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| Concrete Surface Preparation |
| Surface Prep FAQs | |
Q: Why is it necessary to etch my concrete surface before I apply Mason's Select Concrete Stain or Mason's Select Clear Finishes.
A: It is necessary to etch hard-troweled or very dense concrete surfaces, such as garage floors, in order to open up the surface and allow the Mason's Select product to penetrate. If you are not sure whether to etch or not, it is always best to etch the surface. Sometimes, very dense surfaces require etching twice to make the surface porous enough to stain. The surface should feel like 120-grit sandpaper.
Etching can easily be achieved using Mason's Select Safe Solution, a non-corrosive and biodegradable concrete etching and cleaning solution. This is the method we recommend for safety and ease of use. Safe Solution will not harm plants or other vegetation, is easily applied and rinses with water. Safe Solution was created specifically for roughening smooth and slippery concrete, and to prepare concrete surfaces for paints and stains. Make sure to neutralize the concrete surface after etching by using Mason's Select Concrete Cleaner.
Q: Is etching recommended on new concrete surfaces?
A:Yes. All concrete with a smooth surface or that does not allow water to penetrate should be etched prior to applying Mason's Select Concrete Stain or Mason's Select Clear Finishes. Read our important tips for surface preparation for best results.
Q: What should the pH of my concrete be prior to applying Mason's Select Concrete Stain or Mason's Select Clear Finishes?
A:The pH of concrete is never neutral or completely balanced. The pH should be between 7 and 9. Allowing new concrete to cure for a minimum of 30 days in moderate weather and longer in wet/moist climates will allow the pH to be at an acceptable level prior to application of Mason's Select products.
Can I apply Mason's Select Concrete Stains or Mason's Select Clear Finishes to damp or wet concrete, or immediately after I clean it?
A:No, the concrete must be completely dry prior to application. We recommend waiting a minimum of 24 hours to allow the concrete surface to dry.
Q: How can I test the moisture content of my concrete?
To test moisture content, simply tape an 18"x18"polyethylene sheet
(approximately 4 mils thick) over the concrete and leave in place for a
least 16 hours. Remove the sheet; if the sheet is dry, then you may
proceed. If there is moisture on the sheet, the concrete is still too
wet to stain. Let the concrete dry for a few more days and retest for
moisture.
Q: Will Mason's Select Concrete Cleaner remove rust stains?
A:For best results, use a rust remover product. Concrete Cleaner is not designed to remove rust stains.
Q: Will Mason's Select Concrete Cleaner harm or kill my plants and grass if I get it on them?
A:It can if the plants are soaked in the material. Follow label directions and cover all nearby vegetation. Be sure to hose down plant beds, flower beds and lawn areas before and after application of this product.
Q: Will Mason's Select Concrete Cleaner remove black mildew?
For best results, use household bleach to kill mildew growth. Then use the Concrete Cleaner to remove the mildew stains.
Q: Is Mason's Select Concrete Cleaner adequate for removing old finishes and sealers?
A:No. It is not a stripper. Mason's Select Concrete Cleaner is appropriate for use to remove grease, dirt, oil, grime and mildew stains.
Q: What is the best way to prepare a concrete surface that has a clear finish or solid-color concrete stain or patio paint on it?
A:To remove coatings from concrete, use Methylene Chloride-based strippers for the quickest and most desirable results. Muriatic Acid and Phosphoric Acid are not designed for stripping concrete coatings.
Q: What is the preparation and reapplication process for a weathered surface previously stained with Mason's Select Concrete Stain?
A:Use Mason's Select Concrete Cleaner to remove foreign matter, dirt and grime. Allow surface to dry for 24 hours and recoat with Mason's Select Concrete Stain Epoxacryl or Mason's Select Clear Sealers.
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