Concrete coatings can transform surfaces like garage floors and patios into durable, attractive spaces. But even one mistake – like skipping surface preparation or applying coatings at the wrong temperature – can lead to peeling, bubbling, or complete failure, costing time and money to fix.

Here are the 8 most common mistakes to avoid for a successful project:

1. Poor Surface Preparation: Skipping grinding or cleaning can weaken adhesion and lead to peeling or delamination.
2. Skipping Moisture Testing: Trapped moisture causes bubbling and weakens the coating. Test for moisture levels before starting.
3. Wrong Mixing Ratios: Incorrectly mixing components disrupts curing, causing uneven surfaces and poor durability.
4. Applying at Wrong Temperatures: Extreme heat or cold affects curing and adhesion, leading to cracks or bubbles.
5. Using Too Much or Too Little Coating: Incorrect thickness can cause sagging, cracking, or premature wear.
6. Not Using Primer: Primer enhances adhesion and prevents moisture-related issues. Skipping it weakens the coating.
7. Rushing Curing Time: Insufficient curing weakens adhesion and shortens the coating’s lifespan.
8. Ignoring Expansion Joints: Failing to account for concrete movement can cause cracks and coating failure.

Quick Tip: Proper preparation, moisture testing, and following manufacturer guidelines are critical to ensuring a durable, long-lasting coating.

Mistake	Why It Happens	Result
Poor Surface Preparation	Skipping grinding/cleaning	Peeling, weak adhesion
Skipping Moisture Testing	Assuming concrete is dry	Bubbling, delamination
Wrong Mixing Ratios	Eyeballing proportions	Uneven curing, weak coating
Wrong Temperatures	Applying in extreme heat/cold	Cracks, poor adhesion
Incorrect Thickness	Using too much or too little coating	Sagging, cracking, early wear
Skipping Primer	Not sealing or prepping surface	Peeling, moisture damage
Rushing Curing Time	Not allowing enough drying time	Weak bond, shorter lifespan
Ignoring Expansion Joints	Overlooking concrete movement	Cracks, coating failure

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1. Poor Surface Preparation

Poor surface preparation is the number one reason concrete coatings, paints, and toppings fail. When contractors cut corners on this step, they risk undermining the entire project. Even if a concrete surface looks clean, hidden contaminants or an improper surface profile can sabotage even the best coatings.

Adhesion Quality

Adhesion is the backbone of any successful coating. Concrete’s naturally smooth and dense surface can make it tough for coatings to stick. Without proper preparation, the coating won’t form the mechanical bond it needs for lasting durability. To create this bond, techniques like diamond grinding or shot blasting are essential. These methods establish a Concrete Surface Profile (CSP), which is key to ensuring the coating adheres properly.

"One of the most critical aspects of floor coating success is adhesion. Without proper surface preparation, coatings may delaminate, bubble, or peel over time." – Revival Concrete Coatings

For epoxy coatings, professionals aim for a CSP of 2-4, while more durable systems like urethane cement require a CSP of 4-6. This textured surface allows coatings to anchor securely into the concrete’s pores and irregularities. Studies back this up: properly prepared surfaces dramatically improve pull-off strength. For example, acrylic sealer primers average 321 psi, but waterborne epoxy reaches 881 psi, 100% solids epoxy hits 925 psi, and polyaspartic primers achieve 891 psi.

Beyond adhesion, removing contaminants is equally important to ensure the coating lasts.

Durability of the Coating

Skipping proper surface preparation can shorten a coating’s lifespan. Contaminants like oil and grease seep deep into concrete pores, interfering with adhesion unless thoroughly removed. Industrial degreasers and mechanical methods are crucial for cleaning these substances.

The concrete itself also needs to meet strength standards. A minimum compressive strength of 3,626 psi and pull-off strength of 218 psi is required. If the concrete is too weak, it will fail before the coating does, leaving chunks of concrete stuck to the delaminated coating.

Another critical factor for durability is managing moisture levels.

Moisture Resistance

Moisture trapped in the concrete slab is one of the biggest threats to coating performance. When moisture builds up inside the slab, it creates hydrostatic pressure that pushes against the coating from below. This pressure can cause blistering, bubbling, and eventually, delamination as the bond between the coating and the surface breaks down.

To prevent this, professionals use calcium chloride or relative humidity tests to measure moisture levels in the slab. If the readings are too high, contractors must apply moisture mitigation products before moving forward with the coating.

"The key to a long-lasting concrete coating lies in its adhesion to the surface. Without adequate surface preparation, the coating may fail to bond properly with the concrete." – Concrete Coatings of Kansas

Another often-overlooked issue is laitance, a weak, powdery film that forms on concrete during curing. Laitance significantly reduces adhesion and must be removed mechanically – typically through grinding or shot blasting. Cracks, holes, and spalled areas also need to be filled with appropriate patching materials to create a smooth, uniform surface for the coating application.

2. Skipping Moisture Testing

Moisture testing is a step that many contractors tend to overlook, but it plays a critical role in ensuring a successful coating application. It’s easy to assume that if concrete looks dry on the surface, it’s ready for coating. Unfortunately, this assumption can lead to preventable issues. Regular moisture testing is essential for achieving strong adhesion and ensuring the coating’s durability over time.

Adhesion Quality

Excess moisture can wreak havoc on coating adhesion. When moisture is present in concrete, it disrupts the bonding process between the coating and the surface. Since most coatings are non-breathable, they trap moisture, which only compounds the problem.

To achieve reliable adhesion, the moisture levels in the concrete must meet specific standards. According to ASTM F2170, concrete should have a relative humidity (RH) of 75% or lower before applying the coating.

Durability of the Coating

Skipping moisture testing doesn’t just affect adhesion – it also compromises the long-term durability of the coating. High moisture levels weaken the bond between the concrete and the coating, causing issues like peeling, blistering, and even complete delamination over time. Additionally, excessive moisture can lead to the degradation or rotting of organic flooring materials. It also creates ideal conditions for mold and mildew, which can damage both the structural integrity and the aesthetic of the surface.

"Moisture acts as a hidden adversary, capable of causing paint failure, blistering, peeling, and an overall compromised finish." – Mi Painting & Maintenance

To avoid these problems, professional standards recommend that moisture content be ≤75% RH, 3 lbs/1,000 sq. ft./24 hours MVER (Moisture Vapor Emission Rate), or ≤5% Moisture Content (MC) before applying any coating.

Proper Curing and Application Conditions

Timing is everything when it comes to moisture testing. Testing should be conducted under conditions that closely match those during and after the coating application. For accurate results, the building’s HVAC system should run for at least 48 hours before testing. Temperature control is equally critical – the concrete slab’s surface temperature needs to be at least 10°F (5°C) above the dew point to prevent condensation during application. If moisture levels are too high, the project should be paused to implement solutions like vapor barriers or dehumidifiers.

Test Method	Standard	Description	Acceptable Limits
Internal Humidity	ASTM F2170	Measures humidity inside a drilled hole	Maximum 75–80% internal RH
Calcium Chloride	ASTM F1869	Measures moisture vapor emission over 24 hrs	Maximum 5 lbs/1,000 ft²/24 hrs

Moisture Resistance

Different testing methods can provide unique insights into the moisture levels of concrete. Relative humidity (RH) testing is widely regarded as the most accurate because it measures moisture deep within the slab. The calcium chloride test, while simpler and more affordable, focuses on surface moisture. Moisture meters, on the other hand, are quick and convenient but may not always deliver the same level of accuracy . For critical projects, professionals often combine multiple testing methods to get a comprehensive understanding of moisture conditions.

"Skipping this step would be like building a house without a proper foundation – it just won’t last." – Cross Creek Concrete Coatings

For most standard primers, moisture vapor transmission rates should not exceed 3 lbs/1,000 ft²/24 hrs or 75–80% RH. However, specialized primers and floor toppings are available for higher moisture levels, capable of handling up to 20 lbs/1,000 ft²/24 hrs and up to 99% RH. Incorporating thorough moisture testing into the project plan can prevent many coating failures down the line.

3. Wrong Mixing Ratios

Getting the mixing ratios wrong can spell disaster for a concrete coating project. When the proportions are off, the chemical reaction needed for proper curing gets disrupted, compromising the entire process from the outset.

Adhesion Quality

The right mixing ratios are crucial for the chemical reactions that allow the coating to cure properly. If the mix is off, the coating struggles to bond with the concrete surface. This imbalance results in poor adhesion, leading to uneven curing, a sticky or patchy surface, and a coating that fails to deliver its protective benefits.

Durability of the Coating

Incorrect ratios don’t just affect adhesion – they shorten the lifespan of the coating. Improperly mixed coatings may partially evaporate, becoming thinner and less resistant to wear. If the mix doesn’t cure fully, it leaves behind a weak, gummy surface. This is especially problematic for high-performance coatings like polyurea and polyaspartic systems, which are engineered to cure completely within about 24 hours under normal conditions.

Proper Curing and Application Conditions

Getting the mix right is essential for the coating to achieve its intended properties, such as durability, abrasion resistance, and chemical resistance. When mixed correctly, polyurea or polyaspartic coatings typically allow foot traffic within six hours and can handle heavy loads, like parked cars, after 24 hours. On the other hand, an improper mix can lead to cracking, reduced performance, or even complete failure. External factors like temperature, humidity, or airflow cannot compensate for a bad mix. A quick thumb test can help determine if curing is on track: if the surface feels gummy or shifts under pressure, it hasn’t cured as it should.

To prevent these issues, it’s vital to provide your crews with proper training, dedicate enough time for accurate batch preparation, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter. Precision in mixing ratios is non-negotiable. Next, we’ll explore how temperature can influence your coating application.

4. Applying Coatings at Wrong Temperatures

Just like surface preparation and moisture testing, getting the temperature wrong can seriously hurt the performance of your coating. Even if you’ve mixed everything perfectly, temperature mismanagement can lead to coating failures. Here’s how temperature directly affects adhesion, curing, and durability.

Adhesion Quality

Temperature plays a big role in how well a coating sticks to a concrete surface. The ideal temperature range for applying sealers is between 50°F and 90°F. When temperatures soar, solvents in epoxy coatings evaporate too quickly, causing premature curing, shrinkage, and pinholes. This also impacts the viscosity of the epoxy, making it harder to apply evenly. On the flip side, low temperatures can prevent proper adhesion, with bond strength dropping by as much as 65% when temperatures rise from 41°F to 131°F. High humidity can make matters worse by causing moisture condensation, which further weakens adhesion.

"Coatings today generally offer enough flexibility to accommodate some degree of thermal movement once they’ve cured, but it’s the application phase of the coating life that is more critical." – Sean Meracle, Architectural Account Executive, Sherwin-Williams Concrete Products group

Proper Curing and Application Conditions

Every coating material has a specific temperature range where it cures best. For example:

• Epoxy: Works best above 50°F.
• Polyurethane: Can handle a wider range, from 20°F to 110°F.
• Polyurea: Offers the most flexibility, functioning in temperatures as low as -30°F and as high as 140°F.

For traditional garage floor coatings, aim for a temperature range of 55°F to 90°F.

Temperature doesn’t just affect how you apply a coating – it also impacts curing time. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Temperature Range	Curing Time
90°F+	3 days
75-90°F	5 days
60-75°F	7 days
45-60°F	14 days
Under 45°F	28+ days

Applying coatings outside the recommended temperature range not only complicates curing but also weakens the finished product.

Durability of the Coating

Mistakes with temperature during application can lead to long-term durability problems. If it’s too hot, coatings dry too fast, causing adhesion failures, bubbles, and cracks. High temperatures also shorten the working time for polyaspartic and epoxy coatings. In colder conditions, coatings take longer to cure, increasing the risk of weak bonding – or failing to cure at all if temperatures are too low.

Temperature swings can also cause the coating to expand and contract, leading to cracks and structural issues. Applying coatings in direct sunlight or extreme heat can result in overly fast drying, poor bonding, and an uneven finish.

To prevent temperature-related issues, keep an eye on the weather and plan your work accordingly. In hot climates, apply coatings during cooler morning hours, and in colder areas, aim for mid-day when temperatures are higher. Use an infrared laser temperature gun to check the surface temperature before starting, and store epoxy materials in a climate-controlled space until you’re ready to use them.

5. Using Too Much or Too Little Coating

Just like surface preparation and moisture testing, getting the coating thickness right is crucial for long-lasting performance. Striking the right balance ensures the coating adheres properly and stands up to wear and tear.

Adhesion Quality

Applying too much coating can trap solvents, leading to bubbling and cracks. On the flip side, using too little coating in high-traffic areas speeds up wear and tear. Both scenarios can weaken adhesion. To avoid these issues, stick to the manufacturer’s recommended coverage rates. In areas prone to heavy use, applying a thicker coat or multiple layers can provide extra durability. Thickness directly influences how well the coating adheres and holds up over time.

Durability of the Coating

The durability of your concrete surface depends heavily on the coating’s thickness. Deviating from the recommended range can lead to problems like corrosion, sagging, cracking, or extended drying times. For instance, if a coating designed for 1.0 to 1.5 mils is applied at just 0.5 mils, its protective film could be reduced by 32% to 50%. Similarly, a polyurethane lining meant to be 30 mils thick may turn brittle if applied at only 5 to 8 mils. These examples highlight how critical it is to stay within the specified thickness range.

Proper Curing and Application Conditions

The right thickness doesn’t just impact durability – it also plays a key role in curing and moisture resistance. Too little coating leaves the substrate exposed, leading to rust and cracking, while too much coating can sag and delay drying.

"Curing refers to the process of allowing the coating to dry and harden properly, bringing out the product’s complete set of mechanical properties. A good cure ensures maximum durability and abrasion resistance in your project as well as achieving the desired level of chemical resistance." – Coatings Hub NorCal

Environmental factors like temperature and humidity make proper thickness even more important. Trapped moisture can lead to peeling or bubbling, a phenomenon known as efflorescence. To ensure uniform curing, tools like a wet film thickness gauge or a Tooke Gage can be invaluable. Always check the manufacturer’s Product Data Sheet for guidance.

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6. Not Using Primer

Skipping primer in concrete coating projects is a mistake that can lead to costly consequences. Primer serves as the backbone of the coating system, creating a strong bond with the concrete and helping to prevent premature failure.

Adhesion Quality

Primer acts as the essential link between the concrete surface and the coating system. It ensures that the topcoat stays firmly in place, reducing the risk of peeling, chipping, or delamination over time.

"When it comes to painting, primer is a crucial step that should never be skipped." – Paint Place

Concrete surfaces are naturally porous and often contain residual contaminants. A primer penetrates deeply into these pores, forming a strong bond that enhances adhesion. This not only prevents peeling but also strengthens the overall durability of the coating while managing moisture effectively.

Durability of the Coating

Using a primer significantly boosts the lifespan of your concrete coating. Acting as a protective barrier, it helps the topcoat endure heavy foot traffic, exposure to chemicals, and other environmental challenges. Without primer, the coating is far more prone to early wear and damage.

"A concrete block primer plays a vital role in improving paint adhesion and protecting masonry surfaces."

Primers also create a smooth, uniform base, ensuring consistent color and finish across the surface. Beyond improving adhesion and durability, primers play a critical role in sealing the substrate, which helps block moisture from causing damage.

Moisture Resistance

One of the primer’s most important jobs is controlling moisture. Concrete naturally contains moisture that can rise to the surface and react with the coating, leading to blistering or delamination. A primer seals the surface, preventing this upward moisture movement and protecting the epoxy coating from bubbling or peeling.

Primers also act as a shield against water infiltration, a crucial feature in environments where moisture and salts pose a threat. By blocking these elements, primers ensure that the coating performs its best over time.

7. Not Allowing Proper Curing Time

Rushing the curing process can seriously impact the durability of concrete coatings – yet many underestimate just how crucial this step is.

Proper Curing and Application Conditions

Curing times can vary greatly depending on the type of coating and environmental conditions. For instance, epoxy coatings usually require about 72 hours to fully cure, while acrylic coatings typically take 48 to 72 hours. Polyurethane coatings often need a longer period, ranging from 5 to 7 days.

Factors like temperature, humidity, and wind play a major role in curing. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to the letter. These environmental conditions directly affect the bond strength and long-term performance of the coating, making adherence to curing recommendations non-negotiable.

Adhesion Quality

Curing is the backbone of proper adhesion. Concrete must reach its optimal strength before coatings are applied. Skipping this step or applying coatings too soon can weaken the bond significantly. In fact, fully cured concrete is up to 50% stronger, which ensures a more secure attachment for the coating.

When moisture remains trapped in uncured concrete, it tries to escape, pushing against the coating and creating weak spots. This often leads to premature coating failure. To avoid this, always test the moisture levels in the concrete before beginning the application process.

Durability of the Coating

Skipping or rushing curing can drastically shorten the lifespan of your coating. Issues like scaling, flaking, and cracking are common results, which not only compromise the coating’s appearance but also its structural integrity.

"Curing is a crucial step in any concrete project, yet it’s often overlooked or rushed." – Allsource Supply Inc.

When concrete is properly cured, it forms a solid foundation that can handle heavy foot traffic, chemical exposure, and environmental challenges. This extra strength makes it more resistant to abrasion, weathering, and chemical damage.

Moisture Resistance

Proper curing also enhances moisture resistance, which ties into earlier points about surface preparation and moisture testing. Applying coatings too early can trap moisture, increasing permeability and leading to potential corrosion. On the other hand, well-cured concrete becomes denser, offering better protection against moisture.

"Proper curing is an investment in the longevity and performance of your concrete projects." – Allsource Supply Inc.

8. Ignoring Expansion Joints

Overlooking expansion joints can seriously impact the performance of your coating system. These gaps, intentionally designed into concrete, are often underestimated by both homeowners and contractors.

Expansion joints, also known as control joints, are essential for managing the natural movement of concrete caused by temperature changes. As W. R. Meadows puts it:

"Concrete expansion joints exist so that concrete has a buffer for temperature changes, earth movements, and vibrations… Concrete expansion joints help concrete expand and contract".

Concrete expands and contracts at a rate of about 0.0000066 inches per inch for every degree Fahrenheit. Without proper joints to accommodate this movement, coatings can crack, buckle, or even fail entirely.

Durability of the Coating

Ignoring expansion joints can compromise the lifespan of your coating. Without these joints, the natural shifts in concrete due to temperature and moisture create internal stresses that can lead to cracks, surface spalling, potholes, and early coating failure. Expansion joints act as shock absorbers, preserving the structure of large concrete surfaces and preventing the development of significant structural damage.

Proper Curing and Application Conditions

For coatings to perform as intended, expansion joints must be placed and maintained correctly. Joints should be cut within 12 hours of pouring the concrete and spaced approximately 30 times the slab’s thickness apart. Each cut should be at least one-quarter of the slab’s thickness. Before applying coatings, ensure the joints are thoroughly cleaned to remove any debris. Avoid using rigid fillers like wood, grout, or mortar, as these can compromise the joint’s function. Instead, opt for materials like polyurea or 100% solid epoxy fillers, which offer excellent elongation properties. Self-leveling polyurethane fillers are another strong choice, as they resist shrinkage over time and provide long-lasting performance. Proper joint preparation also helps protect against moisture-related problems.

Moisture Resistance

Well-maintained expansion joints are key to managing moisture, which directly influences the durability of coatings. Improperly sealed joints can allow water to seep in, leading to freeze-thaw damage and coating delamination. Using flexible, non-sag, or self-leveling caulk prevents water penetration beneath the coating. A backer rod can also help minimize sealant sag. Regular inspections and cleaning, ideally twice a year, can prevent moisture damage and ensure proper drainage, reducing the risk of water intrusion and freeze-thaw issues. Additionally, applying a high-quality concrete sealer periodically can further protect the joints and coating from water exposure.

Comparison Table

Understanding the difference between best practices and common mistakes is crucial for avoiding expensive errors in coating applications.

Here’s a detailed comparison of proper and improper approaches for key coating application factors:

Factor	Correct Practice	Common Mistakes	Consequences of Mistakes
Moisture Testing	Perform both ASTM F1869 (calcium chloride) and ASTM F2170 (RH probe at 40% depth) tests.	Skipping tests or relying only on surface moisture meters.	Adhesive failure, bubbling, warping, and costly callbacks.
Acceptable RH Levels	Keep relative humidity (RH) below 75–80% for standard epoxy, with ambient humidity between 40–60%.	Operating above 85% RH or neglecting humidity conditions.	Chemical breakdown and poor adhesion.
Temperature Range	Ensure the concrete surface temperature is between 50°F and 90°F; measure the slab, not just the air.	Applying coatings outside the recommended range or relying on air temperature.	Improper curing, blistering, and adhesion failure.
Application Thickness	Follow manufacturer guidelines – 20 mil minimum, or 60 mil for heavily pitted floors.	Applying too thick (causing sagging) or too thin (offering poor protection).	Cracking, delamination, rapid wear, and visible substrate.
Surface Preparation	Use mechanical abrasion and thorough cleaning to achieve the correct profile before coating.	Light cleaning or skipping preparation.	Poor adhesion and early coating failure.
Mixing Ratios	Mix components precisely as per manufacturer instructions using proper tools.	Eyeballing or estimating mixing ratios.	Incomplete curing, soft spots, and chemical imbalance.

This table highlights the critical elements of preparation, testing, and application essential for a successful coating project. For example, temperature requirements differ depending on the material: epoxy works best around 50°F, polyurea can be applied in freezing conditions, water-based coatings at 35°F, and solvent-based coatings at 20°F. Accurate moisture testing also plays a key role, with tools like the Wagner Meters C555 delivering high precision.

"Coatings today generally offer enough flexibility to accommodate some degree of thermal movement once they’ve cured, but it’s the application phase of the coating life that is more critical."

• Sean Meracle, Architectural Account Executive, Sherwin-Williams Concrete Products group

Always refer to your product’s specific data sheet, as tolerances can vary across manufacturers and coating formulations. By following these precise practices, you can build on earlier preparation steps and significantly reduce the risk of costly mistakes, ensuring a long-lasting and professional finish.

Conclusion

Steering clear of these eight common concrete coating mistakes is crucial to ensuring strong adhesion, boosting durability, and avoiding expensive repairs or frustrating project delays. These errors can weaken the bond, reduce longevity, and waste your investment. By addressing these challenges upfront, you can prevent premature failures and protect your long-term investment.

The cost of cutting corners can be steep. For instance, an automotive workshop experienced solvent bubbles due to improper application, a sports facility dealt with peeling caused by untested moisture, and a residential garage in a cold climate faced tacky epoxy because of low temperatures during installation.

To avoid these pitfalls, professional installation is often the best route. Companies like Croc Coatings, a Penntek™ Certified Installer, bring the expertise needed for proper surface preparation, thorough moisture testing, and precise application techniques. Their one-day installation process adheres to manufacturer guidelines, controls environmental factors, and uses materials that are four times stronger than traditional epoxy.

"VERY happy with our experience working with Croc Coatings. Glad we found them online! Scheduled our install in advance. Paid the deposit for materials. They were great with communication and professional in their approach and detailed explanations." – Munro Murdock

Following proper procedures and relying on experienced professionals can dramatically improve the durability, corrosion resistance, and water damage protection of your coating. While the upfront cost of quality installation may seem high, the long-term benefits – decades of reliable performance, enhanced safety, and significant cost savings – far outweigh the initial expense.

From meticulous surface preparation to careful curing, precision is the key to unlocking the full potential of your concrete coating. By recognizing these common mistakes and their consequences, you’ll be better prepared to make informed decisions – whether you’re taking on the project yourself or trusting skilled professionals to deliver outstanding results.

FAQs

What are the key steps to properly prepare a concrete surface before applying a coating?

Proper surface preparation is key to achieving a durable and professional-looking concrete coating. Begin by inspecting the surface for issues like cracks, moisture, or contaminants such as oil and grease. This step helps pinpoint areas that may need cleaning or repair. Once assessed, clean the surface meticulously to eliminate dust, dirt, and debris. Techniques like pressure washing or using a degreaser can be especially effective here. After cleaning, address any flaws – repair cracks or holes as needed. If the surface requires it, etch or grind it to create a texture that allows the coating to adhere securely.

By following these steps, you set the foundation for a strong bond and a finish that stands the test of time.

How can I check for moisture in concrete to avoid coating problems?

Before applying a concrete coating, checking the moisture levels is a must. Skipping this step can lead to peeling, bubbling, or other coating failures down the line. Here are three effective methods to test for moisture:

• Plastic Sheet Test: Secure an 18" x 18" plastic sheet to the concrete surface with tape and leave it undisturbed for 24 hours. If condensation forms on the underside or the concrete darkens, it’s a sign of moisture.
• Calcium Chloride Test: Place a calcium chloride dish on the concrete, seal it with a cover, and let it sit for 60–72 hours. Afterward, weigh the dish to determine the moisture vapor emission rate. If the results exceed 3 pounds per 1,000 square feet over 24 hours, the moisture level is too high.
• In-Situ Relative Humidity Test: Drill small holes into the concrete and insert probes to measure humidity at various depths. This method provides a more detailed picture of the moisture condition within the slab.

Taking the time to test for moisture ensures that your coating will adhere properly and last for years to come. For tough and stylish concrete coatings that can handle even the most demanding environments, Croc Coatings offers expert solutions featuring their Penntek Evolution system.

What happens if concrete coatings are applied at the wrong temperature, and how can you prevent it?

Applying concrete coatings at the wrong temperature can lead to significant problems. When it’s too hot, the coating may dry too fast, causing uneven application and a brittle finish. If it’s too cold, curing slows down, which can weaken adhesion and compromise the surface’s strength.

To avoid these issues, apply coatings when temperatures are between 55°F and 90°F. Keep an eye on factors like humidity and surface temperature throughout the process. Stick to the manufacturer’s instructions and choose coatings suited for the temperature conditions to achieve a durable, professional result.

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