Getting Started
Getting started: Proper preparation of your bare concrete will ensure optimal results from QUIKRETE Concrete Coatings. Your concrete must be clean, dry and free of dirt, grease, oil or other contaminants before applying any coating. Concrete that has been previously sealed or that contains moisture cannot be coated. Complete the tests below to be sure your concrete will accept a coating.
Test for porosity:
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.
Test for moisture:
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.
Make sure children and pets are away from the area when you use the product.
Prep
Use QUIKRETE BOND·LOK® to clean, etch and degrease your concrete before you begin. Make sure you read and follow all the instructions on the package label.
NOTE: Make sure children and pets are away from the area when you use the product.
- Scrape away surface paint spatters, caulk or gum. Use a stiff broom to sweep the floor. Be sure to clean out cracks and corners.
- For heavy oil stains, use QUIKRETE Oil Stain Remover to absorb and lift tough, oily stains before using BOND·LOK.
- Wet your surface thoroughly with water using a garden hose. Pour the BOND·LOK into a plastic sprinkling can, so you can control the distribution of liquid over your concrete. Do not use a metal watering can. Sweep the watering can back and forth as you pour to ensure complete coverage. Use the bristle broom to scrub BOND·LOK into the surface. BOND·LOK should begin to fizz or bubble; this is normal.
- Rinse thoroughly using a garden hose until the water runs clean and allow the surface to dry thoroughly overnight.
Tip: Use a squeegee or wet vacuum to remove rinse water.
Application
1. Apply epoxy coating.
- Thoroughly mix the epoxy sealer before applying it with a roller. For color consistency, apply it with long even strokes, working from wet areas to dry areas. Allow 24 hours before you apply the second coat.
- Wait 24 hours before you top coat your surface.
Tip: For added skid resistance, add QUIKRETE Anti-Skid Additive directly into your last coat of epoxy sealer before applying. Be sure to follow all instructions on the package.
Option: For a designer touch, add QUIKRETE Decorative Color Flakes to finish the look. For best results, apply the epoxy sealer in 2' x 6' sections. Shake on flakes while epoxy is still wet. Continue this process until your entire floor is covered.
2. Apply top coat.
- Make sure the concrete has dried thoroughly before you apply the sealer. Apply QUIKRETE High Gloss Sealer with roller, moving it across the concrete surface in a back and forth motion. Allow 24 hours for light foot traffic and 72 hours for automobiles.
Project Details |
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Project Time |
3-4 hours |
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Ready |
72 hours |
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Project Cost |
$0.23/sq ft |
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Skill Level |
Beginner |
Project Checklist
Materials
- QUIKRETE BOND·LOK
- QUIKRETE Oil Stain Remover (optional)
- QUIKRETE 1-Part Epoxy Sealer
- QUIKRETE Anti-Skid Additive (optional)
- QUIKRETE Decorative Color Flakes (optional)
- QUIKRETE High Gloss Sealer
Tools
- Scraper or spatula
- Stiff bristle broom
- Garden hose with spray attachment
- Plastic sprinkling can
- Squeegee or wet/dry vacuum (optional)
- Safety goggles
- Appropriate chemical-resistant gloves
- Chemical-resistant boots
- Quality nylon/polyester brush
- 3/8” nap roller, roller tray and extension pole
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