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Problem Solving Forum

PSF Archive

How do I deal with the small cracks and fractures that occur along the edges and corners of the stone imprints in some of my stamped concrete work?

What causes bubbling or cratering of an epoxy intermediate coat when applied over epoxy zinc-rich primer?

What’s the best way to protect a masonry wall from freeze/thaw cycling?

Where would you use epoxy and cementitious intumescent coatings?

How do I clean off mortar smears that were allowed to cure for six months on a new architectural block building?

What is the maximum number of holidays that should be permitted for linings used in immersion service, and why?

Do the balcony floor slabs on the high-rise seaside condo I’m working on in Florida really need cathodic protection?

How should a contractor respond when he reads a specification requirement that "the nominal dry film thickness of the coating shall be 3 mils"?

What is the best combination of metal and coatings for creating bright colors on public art and sculpture, keeping in mind durability, cost, maintenance, and gloss and color retention?

What causes blistering/crater formation in freshly applied polyurethane topcoats, and how can this be avoided?

What kind of training and credentials are needed in the U.S. for industrial painters who work near live wires?

Can water be sprayed onto an IOZ coated surface, which has not fully cured due to low humid conditions, to accelerate the cure?

What kind of coating system provides the strongest resistance to staining from hot tires on garage floors and parking decks?

Under what conditions should stainless steel be painted in the oil and gas industry?

What is the Cold Wall Effect? Can it cause premature coating failure and, if so, how do I prevent or minimize it?

Your field surface preparation requires SSPC SP-10 and your field bolting uses hot-dip galvanized bolts. What surface preparation do you require/allow on and around the bolts?

When specifying coatings for maintenance repainting of structural steel, under what conditions is it acceptable to settle for a surface-tolerant system, and when is such a system unacceptable?

What is the maximum temperature that an epoxy powder coating can resist when applied on steel substrate?

What is most effective treatment for steel contaminated with MIC before painting?

What causes bubbles in an ablative antifouling coating?

I need to coat a bare concrete warehouse floor that has visible oil stains. What are my options for cleaning the concrete before coating it?

Is a sealer coat always required for coating systems applied to concrete surfaces that will be exposed to marine environments?

What is the best way to judge the effectiveness of competing products offered as liquid-applied air barriers on concrete block, in terms of both durability and air barrier properties?

When refurbishing an old concrete secondary containment wall around a storage tank, what criteria should be used to determine if a crack can be repaired for coating or if the section of the wall should be rebuilt?

When a food plant runs 24/7 even during coating maintenance, tiny food particles floating in the air (e.g., sugar from sugar processing) in the plant can contaminate a prepared surface. How do you prevent such contamination, or identify it and remove it before applying the coating?

Under what types of exterior atmospheric exposures (other than marine) is it necessary to test for soluble salts?

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How long after blasting can stainless steel be left before painting? If this time is exceeded, what further surface preparation is required?

Under what conditions should small-diameter blisters (less than 1.5 inches) in a water tank lining be repaired/repainted? Should the blisters be broken and the substrate examined?

How do you determine the best type of coating for repainting a block or concrete building?

What factors would justify coating stainless steel in water or wastewater service? What standards and methods apply?

What is the optimal moisture content for masonry before painting can begin?

For a one-coat inorganic zinc silicate painting system, what is the best method for touch-up and repair?

What is the best way to prevent corrosion of reinforcing bar in concrete?

What errors are most likely to occur when measuring dry film thickness on steel, and how can I avoid them?

When is it necessary to install sealant between the base of building walls and concrete sidewalks or pavement to prevent moisture from wicking up the wall? How does the climate affect this decision?

Alternatives to coal tar epoxies in wastewater/sewage applications have been in service for a number of years. From experience, which coating types with what fillers at what thicknesses (over steel) have performed best?

During a week of heavy rain, we painted the interior of a heated concrete building. The paint blistered badly a week later on the walls with an outside exposure. What’s the best way to remove the coating, prepare the surface, and recoat to prevent future blistering?

What type of coating system (and surface prep) should be used to protect a steel factory roof that is subject to hydrochloric acid vapors and other industrial pollutants and particulates in a hot, humid environment?

What’s the best way to determine if a cementitious-based mortar used to repair exterior concrete is ready to be coated?

I need to remove coatings from masonry on a historic-preservation project. What are my options for doing so without damaging the mortar joints?

If an atmospheric coating system of a zinc-rich epoxy, epoxy mid coat and polyurethane color topcoat has properly cured with no visual defects, should I be worried if the thickness of any coat exceeds any specified maximum?

Washing with potable water is used to reduce the soluble salt level on steel. However, such water contains low levels of various salts that will deposit on the surface as the water dries. At what point does washing deposit more salt than it removes?

How does a lower-metallic-content zinc-rich epoxy affect the life of a paint system?

Which DFT statistics should be recorded in a daily inspection report, and why are they relevant to a good coating QC record?

What should be included in the risk assessment of a particular painting project?

If a zinc rich epoxy primer has been applied at lower than the specified thickness, how should this be treated?

What is the proper surface preparation for stainless steel before coating to resist a salt-laden atmosphere?

How do you determine the size of the dehumidification equipment required for a tank lining project?

Do you need to wait for the mortar to cure before repainting a brick surface after repointing and power-tool cleaning to remove loosely adhered coating material from a previous paint job? If so, how long, and is there a way to judge when it is safe?

What are the reasons for different dew points from a sling psychrometer and a digital dew point meter at the same site, and what should be done?

What is an acceptable level of moisture in concrete walls before painting with an acrylic system, and how should the moisture level be measured?

The trend in bridge repainting projects is that they are routinely including structural repairs; however, the sequencing of the work on these projects is important. When should structural repairs be conducted: before, during or after the cleaning and repainting operations?

How do you know when pot life has expired? Can you extend pot life and, if so, how?

What are the common moisture tests for vertical, below-grade concrete structures scheduled to receive a high-build, protective lining system?

Specifications often state that glossy surfaces must be dulled before overcoating. What are some methods for doing this, especially when sanding isn’t feasible?

When performing maintenance painting of tank coatings, what are the pros and cons of overcoating an existing lining that appears to be in good condition?

We need to paint our publicly owned lighthouse. What should I include in the specifications for this bid regarding surface preparation, coating systems, and other considerations?

What components of an onshore shale gas drilling rig require coating protection, and what properties must the coatings have?

How can I determine if my urban hospital building would benefit financially by installing a reflective roof coating on top of the current flat black roofing substrate?

What are the best solutions (and limitations) for refurbishing small diameter (less than 10-inch) embedded pipelines with multiple bends?

What criteria should be used in deciding between a liquid-applied and a sheet-applied air barrier?

What is the special requirement for tank internal curing?

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When applying a 100% solids, fast-curing polyurea coating on concrete, what is the best method for verifying that the proper thickness has been applied?

What are the criteria for selecting coatings for application during extreme (atmospheric) heat?

What kind of surface preparation prior to coating will be effective and at the same time economical for the aluminum window frames on a large commercial office building? The aluminum was coated originally with a baked-on fluoropolymer which has lost most of its gloss. Maintenance recoating will be with an air-dry fluoropolymer.

What types of measures can be taken on or around metal pipes or columns that penetrate concrete or asphalt paving to reduce corrosion at the interface?

Do you need to wait for the mortar to cure before repainting a brick surface after power-tool cleaning to remove loosely adhered coating material from a previous paint job? If so, how long, and is there a way to judge when it is safe?

How do you keep sealants in control joints from cracking or separating from the substrate?

What is an acceptable level of moisture in concrete walls before painting with an acrylic system, and how is the moisture level measured?

Is there any method to take accurate wet film thickness readings when applying zinc rich primers?

Specifications often state that glossy surfaces must be dulled before overcoating. What are some methods for doing this, especially when sanding isn’t feasible or desirable?

How does rapid depressurization affect lining performance in vessels and line pipe, and how can you identify any failure that might result?

What steps must be taken to mitigate poor adhesion over an existing aged silver aluminum paint? What primer will achieve good adhesion?

How do you remove all traces of an uncured internal coating from a tank when abrasive blasting is not an option?

What smartphone apps or online tools do you find useful in your job? How do they work, and how have they benefited you?

Is grinding the only way to remove large areas of a silicone coating from a ship's hull to replace the silicone with an epoxy mastic?

When a specification calls for removal of only loose coating rather than complete coating removal from a masonry substrate, what surface preparation methods are most likely to work without damaging the intact coating that is left on the surface?

How does the concave or convex curvature of a surface affect the dry film thickness reading?

When a specification calls for removal of only loose coating rather than complete coating removal from a masonry substrate, what surface preparation methods are most likely to work without damaging the intact coating that is left on the surface?

Is there a list of the paint manufacturers who supply industrial-grade hexavalent chromium paint used by the aerospace industry?

When moisture permeates concrete slabs or walls below grade, how can this problem be solved and does it require excavation?

How does residue from chemical stripping affect the performance of the replacement coating?

How do admixtures to concrete (hardeners, anti-dust compounds, etc.) affect coating adhesion? What can be done to eliminate or minimize negative effects?

I have several water tanks constructed with carbon steel for demineralized water storage. The tanks are about 20 years old, and the original coating has started to blister. For refurbishment of the coating, what material should be used and at what dry film thickness? The original type of coating is unknown.

What is the effect on the permeability of a coating when you add additional coats, either at the time of the original painting or as a maintenance activity?

When planning containment for blasting, what are the most important factors to consider?

How do you prepare an oil-stained, bare concrete floor for coating?

For coatings with a high-solids content (95% or more), what kinds of defects, such as holidays or micropores, are possible or likely to occur in the applied film? How can these be prevented or remedied?

What kind of initial treatment is the best defense against graffiti for rough-surfaced concrete block (CMU)?

Can fluoropolymer coatings that are still very glossy be overcoated (if, for example, the topcoat is losing color or the color needs to be changed)? If so, what type of coating can be used, and what surface preparation is required?

What is the best way for me to assure I’m getting what I want when I specify a decorative finish such as glazing or gilding?

How can I determine when concrete has cured sufficiently to be coated, besides waiting the 28 days typically specified?

What type of material should I use to achieve bright, bold colors on a concrete floor with heavy foot traffic?

How do you accurately measure the adhesion of inorganic zinc?

How can you determine the moisture content of a concrete block (CMU) wall, and how can you judge when the moisture level is low enough to paint?

Considering substitute power tool manual excess rust scale removal before abrasive blasting with HP / UHP water jetting. What could be recommended pressure / flow ratio for excess and poorly adherent material removal? I have limited water supply available (about 15-20 liters / minute). Abrasive blasting thereafter is a must because of the specification.

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RH probes are commonly used in concrete floors to determine moisture content. Can they be used in CMU walls or pre-cast walls?

When we use field splice plate connections on structural steel projects, how do we prevent rust and rust staining at bolt heads and at the splice plate/steel interface?

How can you determine if a concrete substrate is in suitable condition for application of an acid stain?

What type of antifouling or foul-release coating will provide the greatest protection in warm tropical waters, and for how long?

How do I determine when a cementitious-based mortar used to repair exterior concrete is ready to be coated?

For st.2/st.3 prepared surfaces like luffing crane refurbishment in marine c5, environmental condition can extend warranties, or any standard guideline or in-meeting specific criteria warranty can be offered. Paint manufacturers sometimes do offer, but is there any set guideline for them?

What smartphone apps or online tools do you find useful in your job? How do they work, and how do they help?

Zinc metalizing has been applied to concrete surfaces to provide cathodic protection to rebar in the concrete. What are the problems, if any, with applying zinc metalizing to concrete, and what is the best approach to addressing them?

Which factors are most important in selecting coatings for new concrete?

How do you determine if local water is suitable for use in UHP waterjetting, particularly in areas where potable water is scarce?

What must specifiers consider when selecting and using sealants and grouts to fill gaps and seal concrete structures?

Some painting specifications call for the use of “Best Effort” in relation to blasting. How does one determine “Best Effort?”

How do I get permanently get rid of efflorescence on clay brick?

What are the pros and cons of using shotblasting to remove a coating system from a concrete floor?

What are the essential books a Coating Inspector and/or foreman might want to have in his Library?

Why would a pull-off adhesion test give a high value (no failure) for a solventless epoxy that later showed poor adhesion in service?

Where there is likely to be ponding water, what generic type of reflective roof coating will work best and why?

What do you do when the surface profile is higher than the dry film thickness of the specified primer?

In what circumstances is third-party inspection justified on commercial coating work?

What makes a coating surface-tolerant?

When coating an aged concrete floor, how should one determine the correct sequence of surface preparation among the options of pressure washing and grinding or other concrete removal and roughening methods?

What percentage of deterioration is acceptable at a one-year warranty inspection of water tank linings before a contractor must repair the coating job?

What is the best way to prevent tropical hardwood deck lumber like ironwood from developing a gray patina in sunlight?

How many areas should be tested for possible chloride contamination during fabrication of an offshore production platform, and why?

When a specification requires Manufacturer X’s system “or equivalent,” what does “or equivalent” mean, and who decides what’s equivalent?

What is the service life of a painted weathering steel bridge, compared to a painted carbon steel bridge in the same service environment?

How do you strip paint from a cementitious substrate if you can’t alter the surface texture?

When preparing to refurbish an old concrete secondary containment wall around a storage tank, what criteria should be used to determine if a crack can be repaired for coating or if the section of the wall should be rebuilt?

If the walls of single-wythe CMU with core fill insulation become saturated, can they be adequately dried out for painting? If so, how?

How do you use smartphone apps on the job? What tasks or needs does your phone or tablet help with during the course of a day?

Is it cost-effective to grind steel edges before coating for atmospheric service? Why or why not?

If an owner is using thermal spray aluminum on a pipe exterior as corrosion protection under insulation, and there is a holiday in the coating, will corrosion be substantially accelerated at the base carbon steel, being that the steel is now anodic to the aluminum?

Can efflorescence be removed from integrally colored CMU without damaging the appearance? How?

What is the function of an air receiver during blasting?

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How do you determine the best type of staining to impart color and seal on a 30 to 40-year-old brick building being restored with some brick-faced additions?

What is the best coating system to protect the hulls of floating production storage offloading units (FPSOs)?

What are the most important recommendations for ensuring success in field application of reflective roof coatings to aging single-ply roofs? Do these recommendations vary depending on whether the roof is EPDM, TPO, PVC, or some other type of substrate?

What is the best method for protecting cables on suspension bridges from corrosion?

What is best way to remedy over-thickness of a topcoat after it has dried and cured?

What is the remedial action if a blaster produces too high a surface profile for the required primer thickness?

On a parking deck with harsh exposures—to road salt, frequent wetting, freeze-thaw cycles, and exterior weathering—what generic coating type works best, and why?

What are the best cycles to use in cyclic accelerated corrosion testing to achieve the highest correlation with atmospheric exposure in a northern, industrial environment?

I’m converting a commercial space and am trying to decide on the floor. Should we polish the concrete floor or coat it? The concrete seems in fair shape, from what we can see under the dried mastic where the old vinyl tiles have been removed.

When should you specify UHP waterjetting on bridges?

How can I tell if my apartment building’s roof is suitable for installing a vegetative roof?

What can be done to prevent rust bleed in crevices when applying a zinc/epoxy/urethane system?

How do you determine whether a lead-bearing coating can be overcoated or removed and replaced?

I need to embed a metallized culvert liner on concrete. I've been told I have to paint it to avoid adhesion problems between the metal liner and the concrete. Is this true and, if so, what type of coating is best?

How do you adequately assess the adhesion of a newly applied coating?

What are the best options for coating steel and aluminum when encased in concrete below grade, to ensure long-term protection?

How is it possible to determine if concrete is sound enough to receive a thick-film coating?

What is the best method for preparing newly galvanized steel to be overcoated with an epoxy system?

What kinds and sources of data are available to support the use of antimicrobial agents in coatings for hospital substrates?

What abrasive should be used to prepare stainless steel?

I’ve heard about using crystalline admixture or crystalline materials on top of concrete to fill voids and make the substrate less permeable. When is this desirable, and what is the best way to use these materials?

How do you overcoat an aged inorganic zinc coating?

How do you determine the best type of paint to use when repainting a block or concrete building?

How can I determine the cleanliness of stainless steel for painting after blast cleaning?

How should a conflict between requirements, such as film thickness, on a product data sheet and the specification be resolved?

When SSPC-SP3 (Power Tool Cleaning) is specified, how should one decide when to apply the tool to the entire surface and when to use it just where the coating appears defective or rusting?

In what types of climates and/or environments is the use of a vapor-impermeable air/moisture barrier recommended as opposed to a vapor-permeable system? Are there guidelines or standards that can help determine this?

Can glass abrasives be used for surface preparation of carbon steel in shipyards?

What is the clearest way to specify the degree of smoothness that you want to be achieved by surface preparation on an exterior wood substrate that is covered with deteriorated, uneven and built-up layers of paint?

What are some ways to improve transfer efficiency of airless spray application?

What would be an optimal coating system, in terms of both durability and productivity in field painting, for exposed structural steel on the exterior of a stadium built on the seacoast in a damp, cold environment?

What environmental and safety precautions need to be taken when removing lead-based paint from the brick on a commercial building adjacent to the sidewalk in a dense urban business district when the removal method is chemical stripping followed by water blasting?

What is the best combination of metal (for instance, steel or aluminum) and coatings for creating bright colors on public art and sculpture, considering durability, initial cost, maintenance burden, resistance to vandalism, and gloss and color retention.

What causes static electricity during abrasive blasting? What risk does it pose, and how can it be controlled?

How much detail should be included in a specification for the surface preparation and painting of a parking garage exterior that includes tilt-up and structural concrete substrates?

How can you justify the cost of installing an auto-blast machine and a paint booth in a fabricator's shop, and what resources are available to carry out such an analysis?

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Considering cost, productivity, and thoroughness, what is the best way to remove paint from cement blocks (CMUs)?

When SSPC-SP3 (Power Tool Cleaning) is specified, how should one decide when to apply the power tool to the entire surface and when to use it just where the coating appears to be defective or rusting?

On a parking deck with harsh exposure conditions—from road salts, frequent wetting, and freeze-thaw cycles, to some exterior weathering—what generic type of film-forming coating works best and why?

How do you determine whether a lead-bearing coating can be overcoated or must be removed and replaced?

What is the best way to remove graffiti from the surface of historic stone masonry on a church while preserving the appearance properties of the substrate?

What confined-space rescue protocol (internal, third party, etc.) have you developed, and why did you choose this plan?

As a facility owner, how can I justify the cost of quality control measures, such as third-party inspection, to upper management in my company?

Which is the ideal test method (ASTM/ ISO) to test the flexibility of a lining product (organic coating) to be applied on concrete storage tanks to store brine water?

As a facility owner, how can I justify the cost of quality control measures, such as third-party inspection, to upper management in my company?

What are the pros and cons of using an organic vs. inorganic zinc primer?

Do I need to pay attention to the permeability of the coating when specifying coatings for the exteriors of CMU walls?

How do you account for the profile of blasted steel when taking a dry film thickness reading?

What is the clearest way to specify the degree of smoothness that you want to be achieved by surface preparation on an exterior wood substrate that is covered with deteriorated, uneven, and built-up layers of paint?

There are ways to increase the pressure for waterjetting to levels above 20,000 psi. What are the effects of different pressures (below and above 20,000 psi) on cleaning ratios?

I've seen claims of extreme durability for a new concrete floor coating material exposed to heavy foot traffic. Is there a quick test to determine the validity of these claims?

What causes a persistent green/yellow hue on steel that has been exposed for a number of years in close proximity to the ocean, and how should the steel be prepared for painting?

What is the best method for removing a day-glo orange spray graffiti from a brick wall?

What is the best way to assure compliance with specified dry film coating thickness requirements on vertical concrete?

What coating or lining system, including surface preparation, should be used on an in-ground swimming pool constructed of galvanized steel in a northern climate?

Can you provide recommendations on ways to make sure an acid stain can be successfully applied to an existing horizontal concrete surface? I understand that residues such as coatings, curing agents, waxes, or other materials will interfere with the stain’s reaction with the concrete, but can I find out what the substances are so I know how to remove them?

How does abrasive recycling affect cleaning rates when steel is blast-cleaned in the field?

What are the alternatives for removing mildew from previously uncoated concrete block exteriors before coating?

What type of generic coating is required to protect the inside of a tank containing liquid with pH ranging from 2 to 13 and operated at 65-80 degrees Celsius? Why?

What is the best method of testing for moisture content in concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls prior to application of coatings?

How do you repair polyurea coatings?

Do you need to wait for the mortar to cure before repainting a brick surface after repointing and power-tool cleaning? If so, how long, and how do you judge when it is safe?

Should 304 stainless steel pipework be coated prior to insulation?

What is the clearest way to specify the degree of smoothness required by surface preparation on an exterior wood substrate covered with deteriorated and uneven layers of paint?

What are the limitations of rust-encapsulating coatings?

What is the best way to protect an exposed concrete foundation?

Is there a place for using “rust convertors” in heavy-duty maintenance projects?

What would be an optimal coating system, in terms of durability and productivity in field painting, for exposed structural steel on a stadium in a damp, cold environment?

What type of generic coating is required to protect the inside of a tank containing liquid with pH ranging from 2 to 13 and operated at 65-80 degrees Celsius? Why?

Is there a quick way to determine the validity of a claim of “extreme durability” for a new concrete floor coating material exposed to heavy foot traffic?

Should the surfaces of flanges be coated to prevent corrosion? Why or why not?

Is it sufficient to specify simply that paint should be applied "according to the manufacturer’s instructions?" If not, what kind of detail should be included?

What is the effect of the wind-chill factor on the curing of epoxy and PU when temperatures are similar?

In what type of environment is the use of a vapor-impermeable air/moisture barrier recommended? Are there guidelines or standards to help determine this?

What is the best way to repair localized coating breakdown on steel?

What is the best way to protect porous masonry from graffiti?

What causes amine blush in epoxy topcoats?

The facade of my late-19th-century, cast-iron office building has been coated several times, most recently in the 1960s. The paint is faded and delaminating, and I want to remove and replace it. How do I assess the condition of the cast iron and coating, repair weakened areas of the cast iron and prepare and recoat the surface?

When performing maintenance surveys on structures that require coatings under insulation, how do you inspect the condition of the coatings?

I am the facility manager for a new amusement park that will operate year-round in a hot, humid environment. Some critical structural steel in the heart of the park needs to be protected from corrosion and at the same time to retain very good appearance properties for as long as possible, since maintenance painting is disruptive. What coating system should I select to achieve the longest useful life, given that cost is a secondary consideration, and how long will this system look good while providing corrosion protection?

How do you properly coat welded joints?

What is the best way to prepare a horizontal concrete surface for successful application of an acid stain?

What action should be taken if the IOZ fails the MEK test?

What kind of treatment is the best defense against graffiti for rough-surfaced concrete block (CMU)?

How should a contractor respond when he/she reads a specification requirement that "the nominal dry film thickness of the coating shall be 3 mils"?

What should be considered in replacing a wooden deck with one made of concrete, in terms of the options for appearance, color and cost?

As an engineer in a moderate-sized operation, how can I justify the cost of third-party inspection to upper management?

When a food plant runs 24/7, even during coating maintenance, tiny airborne food particles can contaminate a prepared surface. How do you identify, prevent and/or remove such contamination before coating?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using mechanical equipment inspectors or welding inspectors, instead of certified coating inspectors, to perform coating inspection duties?

Is there a definitive relationship between mechanical properties of coatings (such as elongation and tensile strength) and crack-bridging capability?

What is the best way to remove thick-film elastomers from floors and ship decks?

What is the best method of testing for moisture content in concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls before application of coatings?

Does roller nap decrease the lifespan of a three-coat OZEU (organic zinc prime coat, an epoxy intermediate coat, and a urethane finish coat) paint system? Is there a visual guide or specification for this in the industry or test results available for study?

Your field surface preparation requires SSPC SP-10 and your field bolting uses hot-dip galvanized bolts. What surface preparation do you require/allow on and around the bolts?

In what circumstances is third-party inspection recommended for commercial coating work?

How do you best remove lubricants and other contaminants from field-bolted connections prior to painting?

What is the best way to ensure successful application of an acid stain to an existing horizontal concrete surface?

Is the MEK rub test a conclusive test to check the cure of IOZ coatings?

What is the best combination of metal and coatings for creating bright colors on public art and sculpture, keeping in mind durability, cost, maintenance, and gloss and color retention?

I’m told that bond breakers and form release agents must be completely removed from newly placed concrete before coating. How is this best accomplished and verified?

Are there any industry standards, technical references, guidelines etc. that provide direction to an owner as to when a low-slope roof membrane (single ply, mechanically attached, white thermoplastic) should or MUST be replaced?

What is the correct procedure for carrying out preventive maintenance painting work in a small chemical product tank?

Animal fat in slaughterhouses often penetrates concrete surfaces. If the fat is not removed before the concrete is coated, the fat can cause the coating to fail. How do you identify and remove the contamination before coating the concrete?

What is the most important factor to determine in a failure investigation and why is it so?

What criteria should an owner use to determine whether to specify full removal or spot- or zone-repair on a maintenance project?

What type of material should I use to achieve bright, bold colors on a concrete floor that gets heavy foot traffic?

What is the best and quickest method for removing a polyurea tank lining?

What is a self-leveling floor coating, and are there any published standards such coatings must meet in terms of smoothness or other visual properties?

What are the differences between calcium sulfonate modified alkyd (CSA) and high-ratio calcium sulfonate alkyd (HRCSA) in terms of performance and when and where each is used?

How do I permanently get rid of efflorescence on clay brick?

What causes concrete “dusting,” and is there any way to prevent or remove it?

On guardrails on a marine wharf, grating panels consisting of mild steel bars about 1/8-inch by 1-inch on a 2-inch-square grid were painted with a three-coat zinc/epoxy/urethane system. Inspectors are finding numerous pinholes in the finish coat along the inside corners of the grating where the 1-inch-thick bars meet at a 90-degree angle. These pinholes were not noticed in the zinc or epoxy coats, but the final coat's visual inspection is more detailed. What is the likely cause of the pinholing, and what could be done to prevent it on future applications? Also, what should the disposition of the parts with pinholes be, as in, repair, accept as is, reblast and recoat, or an alternative?

On a recent project, complex pre-fabricated, hot-dipped galvanized panels exhibited thicknesses in the range required for the entire subsequent coating system. It was not practical or possible to accurately map the thickness of the galvanizing across all the various parts, and DFT gauges available only measure the entire non-ferrous coating, including the galvanizing. How should thickness-per-coat minimums and maximums be controlled and verified for subsequent coatings?

What are the pros and cons of acid-staining a concrete floor?

What’s the best way to determine if a cementitious-based mortar used to repair exterior concrete is ready to be coated?

What is the recommended coating system and procedure for repairing deteriorated inorganic zinc/epoxy/polyurethane 3-coat systems? Does the repair system or procedure vary with the degree of deterioration and if so, how?

I need to remove coatings from masonry on a historic-preservation project. What are my options for doing so without damaging the mortar joints?

If an atmospheric coating system of a zinc-rich epoxy, epoxy mid coat and polyurethane color topcoat has properly cured with no visual defects, should I be worried if the thickness of any coat exceeds any specified maximum?

We’re converting a grocery store into a motorcycle dealership. Should we polish the concrete floor or coat it? The concrete seems in fair shape, from what we can see under the dried mastic where the old vinyl tiles have been removed.

What is the difference between a damp-surface tolerant and a wet-surface tolerant paint? How can we determine when a surface is damp or wet?

During a week of heavy rain, we painted the interior of a heated concrete building. The paint blistered badly a week later on the walls with an outside exposure. What’s the best way to remove the coating, prepare the surface, and recoat to prevent future blistering?

Alternatives to coal tar epoxies in wastewater/sewage applications have been in service for a number of years. From experience, which coating types with what fillers at what thicknesses (over steel) have performed best?

What type of coating system (and surface prep) should be used to protect a steel factory roof that is subject to hydrochloric acid vapors and other industrial pollutants and particulates in a hot, humid environment?

How does a lower-metallic-content zinc-rich epoxy affect the life of a paint system?

Washing with potable water is used to reduce the soluble salt level on steel. However, such water contains low levels of various salts that will deposit on the surface as the water dries. At what point does washing deposit more salt than it removes?

What should be included in the risk assessment of a particular painting project?

Is a sealer coat always required for coating systems applied to concrete surfaces that will be exposed to marine environments?

Under what types of exterior atmospheric exposures (other than marine) is it necessary to test for soluble salts?

What is the optimal moisture content for masonry before painting can begin?

Under what conditions should small-diameter blisters (<1.5 inches) in a water tank lining be repaired/repainted? Should the blisters be broken and the substrate examined?

How do you know when pot life has expired? Can you extend pot life and, if so, how?

For a one-coat inorganic zinc silicate painting system, what is the best method for touch-up and repair?

What is the best way to prevent corrosion of reinforcing bar in concrete?

What factors would justify coating stainless steel in water or wastewater service? What standards and methods apply?

What errors are most likely to occur when measuring dry film thickness on steel, and how can I avoid them?

When is it necessary to install sealant between the base of building walls and concrete sidewalks or pavement to prevent moisture from wicking up the wall? How does the climate affect this decision?

Are there any advantages in applying a protective coating over a hot-dipped galvanized surface?

How do you determine the best type of coating for repainting a block or concrete building?

Should you paint the stainless steel outfitting (ladders, supports, etc.) in steel cargo tanks of chemical tankers?

When and why would I need to stripe coat if I am using an edge-retention primer?

Where are errors most likely to occur when measuring dry film thickness on steel, and how can they be avoided?

When applying a 100% solids, fast-curing polyurea coating on concrete, what is the best method for verifying that the proper thickness has been applied?

What tests and criteria can a coatings user specify to assure consistent lot-to-lot performance of supplied coatings?

Are there special primers and surface preparation requirements for painting unpainted aluminum?

In preparing for coating, what is the best way to treat a steel surface that has been attacked by microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC)?

What are the criteria for selecting coatings for application during extreme (atmospheric) heat?

Where would you use epoxy and cementitious intumescent coatings?

What is an acceptable level of moisture in concrete walls before painting with an acrylic system, and how should the moisture level be measured?

What advantages/disadvantages have you seen with using recycled glass abrasives vs. traditional abrasives?

Specifications often state that glossy surfaces must be dulled before overcoating. What are some methods for doing this, especially when sanding isn’t feasible?

We need to paint our publicly owned lighthouse. What should I include in the specifications for this bid regarding surface preparation, coating systems, and other considerations?

What are the pros and cons of specifying sieve sizes for abrasives?

When using the Bresle method to determine level of salt contamination, why do ISO 8502-9 and IMO PSPC use different constants to covert the conductivity measured (micro Siemens/cm) to total salt density (mg/m2)?

When a specification calls for removing only loose coating from a masonry substrate, what methods are effective without damaging the intact coating that is left on the surface?

Can a cross-cut adhesion test be carried out on IOZ coatings?

What are the common moisture tests for vertical, below-grade concrete structures scheduled to receive a high-build, protective lining system?

What coating problems are likely in storage tanks that have dissimilar metal sides and floors?

How do you assess salts and other non-visible contaminants on concrete surfaces?

How do you remove all traces of an uncured internal coating from a tank when abrasive blasting is not an option?

What kind of coating system provides the strongest resistance to staining from hot tires on garage floors and parking decks?

In preparing for coating, what is the best way to treat a steel surface that has been attacked by microbiologically influenced corrosion?

How do you assess vertical concrete surface pH after surface preparation of existing concrete?

What is the most common or economical coating system for rehabbing the exterior of above-ground storage tanks?

Can lightweight block (CMU) be successfully coated to prevent water intrusion, or is it best to build with standard weight?

Is there any problem measuring the DFT of an MIO coating using an electromagnetic induction gauge?

What should be considered in replacing a wooden deck with one made of concrete, in terms of the options for appearance, color, cost? I've seen articles about stains, integral coloring, and other decorative treatments, as well as lighter-weight concrete, but it's not easy to compare and judge the options.

What are the performance distinctions among various types of intumescent coatings (for example, water-based, solvent-based, epoxies and methacrylates)?

What criteria should be used in deciding between a liquid-applied and a sheet-applied air barrier?

Which single type of paint system can be used to protect both stainless steel and carbon steel welded together?

What are the most effective procedures for protecting steel and adjacent concrete?

Is it practical to use black light to check for dirt or other foreign matter during surface preparation inspection?

What is the best way to achieve proper surface preparation in areas with limited access, such as interior box beams on bridges?

What are the reasons for different dew points from a sling psychrometer and a digital dew point meter at the same site, and what should be done?

How can I tell if my apartment building’s roof is suitable for installing a vegetative roof?

What causes static electricity during abrasive blasting? What risk does it pose, and how can it be controlled?

How do you determine whether a lead-bearing coating can be overcoated or removed and replaced?

What’s the best way to protect a masonry wall from freeze/thaw cycling?

What are the differences between an ethyl silicate base zinc-rich primer and an alkali silicate base zinc-rich primer? In what instances should one be used instead another?

What’s the best way to protect porous masonry from graffiti?

We are restricted to applying road marking paints during hot, humid summer nights, on surfaces very often below dew point conditions. What is the best generic type of marking paint to use?

Do the balcony floor slabs on the high-rise seaside condo I’m working on in Florida really need cathodic protection?

At what percentage of relative humidity and temperature, is amine blush likely to occur?

How do I clean off mortar smears that were allowed to cure for six months on a new architectural block building?

Theoretically, how many LEED credits can be acquired for a newly constructed building through the use of coatings and related technologies, such as diamond-polished concrete?

How long can a blasted surface be left before priming under different temperatures/relative humidity environments?

How do I deal with the small cracks and fractures that occur along the edges and corners of the stone imprints in some of my stamped concrete work?

What is the difference between the coalescence mechanism and the solvent evaporation mechanism regarding the paint film formation?

Zinc metalizing has been applied to concrete surfaces to provide cathodic protection to rebar in the concrete. What are the problems, if any, with applying zinc metalizing to concrete, and what is the best approach to addressing them?

How do I minimize corrosion at the splash zone on sheet pile and piping in brackish water?

How does the concave or convex curvature of a surface affect a coating's shore hardness reading?

How can active corrosion be determined on a live pipeline?

How do you gauge the remaining service life of a weathered alkyd paint system and determine whether it should be removed or overcoated?

How do you determine if local water is suitable for use in UHP waterjetting, particularly in areas where potable water is scarce?

For coatings with a high-solids content (95% or more), what kinds of defects, such as holidays or micropores, are possible or likely to occur in the applied film? How can these be prevented or remedied?

If a paint data sheet notes a required primer thickness of 125 microns, but the project specification calls for 50 microns, how is this resolved?

How does the concave or convex curvature of a surface affect the WFT reading?

Some painting specifications call for the use of “Best Effort” in relation to blasting. How does one determine “Best Effort?”

During newbuilding, do I have to stripe coat edges if I am using an edge retention primer?

What measures must you take to determine and assure the cleanliness of an abrasive?

RH probes are commonly used in concrete floors to determine moisture content. Can they be used in CMU walls or pre-cast walls?

When the relative humidity in a paint shop exceeds 80%, how can you apply waterborne inorganic zinc so that it cures sufficiently for topcoating in a reasonable time?

What causes bubbling or cratering of epoxy intermediate coat when applied over epoxy zinc-rich primer?

If the walls of single-wythe CMU with core fill insulation become saturated, can they be adequately dried out for painting? If so, how?

When performing maintenance painting of tank coatings, what are the pros and cons of overcoating an existing lining that appears to be in good condition?

What is the service life of a painted weathering steel bridge, compared to a painted carbon steel bridge in the same service environment?

How do you strip paint from a cementitious substrate if you can’t alter the surface texture?

Is it cost-effective to grind steel edges before coating for atmospheric service? Why or why not?

When preparing to refurbish an old concrete secondary containment wall around a storage tank, what criteria should be used to determine if a crack can be repaired for coating or if the section of the wall should be rebuilt?

Can efflorescence be removed from integrally colored CMU without damaging the appearance? How?

When preparing to refurbish an old concrete secondary containment wall around a storage tank, what criteria should be used to determine if a crack can be repaired for coating or if the section of the wall should be rebuilt?

Some specifications may have requirements that the inspector may know to be extraneous or may be more restrictive than necessary to obtain a quality coating application. What is the ethical responsibility of the inspector to reject non-conforming coatings that they know will perform as intended, particularly where attempted repairs may degrade the coating system?

How do you measure the DFT or WFT of a film-forming sealer applied to a metallized coating (e.g., flame-sprayed zinc)?

What types of measures can be taken on or around metal pipes or columns that penetrate concrete or asphalt paving to reduce corrosion at the interface?

How many times can a building be repainted before the paint becomes too thick to perform properly?

When is it cost-effective to use thermal spray in petrochemical facilities?

Which generic coating systems are suitable for protecting pipeline internals carrying highly abrasive media?

What are the performance distinctions among various types of intumescent coatings (for example, water-based, solvent based, epoxies, methacrylates, etc.)?

What can be done to prevent rust bleed in crevices when applying a zinc/epoxy/urethane system?

From a specifier’s point of view, what are the important distinctions between various products that are classified as polyurea?

What is the proper surface preparation for stainless steel before coating to resist a salt-laden atmosphere?

When should you specify UHP waterjetting on bridges?

Why are zinc-rich paints generally not used for an immersion environment, despite the superior anti-corrosive protection?

Which factors are most important in selecting coatings for new concrete?

What must specifiers consider when selecting and using sealants and grouts to fill gaps and seal concrete structures?

Is it necessary to holiday test the interior lining in the vapor phase (roof) of water storage tanks after coating?

When blasting cast-iron structural steelwork, what type of defects might be found, and how do you address them?

How do you successfully apply a chemical-resistant lining to the interior of small-diameter pipes (3 inches or less)?

In preparing for coating, what is the best way to treat a steel surface that has been attacked by microbiologically influenced corrosion?

Which lining systems are suitable for the maintenance painting of an mono ethylene glycol storage tank protection?

What are the options for shop-applied systems (surface preparation and coating type) to protect the interiors and exteriors of new saltwater storage tanks and associated steelwork that will be exposed to seawater, and that will allow for easy touchup and maintenance once the structures are erected?

What are the most effective procedures for protecting steel and adjacent concrete together?

What is the remedial action if a blaster produces too high a surface profile for the required primer thickness?

How do you adequately assess the adhesion of a newly applied coating?

What are the best cycles to use in cyclic accelerated corrosion testing to achieve the highest correlation with atmospheric exposure in a northern, industrial environment?

What is the best method for preparing newly galvanized steel to be overcoated with an epoxy system?

How should a conflict between requirements, such as film thickness, on a product data sheet and the specification be resolved?

I need to embed a metallized culvert liner on concrete. I've been told I have to paint it to avoid adhesion problems between the metal liner and the concrete. Is this true and, if so, what type of coating is best?

What is the preferred method to remove 25-year-old coal tar epoxy from a carbon steel tank in order to reline?

How can you determine if a concrete substrate is in suitable condition for application of an acid stain?

What percentage of deterioration is acceptable at a one-year warranty inspection of water tank linings before a contractor must repair the coating job?

I’ve heard about using crystalline admixture or crystalline materials on top of concrete to fill voids and make the substrate less permeable. When is this desirable, and what is the best way to use these materials?

How clean must the compressed-air supply be for blast cleaning, blow down and painting? How is cleanliness of the air determined?

What smartphone apps or online tools do you find useful in your job? How do they work, and how do they help?

When implementing an in-plant, exterior exposure, or accelerated testing program for coatings, should the test panels be scribed? Why?

What is best way to remedy over-thickness of a topcoat after it has dried and cured?

How do you measure wet film thickness on shop-applied organic zinc-rich primers to accurately predict dry film thickness?

How is it possible to determine if concrete is sound enough to receive a thick-film coating?

What components of an onshore shale gas drilling rig require coating protection, and what properties must the coatings have?

The first step of using replica tape to measure surface profile (i.e ISO 8503-5) is choosing the right tape e.g Coarse and X-Coarse. But without any data about blasting surface, how we can choose the right replica tape corresponding to the surface profile?

What is the definition of a hybrid coating, and what are the performance properties of hybrid coatings?

In reviewing the testing data for adhesion, some manufacturers indicate ASTM D4541 results while others show ASTM C3359 results. Is it possible to compare one against the other? For example, does 1037 psi provide better adhesion than 4A?

What is the best way to prevent tropical hardwood deck lumber like ironwood from developing a gray patina in sunlight?

In a northern climate with extreme winters, is it reasonable to consider retrofitting an air barrier to a multi-unit brick apartment building? What sort of installation strategy would be most beneficial?

How can you safely remove a polyurea coating? As blasting is not possible, is there a chemical removal method?

The literature indicates that UHP waterjetting does produce a profile on steel, although of a micro nature. Is this sufficient roughness for good adhesion of thin film primers (e.g. < 2 mils dft)?

How can you determine the moisture content of a concrete block (CMU) wall, and how can you judge when the moisture level is sufficiently low to paint?

What is the best way for me to assure I'm getting what I want when I specify a decorative finish such as glazing or gilding?

How do you repair delaminated areas of an elastomeric polyurea when the majority of the coating system is intact?

When we use field splice plate connections on structural steel projects, how do we prevent rust and rust staining at bolt heads and at the splice plate/steel interface?

Do you need to wait for the mortar to cure before repainting a brick surface after repointing and power-tool cleaning to remove loosely adhered coating material from a previous paint job? If so, how long, and is there a way to judge when it is safe?

What are the benefits and risks of using holiday testing on mat-reinforced, thermoset linings (over a conductive primer) on concrete substrates intended for immersion service? Should other tests be performed with or instead of holiday testing?

What generic types of coatings work best as liquid-applied air barriers, considering both cost and effectiveness, and what should be the dry film thickness of this system?

What are the significant differences in performance between an inorganic zinc primer (ethyl silicate) and an organic zinc primer (epoxy), given the same application and exposure conditions?

What are the pros and cons of using shotblasting to remove a coating system from a concrete floor?

ASTM A780 says zinc-rich paints for repairing hot-dip galvanized damage must contain either between 65-69% metallic zinc by weight or greater than 92% metallic zinc by weight in dry film. Why is only 65-69% or above 92% accepted? Is any zinc-rich paint out of these ranges not suitable for HDG repair?

Where there is likely to be ponding water, what generic type of reflective roof coating will work best and why?

I keep reading references to sweep blasting, but I can't find a standard for it. What is sweep blasting, and is there a standard for it in the U.S. or elsewhere?

How can you justify the cost of installing an auto-blast machine and a paint booth in a fabricator's shop, and what resources are available to carry out such an analysis?

Considering cost, productivity, and thoroughness, what is the best way to remove paint from cement blocks (CMUs)?

When SSPC-SP3 (Power Tool Cleaning) is specified, how should one decide when to apply the power tool to the entire surface and when to use it just where the coating appears to be defective or rusting?

What is the clearest way to specify the degree of smoothness that you want to be achieved by surface preparation on an exterior wood substrate that is covered with deteriorated, uneven and built-up layers of paint?

How do you determine if steel shot or grit for centrifugal/wheel blasting need to be replaced?

If I apply 140 microns of inorganic zinc to a steel substrate with a 75 micron profile, is there any concern about cracking of the primer during storage, shipment, and erection of the structure, or with field-application of a topcoat?

I've seen claims of extreme durability for a new concrete floor coating material exposed to heavy foot traffic. Is there a quick test to determine the validity of these claims?

How do you determine the size of the dehumidification equipment required for a tank lining project?

What is the best method for removing a day-glo orange spray graffiti from a brick wall?

What is the best way to judge the effectiveness and durability of competing liquid-applied air barriers on concrete block?

A specification for a bridge to be built of high-performance weathering steel (HPS GR50/GR70W) requires an SSPC-SP 10, a profile of 3 to 5 mils, and metallizing with a final dft of 10-12 mils. What challenges, time, and costs are associated with obtaining the profile, primarily in the shop but also in the field? Are there any long-term performance issues with metallizing over weathering steel?

What procedures and tools are needed for assessing the condition of coatings and substrates in a process facility to develop a maintenance painting plan?

What environmental and safety precautions must be taken when using chemical stripping and water blasting to remove lead-based paint from a commercial building exterior in an urban business district?

What is the state-of-the-art treatment and preservation of the many cables used on suspension bridges?

What kind of initial treatment is the best defense against graffiti for rough-surfaced concrete block (CMU)?

What causes static electricity during abrasive blasting? What risk does it pose, and how can it be controlled?

What quality control checks can I use to assure the cleanliness of steel abrasive in a fabricator's or shipyard's shop?

When a food plant runs 24/7, even during coating maintenance, tiny airborne food particles can contaminate a prepared surface. How do you identify, prevent and/or remove such contamination before coating?

What environmental and safety precautions need to be taken when removing lead-based paint from the brick on a commercial building adjacent to the sidewalk in a dense urban business district when the removal method is chemical stripping followed by water blasting?

How do you maintain a proper operating mix of recyclable abrasive in the field?

What is the best method of testing for moisture content in concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls before application of coatings?

What is best media to use to remove aged epoxy coal tar from a steel tank before re-lining?

What is the best method of testing for moisture content in concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls before application of coatings?

Does roller nap decrease the lifespan of a three-coat OZEU (organic zinc prime coat, an epoxy intermediate coat and a urethane finish coat) paint system? Is there a visual guide or specification for this in the industry or test results available for study?

What should be considered in replacing a wooden deck with one made of concrete, in terms of the options for appearance, color and cost?

What surface treatment is best when the maximum manufacturer recommended interval for overcoating has been exceeded?

During a week of heavy rain, we painted the interior walls of a heated concrete building. On the interior of walls that had an outside exposure, the paint blistered badly a week after the rain subsided. Could the rain have caused the blistering and, if so, how?

I understand that the EPA is reluctant to allow the use of nanoparticles in coatings, due to their tendency to persist in the environment. What is the real risk, and how can the nanocoating industry address it?

What tests and criteria can a coatings user specify to assure consistent lot-to-lot performance of supplied coatings?

How do you assess salts and other non-visible contaminants on concrete surfaces?

Is the MEK rub test a conclusive test to check the cure of IOZ coatings?

Where are errors most likely to occur when measuring dry film thickness on steel, and how can they be avoided?

What is the correct procedure for carrying out preventive maintenance painting work in a small chemical product tank?

Why would a pull-off adhesion test give a high value (no failure) for a solventless epoxy that later showed poor adhesion in service?

How should a contractor respond when he/she reads a specification requirement that "the nominal dry film thickness of the coating shall be 3 mils"?

How does concave or convex curvature of a surface affect the WFT reading?

How do you calibrate a DFT gauge in the magnetic field of a live power plant to measure coatings on steel substrates?

How can it be determined if moisture within a CMU wall is causing repeated coating failure? If so, can the source of moisture entry be accurately identified for correction?

What measures must be taken to determine and assure the cleanliness of an abrasive?

As an engineer in a moderate-sized chemical plant, how can I justify the cost of third-party inspection to upper management?

When and why would I need to stripe coat if I am using an edge-retention primer?

Is stainless steel banding suitable for fixing galvanized insulation cladding? If not, why not?

What health and safety precautions should contractors take when applying isocyanate-cured epoxies in the field?

When is it necessary to install sealant between the base of building walls and concrete sidewalks or pavement to prevent moisture from wicking up the wall? How does the climate affect this decision?

What factors would justify coating stainless steel in water or wastewater service? What standards and methods apply?

What is the best method for removing production machine oils soaked deeply into a concrete floor before applying a non-skid coating?

As a facility owner, how can I justify the cost of quality control measures, such as third-party inspection, to upper management in my company?

When applying a 100% solids, fast-curing polyurea coating on concrete, what is the best method for verifying that the proper thickness has been applied?

How do you gauge the remaining service life of an aging FBE system on a buried transmission pipeline?

Is there any method to take accurate wet film thickness readings when applying zinc rich primers?

What is an acceptable level of moisture in concrete walls before painting with an acrylic system, and how is the moisture level measured?

How do you keep sealants in control joints from cracking or separating from the substrate?

Specifications often state that glossy surfaces must be dulled before overcoating. What are some methods for doing this, especially when sanding isn’t feasible or desirable?

How does rapid depressurization affect lining performance in vessels and line pipe, and how can you identify any failure that might result?

What steps must be taken to mitigate poor adhesion over an existing aged silver aluminum paint? What primer will achieve good adhesion?

What is the best way to remove thick-film elastomers from floors and ship decks?

What is the best combination of metal and coatings for creating bright colors on public art and sculpture, keeping in mind durability, cost, maintenance, and gloss and color retention?

How do you remove all traces of an uncured internal coating from a tank when abrasive blasting is not an option?

Is grinding the only way to remove large areas of a silicone coating from a ship's hull to replace the silicone with an epoxy mastic?

What smartphone apps or online tools do you find useful in your job? How do they work, and how have they benefited you?

How should surface preparation be conducted in non-sparking atmospheres?

When a specification calls for removal of only loose coating rather than complete coating removal from a masonry substrate, what surface preparation methods are most likely to work without damaging the intact coating that is left on the surface?

What kind of training and credentials are needed in the U.S. for industrial painters who work near live wires?

A specification requires Manufacturer X’s system “or equivalent.” What does “or equivalent” mean, and who decides what’s “equivalent?”

What causes bubbling or cratering of an epoxy intermediate coat when applied over epoxy zinc-rich primer?

What kind of coating system provides the strongest resistance to staining from hot tires on garage floors and parking decks?

When specifying coatings for maintenance repainting of structural steel, under what conditions is it acceptable to settle for a surface-tolerant system, and when is such a system unacceptable?

How does the concave or convex curvature of a surface affect the dry film thickness reading?

Where would you use epoxy and cementitious intumescent coatings?

When moisture permeates concrete slabs or walls below grade, how can this problem be solved and does it require excavation?

Is there a place for using “rust convertors” in heavy-duty maintenance projects?

How do admixtures to concrete (hardeners, anti-dust compounds, etc.) affect coating adhesion? What can be done to eliminate or minimize negative effects?

What is the effect of the wind-chill factor on the curing of epoxy and PU when temperatures are similar?

What is the effect on the permeability of a coating when you add additional coats, either at the time of the original painting or as a maintenance activity?

How does residue from chemical stripping affect the performance of the replacement coating?

How do you repair polyurea coatings?

I have several water tanks constructed with carbon steel for demineralized water storage. The tanks are about 20 years old, and the original coating has started to blister. For refurbishment of the coating, what material should be used and at what dry film thickness? The original type of coating is unknown.

What is the Cold Wall Effect? Can it cause premature coating failure and, if so, how do I prevent or minimize it?

What is the maximum number of holidays that should be permitted for linings used in immersion service, and why?

Do I need to pay attention to the permeability of the coating when specifying coatings for the exteriors of CMU walls?

When SSPC-SP 3 (Power Tool Cleaning) is specified, how should one decide when to apply the tool to the entire surface and when to use it just where the coating appears defective or rusting?

How much detail should be included in a specification for the surface preparation and painting of a parking garage exterior that includes tilt-up and structural concrete substrates?

How do you accurately measure the adhesion of inorganic zinc?

How should a contractor respond when he reads a specification requirement that "the nominal dry film thickness of the coating shall be 3 mils"?

How much detail should be included in a specification for the surface preparation and painting of a parking garage exterior that includes tilt-up and structural concrete substrates?

In what types of climates and/or environments is the use of a vapor-impermeable air/moisture barrier recommended as opposed to a vapor-permeable system? Are there guidelines or standards that can help determine this?

What are some ways to improve transfer efficiency of airless spray application?

What type of generic coating is required to protect the inside of a tank containing liquid with pH ranging from 2 to 13 and operated at 65-80 degrees Celsius? Why?

What is the clearest way to specify the degree of smoothness that you want to be achieved by surface preparation on an exterior wood substrate that is covered with deteriorated, uneven and built-up layers of paint?

What would be an optimal coating system, in terms of both durability and productivity in field painting, for exposed structural steel on the exterior of a stadium built on the seacoast in a damp, cold environment?

Should the surfaces of flanges be coated to prevent corrosion? Why or why not?

What type of coating system (and surface prep) should be used to protect a steel factory roof that is subject to hydrochloric acid vapors and other industrial pollutants and particulates in a hot, humid environment?

How do you properly coat welded joints?

What environmental and safety precautions need to be taken when removing lead-based paint from the brick on a commercial building adjacent to the sidewalk in a dense urban business district when the removal method is chemical stripping followed by water blasting?

Is it sufficient to specify simply that paint should be applied "according to the manufacturer’s instructions?" If not, what kind of detail should be included?

What is the best combination of metal (for instance, steel or aluminum) and coatings for creating bright colors on public art and sculpture, considering durability, initial cost, maintenance burden, resistance to vandalism, and gloss and color retention.

What are the most important recommendations for ensuring success in field application of reflective roof coatings to aging single-ply roofs? Do these recommendations vary depending on whether the roof is EPDM, TPO, PVC, or some other type of substrate?

What is the best way to repair localized coating breakdown on steel?

What type of material should I use to achieve bright, bold colors on a concrete floor with heavy foot traffic?

What causes amine blush in epoxy topcoats?

How do I determine when a cementitious-based mortar used to repair exterior concrete is ready to be coated?

Can water be sprayed onto an IOZ coated surface, which has not fully cured due to low humid conditions, to accelerate the cure?

Under what conditions should stainless steel be painted in the oil and gas industry?

What is the maximum temperature that an epoxy powder coating can resist when applied on steel substrate?

The facade of my late-19th-century, cast-iron office building has been coated several times, most recently in the 1960s. The paint is faded and delaminating, and I want to remove and replace it. How do I assess the condition of the cast iron and coating, repair weakened areas of the cast iron and prepare and recoat the surface?

Should 304 stainless steel pipework be coated prior to insulation?

When a food plant runs 24/7 even during coating maintenance, tiny food particles floating in the air (e.g., sugar from sugar processing) in the plant can contaminate a prepared surface. How do you prevent such contamination, or identify it and remove it before applying the coating?

What is the best way to judge the effectiveness of competing products offered as liquid-applied air barriers on concrete block, in terms of both durability and air barrier properties?

What are the limitations of rust-encapsulating coatings?

What causes blistering/crater formation in freshly applied polyurethane topcoats, and how can this be avoided?

What kind of surface preparation prior to coating will be effective and at the same time economical for the aluminum window frames on a large commercial office building? The aluminum was coated originally with a baked-on fluoropolymer which has lost most of its gloss. Maintenance recoating will be with an air-dry fluoropolymer.

What is most effective treatment for steel contaminated with MIC before painting?

What coating or lining system, including surface preparation, should be used on an in-gound swimming pool constructed of galvanized steel in a northern climate?

Your field surface preparation requires SSPC SP-10 and your field bolting uses hot-dip galvanized bolts. What surface preparation do you require/allow on and around the bolts?

Can you provide recommendations on ways to make sure an acid stain can be successfully applied to an existing horizontal concrete surface? I understand that residues such as coatings, curing agents, waxes, or other materials will interfere with the stain’s reaction with the concrete, but can I find out what the substances are so I know how to remove them?

What is the best way to assure compliance with specified dry film coating thickness requirements on vertical concrete?

What are the alternatives for removing mildew from previously uncoated concrete block exteriors before coating?

Can an epoxy polyamide zinc phosphate primer be overcoated with a synthetic enamel alkyd-based topcoat? If no, why not?

What is the best method of testing for moisture content in concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls prior to application of coatings?

How does abrasive recycling affect cleaning rates when steel is blast-cleaned in the field?

Which type of abrasive blasting media is suitable for preparing the more “exotic” stainless steels, such as Inconel or Monel?

Is there a definitive relationship between mechanical properties of coatings (such as elongation and tensile strength) and crack-bridging capability?

What do you do when the surface profile is higher than the dry film thickness of the specified primer?

What is the difference between a damp-surface tolerant and a wet-surface tolerant paint? How can we determine when a surface is damp or wet?

I need to coat a bare concrete warehouse floor that has visible oil stains. What are my options for cleaning the concrete before coating it?

During a week of heavy rain, we painted the interior of a heated concrete building. The paint blistered badly a week later on the walls with an outside exposure. What’s the best way to remove the coating, prepare the surface, and recoat to prevent future blistering?

A specification for a bridge to be built of high-performance weathering steel requires an SSPC-SP 10, a profile of 3 to 5 mils, and metallizing with a final DFT of 10-12 mils. What challenges, time, and costs are associated with obtaining the profile?

What is the best way to repair localized coating breakdown on steel?

Is it cost-effective to grind steel edges before coating for atmospheric service? Why or why not?

Are duplex coatings suitable for immersion service?

What causes blistering/crater formation in freshly applied polyurethane topcoats, and how can this be avoided?

Which is the most reliable technique to determine pot life of two component paints?

What is the best primer system for galvanized steel?

What’s the best way to prevent corrosion of reinforcing bar in concrete?

What is the proper surface preparation for stainless steel before coating to resist a salt-laden atmosphere?

How do you protect concrete against microbiologically influenced corrosion?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using mechanical equipment inspectors or welding inspectors, instead of certified coating inspectors, to perform coating inspection duties?

Under what circumstances is third-party inspection justified on commercial coating work?

What is the best low-maintenance approach to coating power-tool-cleaned field weld joints on process pipework that is protected with thermal-sprayed aluminum?

How does a lower-metallic-content zinc-rich epoxy affect the life of a paint system?

What components of an onshore shale gas drilling rig require coating protection, and what properties must the coatings have?

What pluses and minuses have you seen with using recycled-glass abrasives vs. traditional abrasives?

What type of antifouling or foul-release coating will provide the greatest protection in warm tropical waters, and for how long?

How do you determine the best type of coating for repainting a block or concrete building?

How do I prepare an oil-stained, bare concrete floor for coating?

What are the performance distinctions among various types of intumescent coatings (for example, water-based, solvent-based, epoxies and methacrylates)?

How do you prepare flame-cut edges for application of thermal spray metallic coatings? The problem is that these edges are often harder than the abrasive, so a very low profile is produced, resulting in lower-than-specified adhesion of the thermal spray to the steel.

What are the most effective procedures for protecting steel and adjacent concrete?

What is the best way to achieve proper surface preparation in areas with limited access, such as interior box beams on bridges?

How pure must fresh water be for water washing or waterjetting, and how do you determine the water’s purity?

Zinc metalizing has been applied to concrete surfaces to provide cathodic protection to rebar in the concrete. What are the problems, if any, with applying zinc metalizing to concrete, and what is the best approach to addressing them?

How long after blasting can stainless steel be left before painting? If this time is exceeded, what further surface preparation is required?

Which factors are most important in selecting coatings for new concrete?

How do you determine if local water is suitable for use in UHP waterjetting, particularly in areas where potable water is scarce?

What must specifiers consider when selecting and using sealants and grouts to fill gaps and seal concrete structures?

Some painting specifications call for the use of “Best Effort” in relation to blasting. How does one determine “Best Effort?”

What are the criteria for selecting coatings for application during extreme (atmospheric) heat?

What is the service life of a painted weathering steel bridge, compared to a painted carbon steel bridge in the same service environment?

When is it cost-effective to use thermal spray in petrochemical facilities?

How do you determine whether a lead-bearing coating can be overcoated or removed and replaced?

Are there special primers and surface preparation requirements for painting unpainted aluminum?

How do you know when pot life has expired? Can you extend pot life and, if so, how?

Is it necessary to holiday test the interior lining in the vapor phase (roof) of water storage tanks after coating?

How do you adequately assess the adhesion of a newly applied coating?

What is an acceptable level of moisture in concrete walls before painting with an acrylic system, and how should the moisture level be measured?

Which DFT statistics should be recorded in a daily inspection report, and why are they relevant to a good coating QC record?

Specifications often state that glossy surfaces must be dulled before overcoating. What are some methods for doing this, especially when sanding isn’t feasible?

If a zinc rich epoxy primer has been applied at lower than the specified thickness, how should this be treated?

What should be included in the risk assessment of a particular painting project?

The trend in bridge repainting projects is that they are routinely including structural repairs; however, the sequencing of the work on these projects is important. When should structural repairs be conducted: before, during or after the cleaning and repainting operations?

How should a conflict between requirements, such as film thickness, on a product data sheet and the specification be resolved?

What makes a coating surface-tolerant?

How can I determine the cleanliness of stainless steel for painting after blast cleaning?

What percentage of deterioration is acceptable at a one-year warranty inspection of water tank linings before a contractor must repair the coating job?

We need to paint our publicly owned lighthouse. What should I include in the specifications for this bid regarding surface preparation, coating systems, and other considerations?

How many areas should be tested for possible chloride contamination during fabrication of an offshore production platform, and why?

What is best way to remedy over-thickness of a topcoat after it has dried and cured?

When a specification requires Manufacturer X’s system “or equivalent,” what does “or equivalent” mean, and who decides what’s equivalent?

What are the common moisture tests for vertical, below-grade concrete structures scheduled to receive a high-build, protective lining system?

How do you use smartphone apps on the job? What tasks or needs does your phone or tablet help with during the course of a day?

On a parking deck with harsh exposures—to road salt, frequent wetting, freeze-thaw cycles, and exterior weathering—what generic coating type works best, and why?

What are the best solutions (and limitations) for refurbishing small diameter (less than 10-inch) embedded pipelines with multiple bends?

What criteria should be used in deciding between a liquid-applied and a sheet-applied air barrier?

When performing maintenance painting of tank coatings, what are the pros and cons of overcoating an existing lining that appears to be in good condition?

How can I determine if my urban hospital building would benefit financially by installing a reflective roof coating on top of the current flat black roofing substrate?

How do I get permanently get rid of efflorescence on clay brick?

What are the pros and cons of using shotblasting to remove a coating system from a concrete floor?

Zinc metalizing has been applied to concrete surfaces to provide cathodic protection to rebar in the concrete. What are the problems, if any, with applying zinc metalizing to concrete, and what is the best approach to addressing them?

What causes concrete “dusting,” and is there any way to prevent or remove it?

I need to remove coatings from masonry on a historic-preservation project. What are my options for doing so without damaging the mortar joints?

What components of an onshore shale gas drilling rig require coating protection, and what properties must the coatings have?

I’m converting a commercial space and am trying to decide on the floor. Should we polish the concrete floor or coat it? The concrete seems in fair shape, from what we can see under the dried mastic where the old vinyl tiles have been removed.

On a parking deck with harsh exposures—to road salt, frequent wetting, freeze-thaw cycles, and exterior weathering—what generic coating type works best, and why?

How can I tell if my apartment building’s roof is suitable for installing a vegetative roof?

How do you determine the size of the dehumidification equipment required for a tank lining project?

How do you best remove lubricants and other contaminants from field-bolted connections prior to painting?

What’s the best way to protect a masonry wall from freeze/thaw cycling?

What is the function of an air receiver during blasting?

What’s the best way to protect porous masonry from graffiti?

What is the best coating system to protect the hulls of floating production storage offloading units (FPSOs)?

Do the balcony floor slabs on the high-rise seaside condo I’m working on in Florida really need cathodic protection?

What is the most important factor to determine in a failure investigation and why is it so?

How do I clean off mortar smears that were allowed to cure for six months on a new architectural block building?

Under what types of exterior atmospheric exposures (other than marine) is it necessary to test for soluble salts?

What is the best way to protect an exposed concrete foundation?

What is the best method for protecting cables on suspension bridges from corrosion?

What is the best way to protect an exposed concrete foundation?

How do you repair polyurea coatings?

What errors are most likely to occur when measuring dry film thickness on steel, and how can I avoid them?

RH probes are commonly used in concrete floors to determine moisture content. Can they be used in CMU walls or pre-cast walls?

What are the best options for coating steel and aluminum when encased in concrete below grade, to ensure long-term protection?

What is the correct gauge type and probe for measuring coating thickness of a super duplex stainless steel system with epoxy and polyurethane?

If the walls of single-wythe CMU with core fill insulation become saturated, can they be adequately dried out for painting? If so, how?

How long after blasting can stainless steel be left before painting? If this time is exceeded, what further surface preparation is required?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using mechanical equipment inspectors or welding inspectors, instead of certified coating inspectors, to perform coating inspection duties?

ASTM International announced it would develop a proposed standard for fiber-reinforced concrete to give the engineering community the data needed to measure tensile strength. While it was reported that the use of fiber reinforcement has been “limited,” do you believe fiber-reinforced concrete will become more widely used in the construction industry within the next decade?

How do you strip paint from a cementitious substrate if you can’t alter the surface texture?

When refurbishing an old concrete secondary containment wall around a storage tank, what criteria should be used to determine if a crack can be repaired for coating or if the section of the wall should be rebuilt?

What is the best method for preparing newly galvanized steel to be overcoated with an epoxy system?

Can efflorescence be removed from integrally colored CMU without damaging the appearance? How?

What abrasive should be used to prepare stainless steel?

What is the optimal moisture content for masonry before painting can begin?

How do you overcoat an aged inorganic zinc coating?

How do you determine the best type of paint to use when repainting a block or concrete building?

What can be done to prevent rust bleed in crevices when applying a zinc/epoxy/urethane system?

How is it possible to determine if concrete is sound enough to receive a thick-film coating?

How do I prepare an oil-stained, bare concrete floor for coating?

What is the definition of a hybrid coating, and what are the performance properties of hybrid coatings?

Which generic coating systems are suitable for protecting pipeline internals carrying highly abrasive media?

How can you determine the moisture content of a concrete block (CMU) wall, and how can you judge when the moisture level is sufficiently low to paint?

What are the criteria for selecting coatings for application during extreme (atmospheric) heat?

Do you need to wait for the mortar to cure before repainting a brick surface after repointing and power-tool cleaning to remove loosely adhered coating material from a previous paint job? If so, how long, and is there a way to judge when it is safe?

When SSPC-SP3 (Power Tool Cleaning) is specified, how should one decide when to apply the tool to the entire surface and when to use it just where the coating appears defective or rusting?

Theoretically, how many LEED credits can be acquired for a newly constructed building through the use of coatings and related technologies, such as diamond-polished concrete?

How do you determine whether a lead-bearing coating can be overcoated or must be removed and replaced?

What causes static electricity during abrasive blasting? What risk does it pose, and how can it be controlled?

What confined-space rescue protocol (internal, third party, etc.) have you developed, and why did you choose this plan?

On a parking deck with harsh exposure conditions—from road salts, frequent wetting, and freeze-thaw cycles, to some exterior weathering—what generic type of film-forming coating works best and why?

Do you need to wait for the mortar to cure before repainting a brick surface after repointing and power-tool cleaning? If so, how long, and how do you judge when it is safe?

How should a conflict between requirements, such as film thickness, on a product data sheet and the specification be resolved?

What is the best way to remove graffiti from the surface of historic stone masonry on a church while preserving the appearance properties of the substrate?

As a facility owner, how can I justify the cost of quality control measures, such as third-party inspection, to upper management in my company?

When should you specify UHP waterjetting on bridges?

Which is the ideal test method (ASTM/ ISO) to test the flexibility of a lining product (organic coating) to be applied on concrete storage tanks to store brine water?

Do I need to pay attention to the permeability of the coating when specifying coatings for the exteriors of CMU walls?

How much detail should be included in a specification for the surface preparation and painting of a parking garage exterior that includes tilt-up and structural concrete substrates?

How can I determine the cleanliness of stainless steel for painting after blast cleaning?

What are the pros and cons of using an organic vs. inorganic zinc primer?

What is the clearest way to specify the degree of smoothness that you want to be achieved by surface preparation on an exterior wood substrate that is covered with deteriorated, uneven, and built-up layers of paint?

How do you account for the profile of blasted steel when taking a dry film thickness reading?

I've seen claims of extreme durability for a new concrete floor coating material exposed to heavy foot traffic. Is there a quick test to determine the validity of these claims?

What is the best method for removing a day-glo orange spray graffiti from a brick wall?

There are ways to increase the pressure for waterjetting to levels above 20,000 psi. What are the effects of different pressures (below and above 20,000 psi) on cleaning ratios?

What environmental and safety precautions need to be taken when removing lead-based paint from the brick on a commercial building adjacent to the sidewalk in a dense urban business district when the removal method is chemical stripping followed by water blasting?

What causes a persistent green/yellow hue on steel that has been exposed for a number of years in close proximity to the ocean, and how should the steel be prepared for painting?

Should pull-off adhesion tests be carried out on a zinc-rich primer alone, or only on a complete system?

What is the best combination of metal (for instance, steel or aluminum) and coatings for creating bright colors on public art and sculpture, considering durability, initial cost, maintenance burden, gloss, color retention and resistance to vandalism.

What are the performance distinctions among various types of intumescent coatings? More specifically, the differences between water-based, solvent-based, epoxies and methacrylates?

What are the alternatives for removing mildew from uncoated concrete block exteriors before coating?

What is the best way to judge the effectiveness of competing products offered as liquid-applied air barriers on concrete block, in terms of both durability and air barrier properties?

What is the best way to remedy over-thickness of a topcoat after it has dried and cured?

How do you abrasive-blast the interior surfaces of steel or ductile iron pipe scheduled to receive a high-build, high-performance protective lining system?

Can you provide recommendations on ways to make sure an acid stain can be successfully applied to an existing horizontal concrete surface?

What are the performance distinctions among various types of intumescent coatings (for example, water-based, solvent-based, epoxies and methacrylates)?

What should be considered in replacing a wooden deck with one made of concrete, in terms of the options for appearance, color, cost?

What factors would justify coating stainless steel in water or wastewater service? What standards and methods apply?

How do you gauge the remaining service life of an aging FBE system on a buried transmission pipeline?

How can I determine if my hospital building in Philadelphia can benefit financially from installation of a reflective roof coating on top of the current black roofing substrate on a flat surface?

What are the pros and cons of acid-staining a concrete floor?

How do I deal with the small cracks and fractures that occur along the edges and corners of the stone imprints in some of my stamped concrete work?

What is the difference between concrete "coatings" and "toppings"?

Can fluoropolymer coatings that are still very glossy be overcoated (if, for example, the topcoat is losing color or the color needs to be changed)? If so, what type of coating can be used, and what surface preparation is required?

Is there any method to take accurate wet film thickness readings when applying zinc rich primers?

How clean must the compressed-air supply be for blast cleaning, blow down and painting? How is cleanliness of the air determined?

How can it be determined if moisture within a CMU wall is causing repeated coating failure? If so, can the source of moisture entry be accurately identified for correction?

How do concrete admixtures such as hardeners and anti-dust compounds affect coating adhesion? What can be done to minimize negative effects?

How do you keep sealants in control joints from cracking or separating from the substrate?

Under what conditions should stainless steel be painted in the oil and gas industry?

What types of measures can be taken on or around metal pipes or columns that penetrate concrete or asphalt paving to reduce corrosion at the interface?

Specifications often state that glossy surfaces must be dulled before overcoating. What are some methods for doing this, especially when sanding isn’t feasible?

How does rapid depressurization affect lining performance in vessels and line pipe, and how can you identify any failure that might result?

When is it necessary to install sealant between the base of building walls and concrete sidewalks or pavement to prevent moisture from wicking up the wall? How does the climate affect this decision?

After applying a thermal spray coating on a petrochemical industry live line that operates at 48 degrees Celsius (118 degrees Fahrenheit), the coating sustained a brown discoloration on the bottom of the pipe. What would cause this discoloration of a TSA coating?

How many times can a building be repainted before the paint becomes too thick to perform properly?

What is the best way to remove thick-film elastomers from floors and ship decks?

In reviewing the testing data for adhesion, some manufacturers indicate ASTM D4541 results while others show ASTM C3359 results. Is it possible to compare one against the other? For example, does 1037 psi provide better adhesion than 4A?

In a northern climate with extreme winters, is it reasonable to consider retrofitting an air barrier to a multi-unit brick apartment building? What sort of installation strategy would be most beneficial?

Is grinding the only way to remove large areas of a silicone coating from a ship's hull to replace the silicone with an epoxy mastic?

What is the effect on the permeability of a coating when you add additional coats, either at the time of the original painting or as a maintenance activity?

How should surface preparation be conducted in non-sparking atmospheres?

What generic types of coatings work best as liquid-applied air barriers, considering both cost and effectiveness, and what should be the dry film thickness of this system?

How do you repair delaminated areas of an elastomeric polyurea when the majority of the coating system is intact?

What is the best way to assure compliance with specified dry film coating thickness requirements on vertical concrete?

In what types of climates and/or environments is the use of a vapor-impermeable air/moisture barrier recommended as opposed to a vapor-permeable system? Are there guidelines or standards that can help determine this?

Can an epoxy polyamide zinc phosphate primer be overcoated with a synthetic enamel alkyd-based topcoat? If no, why not?

How does abrasive recycling affect cleaning rates when steel is blast-cleaned in the field?

When performing maintenance surveys on structures that require coatings under insulation, how do you inspect the condition of the coatings?

What type of material should I use to achieve bright, bold colors that will last on a concrete floor with heavy foot traffic?

In what circumstances is third-party inspection justified on commercial coating work?

What would be a reasonable service life for a two-coat, zinc-rich epoxy/epoxy mastic system, about 200-250 microns, in a marine environment? What evidence is there from the field?

I am the facility manager for a new amusement park that will operate year-round in a hot, humid environment. Some critical structural steel in the heart of the park needs to be protected from corrosion and at the same time to retain very good appearance properties for as long as possible, since maintenance painting is disruptive. What coating system should I select to achieve the longest useful life, given that cost is a secondary consideration, and how long will this system look good while providing corrosion protection?

Is there a definitive relationship between mechanical properties of coatings (such as elongation and tensile strength) and crack-bridging capability?

What are the significant performance differences between an inorganic zinc primer (ethyl silicate) and an organic zinc primer (epoxy), given the same application and exposure conditions?

What kind of surface preparation prior to coating will be effective and at the same time economical for the aluminum window frames on a large commercial office building? The aluminum was coated originally with a baked-on fluoropolymer which has lost most of its gloss. Maintenance recoating will be with an air-dry fluoropolymer.

What is the most effective available method for the treatment and preservation of the many cables used on suspension bridges?

Which single type of paint system can be used to protect both stainless steel and carbon steel welded together?

What coating or lining system, including surface preparation, should be used on an in-ground swimming pool constructed of galvanized steel in a northern climate?

What type of coating system (and surface prep) should be used to protect a steel factory roof that is subject to hydrochloric acid vapors and other industrial pollutants and particulates in a hot, humid environment?

What is the best method of testing for moisture content in concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls prior to application of coatings?

Is it practical to use black light to check for dirt or other foreign matter during surface preparation inspection?

What criteria of selection should be used in deciding between a liquid-applied and a sheet-applied air barrier?

What is the risk of damaging a paint film by inspecting a repaired area more than twice with a high-voltage holiday detector?

How can you determine if a concrete substrate is in suitable condition for application of an acid stain?

How does one apply thin polymer coatings to installed tubes or pipes with diameters of one to three inches and lengths of 20 to 60 feet?

What kind of training and credentials are needed in the U.S. for industrial painters who work near live wires?

I’ve heard about using crystalline admixture or crystalline materials on top of concrete to fill voids and make the substrate less permeable. When is this desirable, and what is the best way to use these materials?

What kinds and sources of data are available to support the use of antimicrobial agents in coatings for hospital substrates?

What errors are most likely to occur when measuring dry film thickness on steel, and how can I avoid them?

When a specification calls for removing only loose coating from a masonry substrate, what methods are effective without damaging the intact coating that is left on the surface?

When a specification requires Manufacturer X’s system “or equivalent,” what does "or equivalent" mean, and who decides what’s equivalent?

When coating an aged concrete floor, how should one determine the correct sequence of surface preparation among the options of pressure washing and grinding or other concrete removal and roughening methods?

When we use field splice plate connections on structural steel projects, how do we prevent rust and rust staining at bolt heads and at the splice plate/steel interface?

Can fluoropolymer coatings that are still very glossy be overcoated (if, for example, the topcoat is losing color or the color needs to be changed)? If so, what type of coating can be used, and what surface preparation is required?

What smartphone apps or online tools do you find useful in your job? How do they work, and how do they help?

What kind of coating system provides the strongest resistance to staining from hot tires on garage floors and parking decks?

What type of antifouling or foul-release coating will provide the greatest protection in warm tropical waters, and for how long?

When planning containment for blasting, what are the most important factors to consider?

What tests and criteria can a coatings user specify to assure consistent lot-to-lot performance of supplied coatings?

How do you determine the best type of staining to impart color and seal on a 30 to 40-year-old brick building being restored with some brick-faced additions?

What are the most important recommendations for ensuring success in field application of reflective roof coatings to aging single-ply roofs? Do these recommendations vary depending on whether the roof is EPDM, TPO, PVC, or some other type of substrate?

What is best way to remedy over-thickness of a topcoat after it has dried and cured?

When coating an aged concrete floor, how should one determine the correct sequence of surface preparation among the options of pressure washing and grinding or other concrete removal and roughening methods?

How do you assess vertical concrete surface pH after surface preparation of existing concrete?

Where are errors most likely to occur when measuring dry film thickness on steel, and how can they be avoided?

What is the best way to prevent tropical hardwood deck lumber like ironwood from developing a gray patina in sunlight?

For coatings with a high-solids content (95 percent or more), what kinds of defects, such as holidays or micropores, are possible or likely to occur in the applied film? How can these be prevented or remedied?

How do you prepare flame-cut edges for application of thermal spray metallic coatings? The problem is that these edges are often harder than the abrasive, so a very low profile is produced, resulting in lower-than-specified adhesion of the thermal spray to the steel.

Why would a pull-off adhesion test give a high value (no failure) for a solventless epoxy that later showed poor adhesion in service?

Can lightweight block (CMU) be successfully coated to prevent water intrusion, or is it best to build with standard weight?

What type of material should I use to achieve bright, bold colors on a concrete floor with heavy foot traffic?

When SSPC-SP3 (Power Tool Cleaning) is specified, how should one decide when to apply the tool to the entire surface and when to use it just where the coating appears defective or rusting?

How can you determine the moisture content of a concrete block (CMU) wall, and how can you judge when the moisture level is low enough to paint?

How do you accurately measure the adhesion of inorganic zinc?

What is the best way for me to assure I’m getting what I want when I specify a decorative finish such as glazing or gilding?

What are some ways to improve transfer efficiency of airless spray application?

How do you prepare an oil-stained, bare concrete floor for coating?

What are the pros and cons of using shotblasting to remove a coating system from a concrete floor?

How can I determine when concrete has cured sufficiently to be coated, besides waiting the 28 days typically specified?

How does the concave or convex curvature of a surface affect the dry film thickness reading?

What kind of initial treatment is the best defense against graffiti for rough-surfaced concrete block (CMU)?

Where there is likely to be ponding water, what generic type of reflective roof coating will work best and why?

Where would you use epoxy and cementitious intumescent coatings?

Is there a place for using “rust convertors” in heavy-duty maintenance projects?

Considering cost, productivity, and thoroughness, what is the best way to remove paint from cement blocks (CMUs)?

Can an epoxy polyamide zinc phosphate primer be overcoated with a synthetic enamel alkyd-based topcoat? If no, why not?

What type of generic coating is required to protect the inside of a tank containing liquid with pH ranging from 2 to 13 and operated at 65-80 degrees Celsius? Why?

Do you need to wait for the mortar to cure before repainting a brick surface after repointing and power-tool cleaning? If so, how long, and how do you judge when it is safe?

Should the surfaces of flanges be coated to prevent corrosion? Why or why not?

What is the clearest way to specify the degree of smoothness required by surface preparation on an exterior wood substrate covered with deteriorated and uneven layers of paint?

In what type of environment is the use of a vapor-impermeable air/moisture barrier recommended? Are there guidelines or standards to help determine this?

What is the effect of the wind-chill factor on the curing of epoxy and PU when temperatures are similar?

How do you repair polyurea coatings?

What is the Cold Wall Effect? Can it cause premature coating failure on a building and, if so, how do I prevent it?

What is the maximum temperature that an epoxy powder coating can resist when applied on steel substrate?

Theoretically, how many LEED credits can be acquired for a newly constructed building through the use of coatings and related technologies?

What is the best way to remove graffiti from the surface of historic stone masonry on a church while preserving the appearance properties of the substrate?

Should 304 stainless steel pipework be coated prior to insulation?

What would be an optimal coating system, in terms of durability and productivity in field painting, for exposed structural steel on a stadium in a damp, cold environment?

What are the limitations of rust-encapsulating coatings?

What causes blistering/crater formation in freshly applied polyurethane topcoats, and how can this be avoided?

Is there a quick way to determine the validity of a claim of “extreme durability” for a new concrete floor coating material exposed to heavy foot traffic?

What is most effective treatment for steel contaminated with MIC before painting?

What is the best way to assure compliance with specified dry film coating thickness requirements on vertical concrete?

How do you properly coat welded joints?

Is it sufficient to specify simply that paint should be applied "according to the manufacturer’s instructions?" If not, what kind of detail should be included?

What kind of treatment is the best defense against graffiti for rough-surfaced concrete block (CMU)?

What is the best way to repair localized coating breakdown on steel?

What is the best way to remove thick-film elastomers from floors and ship decks?

What is the best way to remove thick-film elastomers from floors and ship decks?

What action should be taken if the IOZ fails the MEK test?

What are the alternatives for removing mildew from uncoated concrete block exteriors before coating?

What is best media to use to remove aged epoxy coal tar from a steel tank before re-lining?

What are the most important recommendations for successful field application of reflective coatings to aging single-ply roofs?

Does roller nap decrease the lifespan of a three-coat OZEU (organic zinc prime coat, an epoxy intermediate coat, and a urethane finish coat) paint system? Is there a visual guide or specification for this in the industry or test results available for study?

What is the best way to prepare a horizontal concrete surface for successful application of an acid stain?

What can be used in states that will not allow the use of MEK for IOZ testing per ASTM D4752?

When we use field splice plate connections on structural steel projects, how do we prevent rust and rust staining at bolt heads and at the splice plate/steel interface?

What surface treatment is best when the maximum manufacturer recommended interval for overcoating has been exceeded?

When performing maintenance surveys on structures that require coatings under insulation, how do you inspect the condition of the coatings?

Structural engineers often prefer mechanically galvanized bolts for accurate tightening while corrosion experts often prefer hot-dip galvanized bolts for superior corrosion protection. How do you resolve this inherent conflict?

What is the best method for removing fluorescent orange spray graffiti from a brick wall?

What causes amine blush in epoxy topcoats?

In what circumstances is third-party inspection recommended for commercial coating work?

What is the best way to ensure successful application of an acid stain to an existing horizontal concrete surface?

Your field surface preparation requires SSPC SP-10 and your field bolting uses hot-dip galvanized bolts. What surface preparation do you require/allow on and around the bolts?

Can water be sprayed onto an IOZ coated surface that has not fully cured due to low-humidity conditions to accelerate the cure?

On a parking deck with harsh exposures—to road salt, frequent wetting, freeze-thaw cycles, and exterior weathering—what generic coating type works best, and why?

How do you best remove lubricants and other contaminants from field-bolted connections prior to painting?

How do you assess salts and other non-visible contaminants on concrete surfaces?

Is the MEK rub test a conclusive test to check the cure of IOZ coatings?

What is the best way to judge the effectiveness and durability of competing liquid-applied air barriers on concrete block?

During newbuilding, do I have to stripe coat edges if I am using an edge retention primer?

I’m told that bond breakers and form release agents must be completely removed from newly placed concrete before coating. How is this best accomplished and verified?

What causes bubbling or cratering of epoxy intermediate coat when applied over epoxy zinc-rich primer?

Are there any industry standards, technical references, guidelines etc. that provide direction to an owner as to when a low-slope roof membrane (single ply, mechanically attached, white thermoplastic) should or MUST be replaced?

What is the correct procedure for carrying out preventive maintenance painting work in a small chemical product tank?

What environmental and safety precautions must be taken when using chemical stripping and water blasting to remove lead-based paint from a commercial building exterior in an urban business district?

What is the best combination of metal and coatings for creating bright colors on public art and sculpture, keeping in mind durability, cost, maintenance, and gloss and color retention?

Animal fat in slaughterhouses often penetrates concrete surfaces. If the fat is not removed before the concrete is coated, the fat can cause the coating to fail. How do you identify and remove the contamination before coating the concrete?

How do you determine the size of the dehumidification equipment required for a tank lining project?

What type of material should I use to achieve bright, bold colors on a concrete floor that gets heavy foot traffic?

How should a contractor respond when he/she reads a specification requirement that "the nominal dry film thickness of the coating shall be 3 mils"?

What is the best method of testing for moisture content in concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls before application of coatings?

What is the best way to remove thick film elastomers from floors and ship decks?

Is there a definitive relationship between mechanical properties of coatings (such as elongation and tensile strength) and crack-bridging capability?

As an engineer in a moderate-sized operation, how can I justify the cost of third-party inspection to upper management?

How can I tell if my apartment building’s roof is suitable for installing a vegetative roof?

What is a self-leveling floor coating, and are there any published standards such coatings must meet in terms of smoothness or other visual properties?

What should be considered when deciding between liquid-applied and a sheet-applied air barrier?

What is the most important factor to determine in a failure investigation and why is it so?

What should be considered in replacing a wooden deck with one made of concrete, in terms of the options for appearance, color, cost?

How do I permanently get rid of efflorescence on clay brick?

What criteria should an owner use to determine whether to specify full removal or spot- or zone-repair on a maintenance project?

What causes concrete “dusting,” and is there any way to prevent or remove it?

Why do we still need to stripe coat given the array of high-solids, edge-retentive coatings currently on the market?

What are the pros and cons of acid-staining a concrete floor?

What are the differences between calcium sulfonate modified alkyd (CSA) and high-ratio calcium sulfonate alkyd (HRCSA) in terms of performance and when and where each is used?

When and how should ambiguities between a coating spec, data sheets and responsibilities be clarified?

What’s the best way to determine if a cementitious-based mortar used to repair exterior concrete is ready to be coated?

Under what circumstances is third-party inspection justified on commercial coating work?

If you’re performing a QA inspection as a part-time consultant and the surface in question was blasted and painted two days before you arrived on-site, should you sign off on the work if the owner asks you to?

What do you do when there is conflicting information between the specification and the product data sheet?

I need to remove coatings from masonry on a historic-preservation project. What are my options for doing so without damaging the mortar joints?

We’re converting a grocery store into a motorcycle dealership. Should we polish the concrete floor or coat it? The concrete seems in fair shape, from what we can see under the dried mastic where the old vinyl tiles have been removed.

On guardrails on a marine wharf, grating panels consisting of mild steel bars about 1/8-inch by 1-inch on a 2-inch-square grid were painted with a three-coat zinc/epoxy/urethane system. Inspectors are finding numerous pinholes in the finish coat along the inside corners of the grating where the 1-inch-thick bars meet at a 90-degree angle. These pinholes were not noticed in the zinc or epoxy coats, but the final coat's visual inspection is more detailed. What is the likely cause of the pinholing, and what could be done to prevent it on future applications? Also, what should the disposition of the parts with pinholes be, as in, repair, accept as is, reblast and recoat, or an alternative?

I need to coat a bare concrete warehouse floor that has visible oil stains. What are my options for cleaning the concrete before coating it?

On a recent project, complex pre-fabricated, hot-dipped galvanized panels exhibited thicknesses in the range required for the entire subsequent coating system. It was not practical or possible to accurately map the thickness of the galvanizing across all the various parts, and DFT gauges available only measure the entire non-ferrous coating, including the galvanizing. How should thickness-per-coat minimums and maximums be controlled and verified for subsequent coatings?

What’s the best way to protect a masonry wall from freeze/thaw cycling?

What is the recommended coating system and procedure for repairing deteriorated inorganic zinc/epoxy/polyurethane 3-coat systems? Does the repair system or procedure vary with the degree of deterioration and if so, how?

Do the balcony floor slabs on the high-rise seaside condo I’m working on in Florida really need cathodic protection?

If an atmospheric coating system of a zinc-rich epoxy, epoxy mid coat and polyurethane color topcoat has properly cured with no visual defects, should I be worried if the thickness of any coat exceeds any specified maximum?

What is the difference between a damp-surface tolerant and a wet-surface tolerant paint? How can we determine when a surface is damp or wet?

Alternatives to coal tar epoxies in wastewater/sewage applications have been in service for a number of years. From experience, which coating types with what fillers at what thicknesses (over steel) have performed best?

What is the best way to protect porous masonry from graffiti?

Washing with potable water is used to reduce the soluble salt level on steel. However, such water contains low levels of various salts that will deposit on the surface as the water dries. At what point does washing deposit more salt than it removes?

Is a sealer coat always required for coating systems applied to concrete surfaces that will be exposed to marine environments?

How do I clean off mortar smears that were allowed to cure for six months on a new architectural block building?

Some specifications may have requirements that the inspector may know to be extraneous or may be more restrictive than necessary to obtain a quality coating application. What is the ethical responsibility of the inspector to reject non-conforming coatings that they know will perform as intended, particularly where attempted repairs may degrade the coating system?

Under what types of exterior atmospheric exposures (other than marine) is it necessary to test for soluble salts?

What is the best way to protect an exposed concrete foundation?

Under what conditions should small-diameter blisters (<1.5 inches) in a water tank lining be repaired/repainted? Should the blisters be broken and the substrate examined?

During a week of heavy rain, we painted the interior of a heated concrete building. The paint blistered badly a week later on the walls with an outside exposure. What’s the best way to remove the coating, prepare the surface, and recoat to prevent future blistering?

What errors are most likely to occur when measuring dry film thickness on steel, and how can I avoid them?

What causes static electricity during abrasive blasting? What risk does it pose, and how can it be controlled?

What are the most effective procedures for protecting steel and adjacent concrete together?

How do I deal with the small cracks and fractures that occur along the edges and corners of the stone imprints in some of my stamped concrete work?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using mechanical equipment inspectors or welding inspectors, instead of certified coating inspectors, to perform coating inspection duties?

Can fluoropolymer coatings that are still very glossy be overcoated (if, for example, the topcoat is losing color or the color needs to be changed)? If so, what type of coating can be used, and what surface preparation is required?

Should you paint the stainless steel outfitting (ladders, supports, etc.) in steel cargo tanks of chemical tankers?

We are trying to remove an old, coal tar-based, rubberized waterproofing membrane from a concrete substrate. In some areas it pulls off and in others the adhesion is tenacious. What are some suggestions on increasing the efficiency of this process?

How do I minimize corrosion at the splash zone on sheet pile and piping in brackish water?

Where are errors most likely to occur when measuring dry film thickness on steel, and how can they be avoided?

In preparing for coating, what is the best way to treat a steel surface that has been attacked by microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC)?

What tests and criteria can a coatings user specify to assure consistent lot-to-lot performance of supplied coatings?

For coatings with a high-solids content (95 percent or more), what kinds of defects, such as holidays or micropores, are possible or likely to occur in the applied film? How can these be prevented or remedied?

Which factors are most important in selecting coatings for new concrete?

When blasting cast-iron structural steelwork, what type of defects might be found, and how do you address them?

How can I determine when concrete has cured sufficiently to be coated, besides waiting the 28 days typically specified?

Where would you use epoxy and cementitious intumescent coatings?

What advantages/disadvantages have you seen with using recycled glass abrasives vs. traditional abrasives?

How do you properly coat welded joints?

What tests should be run to determine if an existing concrete bridge pier needs rehabilitation or repair before cleaning and coating?

How pure must fresh water be for water washing or waterjetting, and how do you determine the water’s purity?

What are some ways to improve transfer efficiency of airless spray application?

What is the best method for protecting cables on suspension bridges from corrosion?

How does the concave or convex curvature of a surface affect the dry film thickness reading?

What are the criteria for selecting coatings for application during extreme (atmospheric) heat?

How do you repair polyurea coatings?

Rust from the rollers of roller conveyors in blasting machines can contaminate the clean, newly blasted steel surface. What would be a solution for this issue?

What is the best way to repair localized coating breakdown on steel?

How long after blasting can stainless steel be left before painting? If this time is exceeded, what further surface preparation is required?

What causes blistering/crater formation in freshly applied polyurethane topcoats, and how can this be avoided?

What generic types of coating materials best resist microbiologically induced corrosion (MIC)?

RH probes are commonly used in concrete floors to determine moisture content. Can they be used in CMU walls or pre-cast walls?

What are the pros and cons of specifying sieve sizes for abrasives?

What should be included in the risk assessment of a particular painting project?

How can it be determined if moisture within a CMU wall is causing repeated coating failure? If so, can the source of moisture entry be accurately identified for correction?

What coating problems are likely in storage tanks that have dissimilar metal sides and floors?

Which is the most reliable technique to determine pot life of two component paints?

How do you remove all traces of an uncured internal coating from a tank when abrasive blasting is not an option?

How do you keep sealants in control joints from cracking or separating from the substrate?

We are restricted to applying road-marking paints during hot, humid summer nights, on surfaces very often below dew point conditions. What is the best generic type of marking paint to use?

What are the most effective procedures for protecting steel and adjacent concrete together?

If the walls of single-wythe CMU with core fill insulation become saturated, can they be adequately dried out for painting? If so, how?

How do you determine whether a lead-bearing coating can be overcoated or removed and replaced?

What’s the best way to prevent corrosion of reinforcing bar in concrete?

How do you strip paint from a cementitious substrate if you can’t alter the surface texture?

How many times can a building be repainted before the paint becomes too thick to perform properly?

What are the most effective procedures for protecting steel and adjacent concrete together?

What types of measures can be taken on or around metal pipes or columns that penetrate concrete or asphalt paving to reduce corrosion at the interface?

How long can a blasted surface be left before priming under different temperatures/relative humidity environments?

When is it necessary to install sealant between the base of building walls and pavement to prevent moisture from wicking up the wall? How does the climate affect this decision?

How do you protect concrete against microbiologically influenced corrosion?

How can active corrosion be determined on a live pipeline?

What is the optimal moisture content for masonry before painting can begin?

What is the proper surface preparation for stainless steel before coating to resist a salt-laden atmosphere?

How do you determine if local water is suitable for use in UHP waterjetting, particularly in areas where potable water is scarce?

What is the best way to prevent corrosion of reinforcing bar in concrete?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using mechanical equipment inspectors or welding inspectors, instead of certified coating inspectors, to perform coating inspection duties?

How does a lower-metallic-content zinc-rich epoxy affect the life of a paint system?

How do you adequately assess the adhesion of a newly applied coating?

What measures must be taken to determine and assure the cleanliness of an abrasive?

What pluses and minuses have you seen with using recycled-glass abrasives vs. traditional abrasives?

When is it necessary to install sealant between the base of building walls and concrete sidewalks or pavement to prevent moisture from wicking up the wall? How does the climate affect this decision?

What is the most common or economical coating system for rehabbing the exterior of above-ground storage tanks?

What is the best method for removing production machine oils soaked deeply into a concrete floor before applying a non-skid coating?

How do you determine the best type of coating for repainting a block or concrete building?

What are the performance distinctions among various types of intumescent coatings (for example, water-based, solvent-based, epoxies and methacrylates)?

When and why would I need to stripe coat if I am using an edge-retention primer?

When performing maintenance painting of tank coatings, what are the pros and cons of overcoating an existing lining that appears to be in good condition?

What are the most effective procedures for protecting steel and adjacent concrete?

When refurbishing an old concrete secondary containment wall around a storage tank, what criteria should be used to determine if a crack can be repaired for coating or if the section of the wall should be rebuilt?

How many times can a building be repainted before the paint becomes too thick to perform properly?

How pure must fresh water be for water washing or waterjetting, and how do you determine the water’s purity?

What is the best method for preparing newly galvanized steel to be overcoated with an epoxy system?

What can be done to prevent rust bleed in crevices when applying a zinc/epoxy/urethane system?

How long after blasting can stainless steel be left before painting? If this time is exceeded, what further surface preparation is required?

Which factors are most important in selecting coatings for new concrete?

When applying a 100% solids, fast-curing polyurea coating on concrete, what is the best method for verifying that the proper thickness has been applied?

What must specifiers consider when selecting and using sealants and grouts to fill gaps and seal concrete structures?

Which generic coating systems are suitable for protecting pipeline internals carrying highly abrasive media?

What are the criteria for selecting coatings for application during extreme (atmospheric) heat?

Are there special primers and surface preparation requirements for painting unpainted aluminum?

How do you calibrate a DFT gauge in the magnetic field of a live power plant to measure coatings on steel substrates?

How do you determine whether a lead-bearing coating can be overcoated or removed and replaced?

How do you know when pot life has expired? Can you extend pot life and, if so, how?

What health and safety precautions should contractors take when applying isocyanate-cured epoxies in the field?

When should you specify UHP waterjetting on bridges?

How do you adequately assess the adhesion of a newly applied coating?

What is an acceptable level of moisture in concrete walls before painting with an acrylic system, and how should the moisture level be measured?

What confined-space rescue protocol (internal, third party, etc.) have you developed, and why did you choose this plan?

Specifications often state that glossy surfaces must be dulled before overcoating. What are some methods for doing this, especially when sanding isn’t feasible?

How should a conflict between requirements, such as film thickness, on a product data sheet and the specification be resolved?

I’ve heard that the use of the proper blast media is critical for the successful application of thermal spray aluminum and other metallics. What mechanism would lead to the differing performance characteristics of the TSA based on the blast media?

Under what conditions should you apply a resurfacing mortar to new, below-grade vertical concrete scheduled to receive a high-build, protective lining system for chemical containment or immersion service?

How can I determine the cleanliness of stainless steel for painting after blast cleaning?

We need to paint our publicly owned lighthouse. What should I include in the specifications for this bid regarding surface preparation, coating systems, and other considerations?

What are the pros and cons of using an organic vs. inorganic zinc primer?

How can you determine if a concrete substrate is in suitable condition for application of an acid stain?

I understand that the EPA is reluctant to allow the use of nanoparticles in coatings, due to their tendency to persist in the environment. What is the real risk, and how can the nanocoating industry address it?

When a specification calls for removing only loose coating from a masonry substrate, what methods are effective without damaging the intact coating that is left on the surface?

I’ve heard about using crystalline admixture or crystalline materials on top of concrete to fill voids and make the substrate less permeable. When is this desirable, and what is the best way to use these materials?

What smartphone apps or online tools do you find useful in your job? How do they work, and how do they help?

What are the common moisture tests for vertical, below-grade concrete structures scheduled to receive a high-build, protective lining system?

How do you assess salts and other non-visible contaminants on concrete surfaces?

What kind of coating system provides the strongest resistance to staining from hot tires on garage floors and parking decks?

How do you assess salts and other non-visible contaminants on concrete surfaces?

What kind of coating system provides the strongest resistance to staining from hot tires on garage floors and parking decks?

What is best way to remedy over-thickness of a topcoat after it has dried and cured?

What factors would justify coating stainless steel in water or wastewater service? What standards and methods apply?

How to do you abrasive-blast the interior surfaces of steel or ductile iron pipe scheduled to receive a high-build, high-performance protective lining system?

How does one determine if concrete is sound enough to receive a thick-film coating?

When a specification requires Manufacturer X’s system “or equivalent,” what does “or equivalent” mean, and who decides what’s equivalent?

How do you assess vertical concrete surface pH after surface preparation of existing concrete?

What is the best way to prevent tropical hardwood deck lumber like ironwood from developing a gray patina in sunlight?

How do you gauge the remaining service life of an aging FBE system on a buried transmission pipeline?

How clean must the compressed-air supply be for blast cleaning, blow down and painting? How is cleanliness of the air determined?

Can lightweight block (CMU) be successfully coated to prevent water intrusion, or is it best to build with standard weight?

On a parking deck with harsh exposures—to road salt, frequent wetting, freeze-thaw cycles, and exterior weathering—what generic coating type works best, and why?

Under what conditions should stainless steel be painted in the oil and gas industry?

How can you determine the moisture content of a concrete block (CMU) wall, and how can you judge when the moisture level is low enough to paint?

How does rapid depressurization affect lining performance in vessels and line pipe, and how can you identify any failure that might result?

What is the best way for me to assure I’m getting what I want when I specify a decorative finish such as glazing or gilding?

How do concrete admixtures such as hardeners and anti-dust compounds affect coating adhesion? What can be done to minimize negative effects?

A specification for a bridge to be built of high-performance weathering steel requires an SSPC-SP 10, a profile of 3 to 5 mils, and metallizing with a final DFT of 10-12 mils. What challenges, time, and costs are associated with obtaining the profile?

What is the best way to ensure successful application of an acid stain to an existing horizontal concrete surface?

What criteria should be used in deciding between a liquid-applied and a sheet-applied air barrier?

Is grinding the only way to remove large areas of a silicone coating from a ship's hull to replace the silicone with an epoxy mastic?

How should surface preparation be conducted in non-sparking atmospheres?

What is the best way to assure compliance with specified dry film coating thickness requirements on vertical concrete?

When performing maintenance surveys on structures that require coatings under insulation, how do you inspect the condition of the coatings?

The literature indicates that UHP waterjetting produces a profile on steel, although of a micro nature. Is this sufficient roughness for good adhesion of thin-film primers?

What kind of initial treatment is the best defense against graffiti for rough-surfaced concrete block (CMU)?

Where can I find industry standards for air quality during spray painting operations, specifically regarding moisture, oil and particulates?

Where there is likely to be ponding water, what generic type of reflective roof coating will work best, and why?

Considering cost, productivity, and thoroughness, what is the best way to remove paint from cement blocks (CMUs)?

Does the presence of non-burst blisters in a coating system always mean that the coating requires replacement?

What is the clearest way to specify the degree of smoothness required by surface preparation on an exterior wood substrate covered with deteriorated and uneven layers of paint?

Do you need to wait for the mortar to cure before repainting a brick surface after repointing and power-tool cleaning? If so, how long, and how do you judge when it is safe?

In what type of environment is the use of a vapor-impermeable air/moisture barrier recommended? Are there guidelines or standards to help determine this?

How do you measure wet film thickness on shop-applied organic zinc-rich primers to accurately predict dry film thickness? Our shop applies a great deal of OZ primer, and we have found that WFT readings with a standard gauge are not accurate predictors.

What is the Cold Wall Effect? Can it cause premature coating failure and, if so, how do I prevent it?

What is the maximum number of holidays that should be permitted for linings in immersion service, and why?

When SSPC-SP3 (Power Tool Cleaning) is specified, how should one decide when to apply the tool to the entire surface and when to use it just where the coating appears defective or rusting?

Is it sufficient to specify simply that paint should be applied "according to the manufacturer’s instructions?" If not, what detail should be included?

What is the state-of-the-art treatment and preservation of the many cables used on suspension bridges?

Theoretically, how many LEED credits can be acquired for a newly constructed building through the use of coatings and related technologies?

How does residue from chemical stripping affect the performance of the replacement coating?

What generic types of coatings work best as liquid-applied air barriers, considering both cost and effectiveness, and what should be the dry film thickness of this system?

What is the best way to assure compliance with specified dry film coating thickness requirements on vertical concrete?

What is the best way to remove graffiti from the surface of historic stone masonry on a church while preserving the appearance properties of the substrate?

What would be an optimal coating system, in terms of durability and productivity in field painting, for exposed structural steel on a stadium in a damp, cold environment?

As a facility owner, how can I justify the cost of quality control measures, such as third-party inspection, to upper management in my company?

How do you repair delaminated areas of an elastomeric polyurea when the majority of the coating system is intact?

How should surface preparation be conducted in non-sparking atmospheres?

What are the pros and cons of using shotblasting to remove a coating system from a concrete floor?

I’ve seen claims of extreme durability for a new concrete floor coating material exposed to heavy foot traffic. Is there a quick test to determine the validity of these claims?

What kind of initial treatment is the best defense against graffiti for rough-surfaced concrete block (CMU)?

What kind of surface preparation is most effective and economical before recoating aluminum window frames on a large office building? The original baked-on fluoropolymer has lost most of its gloss.

I am the facility manager for a new amusement park that will operate year-round in a hot, humid environment. What protective coating system should I select to achieve the longest useful life (cost is a secondary consideration), and what performance can I expect?

How, besides grinding, can one remove large areas of silicone coating from a ship’s hull to replace the silicone with an epoxy mastic?

When animal fat in slaughterhouses penetrates concrete surfaces, how do you identify and remove the contamination before coating the concrete?

What are the alternatives for removing mildew from uncoated concrete block exteriors before coating?

How should a contractor respond to a specification requirement that “the nominal dry film thickness of the coating shall be 3 mils?”

What are the most important recommendations for successful field application of reflective coatings to aging single-ply roofs?

What is the best way to prepare a horizontal concrete surface for successful application of an acid stain?

When we use field splice plate connections on structural steel projects, how do we prevent rust and rust staining at bolt heads and at the splice plate/steel interface?

When performing maintenance surveys on structures that require coatings under insulation, how do you inspect the condition of the coatings?

What is the best method for removing fluorescent orange spray graffiti from a brick wall?

In what circumstances is third-party inspection recommended for commercial coating work?

How does one apply thin polymer coatings to installed tubes or pipes with diameters of one to three inches and lengths of 20 to 60 feet?

What is the best way to judge the effectiveness and durability of competing liquid-applied air barriers on concrete block?

I have several 20-year-old carbon steel tanks for storing demineralized water. The original coating (type unknown) has started to blister. What material, at what DFT, should be used to refurbish the coating?

What are the significant performance differences between an inorganic zinc primer (ethyl silicate) and an organic zinc primer (epoxy), given the same application and exposure conditions?

What environmental and safety precautions must be taken when using chemical stripping and water blasting to remove lead-based paint from a commercial building exterior in an urban business district?

What is the best combination of metal and coatings for creating bright colors on public art and sculpture, keeping in mind durability, cost, maintenance, and gloss and color retention?

When a food plant runs 24/7, even during coating maintenance, tiny airborne food particles can contaminate a prepared surface. How do you identify, prevent and/or remove such contamination before coating?

What is the best way to remove thick-film elastomers from floors and ship decks?

What type of material should I use to achieve bright, bold colors on a concrete floor that gets heavy foot traffic?

What is the best method of testing for moisture content in concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls before application of coatings?

How does abrasive recycling affect cleaning rates when steel is blast-cleaned in the field?

Which type of abrasive blasting media is suitable for preparing the more “exotic” stainless steels, such as Inconel or Monel?

What should be considered in replacing a wooden deck with one made of concrete, in terms of the options for appearance, color and cost?

What selection criteria should be used to decide between a liquid-applied and a sheet-applied air barrier?

What do you do when the surface profile is higher than the dry film thickness of the specified primer?

Which single type of paint system can be used to protect both stainless steel and carbon steel welded together?

How can I determine if my urban hospital building would benefit financially by installing a reflective roof coating on top of the current flat black roofing substrate?

What type of coating system (and surface prep) should be used to protect a steel factory roof that is subject to hydrochloric acid vapors and other industrial pollutants and particulates in a hot, humid environment?

How do I get permanently get rid of efflorescence on clay brick?

What causes concrete “dusting,” and is there any way to prevent or remove it?

What’s the best way to determine if a cementitious-based mortar used to repair exterior concrete is ready to be coated?

Under what circumstances is third-party inspection justified on commercial coating work?

What are the pros and cons of acid-staining a concrete floor?

What would be a reasonable service life for a two-coat, zinc-rich epoxy/epoxy mastic system, about 200-250 microns, in a marine environment? What evidence is there from the field?

I need to remove coatings from masonry on a historic-preservation project. What are my options for doing so without damaging the mortar joints?

Is there a definitive relationship between mechanical properties of coatings (such as elongation and tensile strength) and crack-bridging capability?

We’re converting a grocery store to a motorcycle dealership. Should we polish the concrete floor or coat it? The concrete seems in fair shape, from what we can see under the dried mastic where the old vinyl tiles have been removed.

Is it practical to use black light to check for dirt or other foreign matter during surface preparation inspection?

How can I tell if my apartment building’s roof is suitable for installing a vegetative roof?

I need to coat a bare concrete warehouse floor that has visible oil stains. What are my options for cleaning the concrete before coating it?

What’s the best way to protect a masonry wall from freeze/thaw cycling?

What’s the best way to protect porous masonry from graffiti?

What is the difference between a damp-surface tolerant and a wet-surface tolerant paint? How can we determine when a surface is damp or wet?

Do the balcony floor slabs on the high-rise seaside condo I’m working on in Florida really need cathodic protection?

What is the risk of damaging a paint film by inspecting a repaired area more than twice with a high-voltage holiday detector?

There are ways to increase the pressure for waterjetting to levels above 20,000 psi. What are the effects of different pressures (below and above 20,000 psi) on cleaning ratios?

How do I clean off mortar smears that were allowed to cure for six months on a new architectural block building?

During a week of heavy rain, we painted the interior of a heated concrete building. The paint blistered badly a week later on the walls with an outside exposure. What’s the best way to remove the coating, prepare the surface, and recoat to prevent future blistering?

What is the best way to protect an exposed concrete foundation?

What errors are most likely to occur when measuring dry film thickness on steel, and how can I avoid them?

What kind of training and credentials are needed in the U.S. for industrial painters who work near live wires?

I have galvanized steel in direct contact with powder-coated aluminum in an outdoor exposure. The galvanized steel is corroding. What is the best way to remedy the situation?

I keep reading references to sweep blasting, but I can't find a standard for it. What is sweep blasting, and is there a standard for it in the U.S. or elsewhere?

How do I deal with the small cracks and fractures that occur along the edges and corners of the stone imprints in some of my stamped concrete work?

Can fluoropolymer coatings that are still very glossy be overcoated (if, for example, the topcoat is losing color or the color needs to be changed)? If so, what type of coating can be used, and what surface preparation is required?

During a week of heavy rain, we painted the interior walls of a heated concrete building. On the interior of walls that had an outside exposure, the paint blistered badly a week after the rain subsided. Could the rain have caused the blistering and, if so, how?

What are the best practices for a small maintenance shipyard (120m x 20m x 8m drydock) to handle UHP-generated wastes?

How do I prepare an oil-stained, bare concrete floor for coating?

How do you prepare flame-cut edges for application of thermal spray metallic coatings? The problem is that these edges are often harder than the abrasive, so a very low profile is produced, resulting in lower-than-specified adhesion of the thermal spray to the steel.

Zinc metalizing has been applied to concrete surfaces to provide cathodic protection to rebar in the concrete. What are the problems, if any, with applying zinc metalizing to concrete, and what is the best approach to addressing them?

What components of an onshore shale gas drilling rig require coating protection, and what properties must the coatings have?

What tests and criteria can a coatings user specify to assure consistent lot-to-lot performance of supplied coatings?

What is the best low-maintenance approach to coating power-tool-cleaned field weld joints on process pipework that is protected with thermal-sprayed aluminum?

What type of antifouling or foul-release coating will provide the greatest protection in warm tropical waters, and for how long?

How do you prepare an oil-stained, bare concrete floor for coating?

Where are errors most likely to occur when measuring dry film thickness on steel, and how can they be avoided?

How does the concave or convex curvature of a surface affect a coating's shore hardness reading?

How do you gauge the remaining service life of a weathered alkyd paint system and determine whether it should be removed or overcoated?

For coatings with a high-solids content (95% or more), what kinds of defects, such as holidays or micropores, are possible or likely to occur in the applied film? How can these be prevented or remedied?

Why would a pull-off adhesion test give a high value (no failure) for a solventless epoxy that later showed poor adhesion in service?

How does the concave or convex curvature of a surface affect the WFT reading?

What are some ways to improve transfer efficiency of airless spray application?

How do you accurately measure the adhesion of inorganic zinc?

How can I determine when concrete has cured sufficiently to be coated, besides waiting the 28 days typically specified?

How does one accurately measure coating thickness on the inside and outside of a small-diameter (~50mm) pipe?

Should the surfaces of flanges be coated to prevent corrosion? Why or why not?

Where would you use epoxy and cementitious intumescent coatings?

How does the concave or convex curvature of a surface affect the dry film thickness reading?

What type of generic coating is required to protect the inside of a tank containing liquid with pH ranging from 2 to 13 and operated at 65-80°C? Why?

Is there a place for using “rust convertors” in heavy-duty maintenance projects?

How do you repair polyurea coatings?

What are the limitations of rust-encapsulating coatings?

What is the effect of the wind-chill factor on the curing of epoxy and PU when temperatures are similar?

How do you properly coat welded joints?

What is most effective treatment for steel contaminated with MIC before painting ?

What is the best way to repair localized coating breakdown on steel?

What causes blistering/crater formation in freshly applied polyurethane topcoats, and how can this be avoided?

What action should be taken if the IOZ fails the MEK test?

What causes amine blush in epoxy topcoats?

Can water be sprayed onto an IOZ coated surface, which has not fully cured due to low humid conditions, to accelerate the cure?

What is the maximum temperature that an epoxy powder coating can resist when applied on steel substrate?

What should be included in the risk assessment of a particular painting project?

During newbuilding, do I have to stripe coat edges if I am using an edge retention primer?

Is the MEK rub test a conclusive test to check the cure of IOZ coatings?

I am experiencing problems with a paint system on some vessels we built. The system is an ethyl silicate zinc primer, glass flake epoxy tie-coat and aliphatic poly top coat. The project is constructed from A516 boiler plate 1/4 in thick. Blasted to SP10 with 2.5 mil profile. Painting is being done inside a paint booth where ambient conditions clearly meet the specification. The coatings are exhibiting symptoms of solvent popping in a specific area on the exterior of the vessel. The problem only manifests itself over the back side of a weld that is on the inside of the vessel. We have made numerous adjustments to the system as well as the process to try to solve the issue. Nothing is helping. The manufactures reps are scratching their heads, and I am pulling my hair out. Any input would be welcome.

Which industries or market sectors are adopting the use of powder coating?

How can it be determined if moisture within a CMU wall is causing repeated coating failure? If so, can the source of moisture entry be accurately identified for correction?

RH probes are commonly used in concrete floors to determine moisture content. Can they be used in CMU walls or pre-cast walls?

What causes bubbling or cratering of epoxy intermediate coat when applied over epoxy zinc-rich primer?

What is the correct procedure for carrying out preventive maintenance painting work in a small chemical product tank?

If the walls of single-wythe CMU with core fill insulation become saturated, can they be adequately dried out for painting? If so, how?

As an engineer in a moderate-sized chemical plant, how can I justify the cost of third-party inspection to upper management?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using mechanical equipment inspectors or welding inspectors, instead of certified coating inspectors, to perform coating inspection duties?

When should the adhesion of an applied coating or lining multi-coat system be tested?

How do you keep sealants in control joints from cracking or separating from the substrate?

What’s the best way to prevent corrosion of reinforcing bar in concrete?

How many times can a building be repainted before the paint becomes too thick to perform properly?

Is it cost-effective to pressure wash a bridge or other structure before abrasive blasting? What pressures, flow rates, and procedures are recommended?

How do you strip paint from a cementitious substrate if you can’t alter the surface texture?

Can efflorescence be removed from integrally colored CMU without damaging the appearance? How?

Under what types of exterior atmospheric exposures (other than marine) is it necessary to test for soluble salts?

Is it cost-effective to grind steel edges before coating for atmospheric service? Why or why not?

What types of measures can be taken on or around metal pipes or columns that penetrate concrete or asphalt paving to reduce corrosion at the interface?

When is it necessary to install sealant between the base of building walls and concrete sidewalks or pavement to prevent moisture from wicking up the wall? How does the climate affect this decision?

Under what conditions should small-diameter blisters (<1.5 inches) in a water tank lining be repaired/repainted? Should the blisters be broken and the substrate examined?

What is the optimal moisture content for masonry before painting can begin?

What causes static electricity during abrasive blasting? What risk does it pose, and how can it be controlled?

What differences in performance and speed do you see among plural-component, conventional airless, and conventional air spraying equipment for field painting structural steel?

How do you determine the best type of paint to use when repainting a block or concrete building?

How many times can a building be repainted before the paint becomes too thick to perform properly?

What are the performance distinctions among various types of intumescent coatings (for example, water-based, solvent based, epoxies, methacrylates, etc.)?

From a specifier’s point of view, what are the important distinctions between various products that are classified as polyurea?

What is the proper surface preparation for stainless steel before coating to resist a salt-laden atmosphere?

How long after blasting can stainless steel be left before painting? If this time is exceeded, what further surface preparation is required?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using mechanical equipment inspectors or welding inspectors, instead of certified coating inspectors, to perform coating inspection duties?

What advantages/disadvantages have you seen with using recycled glass abrasives vs. traditional abrasives?

What is the effect of using a lower-metallic-content zinc-rich epoxy on the life of a paint system?

What are the pros and cons of specifying sieve sizes for abrasives?

Which factors are most important in selecting coatings for new concrete?

What are the most effective procedures for protecting steel and adjacent concrete together?

What must specifiers consider when selecting and using sealants and grouts to fill gaps and seal concrete structures?

What coating problems are likely in storage tanks that have dissimilar metal sides and floors?

When blasting cast-iron structural steelwork, what type of defects might be found, and how do you address them?

How do you remove all traces of an uncured internal coating from a tank when abrasive blasting is not an option?

In preparing for coating, what is the best way to treat a steel surface that has been attacked by microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC)?

What tests should be run to determine if an existing concrete bridge pier needs rehabilitation or repair before cleaning and coating?

What is the most common or economical coating system for rehabbing the exterior of above-ground storage tanks?

What is the best way to achieve proper surface preparation in areas with limited access, such as interior box beams on bridges?

What are the most effective procedures for protecting steel and adjacent concrete together?

How do you determine whether a lead-bearing coating can be overcoated or removed and replaced?

We are restricted to applying road marking paints during hot, humid summer nights, on surfaces very often below dew point conditions. What is the best generic type of marking paint to use?

How long can a blasted surface be left before priming under different temperatures/relative humidity environments?

How do you know when pot life has expired? Can you extend pot life and, if so, how?

How do you protect concrete against microbiologically influenced corrosion?

How do I minimize corrosion at the splash zone on sheet pile and piping in brackish water?

How can active corrosion be determined on a live pipeline?

How do you determine if local water is suitable for use in UHP waterjetting, particularly in areas where potable water is scarce?

What’s the best way to prevent corrosion of reinforcing bar in concrete?

If a paint data sheet notes a required primer thickness of 125 microns, but the project specification calls for 50 microns, how is this resolved?

Some painting specifications call for the use of “Best Effort” in relation to blasting. How does one determine “Best Effort?”

How do you adequately assess the adhesion of a newly applied coating?

What measures must you take to determine and assure the cleanliness of an abrasive?

When the relative humidity in a paint shop exceeds 80%, how can you apply waterborne inorganic zinc so that it cures sufficiently for topcoating in a reasonable time?

Is stainless steel banding suitable for fixing galvanized insulation cladding? If not, why not?

When and why would I need to stripe coat if I’m using an edge-retention primer?

What is the best method for removing production machine oils soaked deeply into a concrete floor before applying a non-skid coating?

When performing maintenance painting of tank coatings, what are the pros and cons of overcoating an existing lining that appears to be in good condition?

Is there a requirement that NIST calibration plates or blocks be calibrated? If so, what is the best way to do so?

What is the service life of a painted weathering steel bridge, compared to a painted carbon steel bridge in the same service environment?

When preparing to refurbish an old concrete secondary containment wall around a storage tank, what criteria should be used to determine if a crack can be repaired for coating or if the section of the wall should be rebuilt?

How do you measure the DFT or WFT of a film-forming sealer applied to a metallized coating (e.g., flame-sprayed zinc)?

When is it cost-effective to use thermal spray in petrochemical facilities?

What is the best method for preparing newly galvanized steel to be overcoated with an epoxy system?

Which generic coating systems are suitable for protecting pipeline internals carrying highly abrasive media?

What can be done to prevent rust bleed in crevices when applying a zinc/epoxy/urethane system?

When should you specify UHP waterjetting on bridges?

What health and safety precautions do contractors have to take when applying isocyanate-cured epoxies in the field?

When applying a 100% solids, fast-curing polyurea coating on concrete, what is the best method for verifying that the proper thickness has been applied?

How do you calibrate a DFT gauge in the magnetic field of a live power plant to measure coatings on steel substrates?

Are there special primers and surface preparation requirements for painting unpainted aluminum?

What is an acceptable level of moisture in concrete walls before painting with an acrylic system, and how is the moisture level measured?

Is it necessary to holiday test the interior lining in the vapor phase (roof) of water storage tanks after coating?

Specifications often state that glossy surfaces must be dulled before overcoating. What are some methods for doing this, especially when sanding isn’t feasible or desirable?

How do you successfully apply a chemical-resistant lining to the interior of small-diameter pipes (3 inches or less)?

How should a conflict between requirements, such as film thickness, on a product data sheet and the specification be resolved?

How can I determine the cleanliness of stainless steel for painting after blast cleaning?

Which lining systems are suitable for the maintenance painting of an mono ethylene glycol storage tank protection?

What are the options for shop-applied systems (surface preparation and coating type) to protect the interiors and exteriors of new saltwater storage tanks and associated steelwork that will be exposed to seawater, and that will allow for easy touchup and maintenance once the structures are erected?

What is the remedial action if a blaster produces too high a surface profile for the required primer thickness?

Lighthouse Painting: I'm with a Massachusetts municipal park department and have been ordered by the city's administration to "get the lighthouse painted." I know there's far more to it than just grabbing a brush and a can of paint. I need to know how to write specifications for a bid for such a project, as well as how to locate companies that might want the job. Since I'm starting from scratch here, any information or references would be greatly appreciated.

Submitted by reader William Woolley

What are the best cycles to use in cyclic accelerated corrosion testing to achieve the highest correlation with atmospheric exposure in a northern, industrial environment?

What steps must be taken to mitigate poor adhesion over an existing aged silver aluminum paint? What primer will achieve good adhesion?

Which DFT statistics should be recorded in a daily inspection report, and why are they relevant to a good coating QC record?

I need to embed a metallized culvert liner on concrete. I've been told I have to paint it to avoid adhesion problems between the metal liner and the concrete. Is this true and, if so, what type of coating is best?

What is the preferred method to remove 25-year-old coal tar epoxy from a carbon steel tank in order to reline?

What smartphone apps or online tools do you find useful in your job? How do they work, and how have they benefited you?

What percentage of deterioration is acceptable at a one-year warranty inspection of water tank linings before a contractor must repair the coating job?

When a specification calls for removal of only loose coating rather than complete coating removal from a masonry substrate, what surface preparation methods are most likely to work without damaging the intact coating that is left on the surface?

How can you determine if a concrete substrate is in a suitable condition for application of an acid stain?

What is best way to remedy over-thickness of a topcoat after it has dried and cured?

How is it possible to determine if concrete is sound enough to receive a thick-film coating?

A specification requires Manufacturer X’s system “or equivalent.” What does “or equivalent” mean, and who decides what’s “equivalent?”

What is the definition of a hybrid coating, and what are the performance properties of hybrid coatings?

What kind of coating system provides the strongest resistance to staining from hot tires on garage floors and parking decks?

When specifying coatings for maintenance repainting of structural steel, under what conditions is it acceptable to settle for a surface-tolerant system, and when is such a system unacceptable?

How do you gauge the remaining service life of an aging FBE system on a buried transmission pipeline?

What is the best way to prevent tropical hardwood deck lumber like ironwood from developing a gray patina in sunlight?

Can light-weight block (CMU) be successfully coated to prevent water intrusion, or is it best to build with standard weight?

How clean must the compressed-air supply be for blast cleaning, blow down and painting? How is cleanliness of the air determined?

Under what conditions should stainless steel be painted in the oil and gas industry?

On a parking deck with harsh exposure conditions--to road salts, frequent wetting, freeze-thaw cycles, and some exterior weathering—what generic type of film-forming coating works best and why?

When moisture permeates concrete slabs or walls below grade, how can this problem be solved and does it require excavation?

In a northern climate with extreme winters, is it reasonable to consider retrofitting an air barrier to a multi-unit brick apartment building? What sort of installation strategy would be most beneficial?

How does rapid depressurization affect lining performance in vessels and line pipe, and how can you identify any failure that might result?

How can you determine the moisture content of a concrete block (CMU) wall, and how can you judge when the moisture level is sufficiently low to paint?

How do admixtures to concrete (hardeners, anti-dust compounds, etc.) affect coating adhesion? What can be done to eliminate or minimize negative effects?

What is the best way for me to assure I'm getting what I want when I specify a decorative finish such as glazing or gilding?

What is the effect on the permeability of a coating when you add additional coats, either at the time of the original painting or as a maintenance activity?

When implementing an in-plant, exterior exposure, or accelerated testing program for coatings, should the test panels be scribed? Why?

How do you measure wet film thickness on shop-applied organic zinc-rich primers to accurately predict dry film thickness?

Our shop applies a great deal of OZ primer, and we have found that WFT readings with a standard gauge are not accurate predictors of DFT.

Do you need to wait for the mortar to cure before repainting a brick surface after repointing and power-tool cleaning to remove loosely adhered coating material from a previous paint job? If so, how long, and is there a way to judge when it is safe?

What is the state-of-the-art treatment and preservation of the many cables used on suspension bridges?

Theoretically, how many LEED credits can be acquired for a newly constructed building through the use of coatings and related technologies, such as diamond-polished concrete?

What is the maximum number of holidays that should be permitted for linings used in immersion service, and why?

What generic types of coatings work best as liquid-applied air barriers, considering both cost and effectiveness, and what should be the dry film thickness of this system?

How does residue from chemical stripping affect the performance of the replacement coating?

What is the best way to remove graffiti from the surface of historic stone masonry on a church while preserving the appearance properties of the substrate?

What is the best way to assure compliance with specified dry film coating thickness requirements on vertical concrete?

When SSPC-SP3 (Power Tool Cleaning) is specified, how should one decide when to apply the power tool to the entire surface and when to use it just where the coating appears to be defective or rusting?

What are the pros and cons of using shotblasting to remove a coating system from a concrete floor?

As a facility owner, how can I justify the cost of quality control measures, such as third-party inspection, to upper management in my company?

What kind of initial treatment is the best defense against graffiti for rough-surfaced concrete block (CMU)?

How should surface preparation be conducted in non-sparking atmospheres?

Is grinding the only way to remove large areas of a silicone coating from a ship's hull to replace the silicone with an epoxy mastic?

Where there is likely to be ponding water, what generic type of reflective roof coating will work best and why?

Considering cost, productivity, and thoroughness, what is the best way to remove paint from cement blocks (CMUs)?

When performing maintenance surveys on structures that require coatings under insulation, how do you inspect the condition of the coatings?

What is the Cold Wall Effect? Can it cause premature coating failure and, if so, how do I prevent or minimize it?

Do I need to pay attention to the permeability of the coating when specifying coatings for the exteriors of CMU walls?

The literature indicates that UHP waterjetting does produce a profile on steel, although of a micro nature. Is this sufficient roughness for good adhesion of thin film primers (e.g. < 2 mils dft)?

How much detail should be included in a specification for the surface preparation and painting of a parking garage exterior that includes tilt-up and structural concrete substrates?

Is it sufficient to specify simply that paint should be applied "according to the manufacturer’s instructions?" If not, what kind of detail should be included?

In what types of climates and/or environments is the use of a vapor-impermeable air/moisture barrier recommended as opposed to a vapor-permeable system? Are there guidelines or standards that can help determine this?

What is the clearest way to specify the degree of smoothness that you want to be achieved by surface preparation on an exterior wood substrate that is covered with deteriorated, uneven, and built-up layers of paint?

What would be an optimal coating system, in terms of both durability and productivity in field painting, for exposed structural steel on the exterior of a stadium built on the seacoast in a damp, cold environment?

What quality control checks can I use to assure the cleanliness of steel abrasive in a fabricator's or shipyard's shop?

I've seen claims of extreme durability for a new concrete floor coating material exposed to heavy foot traffic. Is there a quick test to determine the validity of these claims?

How do you repair delaminated areas of an elastomeric polyurea when the majority of the coating system is intact?

What is the best method for removing a day-glo orange spray graffiti from a brick wall?

How do you maintain a proper operating mix of recyclable abrasive in the field?

What environmental and safety precautions need to be taken when removing lead-based paint from the brick on a commercial building adjacent to the sidewalk in a dense urban business district when the removal method is chemical stripping followed by water blasting?

How do I identify and remove airborne particles like sugar dust from recently prepared steel in food processing plants that operate 24/7?

What is the best combination of metal (for instance, steel or aluminum) and coatings for creating bright colors on public art and sculpture, considering durability, initial cost, maintenance burden, resistance to vandalism, and gloss and color retention.

Submitted by William Dikis

How can I determine when concrete has cured sufficiently to be coated, besides waiting the 28 days typically specified?

What are the most important recommendations for ensuring success in field application of reflective roof coatings to aging single-ply roofs? Do these recommendations vary depending on whether the roof is EPDM, TPO, PVC, or some other type of substrate?

When we use field splice plate connections on structural steel projects, how do we prevent rust and rust staining at bolt heads and at the splice plate/steel interface?

What type of material should I use to achieve bright, bold colors on a concrete floor with heavy foot traffic?

How do I determine when a cementitious-based mortar used to repair exterior concrete is ready to be coated?

The façade of my late-19th-century, cast-iron office building has been coated several times, most recently in the 1960s. The paint is faded and delaminating, and I want to remove and replace it. How do I assess the condition of the cast iron and coating, repair weakened areas of the cast iron, and prepare and recoat the surface?

In what circumstances is third-party inspection is justified on commercial coating work?

When a food plant runs 24/7 even during coating maintenance, tiny food particles floating in the air (e.g., sugar from sugar processing) in the plant can contaminate a prepared surface. How do you prevent such contamination, or identify it and remove it before applying the coating?

I am the facility manager for a new amusement park that will operate year-round in a hot, humid environment. Some critical structural steel in the heart of the park needs to be protected from corrosion and at the same time to retain very good appearance properties for as long as possible, since maintenance painting is disruptive. What coating system should I select to achieve the longest useful life, given that cost is a secondary consideration, and how long will this system look good while providing corrosion protection?

What is the best way to judge the effectiveness of competing products offered as liquid-applied air barriers on concrete block, in terms of both durability and air barrier properties?

What is the best way to remove thick film elastomers from floors and ship decks?

What kind of surface preparation prior to coating will be effective and at the same time economical for the aluminum window frames on a large commercial office building? The aluminum was coated originally with a baked-on fluoropolymer which has lost most of its gloss. Maintenance recoating will be with an air-dry fluoropolymer.

Animal fat in slaughterhouses often penetrates concrete surfaces. If the fat is not removed before the concrete is coated, the fat can cause the coating to fail. How do you identify and remove the contamination before coating the concrete?

What coating or lining system, including surface preparation, should be used on an in-gound swimming pool constructed of galvanized steel in a northern climate?

What kind of coating system, including surface preparation, should be used to protect a steel factory roof that is subject to hydrochloric acid vapors and other industrial pollutants and particulates in a hot, humid environment?

Can you provide recommendations on ways to make sure an acid stain can be successfully applied to an existing horizontal concrete surface? I understand that residues such as coatings, curing agents, waxes, or other materials will interfere with the stain’s reaction with the concrete, but can I find out what the substances are so I know how to remove them?

What are the alternatives for removing mildew from previously uncoated concrete block exteriors before coating?

What is the best method of testing for moisture content in concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls prior to application of coatings?

What are the benefits and risks of using holiday testing on mat-reinforced, thermoset linings (over a conductive primer) on concrete substrates intended for immersion service? Should other tests be performed with or instead of holiday testing?

What are the significant differences in performance between an inorganic zinc primer (ethyl silicate) and an organic zinc primer (epoxy), given the same application and exposure conditions?

What should be considered in replacing a wooden deck with one made of concrete, in terms of the options for appearance, color, cost? I've seen articles about stains, integral coloring, and other decorative treatments, as well as lighter-weight concrete, but it's not easy to compare and judge the options.

Is there a definitive relationship between mechanical properties of coatings (such as elongation and tensile strength) and crack-bridging capability?

What criteria of selection should be used in deciding between a liquid-applied and a sheet-applied air barrier?

What procedures and tools are needed for assessing the condition of coatings and substrates in a process facility to develop a maintenance painting plan?

How can I determine if my hospital building in Philadelphia can benefit financially from installation of a reflective roof coating on top of the current black roofing substrate on a flat surface?

How can you justify the cost of installing an auto-blast machine and a paint booth in a fabricator's shop, and what resources are available to carry out such an analysis?

If I apply 140 microns of inorganic zinc to a steel substrate with a 75 micron profile, is there any concern about cracking of the primer during storage, shipment, and erection of the structure, or with field-application of a topcoat?

I have several water tanks constructed with carbon steel for demineralized water storage. The tanks are about 20 years old, and the original coating has started to blister. For refurbishment of the coating, what material should be used and at what dry film thickness? The original type of coating is unknown.

If I apply a zinc-rich epoxy primer at 3 mils’ dry film thickness in the shop with air temperature of 90 F, what checks can I make to determine when it is safe to handle and stack the primed steel components?

How do you determine the size of the dehumidification equipment required for a tank lining project?

How should a contractor respond when he reads a specification requirement that "the nominal dry film thickness of the coating shall be 3 mils"?

How does abrasive recycling affect cleaning rates when steel is blast-cleaned in the field?

A specification for a bridge to be built of high-performance weathering steel (HPS GR50/GR70W) requires an SSPC-SP 10, a profile of 3 to 5 mils, and metallizing with a final dft of 10-12 mils. What challenges, time, and costs are associated with obtaining the profile, primarily in the shop but also in the field? Are there any long-term performance issues with metallizing over weathering steel?

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