4 Ways To Prevent Concrete Floor Damage in Warehouses

While many warehouses feature concrete floors for their durability and aesthetic, those floors can still sustain damage. From chemical spills to temperature fluctuations to the frequent use of heavy machinery, these are just some of the most common ways floors can crack, disintegrate, and sustain damage in ways that pose a potential safety hazard. Thankfully, there are several ways to prevent concrete floor damage in warehouses. Read on to find out more.
 
Install a Solid Foundation
 
One of the best ways to avoid damage to concrete floors is by creating a solid foundation, pouring an even base, and preparing the surface properly. By ensuring a well-formed foundation and evenly poured base, warehouses will avoid hazardous floor damage, including cracks and uneven surfaces.
 
Prepare for Shrinkage
 
After concrete dries, some of the moisture within the mixture evaporates. This evaporation contributes to the slabs shrinking, at least to some extent. Concrete slab shrinkage can cause stress on the floor and contribute to cracks if you don’t prepare for it. Crews pouring the concrete can prevent this from happening by installing various joints during construction.
 
Use Heavy Equipment With Care
 
Forklifts are common equipment in warehouses, and unfortunately, their treads can cause significant damage to concrete floors. The good news is that there are options to prevent this damage. Rubber treads are an incredibly beneficial option that’s gentle on concrete flooring.
 
Another thing supervisors can do is to ensure that their staff receives adequate training to operate heavy machinery. Forklift drivers, for example, should be certified and avoid sharp turns and sudden stops when possible.
 
Respond to Maintenance Issues Quickly
 
Chemical spills, the formation of cracks, and piles of dirt and debris can damage concrete. An important way to prevent concrete floor damage in warehouses and ensure worker safety is by addressing maintenance issues the moment they come up. Supervisors can also ensure that floors receive the proper care by delegating tasks to various employees, such as sweeping, mopping, and inspecting.