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Definitely NOT! Our product is totally different from stamped concrete and gives our customers a great deal more flexibility than stamped concrete. We feel our product is far more unique than stamped concrete. HOW LONG HAS THIS PRODUCT BEEN IN USE? Acrylic resurfacing has been in use since the early 1970's. Polymer was added in the 1980's to provide superior bonding properties, and increase strength, durability and longevity. HOW DOES THIS PRODUCT BOND TO CONCRETE? First, the surface is etched with muriatic acid and pressure washed to clean off dirt, remove loose aggregate, and open the concrete pores. Next, a very thin "skim" coat of the acrylic cement mix is applied by trowel. This is to provide maximum absorption into the pores of the concrete. Patterns are laid out using reinforced tape or stencils when this is dry. A second coat is applied using a hopper gun in a random spray pattern. When this coat is dry, the tape is pulled, revealing the patterns, and 2-3 coats of solvent-based sealer is applied using a roller. This sealer coat penetrates and softens the skim and spray coats and bonds all layers to the concrete. When dry, these two layers become a permanent part of the existing concrete, providing outstanding weather and stain-resistant properties. HOW THICK IS IT APPLIED? Total thickness is approximately 1/8" - 3/32". We are more concerned about getting the acrylic to penetrate the concrete than building up the surface. Actually, the thinner it is, the better the flexural properties it has. This is very important to allow for expansion and contraction of concrete during freeze/thaw cycles. Skim coats can be applied up to 2" thick for holes and spalling (chipping, flaking). Larger and thicker areas are filled or rebuilt using high-density acrylic mortars. HOW DOES IT STAND UP AGAINST OILS, STAINS, SALTS, AND DISCOLORATION? Because of the protective properties of the sealer coat, it is a non-porous finish. The majority of stains due to oil and grease wash off with mild detergent. Salt, deicers, fertilizers and such have no immediate effect on it. In addition, because of its unique UV (ultraviolet) additive, it will not discolor due to exposure to sunlight, even in the harshest of conditions. WILL IT WEAR OR CHIP OFF? The Concrete Graphics’ system should not show any abnormal wear provided the acrylic sealer is replenished as wear occurs. We estimate this to occur no sooner than every 3 - 4 years under normal traffic conditions. As long as the sealer is in place, any wear should be absorbed by this protective coating. Any scuff marks, etc., generally disappear with a fresh application of sealer. CAN CRACKS BE REPAIRED? ABSOLUTELY! All cracks are repaired using high-strength epoxies prior to applying the skim coat. New tension control joints are then placed, or existing ones cut are deeper to alleviate the tension and allow for the movement that created the crack initially. Note: In most cases cracks cannot be guaranteed. CAN IT BE APPLIED AROUND POOLS? MOST DEFINITELY!! Concrete Graphics' products are the ideal solution for pool and spa areas. They are non-skid, cooler than concrete, and will not stain or be adversely affected by pool chemicals. It also provides a perfect transition from pool to yard and adds that finishing touch like no other product can. Because of its versatility, a stencil can be used to indicate depth markings or areas of safety concern. HOW SOON CAN IT BE USED AFTER APPLICATION? For normal foot traffic, excluding high heels, cleats, or spikes: 24 hours *; Vehicle traffic: 5-7 days (* Under normal temperature and weather conditions) WHAT SURFACES CAN IT BE APPLIED TO? CCI products can be applied to any concrete surface, vertical or horizontal. Wood surfaces must have a cement backer board such as Hardi-Board or DuRock applied to add stability and minimize flexing. |
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