A facility in Oak Brook, IL had a problem with a common wall shared by executive offices and their shipping dock. The exhaust from the idling trucks was actually seeping through the concrete cinderblock wall, causing an unpleasant smell for employees. The company decided to turn to McCahill Painting Company, with whom they shared a 10 year working relationship, for the solution.

The company wanted this project completed as quickly as possible, but they could not afford to interrupt the daytime truck traffic in the dock area. McCahill Painting Company was able to accommodate their needs by working a combination of weekend and 2nd shifts.

Concrete is actually a porous material. Concrete sealants are applied to concrete surfaces to prohibit the absorption of liquids and / or airborne contaminants. However, prior to application, the surface must be cleaned and prepared.

The McCahill team power washed the concrete surface to remove any carbon monoxide residue left behind by the diesel engines, using our HydroTek T4500 pressure washer at a setting of 250 degrees and 2000psi. Backer rods and hydraulic cement caulk were used to fill and repair any existing damage to the surface. Wire brushes were used to remove any loose mortar nubs. A final pass with the pressure washer removed any remaining contaminants.

To ensure that absolutely nothing would be able to penetrate the wall, the McCahill team opted for the same vapor barrier system used by waste water management facilities. First, they applied a prime coat of Sherwin Williams Kem Cati-Coat Two Component Block Filler. This was followed by a preliminary finish coat of Sherwin Williams Sher-Tile HS Epoxy and completed with a full second finish coat.

Applying a barrier coating is a very difficult process. A wet-film gauge is required to determine the appropriate thickness during application. It's tough work, but the end result is incredibly durable. 

In the end, our client was extremely pleased with our solution and thrilled to have their office space air quality restored and no longer smell exhaust from the shipping docks.