Acid Etch

[Wastedwagesracing]

It seems like most of the floor systems require a pre prep of blast or etch. I have been steering away looking at those options because I don't fully understand the etching process. Can someone please explain it to me. Thanks

 

[Falcon67]

You dumb down muratic (pool) acid about 3:1 or 4:1 (water:acid - add acid to water, never other way around) and mop the floor with it some. Since concrete is lime it'll fizz some. This opens the pores in the concrete that are sealed shut by the power trowel finishing process. That gives a surface for the paint to grip. It should self neutralize, but I like to follow up with a mop bucket of baking soda/water, then flush good and dry. Done well, the epoxy finishes get a good grip and never let go. The epoxy floor in my old shop would pull rubber off hot slicks.

 

[thegarageguy]

It's also very inconsistent, since some areas may burn in while other areas will not be affected at all. This is why most industrial manufacturers require at a minimum to diamond grind.

I created a page on my site to help people understand the concrete prep process and hopefully help shed some light....check out the manufacturer prep guideline links as well

http://garageandbeyond.com/seamless-flooring-epoxy-decorative-concrete/surface-preparation/

 

[Edger]

Acid etches very strongly as soon as it hits the concrete and begins to neutralize so if you keep spreading it around the etch will become less and less. It is better to use a pump sprayer to put fresh acid/water mix over the slab or to use a thick roller and plastic tray to roll it out. Neutralize with baking soda then it is better to pressure wash.

 

[LegacyIndustrial]

We prefer that our clients grind as grinding will uncover a host of hidden issues with the concrete. However, if the concrete is sound and you do a thorough job with the acid it is an effective and acceptable process.

 

[atpalmer]

So if you diamond grind then should you skip the acid etch?

 

[Edger]

Yes, definitely no acid after grinding.

 

[LegacyIndustrial]

Wastedwages:
Are you running Semi-Tires on that Ford dually?
If so, how much lift did you need to add for clearance?

 

[Wastedwagesracing]

Wastedwages:
Are you running Semi-Tires on that Ford dually?
If so, how much lift did you need to add for clearance?

They are Cooper SST's 37x12.50x17. Front has 3'' lift rear has 2'' lift that way the truck leveled out.

 

[AlphaGarage]

Most of our commercial/pro installers will grind, although on occasion they'll etch. The vast majority of our DIY clients etch, and we haven't had any issues with our BondTite primer lifting in either case.