Concrete coatings have provided superior protection for concrete surfaces for many years. Epoxies, once used for binding dental fixtures, now help home and business owners keep their floors safe from corrosion, moisture damage, mold, mildew growth, UV rays, and much more. Current trends illustrate significant growth in the sustainable commercial coatings industry.
Despite the widespread popularity of polyaspartic and epoxy concrete coatings, concrete coating professionals must continually seek ways to improve. One of the most exciting developments in commercial coatings involves sustainability. Sustainable practices among concrete coating professionals, manufacturers, and installers help reduce carbon footprints and curb the effects of global warming.
Since the invention of epoxy in the 1930s, commercial coatings have made great strides in sustainability. No longer do home and business owners have to worry about dangerous levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) reducing the indoor air quality of properties. Moving forward, every concrete coating provider has the responsibility to build upon the growth toward a more environmentally-friendly commercial coating industry.
Please continue reading to learn more about the role of commercial coatings in sustainability. Together, we can create effective solutions for eliminating waste, reducing carbon emissions, and modernizing coating systems.
Importance of Sustainable Coating Solutions
Commercial businesses and industrial facilities use cost-effective concrete coatings to enhance the durability of concrete surfaces. Many construction companies use epoxy coatings to protect heavy machinery from abrasions and moisture damage. Hotels, airports, schools, hospitals, and restaurants have realized the benefits of commercial concrete coatings.
Thanks to improved application methods and technological advancements, homeowners now have access to the same concrete coatings illuminating car showrooms, welcoming guests into hotel lobbies, and inspiring awe in museums. The many benefits of commercial coatings include the following:
- Improved curb appeal
- Deters mold growth
- Many style options
- Extends the lifespan of concrete floors
- Fire resistance
- Slip resistance
- Shock resistance
- Chemical resistance
Many innovative polyaspartic coatings provide excellent UV protection, preventing the discoloration and yellowing of concrete surfaces due to sun exposure. To keep the concrete coating industry thriving, advancements in the manufacturing and installation of coatings prove essential. Now more than ever, customers seek sustainable concrete coatings that emit negligible VOCs and last for many years.
Concrete Coating Sustainability
Epoxies used in the middle of the 20th century contained harmful VOC levels. Ethylene glycol, toluene, methylene chloride, and benzene have been found to decrease indoor air quality significantly and pose a severe safety concern. Prolonged exposure to harmful VOCs may lead to dizziness, trouble breathing, headaches, and difficulty sleeping.
Thankfully, the commercial coatings industry has made great strides in eliminating VOCs from coating formulations and improving epoxy, polyaspartic, and polyurea manufacturing processes. OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, states rigid guidelines for achieving healthy indoor air quality for commercial and industrial properties. Other factors to consider when thinking about sustainability in the commercial coatings business include the following:
Mixing Concrete Coatings
Epoxy and polyaspartic coatings require precise mixing of various polymers, hardeners, and resins. Improper polymerization of concrete coatings can release harmful chemicals into the atmosphere and reduce the bonding strength of coatings. Proper training and experience ensure concrete coating professionals mix coating formulations safely and correctly.
Production of Commercial Coatings in Greeley, CO
The materials used to create epoxy resins and polymer hardeners include petroleum, polycarboxylic anhydride, renewable resources, and bisphenol A diglycidyl ether. Manufacturers combine ECH, epichlorohydrin with bisphenol A to create a durable, plastic-like epoxy film. Advancements in epoxy production include creating hybrid-epoxy formulations, utilizing liquid crystalline compounds, and reducing waste during epoxy production.
Landfill Waste of Polymers and Resins
Plastic bags remain the most common polymer found in landfills. On average, Americans use and discard over 100 billion plastic bags annually. The polymers in plastic bags and epoxy do not biodegrade and pose a pressing safety concern for soil and plant health.
Similarly, the polymers found in discarded, unused, or outdated epoxies fill landfills and remain there for thousands of years. Commercial coatings have a long way to go to protect the planet from further harm. Improved epoxy formulations, less reliance on petroleum-based products, and enhanced manufacturing techniques can drastically reduce the carbon footprint of the commercial coatings industry.
Creating a Sustainable Concrete Coating Industry
Sustainability remains one of the most important factors for home and business owners. Sustainable solar panels, efficient HVAC systems, and increased use of recyclable products underscore the importance of sustainability in 2023. The concrete coating industry must adapt to shifting sustainability trends to meet customers’ needs.
Along with advertising the long-lasting results of polyaspartic coatings, concrete coating experts should educate home and business owners about the exciting, environmentally-friendly developments in the industry. Speaking with customers about the dangers of VOCs and the safety of epoxy coatings can help dissolve the stigma of harmful concrete coatings.
The concrete coating industry continues to gain popularity throughout the United States. Concrete coating professionals can expect to impress customers for many years with a proper focus on environmental protection, improved production methods, and professional mixing of polymers. No industry succeeds without a primary concern for the well-being of the planet.
Trust Con-tek Floors for All Your Commercial Coatings in New Jersey
Con-tek Floors has proudly served the Weld County community since 2010. Our expert team undergoes extensive training and stays current with industry trends to provide superior concrete coating services. Call Con-tek Floors at (970) 632-0648 to speak with our knowledgeable staff and receive your free quote!