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 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 vac to remove rinse water.
Application
- Thoroughly mix Part B into Part A and let stand for 30 minutes. Apply epoxy with a roller in long, even strokes, working from wet areas to dry areas.
2. Apply color flakes (optional).
- While the epoxy coat is still wet, use the shaker to shake on the Decorative Color Flakes.
Each kit comes with one shaker of flakes for a classic look. You can use multiple containers of flakes to create heavy coverage and a more designer look.
3. Apply 2-Part Premium Clear Epoxy.
- Be sure the concrete has dried thoroughly before you apply the 2-Part Premium Clear Epoxy. Thoroughly mix Part B into Part A and let stand for 30 minutes.
Tip: For added skid resistance, add QUIKRETE Anti-Skid Additive directly into the epoxy mixture, following all instructions on the package. - Apply epoxy with a roller, moving it across the concrete surface in a back and forth motion. Allow 24 hours dry time before light foot traffic and 72 hours for automobiles.
Project Details |
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Project Time |
4-6 hours |
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Ready |
72 hours |
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Project Cost |
$0.28/sq ft - $0.45/sq ft with Premium Clear Epoxy |
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Skill Level |
Beginner – Intermediate |
Project Checklist
Materials
- QUIKRETE 2-Part Epoxy Garage Floor Coating Kit
- Includes QUIKRETE BOND·LOK
- Includes QUIKRETE Decorative Color Flakes
- QUIKRETE Oil Stain Remover (optional)
- QUIKRETE 2-Part Premium Clear Epoxy Kit (optional)
- Includes QUIKRETE Anti-Skid Additive
Tools
- Scraper or spatula
- Stiff 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, roller tray and extension pole
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