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1
SITUATION
The walls of an international chain of membership warehouse tire centers are being coated with LINE-X for aesthetics and protection. Tire and repair shops are notorious for showing significant wear on their walls from oil, rubber, and storing old tires. This staining detracts from the company image and requires heavy cleaning and maintenance. The centers initially used a cosmetic solution to create an attractive customer view. This process required constant upkeep. After the first couple tire centers were completed, the warehouse center discovered that applying LINE-X as a protective coating enhanced not only the look of the store, but also protected the interior walls from tool damage and required less maintenance. |
2
PROCEDURE
Previous applications were completed for existing tire centers with single concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls. This center was new construction, so the coating was applied to 4’ x 8’ plywood sheeting around the entire interior perimeter (about 1,200 square feet). Before applying LINE-X, the plywood walls were examined and tested for damage or excessive water. One full wall required patching due to the plywood being installed with the unfinished surface facing out. All electrical outlet boxes, air lines, and installed equipment were masked. Seams were filled with a urethane caulking. A 2’ x 4’ plastic “tent” structure was created and moved along sections of the wall to prevent overspray.
The coating is approximately 100-125 mils thick and required three days with two full-time and one part-time people to complete. |
3
SOLUTION
For the tire center purposes, LINE-X XS-100 provided the right combination of strength, durability and aesthetics. XS-100 also ensures the walls are exceptionally easy to clean. A UV stable topcoat is an option for this application.
4
RESULTS
LINE-X saves the tire centers money by reducing maintenance and downtime. Previously, they were required to clean the walls 3-4 times a year at a cost of $3,000-$4,000 each time. Not only is LINE-X cost effective, shop managers and employees are also especially pleased at the ease with which the walls can be cleaned. Existing stores are now eager to retrofit their centers. The scope of work requested at every new store continues to increase. LINE-X regularly visits each tire center coated to evaluate the effectiveness of the coating and the manager’s satisfaction. There have only been rave reviews. |
