When evaluating industrial floors, all options that are suitable for the needs of each project should be considered, obviously taking into account economic and durable options.
When a company starts to grow, it needs solutions that are as cost-effective as possible in order to produce profits in the short term. Compacted concrete meets those needs together that a company is looking for.
What is compacted concrete?
Compacted concrete is mainly characterized for having a much higher density than conventional concrete.
This is because it has a lower water-cement proportion, which makes the application of road rollers and other compacting systems necessary, to achieve the optimum density of the pavement.
This type of slabs are much more durable and resistant than traditional concrete slabs, although their greater rigidity also makes them less flexible, so this is a factor to be taken into account.
Especially when you want to install this kind of flooring in an industrial building with significant temperature changes or on unstable and irregular substrates.
How to install compacted concrete
The key to achieve an ideal compacted concrete is the proper preparation of the substrate below. The slab will be as uniform and strong as its supporting layer allows.
The steps to follow are essentially similar to an ordinary floor.
- Preparation of the concrete mixture (depending on the case, some additive can be added to delay its curing)
- Transport and application on the site of use.
- Pouring and compacting, both with vibrating rollers and static rollers for a better finish.
- Having a lower water content, it should be wetted from time to time as a slight variation in moisture content can be detrimental to the quality of the pavement.
On occasions, vehicle or machinery traffic must be quickly restored. In such cases, determine the need to apply substances such as asphalt emulsion or materials that protect the concrete and ensure the curing process.
Where is compacted concrete used?
One of the main uses of compacted concrete is in parking lots, areas with a significant flow of vehicles and people, areas with heavy machinery, etc.
Compacted concrete is a good option for large surfaces or when project time is short. The pavement can be used soon after compacting and curing.
In warehouses and industrial buildings it is common to find compacted concrete floors, since the use of asphalt is not always a feasible option.
Why use compacted concrete?
It is becoming increasingly important to save resources and to manage time, which is easily achieved when building floors with compacted concrete.
These construction processes are generally slow and often paralyze other activities. However, compacted concrete floors can be used in a matter of hours.
This kind of flooring is very practical when a fast execution with reliable results is required.
However, for industrial buildings we recommend applying the BECOSAN® industrial floor treatment to improve the appearance and properties of the floor. With BECOSAN® concrete hardener and concrete sealer, you get a very strong concrete of higher quality than just using compacted concrete.
