Concrete is a sturdy, reliable material. When you walk through many businesses in Folsom, you’re walking on concrete. It’s used as a foundation for most homes and businesses throughout California. Of course there are exceptions, like Old Town Folsom or historic sites. Otherwise, concrete serves as a foundation for most construction projects in California’s infrastructure.
Epoxy coatings in Folsom add protection and appeal for concrete floors. Concrete is made of four main components: cement, water, aggregates, and additives. Let’s go over each of these components so we understand the product that epoxy flooring is designed to work with so well.
What is Cement?
In many cases, the term concrete and cement are used interchangeably, which is incorrect. Cement is used to make concrete. It’s the binding agent that holds concrete together. Cement is usually made from limestone and clay, which are crushed and then heated in a kiln at high temperatures to form a substance called clinker. Once the clinker is ground into a fine powder, it’s called cement.
The Role of Water
Water activates chemical reactions within cement. These are hydration reactions. This process causes the cement to harden, binding the other components together. As the chemicals react, they create heat which evaporates excess water from the concrete mixture in an exothermic reaction.
Aggregates Lend Strength
The third component of concrete is aggregates, which are typically made from crushed rock, gravel, or sand. Aggregates are used to make concrete strong and durable. They also help reduce the amount of cement needed in the mix. The size and type of aggregates often depends on the specific application of the concrete.
Additives Enhance Performance
The fourth component of concrete are additives that enhance the properties of the concrete. Additives may be used to improve the workability, strength, or durability of the concrete, or to modify its color, texture, or other physical characteristics. Additives can also help the concrete set properly despite very hot or very cold temperatures.
Protecting Concrete with epoxy
While concrete is strong, it is not indestructible. It can still fall prey to gouges from falling equipment, corrosive materials, or gradual wear and tear. That’s why epoxy coatings are so important for Folsom concrete floors. Epoxy coatings protect your concrete from chipping, scrapes, liquid spills, stains, or other deterioration. Many restaurants and gyms use epoxy coatings to make cleanup easier, and some businesses add coved flooring or a no-slip finish to add safety to their Folsom floors.
How could your home or business benefit from epoxy floors? Speak with West Coast Epoxy to learn more about how epoxy coatings protect your foundation in Folsom – or other West Coast cities. Give our office a call or schedule a free onsite consultation online!