How to Restore Damaged Concrete with a Waterproof Coating System

Do you have cracked, spalling, or weather-worn concrete on your property?

Whether it's a balcony that collects water, a driveway with surface damage, or a rooftop deck beginning to deteriorate, concrete issues can quickly turn into safety hazards and expensive repairs. 

You're likely wondering if it needs to be completely replaced or if there's a better, more cost-effective way to fix it. In many cases, concrete that looks unsalvageable can actually be restored and protected with the right coating system. 

In this article, we'll walk you through what Westcoat's MACoat system is, how it works, and when it's the right solution for your surface. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of whether MACoat fits your needs or if another approach might be a better fit. 

We'll cover:

• What Problems the MACoat System Can Solve
• How the MACoat System is Installed
• If MACoat is the Right Fit for Your Project
• MACoat vs. Other Concrete Coatings

What Problems Does the MACoat System Solve? 

When dealing with worn, cracked, or exposed concrete, many property owners assume replacement is the only option. But MACoat is more than just a resurfacing fix. It's a complete waterproofing and reinforcement system that restores and protects horizontal concrete surfaces. 

MACoat solves surface problems, improves durability, and creates a finished walking surface designed for both protection and performance. 

Here are the key issues this system is built to address: 

Surface Cracking and Deterioration

MACoat can be applied over new or existing concrete to reinforce areas with minor cracks, surface spalling, or aging wear. Its fiberglass matting and cementitious resin system add tensile strength and flexibility to bridge imperfections and prevent future breakdown.

Waterproofing Needs

One of the system's core strengths is moisture control. MACoat forms a fully adhered, waterproof barrier that protects decks, balconies, and walkways from water intrusion, especially in high-risk exposure areas like rooftop desks or above living spaces. 

Heavy Foot Traffic and Wear Resistance

Unlike decorative coatings, MACoat is designed to perform in real-world conditions. It resists impact, abrasion, and wear in high-traffic environments—ideal for commercial entries, walkways, and residential patios. 

Surface Uniformity and Custom Finish Options

Whether you're dealing with mismatched patchwork or just want a clean, upgraded look, MACoat delivers a smooth or textured walking surface with customizable finishes. It's not just functional. It's an aesthetic upgrade for your space. 

Fire-Resistant Performance

MACoat carries a Class A fire rating, making it a safe and code-compliant solution for applications where fire resistance is required. This feature is especially important for multifamily housing, commercial balconies, or rooftop decks where meeting fire safety standards is essential. 

MACoat is a durable, flexible, waterproof, and fire-rated surface system that solves multiple problems at once—moisture control, structural reinforcement, safety, and appearance. 

How the MACoat System Works (Step-by-Step Overview)

To help you understand how the MACoat system is installed, here's a quick breakdown of the main steps involved. If you'd like to see the process in action, you can watch the video below. 

1. Surface Prep

The concrete surface is ground and cleaned to ensure strong adhesion. Significant damage is patched using fast-cure patching compounds. Dust and debris are fully removed. 

2. Fiberglass Reinforcement

Fiberglass mat is rolled out across the surface and overlapped at the seams. This layer adds strength and crack-bridging flexibility. 

3. Base Waterproofing Layer

A cement and resin mixture is trowled over the fiberglass, embedding into the surface and forming the system's structural foundation. 

4. Feather Patch and Smoothing

A second coat of the base mixture is applied to smooth out transitions, seams, and imperfections. 

5. Slurry Coat or Texture

Depending on the desired finish, a slurry coat is applied for a smooth surface or a knockdown texture is added for slip resistance and visual interest. 

6. Protective Topcoat

Two thin layers of SC-10 acrylic topcoat are rolled on to seal the system. The final layer resists UV, moisture, and wear. 

7. Curing and Clean-Up

The system cures for light foot traffic in 4-6 hours and is fully usable in 24 hours. 

From prep to topcoat, the MACoat system is designed for lasting durability, waterproofing, and visual appeal without tearing out your existing concrete.

Is MACoat the Right Fit for Your Project? 

MACoat is a versatile system, but like any product, it has its ideal applications. Here's how to know if it's the right solution for your property and when you may need to explore other options. 

MACoat is a Great Fit If:

• Your concrete surface is structurally sound, but has surface damage like cracking, flaking, or discoloration. 
• You need waterproofing for a balcony, walkway, deck, or rooftop area. 
• You're looking for a seamless walking surface with optional textures or slip resistance. 
• The area experiences foot traffic and occasional light equipment use, but not frequent heavy vehicle loads. 
• Your project requires Class A fire-rated coating (e.g., for multifamily housing, commercial walkways)

MACoat May Not Be the Right Choice If:

• The concrete slab is structurally failing, heaving, or has major cracks through the substrate. 
• You need a system rated for heavy vehicular traffic (like garage floors or loading docks)
• You're looking for a purely decorative finish with no need for waterproofing or added durability.

In short: MACoat is ideal for protecting and restoring concrete surfaces that need both strength and weather resistance without the cost and hassle of full replacement. 

MACoat vs. Other Concrete Coatings Options

If you're researching concrete coating or resurfacing solutions, MACoat is just one of the several options. Here's how it compares to other systems we use and recommend based on specific project needs:

Each option serves a different purpose. If waterproofing and long-term surface protection are your priorities, MACoat may be the right choice. 

Is MACoat the Right Move for Your Surface? 

At this point, you should have a clear understanding of what MACoat is, how it works, and where it fits in the world of concrete protection and restoration.

If your surface is structurally sound but needs protection from water, weather, or wear, and you want to avoid the disruption and cost of a full replacement, MACoat may be the right solution.

Your next step?
Watch the installation video above to see the system in action, or reach out to us to evaluate your specific surface. And if MACoat isn’t the best fit, we’ll help you explore alternatives like NewCrete or epoxy to make sure you get the right result.

At Roe Painting, we’ve helped property owners across residential, commercial, and industrial projects restore and protect their concrete with systems built to last and installed with precision.