First Post - Densifier Questions

[Le Mancave]

Hello. Great forum here, tons of info. I've been browsing old threads here trying to figure out what to do with a month old pad inside my barn. I think I've settled on a densifier, I have some on order from Legacy Industrial and W.R. Meadows. I like the idea of a permanent treatment because in reality I'll never empty out this barn once I get all my stuff in there. This space will be mainly used as a shop/storage/garage. I have several questions, somewhat specific to Legacy Industrial who seems to be active on this forum.


1. Reading the Legacy F.A.Q., I see that there are silicate densifiers (HD-36,37) and siliconate (HD,39). Siliconates are said to have larger molecules, offering better surface protection. Does this mean that they have less penetration than the smaller moleculed silicate densifiers? If so would it make sense to apply a silicate first and then a siliconate?

2. Which type of densifier is used in the Legacy "Easy Stain and Densifier"? Does the stain penetrate along with the densifier or is it left on the surface? I like the idea of a stain but if every little chip and scratch reveals the underlying concrete color I think I'll skip it.

3. Densifier is relatively cheap so I can afford to put down multiple coats. Will this provide any benefit?

Thanks in advance for any and all responses.

 

[LegacyIndustrial]

The hd39 is the 36 with an added siliconate agent for better water resistance.
Otherwise it's the same.

Our stain also has the 36 as its base. It is lithographic in nature and will not penetrate like the densifier will. It does the best job on exterior concrete surfaces, more porous the better.

Additional coats of densifier are likely to be redundant. Once all the free lime is hydrated the magic is over and extra material would not be beneficial.

Lastly, densifier is a treatment not a coating .