Many business owners and homeowners know that heavy rains and flooding can cause problems inside. One of the biggest fears must deal with water damage. Water affects so many materials, causing them to soften or decay, and they need to be thrown out. But what you may not know is that concrete can also suffer water damage.
Concrete water damage differs from when water ruins wood panels or furniture. Sometimes you cannot tell right away that a concrete floor has been through some bad water damage, and sometimes you can see the damage done but may not know that water was responsible. In either scenario, if you know what might cause water damage to your concrete, you can take the proper measures to prevent it from happening.
Flooding can happen in nearly any season. Heavy rains or natural disasters provide a near-constant stream of water, which looks to find the lowest levels possible. Even melting snow can cause water damage if your building or home is not protected enough. Water doesn’t always come from the outside, as broken pipes or other plumbing problems can lead water into unwanted areas.
One telltale sign that your concrete has faced water damage is if you spot cracking. Cracking does not always mean water damage, but cracks open up your concrete to the possibility of more water damage. Liquid can spill easily into those cracks, and the more fractures that are present, the more water that will seep down.
Coatings on concrete can also help show when the concrete has been damaged. As the coatings are working hard to keep the moisture out, there is still a chance that some moisture will get in. When the coatings show bubbling or discoloration, there’s a chance the moisture has intruded beneath the coating.
Other concrete floors have a layer of paint on them. When that paint peels from the surface, that means the paint has lost its adhesion. You will not only notice peeling, but chips or flakes might pull away.
The worst-case scenario for water damage is mold. Mold thrives in damp environments, and if you spot signs of mold, then you know that water has made its way into your concrete. You will probably see mold around edges of floors, and if it is left alone, then it can cause serious health problems.
There are many steps you can take to protect your concrete from water damage, and D.C. Byers Company/Grand Rapids can help prevent that damage through any means necessary. Both commercial and residential buildings need to be safe for those inside.
To get a quote on your concrete restoration needs, call DC Byers Company/Grand Rapids today at (616) 538-7300. Our experience and expertise allow us to assess the damage correctly and plan how to perform the repairs to allow you to use your space properly.
For concrete restoration and repair, DC Byers Company/Grand Rapids looks at all the factors contributing to the deterioration of the concrete. By understanding the underlying problems, we can start working on the most satisfying and cost-effective solutions.