The success of your concrete floor coating, like all things, starts with proper preparation of the surface. Even the most expensive coating materials will fail if the surface is not prepared correctly.

You must “open the surface pores” of the concrete so that the coating materials can form a tight bond with the surface. The surface must be free of dirt and contaminants as well. While there are various ways to achieve this, many professional concrete coatings applicators and DIYers will use a Chemical Etching Method.

Chemical Etching is an effective preparation technique used on concrete that is “bare” or “un-coated”. The application of an acid based mixture on the concrete will cause “fizzing & bubbling” of the surface. Despite how this looks, this is a good thing! If there is no “reaction” when applying the mixture, this means that the concrete has some type of sealer present that the etching solution can not penetrate. Other means will be necessary to correctly prepare the surface.

After you have “etched” the surface, it must now be “neutralized”. This can be completed by applying a mild ammonia and water solution. Some individuals use baking soda to neutralize the acid mixture. In both cases, the idea is to stop the action of the acid.

Finally, the surface must be rinsed thoroughly! No traces of the etching or neutralizing solution can remain. It is best to rinse the surface a couple of times to make sure all traces of dirt and contaminants are removed. If in doubt, rinse again!

Your concrete floor preparation is now complete! What type of coating do you want to apply? Epoxy, Polyurethane or maybe a Flagstone Coating?

Amazon Coatings, LLC is a Professional, Licensed Concrete Coatings Company. You can visit our website at www.amazoncoatings.com. You may reach us at 480-890-1141.