Rust-Oleum Patch before Etching.....

[NapaDrew]

Hi Everyone. I decided to start prepping my garage today to epoxy the floor. got it all emptied and started scrapping and buffing the areas where the previous owners had painted the floors. I went down and bought the Rust-Oleum Patch Kit. I got about half done and realized that I maybe should have acid etched the floor first. After searching online I’m learning that was the case.

Question.... what happens if I patch then acid etch the floor? Am I just screwed?

I used my polisher with a concrete pad and heavy sandpaper to rough up the floor prior to patching.

Any and all advice is much appreciated! Thank you!

 

[Shea]

No worries, you are fine. You can etch before or after repairs. Just keep in mind that etching will not work on concrete repairs. You need to grind flush any repairs or at least rough them up with 60 grit sandpaper. This will allow the coating to get a mechanical bite and adhere properly.

 

[NapaDrew]

Awesome thank you for the advice.

Do you recommend the Rustoleum Rocksoild or the Epoxy Shield?

 

[Shea]

RockSolid is a more durable coating compared to the water-based EpoxyShield. However, the stated coverage rates are too generous and results in many complaints from people. The coating gets too thin in places which creates patchy areas of low gloss an inconsistent color tone. Reduce the coverage rates by at least 15-20% and it will go on a little thicker and look much better. It's either that or do two coats.