The short answer is: Yes, even new concrete needs to be etched before applying epoxy or a similar type of garage floor coating. Etching is part of the concrete preparation process. In fact, proper preparation of the concrete before a coating is applied is the most important part.

What does it mean to etch a concrete floor?

Concrete etching is the process of applying an acid and water solution to a concrete floor in order to roughen the surface of the concrete. The acid wash opens pores in the concrete, which ensures strong adhesion of the new coating to its surface.

How soon can you paint after etching concrete?

Primarily follow manufacturer guidelines, as some etching solutions are sold with an accompanying neutralizing component. From here, allow at least four days before foot traffic, and another 10 days before vehicle traffic or paint applications.

What happens if you don't etch concrete before epoxy?

In Closing. New concrete must be etched before applying the epoxy. The smooth surface of unaltered concrete won’t bind with other materials, such as epoxy or paint. As a result, epoxy will peel and lift away, failing to adhere to the surface.

Can I sand concrete instead of etching?

Yes, you will need to grind in order to remove the sealer at the surface and provide a proper profile for the coating. You cannot acid etch. The reason is that the sealer prevents the acid from reacting with the minerals in the concrete since the concrete is sealed.

Can muriatic acid damage concrete?

It is also highly unpredictable and unreliable causing the surface to be under- or over-etched and uneven. The muriatic acid used on concrete and bricks is extremely caustic which means it can burn the skin of the installer. It also has fumes that can burn the lungs. … Over time the concrete starts to fall apart.

How much does it cost to acid etch concrete?

Level of ServiceCost Per Square FootBasic$2-$4Intermediate$4-$10Upgraded$8-$15High-end$12-$25

Does concrete need to be dry before etching?

Before acid etching, make sure the concrete is free of all oil, contaminants, grease, and dirt. … Do not let the concrete dry out before or during application of the acid solution. Apply the acid solution: Use the 2 gallon plastic watering container to sprinkle the acid solution on the concrete.

What should concrete look like after etching?

After etching, the surface of the concrete should have a uniform texture like that of sandpaper. Repeat the etching process on any smooth spots.

Does vinegar etch concrete?

Etching – Vinegar’s ability to dissolve CaCO3 will dull your marble, travertine, concrete and terrazzo surfaces. It may “clean” the surface but it is also dissolving pits into the finish and effectively dulling it. … This will affect marble, travertine, concrete and concrete terrazzo surfaces.

Article first time published on

How long should concrete dry after etching?

Two gallons of mixed etching solution will cover up to 500 square feet. Allow to dry for 24 hours before staining, sealing or coating.

How do you etch a concrete basement floor?

Etch the surface with SEAL-KRETE Clean-N-Etch to allow for proper penetration and adhesion. Etching is especially important for smooth-troweled concrete surfaces (like carports, garage and basement floors) and is also recommended for rough-finished surfaces. After etching, rinse the surface thoroughly and let dry.

How do you seal etched concrete?

To acid etch, you must first dilute the acid, which minimizes its potential danger. Then you must spray the concrete surface with the acid, scrubbing vigorously. Next, you have to neutralize the acid before washing down the concrete surface for a final time.

Do I need to grind floor before epoxy?

However, for larger commercial jobs, older concrete, or worn floors we always recommend grinding before epoxy installation. … The concrete floor will fail if the coating doesn’t bond mechanically to the concrete floor, so the preparation is the most important part before applying any type of epoxy!

How do you remove etching residue from concrete?

The white powder is a combination of cement particles released from the surface and a precipitate byproduct of the etching reaction, insoluble calcium phosphate. Remove as much as possible by sweeping, scraping or vacuuming. A light dusting typically will not show through a clear coating and will not affect adhesion.

Does concrete etch remove paint?

Concrete is porous and rough, creating a textured surface to which paint easily adheres. Muriatic acid works very well at removing stains and paint from concrete, but can etch the surface if it is left on for too long or proportioned incorrectly.

What kind of paint do you use on a concrete garage floor?

There are basically two types of paint that you can use on your garage floors – latex acrylic paint or an epoxy paint. While the latex paint is a bit of a cheaper option in the short term, epoxy paint is more durable and will provide a better bond to the concrete making it more chip resistant.

What is the average cost to epoxy a garage floor?

Typical Epoxy Flooring Costs Having a professional install an epoxy floor over the existing slab in your garage typically costs between $3 and $12 per square foot. A one-car garage is usually about 250 square feet and can cost between $750 to $3,000, depending on the type of coating.

How clean should concrete be before epoxy?

Before Applying Epoxy It is essential that you clean your floor thoroughly. If you’re working on a concrete base, fill in any cracks or patch areas that need care before you start to clean. Once the damages, if any, have been repaired, it’s time to clean.

Can I stain my concrete floor myself?

A stained concrete floor is a great and durable flooring option, and – good news! – staining one yourself is a surprisingly easy task (although you’ll want to avoid one major pitfall we fell into below).

Does stained concrete increase home value?

Getting concrete floor coatings or a decorative concrete overlay is not a luxury – it’s an investment that can pay off over time. Not only will the investment improve your enjoyment of the home and reduce your maintenance, but it will also improve the value of your home.

Can you stain old concrete floors?

Your existing old concrete should be fine to stain, so long as it is not contaminated with glue, paint, oil, grease, sealers, waxes, or anything else that would prevent the stain from soaking into the pores of the concrete.

How long should muriatic acid sit on concrete?

Brush or spray the acid solution on the concrete, wait eight to 10 minutes, then neutralize the acid by spraying the surface with a mixture of one cup of ammonia in one gallon of water. Kill Mold—Use muriatic acid to kill stubborn mold and mildew on hard surfaces, such as brick, tile, concrete, and stone.

How do you make concrete look new again?

1. Power Wash. Over time, your concrete will accumulate grime and dirt. …
2. Resurface. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to improve your curb appeal, resurfacing your concrete steps and driveway is a great way to start. …
3. Add Stain or Sealing Coats. …
4. Revive Your Old Concrete.

What is the best chemical to clean concrete?

1. RMR-86 Instant Stain Remover Spray. …
2. Sheiner’s All Purpose Floor Cleaner. …
3. Zep Concrete Pressure Wash Cleaner Concentrate. …
4. Zep Heavy-Duty Powdered Concrete Cleaner. …
5. Oil Eater Cleaner Degreaser. …
6. Terminator-HSD Concrete Cleaner. …
7. ACT Eco Friendly Concrete Cleaner.

How do I clean concrete?

Simply fill a spray bottle with equal parts water and vinegar (or water and baking soda), and add a little bit of liquid dish detergent. Spray the mixture on your concrete surface and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Then scrub and rinse your concrete.

Can you etch concrete without acid?

If you want to avoid acid altogether, then another product that works well as an alternative to acid etching your garage floor is a product called Eco-Etch Pro. It is a plant based, biodegradable product that will not harm plant life, is non-corrosive, will not burn your skin, and neutralizes with water.

What do you etch concrete with?

Muriatic acid, also known as hydrochloric acid, is the typical acid of choice when etching concrete.

Does baking soda harm concrete?

It’s highly alkaline, so it won’t destroy your concrete, but it could irritate your skin and even cause burns. … When cleaning concrete, avoid using harsh chemicals, especially acid-based cleaners, as they might harm the surface. Instead, gentle cleaning agents like baking soda, dish soap, and water should be used.