epoxy floor paint, and its gives more glossy finish to most surfaces. 

Each type of paint has different results when used as protective coating to the floor in your building. Decisions are based on the usage of the building.  Call Champion Coatings to help you decide the best protective solution for you.

Some decisions are easy while others are difficult to make. Have you wondered how the differences between hard tile or carpet can influence a decision?

An interesting result of a survey made by Professor Joan Meyers-Levy of the Marketing department at University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management, and author of the well-known study on ceiling height, came up with this result: the ground where people stand can greatly influence how they judge products.

This astounding result was published in the Journal of Consumer Research (June 2010). Conducted by co-authors, Joan Meyers-Levy and Juliet Zhu and Lan Jiang of the University of British Columbia, they analyzed the experience brought about by the two most common flooring types sold on retail outlets: hard vinyl tile and carpet. Professor Meyers-Levy discovered that people standing on carpets feel comfortable, however, they have the tendency to judge products that are close to them as less comforting.

The authors did the following procedures:

1. The first result showed that carpeting really gives a greater sense of physical comfort than tiled flooring. They then proceeded to deal with more practical and tricky questions such as - Would these bodily sensations elicited by the flooring transfer to people's assessments of products that they observe while shopping?

2. Some participants were made to stand on soft pile carpet and others on hard tile. They were required to look at products that were close and also placed further away. It was observed that when products were further away, the participants assessed them by the sensations of their bodies, without any conscious efforts at all. For instance, while standing on soft carpet and watching a far-off product, they would judge the item as more comfortable. But when they examined products that were close by, they judged them as less comfortable. According to Professor Meyers-Levy, it was because when objects are close by, the bodily sensations elicited by the flooring are more likely to be used as a comparison standard, but not as a frame for interpretation.

Just how much would implications of these findings affect all brick and mortar retailers and service providers? It is a fact that interior décor, like flooring, is a more important element than function or style. Directly affecting how consumers perceive products, it can determine whether or not the consumers buy the goods. Analyzing the attitude of consumers has always been important, as shown in the result of this study that even where consumers stand can make a difference in making a sale or failure to close the deal.  Let Champion Coatings help you determine what flooring your property needs to make your consumers feel at home. 

For complete report on this study, read the article in the Journal of Consumer Research of June 2010. It is written by Joan Meyers-Levy of the Holden-Werlich School-Wide Professor of Marketing at the Carlson School. She has been researching the effect of verbal and visual communication, memory, information processing, gender and individual difference on the behavior of consumers.

If you have inferior waterproofing your basement will be continuously damp which can lead to potential structural rot and insect infestation. There are basic methods that can be applied to keep gutter water from entering the basement. Be aware that some leaks are caused by water on the floor surface and some are underground. Sometimes leaks are due to continuous dampness that encourages rot to multiply and invites wood boring insects to move in. Concrete waterproofing is one of the basic processes in foundation building for any structure.

It is typical for basements to be damp or wet during periods of heavy rain.  In the event that the water does not naturally drain you have solutions:

• Regularly check gutters for clogged areas or leaky spots.  If you find them, take care of the problem as soon as possible.
  

• Check for cracks in your foundation and make a note of them. This may be a source of leakage. Show them to a professional who can assess the situation.
  

Whatever the problem is, a solution is possible. The first step is to find the cause of water leakage. This will give you an idea of the amount of work that is required and the amount of money it will take.

A professional can determine where the dampness or water is coming from and tell you how serious the problem is. You will need an expert to find a creative solution to a tough waterproofing job. Different issues require different fixes. Sometimes large jobs require excavation of the ground on the outside of the building. On occasion a whole piping system must be implemented to direct water away from the building, or create sloping ground for runoff. Some buildings require thick fiber wrapping. Other times it can simply be taken care of by a coating on the interior and exterior walls.

Every year a multitude of building owners lose hundreds of thousands of dollars in resale value due to leaky foundations and basements. Every year employees get sick from mold issues born from leaks in their company building's foundation.  Do not allow this problem to go unsolved.

Even if the water seepage is happening only once in a while, it is better to fix the situation before it gets serious.

Don't wait for it to happen. Waterproofing your basement now can save you money in the long run.  Getting a professional waterproofing provider will give you peace of mind that it is done properly.

Concrete Services, when properly done, can save you significant dollars over removing and replacing existing concrete problems.  Calling Champion Coatings for concrete repair on surfaces and cracks can offset exorbitant long-term costs.  Commercial and Industrial properties have many affordable and high-end options available to them, and Champion Coatings has years of experience salvaging even the most damaged concrete, so contact us today!

In tough economic times, many property managers are faced with more and more restrictive budgets for building repair.  Oftentimes they opt to wait rather than make the investment.  This need to tighten their belt, along with their underestimation of the long-term ramifications of “inconsequential” cracks, leads to procrastination and its associated risks.

The initial crack may be small but it is really a warning sign.  When you see this happening to your structure, contact a concrete services company for a professional opinion.  The environment has a significant impact on concrete, so concrete changes over time, and unmaintained concrete is susceptible to malfunction due to those changes.  A crack may not simply be a crack. Cracks appear as a result of an issue in the surroundings of the concrete.  Well-poured concrete should not crack on its own.  The crack has appeared to tell you that there have been changes in the location that are affecting the concrete – and there could be a number of possibilities – from relocation of area water drainage, to underground root growth, or movement of land beneath the slab.

Even if the crack is small now, maintenance by an experienced concrete services company can help curb larger, costly issues that will appear later. Anyone can avoid the high costs of replacement tomorrow with the small costs of repair today!

Champion Coatings is the concrete services firm that you can call on for your needs, nationally.