Concrete is known to be resilient and long lasting, but that only applies if the job is done correctly. When poured improperly or under the wrong conditions, concrete can suffer excessive cracking, spalling, and more.

Thankfully, these situations can often be corrected with concrete crack repair or concrete resurfacing. Other issues such as dusting, uneven textures, and excessive cracking may be remedied with concrete finishing processes such as sealing or coating.

Once again, however, this needs to be done correctly. Unlike the concrete itself, a bad concrete finish isn’t easily repaired. Often times, the only solution is to completely strip the concrete and start over. What are the signs of bad concrete finishing?

Let’s take a look.

Bad Edges

Sealing, staining, or coating concrete takes precision and finesse, especially around edges and objects. Even concrete work that’s otherwise well done can suffer in these tricky spots. A proper finishing job should be even throughout the entire floor, from edge to edge.

Notable rough spots, lines, and discoloration around walls, poles, and other objects is a sign of a mediocre finishing job.

Cloudy/Hazy Appearance

When sealer or stain is applied incorrectly, it can result in a dull, hazy appearance after it dries. This can stem from a number of factors. Stain and sealer is applied in multiple coats. If the previous coat isn’t allowed to properly dry, you’ll likely get a cloudy finish. The same is true if a coating is applied too thickly.

Lastly, concrete needs to be finished under the right conditions. If it’s too hot/cold/moist, it likely won’t settle correctly, and you’ll end up with a hazy finished product.

Peeling

If your sealer or coating is flaking or peeling off in large chunks, you have a serious problem on your hands. Often, this issue happens because the concrete wasn’t dry enough when the sealer or coating was applied. It can also happen when staining your concrete before sealing it. If the two products are not applied correctly, they won’t bond together, resulting in peeling.

Blistering

Though blistering can appear similar to pealing, it’s cause is unique. Blistering generally stems from overly hot temperatures. The sealer dries on the surface too quickly, causing the compound to breakdown and bubbles to form.

This is especially common in areas with direct sunlight.

What Can Be Done?

When it comes to finishing concrete, you want it done correctly the first time around. Though the process of staining, sealing, or coating concrete may sound simple, there is a lot that can go wrong. Rather than trying to go the DIY route, it’s best to just let a professional handle it. Even with professional services, concrete finishing is surprisingly affordable.

For a general contractor in Ohio that knows what they’re doing, contact Select Flooring Systems today!