Acid Etch or Grind new concrete?

[haugy]

I've searched this all over. But figured I'd ask a comparison question.

I'm looking at a PolyUrea coating for my new 2,000 sq/ft floor. The concrete is 4 months old, and has been protected with 15mil plastic from anything that had to be parked inside during that time. The concrete has a smooth finish, but not polished.

So my questions are around the prep. The concrete is clean, no powder on it, it was a great pour. And the supplier I'm going with recommends an Etch as long as the concrete isn't powdered with excess creamy layer and stuff on top (which it isn't).

My rub is, I've never done etch. I've done grind before, and while that ***** in comparison on a 2,000 sq/ft, at least I have an idea what I'm doing.
I've read the processes on etching a ton, and I'm just nervous I guess. I've also read on Allgaragefloors that any good coater will grind before, but that many are starting to switch to etch.

Seems easy enough, mix solution, spray solution, keep wet. Then neutralize after the time with baking soda/water or ammonia/water mix. Then rinse clean really, really well. Wait a long time for the shop to dry out. And go.

Those who have done etch, any tips, any thoughts? Would you etch again?

 

[Garage Flooring]

I've searched this all over. But figured I'd ask a comparison question.

I'm looking at a PolyUrea coating for my new 2,000 sq/ft floor. The concrete is 4 months old, and has been protected with 15mil plastic from anything that had to be parked inside during that time. The concrete has a smooth finish, but not polished.

So my questions are around the prep. The concrete is clean, no powder on it, it was a great pour. And the supplier I'm going with recommends an Etch as long as the concrete isn't powdered with excess creamy layer and stuff on top (which it isn't).

My rub is, I've never done etch. I've done grind before, and while that ***** in comparison on a 2,000 sq/ft, at least I have an idea what I'm doing.
I've read the processes on etching a ton, and I'm just nervous I guess. I've also read on Allgaragefloors that any good coater will grind before, but that many are starting to switch to etch.

Seems easy enough, mix solution, spray solution, keep wet. Then neutralize after the time with baking soda/water or ammonia/water mix. Then rinse clean really, really well. Wait a long time for the shop to dry out. And go.

Those who have done etch, any tips, any thoughts? Would you etch again?

Darn suppliers

If you are more comfortable grinding, by all means, grind.

Just make sure you tell the rental place you want between a CSP 1 and a CSP 2. Unlike epoxy, you really don't want an aggressive grind. Swirl marks can be difficult to cover. As long as you get a nice even grind that is not super aggressive you will be fine. The average DIYer is handling a grinder for the first time and while not a big issue for Epoxy I have seen it become an issue for poly

 

[haugy]

Darn suppliers

If you are more comfortable grinding, by all means, grind.

Just make sure you tell the rental place you want between a CSP 1 and a CSP 2. Unlike epoxy, you really don't want an aggressive grind. Swirl marks can be difficult to cover. As long as you get a nice even grind that is not super aggressive you will be fine. The average DIYer is handling a grinder for the first time and while not a big issue for Epoxy I have seen it become an issue for poly

Just making sure I plan accordingly. With the floor, and the cost of the coating, I like to make sure I'm over prepared.

 

[Fudge0514]

I just finished acid etching 2,000 sq ft. I found a two gal pack of muriatic acid at Lowe's for about $16. The single gal of muriatic acid that you find in the paint department at Lowe's runs about $13. If you go outside into their pool chemical section you can find the two gallon pack for $16.

I ended up mixing at a ratio of 5 parts water to 1 part acid, and it etched great. I've read mixing anywhere from 1 to 1 and 10 to 1, and everywhere inbetween. I used a 2 gallon pump sprayer.

I watched a few various videos on youtube about how to acid etch, and I found the Idaho Painter (aka Paint Life TV) guy very helpful. Here is one of his videos:

 

[LegacyIndustrial]

A good etch is much better than a poorly executed grind, anyday of the week.
There are much SAFER ways to etch these days vs. muriatic. Your metal parts and lungs will thank you!

 

[Armorpoxy]

Etching is fine for many applications, and is much easier and less expensive. From what you are describing etching should suffice just fine.

 

[DL7265]

Contractors trying to upsell, a grind on a brand new beautiful floor imo, isn't necessary. Basically told me the same cost as a 20 year old oil stained floor... that's ridiculous.