Protect loading docks from corrosion this summer
Cortec Corporation is encouraging facility managers to take advantage of warmer weather to extend the life of their reinforced concrete loading docks. Its latest maintenance and repair guidance focuses on protecting vulnerable concrete and metal surfaces from corrosion caused by moisture, de-icing salts and wear.
Concrete loading docks are particularly exposed to both physical stress and weather-related deterioration. Cortec recommends applying a water repellent every 7–10 years to reduce ingress. Its MCI-2018 combines a 100% silane water repellent with migrating corrosion inhibitors for enhanced protection.
Where docks are already cracked or rusting, workers can remove loose material and apply CorrVerter MCI Rust Primer, followed by an anti-corrosion topcoat such as VpCI-396. For more significant repairs, the primer can be applied to exposed rebar before using a high-strength repair mortar, such as MCI-2039.
For complete protection, Cortec recommends treating the entire dock area—not just the repair site—with surface-applied corrosion inhibitors, such as MCI-2020, and densifiers, like MCI-2021, to enhance resistance to abrasion and impact.
The company says proactive treatment now can prevent costly deterioration later: “Simple MCI maintenance or repair is a great way to delay future problems and help the docks last longer.”
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