New concrete floor, what coating should I use?

[383 240z]

I'm working towards the new floor in my machine area, it will measure 32'x12'. I told the contractor that I do not need a glass smooth finish, just smooth enough to be swept clean, so not a broom finish.

Since I've been dumping so much cash on this job, I'm thinking why not coat it and make it look real nice and professional??? I've always loved the look of the light grey shop floors in all the high end custom shops I've been in and that have been posted here.

Since this is a machine shop area, Oil proof is HIGH on the list of needs. Durable is the second, I would not want to be shutting down and painting every year or so. The floor should not see any torch dross, as I have a separate cutting area. Some grinder sparks would be the worst. No floor jacks, no welding. Ok guys, even those who sell the products, I'm putting this choice in your hands, what I know about floor coating couldn't fill a thimble. Keith

 

[NitroShark]

Do this:

1 Grind floor
2 Use Primer (prevent crater holes during later applications)
3 Color coat
4 Clear Coat (adds nice gloss)
5 Polyurethane (Chemical resistance + )

24 hr Max -between coats...

Mine has "chips" added but you get the idea.

Done

Shawn

 

[383 240z]

I need to grind brand new concrete? Was hoping to avoid that. Oh well. More work I guess. Keith

 

[LegacyIndustrial]

Here is a good read:

http://garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=228884&highlight=legacy+industrial

 

[Sureshot]

My floor had a hardener added that made it a light grey color and has proven extremely durable. I believe it is a metal "sliver" type additive as it doesn't like torch droppings but welding seems to be no problem. It also sweeps up much better than untreated concrete and not all the dust. I could find out what it is if you would like. PM me incase I don't get back to this thread. I plan to run it in my new building at the new place so I likely should find out what it is and see if the locals are familiar.

 

[NitroShark]

I need to grind brand new concrete?

Yes, you still need to have the proper profile- even a new pour.


Shawn

 

[383 240z]

I read most of the thread the Legacy posted. Haven't got to the part with the how-to on the floor coating. I did see the cool shirt he sent.

I understand the floor grinding more now. Before I was under the impression that the grinding was to get down to clean concrete, past the oil stains and old paint and such. I was unaware that it was so the floor had the right "tooth" for the coating. Doesn't seem to be that big of a deal to get it done. Looks like one complete Saturday and I'll be good.

Nitro, thats the look I'm shooting for. How hard is it to maintain? Has it dulled much with time?

Sureshot I would love to know what was added to your mix. Any photos of the finished project? Keith

 

[NitroShark]

Nitro, thats the look I'm shooting for. How hard is it to maintain? Has it dulled much with time?

Simple as a broom- rag or use a push broom with a towel wrapped around it sprayed with an ammonia solution.

......as a note, I used heavy chips to keep the floor smooth/shinny and not slippery when wet. The tooth in the floor only comes from the chips sticking out from the surface but does a nice compromise from show shine and not slippery when wet. Hides flaws a lot.

Hope that helps you

Shawn

 

[LegacyIndustrial]

Here are the pics from that build:

http://legacyindustrial.blogspot.com/2014/03/barn-build-using-legacy-industrial.html