FAQs

Two words: beauty and protection. Sealing or staining your concrete not only enhances the appearance of the surface but also protects it from harsh elements like excess moisture, intense UV rays, salt, wind and sand. QUIKRETE^® Coatings allow you to make a statement as you protect one of your biggest investments.

There are a few situations where QUIKRETE Coatings are not recommended:

• Allow 60 days minimum for new concrete to cure before sealing or coating.
• If your concrete is currently treated with a sealer, we do not recommend applying another product on top, as it may not adhere properly.
• Do not apply a coating to concrete areas where moisture is coming from within the surface. The presence of moisture can inhibit a coating's ability to penetrate the concrete.

It is always best to test the porosity and moisture content of the concrete to determine if it is acceptable to apply a coating.

To determine if your concrete is suitable for coating, conduct a porosity test by sprinkling a few beads of water onto the surface; if it soaks into the concrete, you’re ready to begin. If not, it is likely your surface has a coating, which will need to be stripped away before you apply a QUIKRETE Coatings product. You can find a coating stripper at your local home improvement center. Thoroughly remove the existing coating before you begin this project, following all manufacturer instructions.

The presence of excess moisture in concrete can inhibit a coating’s ability to penetrate the surface. Do not apply this product to concrete areas with moisture coming from within the surface. You can test for moisture by taping a 2' x 2' piece of plastic wrap to the concrete using duct tape on all edges. Allow the plastic to sit for 24 hours. If water droplets appear on the underside of the plastic, or if the concrete is damp, the surface contains excess moisture and should not be painted. Moisture problems must be corrected before coating.

Most projects can be completed in 1 to 2 days. Plan for 1 to 2 hours of surface preparation to apply BOND·LOK^® 3-in-1 Cleaner, Degreaser and Etcher. Let dry overnight. Always consult the label instructions as each QUIKRETE Coating has a designated dry time.

Consult the label instructions for coating dry times, as many of the products vary. Generally speaking, most coatings will be dry enough for light foot traffic within 24 hours.

Consult the label instructions for specific details. Most QUIKRETE Coatings can be easily cleaned up with soap and water.

QUIKRETE Coatings are designed to stand up to the harshest weather conditions. New, heavy-duty resin technology forms a secure and durable bond with the surface, to protect against the sun's harmful UV rays, rain and snow. QUIKRETE Coatings will protect your concrete surface for years.

QUIKRETE Coatings form a secure bond with the surface, preventing oils, stains and salt from damaging your concrete. The coatings are specially formulated to resist these harmful substances and keep your surfaces looking great.

QUIKRETE Coatings are formulated with a new, heavy-duty resin technology to resist peeling, cracking or flaking. With proper surface preparation, QUIKRETE Epoxy Garage Floor Coating forms a bond with the surface that is two times stronger than concrete.

QUIKRETE offers the largest selection of colors available for concrete surfaces. Express your personal style with more than 40 color options for the Epoxy Garage Floor Coating, Multi-Surface Concrete Sealer or Multi-Surface Concrete Stain. QUIKRETE Semi-Transparent Concrete Stain is available in 29 colors. Create even more customization with QUIKRETE Color Flakes, offered in granite, blue and tan.

Visit the Tools section in the "How To" tab in each project idea, for a complete list of tools required to use each of our products.

Applying a concrete coating is different than painting your walls, but with proper surface preparation the results can be just as dramatic. Check out the Prep section of the "How To" tab in each project idea, for specific details about surface preparation.

We're here to help. Call us toll free at 1-888-458-0047. QUIKRETE's technical support line is staffed by experienced agents who are fully trained in the use of our products. Help is available seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (EST).