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
- Remove any debris and scrape away any surface paint spatters, caulk or gum. Sweep or vacuum the surface thoroughly.
- Clean the surface with trisodium phosphate (TSP), or comparable substitute, and rinse thoroughly with water.
- Allow surface to dry thoroughly.
- For heavy oil stains, use QUIKRETE Oil Stain Remover to absorb and lift tough, oily stains.
Application
Etching Stain requires a bit of patience before you see the actual, true results. When first applied, the finish may not look like you expected - but hang in there. When the stain dries, a surface residue will appear. After you remove the residue, the color may appear dull. The sealer will take your finish from dull to impressive and enhance the color. Keep in mind the color and transparency of the finish will vary depending upon your concrete’s surface and porosity.
Apply etching stain.
- Wet the surface with water, removing any puddles.
- Apply stain using an all-plastic pump sprayer, mop or brush. Make sure to saturate the entire surface with the stain.
- Allow stain to dry a minimum 4 hours or until it is completely dry. For best results, wait 24 hours before washing off residue.
- Remove residue by washing with a solution of 4 ounces of baking soda for every gallon of water. Scrub thoroughly with a stiff bristle brush. Remove wash water with wet vacuum or mop.
- Allow surface to completely dry and then top coat with QUIKRETE Etching Stain High Gloss Sealer (exterior use only).
Seal
Apply sealer.
- Apply sealer with a roller in a back and forth motion. If the first coat sinks into the surface, you may want to apply a second or third coat. Paint any trim, edges or hard-to-reach spots with a brush. Allow 24 hours for light foot traffic, 72 hours for automobiles.
Project Details |
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Project Time |
4-5 hours |
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Ready |
72 hours |
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Project Cost |
$0.60/sq ft |
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Skill Level |
Intermediate |
Project Checklist
Materials
- QUIKRETE Oil Stain Remover (optional)
- QUIKRETE Etching Stain
- QUIKRETE Etching Stain High Gloss Sealer
Tools
- Scraper or spatula
- Stiff bristle broom
- Garden hose with spray attachment
- All-plastic pump sprayer, mop or brush
- Squeegee or wet/dry vacuum (optional)
- Safety goggles
- Appropriate chemical-resistant gloves
- Chemical-resistant boots
- 3/8” nap roller, roller tray and extension pole
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