Have you ever considered why the concrete in some places isn’t seamless? If you realized it was the climate, you might be interested in how that happened.
Curious to find out what can be the cause. We’ll talk about it in this blog!
Concrete is Versatile but Can Also be Volatile
Even though concrete is strong and lasts long, it can be volatile in sunny places for several reasons.
The heat that interacts with the material and the area where you install the concrete has a lot to do about.
So, knowing the factors that weaken the concrete floor material is crucial, especially if you plan to have a resurfacing project.
The Local Condition
You know summer days are hot if you live in Tampa, Florida. Cocnrete floors are common among industrial and commercial areas in this region.
The hot days would last from May to October. And UV rays tend to be at their peak during summer.
UV rays come from the sun; which has three types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. Sunlight emits these harmful rays that can cause a certain level of damage depending on which surface it hits.
UVC and most UVB rays can’t get through the stratosphere, but UVA can.
UVA is strong enough to cause discoloration and break the chemical bonds of concrete sealants.
If the sealants are broken, the concrete gets damaged. Ultraviolet rays are neither hot nor cold, but when objects absorb this energy, they tend to heat it. That means if heat dehydrates concrete, it can weaken and crack more.
Why Work with Local Contractors?
A local concrete contractor company would be more likely to have prior knowledge and an innate ability to assess what is wrong with a flooring condition.
Thus they will give you an accurate assessment and apply the correct treatment from various maintenance services such as polishing, resurfacing, overlay repair, removal, or new installation.
You can save money by working with one. When you hire concrete services in Tampa, Florida, you also have a better chance of getting a warranty for your concrete since most of them give that. They can also guide you on how to maintain your concrete best.
Can Sand Be A Base For Concrete?
Sand could be a better base. But it can cause more repairs in the long run if not applied properly.
How sand moves and cracks depends on where it is, how it was put down, and how well it was packed down, whether it’s people, furniture, or cars on a driveway or a patio.
If you use gravel, your concrete will be stronger and last longer.
Solutions
Here are the proper solutions for different problems your concrete can face.
Steps To Reduce Temperature Fluctuations Damage
Shielding and reflective coatings are ways to lessen the damage caused by changes in temperature. In these steps, you must paint your concrete with light and warm colors to keep the sun’s light and rays from breaking the concrete. Enough that the concrete will be cool.
Strategies to Mitigate the Effects of UV Rays
Sealers and stain pigments can delay the effect of UV rays on the concrete surface. The first thing to show signs of UV damage is its color, which usually indicates fadedness and yellowness. At least it didn’t just start cracking.
Tips for Keeping Concrete Dry
Even though concrete shouldn’t be too dry, too much water can be harmful. To keep dangerous water out, you need good drainage and waterproofing. Moisture can cause erosion and grow molds and bacteria.
Conclusion
Even though concrete lasts long, it must be protected and kept up. UV rays cause it to become unstable. Just like our skin needs sunscreen to protect it, concrete needs sealants to help shield it. To protect it better, you should hire people who can help you with the following:
- Planning for drainage
- Waterproofing
- Sealing or coating concrete
- Stains on concrete
You can save money and time for your project by ensuring your concrete is protected and lasts long. It can also keep you and your family safe from falling or tripping.