Self-cleaning paints may sound a bit too futuristic, but groundbreaking research work is actually being conducted in UK's Defence Science Technology Laboratory (DSTL) research labs, and the results may hit the shelves much sooner than expected, to benefit industrial coatings contractors with an eye for innovative formulations.
Researchers are currently at work on new types of paints that can self-decontaminate and repel any form of chemical attacks. Still experimental in nature, industrial coatings contractors are waiting in anticipation for these sci-fi paints to hit the commercial market. Currently, the paints are applied in strips to target surfaces, and when they are properly applied they have the ability to soak up any dangerous or toxic chemicals in the surrounding air. When these chemicals are absorbed by the paint, the air is cleared and breathable once again.
In the future, additional enhancements will include built-in catalytic enzymes to process the absorbed chemicals, thus giving it the ability to decontaminate itself.
The ultimate goal of this technology is stuff for science fiction fans. The coatings will be engineered to change color when contaminated, release the catalysts enzymes to decontaminate itself, and return to its original color to indicate that it is clean. Industrial coatings contractors will also find it useful that, like ordinary paint, the new paints are easy to apply or remove using standard rollers or sprays.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
The Three-Wet Paint Technology
The process of paint application, as industrial coatings contractors know, is a tedious procedure involving the application of primers, laying out the base paint, and topping it with enamels. These three processes can be quite time-consuming, because industrial coatings contractors apply the paint layers manually, and because of the waiting time involved as each layer of paint need to be reasonably dry before putting on the next layer. The use of bulky equipments can also be a problem during the painting process, as well as the energy consumption required in each stage of the paint application.
The solution to these problems during paint application is the 3-wet paint technology, which is so-called because the paints can be applied on top of each other even when wet. Industrial coatings contractors recognize the obvious benefits of the technology, which saves time and money during painting applications.
Recently, Ford announced its global implementation of the 3-wet paint technology for its painted vehicles, where the painting application is automated and requires the use of a painting booth, eliminating the use of costly equipments and gaining Ford as much as 20% time savings.
The technology is based in high-solids and solvent-borne paint formulation, producing fewer toxic emissions than regular paints, and successfully meeting all industry standards in chip/scratch/etch resistance, durability, and performance, which industrial coatings contractors and facility managers approve.
The solution to these problems during paint application is the 3-wet paint technology, which is so-called because the paints can be applied on top of each other even when wet. Industrial coatings contractors recognize the obvious benefits of the technology, which saves time and money during painting applications.
Recently, Ford announced its global implementation of the 3-wet paint technology for its painted vehicles, where the painting application is automated and requires the use of a painting booth, eliminating the use of costly equipments and gaining Ford as much as 20% time savings.
The technology is based in high-solids and solvent-borne paint formulation, producing fewer toxic emissions than regular paints, and successfully meeting all industry standards in chip/scratch/etch resistance, durability, and performance, which industrial coatings contractors and facility managers approve.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Cool Roofing Techonology
Industrial coating contractors find it easy to justify the cost of cool roofs to facility managers, knowing that whatever installation costs they will incur can be recovered through the numerous benefits derived from applying these innovative roofing products.
Cool roofs are so-called because they are applied with energy-efficient roof coatings. Most cool roof coatings nowadays are even formulated to be environment-friendly, with zero-VOC. Industrial coatings contractors recognize the inherent benefits of cool roofs that have high solar-reflective index or SRI. Solar reflectivity is an important metrics for roof coatings, because this measures the coatings’ capability to deflect sunlight away from the roof, thereby maintaining a cool environment within the facility.
Industrial coatings contractors know that the minimum SRI for a roof coating product to qualify as a cool roof is 78, anything above this is even better. The higher the SRI means that lesser amount of sun's rays are being absorbed by the roof. And when sunlight is not absorbed through the roof, the interior of the facility is cooler, lessening the need for electricity and energy costs.
Beyond energy efficiency and environmental benefits, industrial coatings contractors like cool roofs because they also deliver the kind of quality expected of standard paints, from good adhesion, strength, and durability.
Cool roofs are so-called because they are applied with energy-efficient roof coatings. Most cool roof coatings nowadays are even formulated to be environment-friendly, with zero-VOC. Industrial coatings contractors recognize the inherent benefits of cool roofs that have high solar-reflective index or SRI. Solar reflectivity is an important metrics for roof coatings, because this measures the coatings’ capability to deflect sunlight away from the roof, thereby maintaining a cool environment within the facility.
Industrial coatings contractors know that the minimum SRI for a roof coating product to qualify as a cool roof is 78, anything above this is even better. The higher the SRI means that lesser amount of sun's rays are being absorbed by the roof. And when sunlight is not absorbed through the roof, the interior of the facility is cooler, lessening the need for electricity and energy costs.
Beyond energy efficiency and environmental benefits, industrial coatings contractors like cool roofs because they also deliver the kind of quality expected of standard paints, from good adhesion, strength, and durability.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Breakthroughs in Paint Technology
For industrial coatings contractors, 2009 saw the development and release of innovative paint technologies borne out of the crippling financial downturn. These new paint products are making their way into industrial coatings contractors’ hands and directly into facilities, delivering high quality and much more.
Energy efficiency is the theme for solar-reflective cool roofs, which are so-called because they are very useful in deflecting the sun’s rays away from the facility, maintaining good ventilation, and resulting in lesser energy costs. Cool roofs, as industrial coatings contractors know, are only possible with roof coatings that have high solar-reflective index, an important property of roof coatings.
Longevity and sustainability are not far behind with high-solids rolling out of manufacturers' labs. The three-wet paint technology is having a resurgence, with Ford leading the way with a global implementation. This technology cuts down on paint preparations and saves time and energy in the process.
Self-cleaning paints may sound too futuristic for industrial coatings contractors used to practical and ordinary paints, but these products are right now being developed in research labs and will likely hit the shelves sooner than expected. These paints are impervious to chemical attacks and decontaminate themselves from these chemicals. Should these experimental paints ever come out of research labs, they can be very useful and a flexible addition to innovative paints most sought by industrial painting contractors.
Energy efficiency is the theme for solar-reflective cool roofs, which are so-called because they are very useful in deflecting the sun’s rays away from the facility, maintaining good ventilation, and resulting in lesser energy costs. Cool roofs, as industrial coatings contractors know, are only possible with roof coatings that have high solar-reflective index, an important property of roof coatings.
Longevity and sustainability are not far behind with high-solids rolling out of manufacturers' labs. The three-wet paint technology is having a resurgence, with Ford leading the way with a global implementation. This technology cuts down on paint preparations and saves time and energy in the process.
Self-cleaning paints may sound too futuristic for industrial coatings contractors used to practical and ordinary paints, but these products are right now being developed in research labs and will likely hit the shelves sooner than expected. These paints are impervious to chemical attacks and decontaminate themselves from these chemicals. Should these experimental paints ever come out of research labs, they can be very useful and a flexible addition to innovative paints most sought by industrial painting contractors.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Custom Concrete Finish for Repairs
Customizing concrete finish to add appeal to any room in the facility is one of the most sought-after applications that facility managers require. Concrete is strong and durable, and when customized into eye-catching patterns and designs, the concrete finish enhances the pleasing aspect of any facility area.
Customization of concrete finish may involve the use of practical application techniques that are simple but easy to use. On still-wet concrete surfaces, a trowel or rake ran across the surface will create ridges or etches that results to traction-filled and skid-proof concrete finish flooring. Decorative coating procedures such as acid staining, mosaic tilings, and the like, are more complicated to execute. But the complexity in the application gives greater choices in the quality of desired concrete finish.
What exactly is the benefit derived from custom concrete finish? The major benefit will be that concrete finish eliminates the need for replacement whenever the surface is damaged. Replacement is cost-prohibitive, with location as one of the major logistical hassles. With replacement, adjacent areas of the facility may be affected by the replacement work. But not so in repair works. Repairing custom concrete finish involves fixing the affected concrete surface only, with little impact to the surrounding area, and a retouch of surface sealers and top coats to restore the surface.
Customization of concrete finish may involve the use of practical application techniques that are simple but easy to use. On still-wet concrete surfaces, a trowel or rake ran across the surface will create ridges or etches that results to traction-filled and skid-proof concrete finish flooring. Decorative coating procedures such as acid staining, mosaic tilings, and the like, are more complicated to execute. But the complexity in the application gives greater choices in the quality of desired concrete finish.
What exactly is the benefit derived from custom concrete finish? The major benefit will be that concrete finish eliminates the need for replacement whenever the surface is damaged. Replacement is cost-prohibitive, with location as one of the major logistical hassles. With replacement, adjacent areas of the facility may be affected by the replacement work. But not so in repair works. Repairing custom concrete finish involves fixing the affected concrete surface only, with little impact to the surrounding area, and a retouch of surface sealers and top coats to restore the surface.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Creative Custom Concrete Finish
Concrete’s malleability when wet, and its strength and durability when in solid form, makes it an ideal material in creating interesting spaces in any facility. Beautiful concrete finish applications transform ordinary locations in the facility into imaginative and appealing work areas. No wonder the customization of concrete finish is one of the most popular jobs that painting contractors are often involved in.
The simplest way of customizing concrete finish applications is by the use of hand tools such as trowels and steel bristles, which can create geometric designs in the still-wet concrete surface. When dried, these patterns provide artistic appeal and increase surface traction.
But to really achieve more intricate designs in customized concrete finish, painting contractors use more complex application techniques that include acid staining, concrete polishing, mosaic tiling, and decorative coating, to name just a few.
With acid staining, the default drab gray color of concrete is replaced with colored concrete finish that perk up patios, facility floors, decks, walkways, and many other areas of the facility. The chemically-induced stains last for a long time when protected with a sealer or a top coat, producing a polished or a matted finish. Cement mixed with acrylic and a variety of colors, on the other hand, creates customizable concrete finish application imbued with strength, durability, and aesthetics.
The simplest way of customizing concrete finish applications is by the use of hand tools such as trowels and steel bristles, which can create geometric designs in the still-wet concrete surface. When dried, these patterns provide artistic appeal and increase surface traction.
But to really achieve more intricate designs in customized concrete finish, painting contractors use more complex application techniques that include acid staining, concrete polishing, mosaic tiling, and decorative coating, to name just a few.
With acid staining, the default drab gray color of concrete is replaced with colored concrete finish that perk up patios, facility floors, decks, walkways, and many other areas of the facility. The chemically-induced stains last for a long time when protected with a sealer or a top coat, producing a polished or a matted finish. Cement mixed with acrylic and a variety of colors, on the other hand, creates customizable concrete finish application imbued with strength, durability, and aesthetics.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Simple Custom Concrete Finish Techniques
Custom concrete finish is one of the most popular applications sought by facility managers to create interesting and enduring works of art in facility floors and spaces. Concrete is easy to customize into beautiful concrete finish because of its malleability when wet, allowing painting contractors to achieve the specific requirements of the application.
Any office space or production floor is customized meticulously and manually, but this process is actually very straightforward and simple. The process gives painting contractors more control of the application, allowing them to make adjustments at every step of the application process.
In customizing concrete finish, contractors can modify thicknesses and the manner of application in order to achieve the intended strength and durability of the concrete finish. The colors and aggregate materials can be experimented with to achieve the desired aesthetic appeal.
The most basic method used in customizing concrete finish is through the use of a trowel. With the trowel, subtle patterns can be created in the wet concrete mix, from random arcs and geometric patterns. These designs will add texture to the concrete finish, making it skid-proof and imbuing it with surface traction when the concrete dries. Steel bristles or lawn rakes are also used. In lieu of textured surface etchings, embedding aggregate materials like pebbles or colored glass when the concrete is in the semi-wet state is also another way to create traction.
Any office space or production floor is customized meticulously and manually, but this process is actually very straightforward and simple. The process gives painting contractors more control of the application, allowing them to make adjustments at every step of the application process.
In customizing concrete finish, contractors can modify thicknesses and the manner of application in order to achieve the intended strength and durability of the concrete finish. The colors and aggregate materials can be experimented with to achieve the desired aesthetic appeal.
The most basic method used in customizing concrete finish is through the use of a trowel. With the trowel, subtle patterns can be created in the wet concrete mix, from random arcs and geometric patterns. These designs will add texture to the concrete finish, making it skid-proof and imbuing it with surface traction when the concrete dries. Steel bristles or lawn rakes are also used. In lieu of textured surface etchings, embedding aggregate materials like pebbles or colored glass when the concrete is in the semi-wet state is also another way to create traction.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Customized Artistic Concrete Finish
Out of the seemingly ordinary mixture of cement, gravel and sand, and water, comes the strong and durable concrete finish. Concrete has long been known in architectural and engineering circles for its flexibility in various types of construction application. Concrete finish is particularly perfect for flooring systems that need outstanding durability and strength because of the frequent pedestrian and mechanical traffic. When concrete solidifies, it can be hard as stone. And when polished or applied with sealants, concrete finish offers strong resistance and long-term protection against damage.
Because concrete is very malleable when wet, it can be transformed into anything. This unique ability produces concrete finish that is aesthetically pleasing, transforming any space in the facility into rooms of beauty. The malleability of concrete allows for the creation of geometric patterns in the concrete surface. Concrete finish can even be embedded with material aggregates such as steel, wood, glass, or stone, to achieve a decorative look.
Artistry is unlimited in concrete finish application, and painting contractors work the concrete surface like a canvas to produce beautiful customized concrete finish. The tricks of the trade vary from innovative arc- and pattern-making with only the use of a trowel, or the more sophisticated techniques involved in acid staining and decorative coatings.
Because concrete is very malleable when wet, it can be transformed into anything. This unique ability produces concrete finish that is aesthetically pleasing, transforming any space in the facility into rooms of beauty. The malleability of concrete allows for the creation of geometric patterns in the concrete surface. Concrete finish can even be embedded with material aggregates such as steel, wood, glass, or stone, to achieve a decorative look.
Artistry is unlimited in concrete finish application, and painting contractors work the concrete surface like a canvas to produce beautiful customized concrete finish. The tricks of the trade vary from innovative arc- and pattern-making with only the use of a trowel, or the more sophisticated techniques involved in acid staining and decorative coatings.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Avoid Choosing the Wrong Anti-Corrosive Coatings Contractor
Corrosion in metal structures is a major headache for facility managers. There are corrosive agents everywhere in the environment, and the breakdown of exterior painting systems allows these corrosive agents to invade the metal surface. The result is physical deterioration that can undermine the integrity of the structure. The more advanced or rampant corrosion is in the metal surface, the more expensive it is to repair.
Choosing the most effective exterior painting products to combat corrosion, and following the MSDS to avoid safety and environment risks, are some of best practices for successful corrosion management and control. However, all of these best practices are futile when the exterior painting contractor chosen to do the job is incapable of producing effective anti-corrosion application results.
Inexperience, incorrect methodologies, and lack of skills and knowledge in anti-corrosion control, are just some of the things that facility managers should NOT look for in exterior painting contractors. This lack of competencies hinders the exterior painting contractor from doing quality job, and may even lead to disastrous results. Inspections may lead to mistakes in evaluation of what products and methods to use. Solutions may be based from faulty assessments, solutions that may not only fail to deliver expected results, but can even worsen any damage already done to the metal structure.
The bottom line in going for expert exterior painting contractors is that they can deliver above-par solutions efficiently, without reworks and setbacks, thereby accruing lesser long-term costs to the project.
Choosing the most effective exterior painting products to combat corrosion, and following the MSDS to avoid safety and environment risks, are some of best practices for successful corrosion management and control. However, all of these best practices are futile when the exterior painting contractor chosen to do the job is incapable of producing effective anti-corrosion application results.
Inexperience, incorrect methodologies, and lack of skills and knowledge in anti-corrosion control, are just some of the things that facility managers should NOT look for in exterior painting contractors. This lack of competencies hinders the exterior painting contractor from doing quality job, and may even lead to disastrous results. Inspections may lead to mistakes in evaluation of what products and methods to use. Solutions may be based from faulty assessments, solutions that may not only fail to deliver expected results, but can even worsen any damage already done to the metal structure.
The bottom line in going for expert exterior painting contractors is that they can deliver above-par solutions efficiently, without reworks and setbacks, thereby accruing lesser long-term costs to the project.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Risk Avoidance in Applying Anti Corrosive Coatings
The success of any anti-corrosive exterior painting project to repair corroded metal structures lies primarily in the careful selection of the most appropriate anti-corrosive paints, primers, topcoats, and sealers that make up the coating system.
But any coating system is bound to fail, no matter the quality of the exterior painting products used, if the material safety data sheet (MSDS) is not followed carefully. The MSDS is the exterior painting product manufacturer’s usage instruction where everything about the product – its preparation, application, and post-application handling – is listed.
The MSDS serves as a valuable guide in storing and handling the harmful components in anti-corrosive exterior painting products, which may pose a grave risk to application workers during coating installation. The MSDS indicates the chemical properties of substances in the exterior painting product -- from melting point, boiling point, and flash point, among others. If any toxic substance is contained in the exterior painting product, its reactive properties and health impact are also contained in the MSDS. Knowing the product’s safe and unsafe properties goes a long way in protecting application workers from being adversely affected.
Furthermore, any environmental hazards posed by handling particular substances in the exterior painting product are outlined in the MSDS, giving workers better knowledge on the chemical risks and environment impact of these potentially harmful products. The importance of taking these risks seriously leads to proper handling, storage, application, and waste management of anti-corrosive exterior painting products, which prevents VOC and toxic substances from being released and harming the environment.
But any coating system is bound to fail, no matter the quality of the exterior painting products used, if the material safety data sheet (MSDS) is not followed carefully. The MSDS is the exterior painting product manufacturer’s usage instruction where everything about the product – its preparation, application, and post-application handling – is listed.
The MSDS serves as a valuable guide in storing and handling the harmful components in anti-corrosive exterior painting products, which may pose a grave risk to application workers during coating installation. The MSDS indicates the chemical properties of substances in the exterior painting product -- from melting point, boiling point, and flash point, among others. If any toxic substance is contained in the exterior painting product, its reactive properties and health impact are also contained in the MSDS. Knowing the product’s safe and unsafe properties goes a long way in protecting application workers from being adversely affected.
Furthermore, any environmental hazards posed by handling particular substances in the exterior painting product are outlined in the MSDS, giving workers better knowledge on the chemical risks and environment impact of these potentially harmful products. The importance of taking these risks seriously leads to proper handling, storage, application, and waste management of anti-corrosive exterior painting products, which prevents VOC and toxic substances from being released and harming the environment.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Avoid Choosing the Wrong Anti-Corrosive Coatings
Exterior painting can provide the best solution to corrosion of metal surfaces, but only if the right anti-corrosive exterior painting products are used for repair and maintenance, and when the product specifications and instruction of use are observed and practiced carefully.
Exterior painting applications for combating corrosion means choosing the most effective products for the job. The choice is based on a careful consideration of the condition of the metal surface. The location and function of the metal structure are also critical factors. If the metal surface is part of a structure that is built near the sea and exposed to salt water, or in humid areas, then water maybe the most common corrosive element nearby. With water as the source of corrosion, the exterior painting product to be used should logically be waterproof to prevent water from coming into contact with the metal surface and trigger corrosion.
Some exterior painting application may even need more than one anti-corrosive product – there maybe primers, top coats and sealers to complete the coating system.
The carefully selected anti-corrosive exterior painting product is useless however, if the material safety data sheet (MSDS) and the application instructions contained therein are not followed. Failure in following the specific product preparation, application and post-application activities not only jeopardizes the application process that leads to coating failure, it can even cover-up the intrusion of corrosive agents. Corrosion maybe taking place undetected underneath the coated surface.
Exterior painting applications for combating corrosion means choosing the most effective products for the job. The choice is based on a careful consideration of the condition of the metal surface. The location and function of the metal structure are also critical factors. If the metal surface is part of a structure that is built near the sea and exposed to salt water, or in humid areas, then water maybe the most common corrosive element nearby. With water as the source of corrosion, the exterior painting product to be used should logically be waterproof to prevent water from coming into contact with the metal surface and trigger corrosion.
Some exterior painting application may even need more than one anti-corrosive product – there maybe primers, top coats and sealers to complete the coating system.
The carefully selected anti-corrosive exterior painting product is useless however, if the material safety data sheet (MSDS) and the application instructions contained therein are not followed. Failure in following the specific product preparation, application and post-application activities not only jeopardizes the application process that leads to coating failure, it can even cover-up the intrusion of corrosive agents. Corrosion maybe taking place undetected underneath the coated surface.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Avoid These Anti-Corrosive Coatings Application Mistakes
Corrosion is one of the costliest damages incurred by any facility during its lifetime of operations. Metal structures are vulnerable to corrosion and the repair and protection of these structures from corrosive elements is a major challenge often facing facility managers. When it comes to combating corrosion, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Severe corrosion damage is more expensive than remediation at the early stages or at the onset of corrosion. This is where the importance of high-performing anti-corrosive exterior painting applications comes in as the solution of choice for facility managers.
Albeit, no exterior painting system can deliver a one-stop encompassing solution to corrosion. Corrosion is as result of the interaction of the environment, and the elements in it, with the metal surface, hence it will always be an ever-present menace. But exterior painting solutions that are carefully designed, combined with a careful avoidance of bad application habits and practices, goes a long way into ensuring better corrosion control.
What are these bad practices in anti-corrosive exterior painting applications? Carelessness in choosing the paint products to use is one. Ignoring the MSDS sheet instructions and specifications can lead to safety and environmental risks. And perhaps the worst mistake of all is to rely on exterior painting contractors that have no skills or experience for the job.
Albeit, no exterior painting system can deliver a one-stop encompassing solution to corrosion. Corrosion is as result of the interaction of the environment, and the elements in it, with the metal surface, hence it will always be an ever-present menace. But exterior painting solutions that are carefully designed, combined with a careful avoidance of bad application habits and practices, goes a long way into ensuring better corrosion control.
What are these bad practices in anti-corrosive exterior painting applications? Carelessness in choosing the paint products to use is one. Ignoring the MSDS sheet instructions and specifications can lead to safety and environmental risks. And perhaps the worst mistake of all is to rely on exterior painting contractors that have no skills or experience for the job.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Winter Protection for HVAC and Other Systems
Besides exterior walls and roofs, there are other important locations or elements in the facility that should be prepared to withstand the winter season. One of them is the HVAC coatings system, which the epoxy coating contractor should check thoroughly for any needed repairs. HVAC systems are crucial for good heating and ventilation within the facility, particularly during the cold months of winter. The epoxy coating contractor should inspect the mechanical components of the HVAC, including its housing, pipings, and supply lines. These components should be clean and functioning well. If any damage exists, such as signs of rusting or rotting, the HVAC system should undergo repairs and maintenance. Furthermore, when the epoxy coating contractor finds any signs of corrosion to the HVAC coating system, this should be fixed as soon as possible.
Aside from the HVAC system, the epoxy coating contractor should also check gutters, downspouts, drains, and other parts of the facility that will be exposed to the winter climate. Drains, for example, need to be unclogged to prevent waterlogged roofs and decks come wintertime. The main thing to consider is that when any deterioration is evident in the coating systems of exterior locations, these should be cleaned up at once by the epoxy coating contractor, resurfaced, and made ready for the oncoming cold season.
Aside from the HVAC system, the epoxy coating contractor should also check gutters, downspouts, drains, and other parts of the facility that will be exposed to the winter climate. Drains, for example, need to be unclogged to prevent waterlogged roofs and decks come wintertime. The main thing to consider is that when any deterioration is evident in the coating systems of exterior locations, these should be cleaned up at once by the epoxy coating contractor, resurfaced, and made ready for the oncoming cold season.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Roofing Protection for the Winter
One of the most important parts of the facility that needs to be checked by the epoxy coating contractor before the winter weather sets in are the roofing systems. Facility managers should not procrastinate in winter-proofing roofs, decks and all other parts of the facility that will be exposed to snow and the winter winds, because come wintertime, any amount of snow will make detection and repair of any roof leaks and damages impossible.
The epoxy coating contractor should perform a close inspection of roofs, decks, and copings when it is still possible to access these areas of the facility, and provide necessary repairs. Extremely cold weather conditions can cause materials to contract, and roofing systems are not exempted from reacting to the weather. Any loose materials or deteriorating metalwork in the roofing system should be fixed by the epoxy coating contractor, or else risk having them fall apart totally in the middle of winter.
During winter, an accumulation of heavy snowfall on roofs can lead to eventual damage. Damage that will be hard to rectify when a pileup of snow makes it hazardous to navigate the roof tops. Roofing systems, like exterior walls, act as a protective enclosure that prevents cold weather in entering the facility during the winter months, that is why it is important that they are fortified enough to withstand the onslaught of the cold season.
The epoxy coating contractor should perform a close inspection of roofs, decks, and copings when it is still possible to access these areas of the facility, and provide necessary repairs. Extremely cold weather conditions can cause materials to contract, and roofing systems are not exempted from reacting to the weather. Any loose materials or deteriorating metalwork in the roofing system should be fixed by the epoxy coating contractor, or else risk having them fall apart totally in the middle of winter.
During winter, an accumulation of heavy snowfall on roofs can lead to eventual damage. Damage that will be hard to rectify when a pileup of snow makes it hazardous to navigate the roof tops. Roofing systems, like exterior walls, act as a protective enclosure that prevents cold weather in entering the facility during the winter months, that is why it is important that they are fortified enough to withstand the onslaught of the cold season.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Winter-Proofing Exterior Walls
When the winter months are fast approaching, the exterior walls of the facility should be checked by an epoxy coating contractor for any signs of leaks or cracks to the coating system. Exterior walls are some of the most heavily-exposed areas of the facility, being constantly exposed to all kinds of weather the whole year round. The elements can be hard on the wall’s protective coatings, causing erosion, corrosion, and general physical deterioration. When winter comes, the epoxy coating contractor knows that exterior walls may already bear the scars of months of exposure and damage.
To be able to withstand the winter season, the epoxy coating contractor should therefore conduct necessary repairs and maintenance to the exterior walls to keep it in tip-top condition for the winter. The epoxy coating contractor can detect damages to the exterior walls' coating system. When cracks or peeling paint is visible, these are some signs that it is time for the epoxy coating contractor to replace or repair the coating system.
Sealing cracks and tears in the exterior wall’s coating system is important because this ensures that the building is fully winter-tight, preventing cold weather from seeping into the facility through these rents and cracks, thereby maintaining a stable and warm interior temperature all throughout the winter season.
To be able to withstand the winter season, the epoxy coating contractor should therefore conduct necessary repairs and maintenance to the exterior walls to keep it in tip-top condition for the winter. The epoxy coating contractor can detect damages to the exterior walls' coating system. When cracks or peeling paint is visible, these are some signs that it is time for the epoxy coating contractor to replace or repair the coating system.
Sealing cracks and tears in the exterior wall’s coating system is important because this ensures that the building is fully winter-tight, preventing cold weather from seeping into the facility through these rents and cracks, thereby maintaining a stable and warm interior temperature all throughout the winter season.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Building Preparations for the Winter
The winter season is the time of the year when facility managers think of winter-proofing activities for the facility. The cold winter weather can be harsh on industrial and commercial facilities; this is why it is better for some extra precautionary measures to be taken to protect these properties from the severe winter conditions.
The facility's exteriors are particularly vulnerable to the harsh winter climates, with the onslaught of cold, wind and snow constantly assaulting the building's exterior walls, roofs and decks. A maintenance checklist should be drawn up by the facility manager to keep in mind to repair or fortify these areas of the facility from the winter season. Of course, one major item on the checklist is hiring a skilled epoxy coating contractor to winter-proof the coating systems of exterior locations of the building.
Exterior walls should be checked and the epoxy coating contractor should strengthen the coatings of the exterior walls before the cold weather sets in. Any roof coating leaks should also be sealed by the epoxy coating contractor before the arrival of winter. The coatings on HVAC system, critical supply lines, and even gutters and drains, should also be checked before winter, and if any coating deterioration is visible, the epoxy coating contractor should repair them at once. When winter finally arrives, any repair is already difficult, if not impossible.
The facility's exteriors are particularly vulnerable to the harsh winter climates, with the onslaught of cold, wind and snow constantly assaulting the building's exterior walls, roofs and decks. A maintenance checklist should be drawn up by the facility manager to keep in mind to repair or fortify these areas of the facility from the winter season. Of course, one major item on the checklist is hiring a skilled epoxy coating contractor to winter-proof the coating systems of exterior locations of the building.
Exterior walls should be checked and the epoxy coating contractor should strengthen the coatings of the exterior walls before the cold weather sets in. Any roof coating leaks should also be sealed by the epoxy coating contractor before the arrival of winter. The coatings on HVAC system, critical supply lines, and even gutters and drains, should also be checked before winter, and if any coating deterioration is visible, the epoxy coating contractor should repair them at once. When winter finally arrives, any repair is already difficult, if not impossible.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Application Considerations in Corrosion Protection Coatings
Anti-corrosion coatings work to prevent corrosive elements from attacking metal surfaces. When corrosion protection coatings are applied, the useful life of surfaces are prolonged, lessening the costs in repairs and maintenance.
To make sure that corrosion protection coatings deliver the maximum protection possible to metal surfaces, here are a few important factors to consider:
1. The material composition of the surface, because different materials react differently to various agents of corrosion, and require different types of corrosion protection coatings.
2. The condition of the surface to be coated, because this determines the type of surface preparation or repair that need to be conducted prior to installing corrosion protection coatings.
3. The length of time that the protective coating is expected to be effective, because this requires different formulations, thicknesses or quality in corrosion protection coatings, depending on the need.
4. The environmental, health and safety requirements, because these factors ensure that corrosion protection coatings are installed successfully but with minimal hazards to tenants, workers and the environment as a whole.
These, and many other factors such as the painting contractors’ skills, application methods, post-application practices, among others, must be addressed fully if facility managers aim to prevent corrosion from bringing costly damages to the facility.
To make sure that corrosion protection coatings deliver the maximum protection possible to metal surfaces, here are a few important factors to consider:
1. The material composition of the surface, because different materials react differently to various agents of corrosion, and require different types of corrosion protection coatings.
2. The condition of the surface to be coated, because this determines the type of surface preparation or repair that need to be conducted prior to installing corrosion protection coatings.
3. The length of time that the protective coating is expected to be effective, because this requires different formulations, thicknesses or quality in corrosion protection coatings, depending on the need.
4. The environmental, health and safety requirements, because these factors ensure that corrosion protection coatings are installed successfully but with minimal hazards to tenants, workers and the environment as a whole.
These, and many other factors such as the painting contractors’ skills, application methods, post-application practices, among others, must be addressed fully if facility managers aim to prevent corrosion from bringing costly damages to the facility.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Sacrificial Anti-Corrosion Protection Coatings
Aside from barrier coatings, there is another type of corrosion protection coatings that perform a unique function to combat corrosion. These coatings are known as sacrificial coatings, and they are so-called because they contain elements that “self-sacrifice” to the corrosion process, thereby sparing the metal surface from actual corrosion.
The elements in these corrosion protection coatings are commonly zinc, iron or manganese. When sacrificial coatings are applied unto the metal surface, these sacrificial materials lay in wait, and oxidize upon contact with corrosive forces attacking the metal surface. Inorganic phosphate materials are also used in sacrificial corrosion protection coatings, rendering the metal surface impervious to corrosive chemical reactions.
These corrosion protection coatings make the surface resistant to corrosion far longer, because any corrosive reaction involves the sacrificial elements in the coating, and not the surface itself.
A common method of application of sacrificial corrosion protection coatings is using an aluminum or zinc thermal spray. Sacrificial elements such as zinc are melted and sprayed unto the metal surface, settling within the surface profile. The coating system that forms is porous, designed to allow oxidation to take place when corrosive agents are present.
The elements in these corrosion protection coatings are commonly zinc, iron or manganese. When sacrificial coatings are applied unto the metal surface, these sacrificial materials lay in wait, and oxidize upon contact with corrosive forces attacking the metal surface. Inorganic phosphate materials are also used in sacrificial corrosion protection coatings, rendering the metal surface impervious to corrosive chemical reactions.
These corrosion protection coatings make the surface resistant to corrosion far longer, because any corrosive reaction involves the sacrificial elements in the coating, and not the surface itself.
A common method of application of sacrificial corrosion protection coatings is using an aluminum or zinc thermal spray. Sacrificial elements such as zinc are melted and sprayed unto the metal surface, settling within the surface profile. The coating system that forms is porous, designed to allow oxidation to take place when corrosive agents are present.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Barrier Coatings for Effective Corrosion Control
Barrier coatings are one of the common types of corrosion protection coatings that are so effective against corrosion. Just as the name implies, these coatings serve as a barrier or shield that inhibits corrosive agents from coming into contact with surface materials. Denying corrosive agents from reaching the surface through a preventive film of barrier coatings prevents the corrosive chemical reaction from taking place.
Widely-used barrier coating products contain oil or solvents that repel water and other elements from coming into contact with the surface. These corrosion protection coatings maybe efficient, but they are VOC-emitting and pose certain environmental hazards. A more environment-friendly alternative are water-based corrosion protection coatings. The problem with water-based barrier coatings, however, is that they only inhibit metal oxidation, unlike solvent- or oil-based coatings. Because of this limitation, solvent and oil-based corrosion protection coatings are still more widely preferred in many applications.
Large metal structures require heavy-duty thick corrosion protection coatings that require only minimal surface preparation. These tough corrosion protection coatings are applicable even to rusty surfaces, and have longevity lasting for many years.
Widely-used barrier coating products contain oil or solvents that repel water and other elements from coming into contact with the surface. These corrosion protection coatings maybe efficient, but they are VOC-emitting and pose certain environmental hazards. A more environment-friendly alternative are water-based corrosion protection coatings. The problem with water-based barrier coatings, however, is that they only inhibit metal oxidation, unlike solvent- or oil-based coatings. Because of this limitation, solvent and oil-based corrosion protection coatings are still more widely preferred in many applications.
Large metal structures require heavy-duty thick corrosion protection coatings that require only minimal surface preparation. These tough corrosion protection coatings are applicable even to rusty surfaces, and have longevity lasting for many years.
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