Concrete has been around a lot longer than most people realize. In fact, some of the strongest concrete structures ever built weren’t made with modern tools or machines — they were built by the Romans more than 2,000 years ago. Many of their port structures, aqueducts, and buildings are still standing today, long after newer structures have crumbled. So what did they know back then, and how does it apply to modern concrete coatings today?
A Roman Concrete Advantage
The strength of Roman concrete wasn’t an accident. They used the right materials and preparation methods. Ancient concrete was made by mixing volcanic ash with lime and seawater to create mortar, which was then combined with aggregate. The amazing thing about the volcanic ash is that it contained materials that, when mixed with the seawater, caused a chemical reaction that created a crystal called tobermorite. The crystals allowed the concrete to flex rather than shatter when stressed. This lent exceptional strength to the concrete.
A Concrete Weakness
Concrete, however, isn’t invincible. Much Roman concrete, although impressively durable, was eventually worn down by surfaces exposed to nature, moisture, everyday use, and time. Care is necessary to preserve the structures in their finest state.
Fast forward to modern homes and garages, and the challenges faced by concrete are similar. Today’s concrete slabs face:
- Vehicle traffic and heavy loads
- Oil, chemicals, and road salts
- Extreme temperature swings
- Moisture rising up through the slab
Unprotected concrete is porous, absorbing stains and water, becoming difficult to clean. That’s where modern concrete coatings come in.
Modern Coatings Make Concrete Better
Volcanic ash has been replaced by Portland cement, but we’ve learned a lot about how to strengthen concrete by first protecting it. Modern epoxy coatings are therefore designed to solve the same problems the Romans faced, just with technology. Epoxy coatings don’t just sit on top of the concrete. When installed correctly, modern epoxy sinks into concrete pores, bonding strongly to it in the process, creating a durable, sealed surface that resists damage.
Today’s coatings provide:
- Protection against moisture intrusion
- Resistance to chemicals, oil, and abrasion
- Improved strength and longevity
- A polished and finished appearance
However, the success of these coatings depends on proper preparation and application. Roman concrete lasted when it was prepared and mixed properly. The same is true for today’s coatings. A high-quality epoxy system fails if the surface isn’t prepared correctly. and if the coating is not properly mixed and applied. Expert grinding, moisture testing, crack repair, and material selection is especially important in Nevada’s extreme heat and dry conditions. Many property owners have found out that professional application of epoxy coatings makes all the difference in the beauty and longevity of the final product.
Ancient Wisdom and Modern Techniques
At Nevada Custom Coatings, we appreciate what we have learned about the strengths and weaknesses of concrete through history. Using professional-grade materials and proven installation methods, we deliver concrete floors that are built to last. We are so confident in our concrete coating techniques that we offer a lifetime guarantee for all our work. If you’re ready to protect your concrete the right way, using modern technology grounded in thousands of years of hard-earned lessons, Nevada Custom Coatings is ready to help. Schedule your free consultation today and see how modern coatings can transform your space for the long haul.
