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| Staining and Engraving Questions |
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What is reactive acid staining?
-Acid staining is a permanent coloration process where a low acid based solution combined with natural metallic salts reacts with the lime present in your concrete. Unlike paint, these stains chemical reaction with the concrete is permanent and will not peal off.
How does the concrete need to be prepared?
- The concrete must be cleaned with a high pressure powerwasher or commercial floor cleaner or buffer. Depending on surface condition certain degreasers or other floor cleaners may need to be used.
Will the colors fade with time?
-Exterior projects are exposed to the sun and other elements and are more susceptible to fading unless properly cared for. The industry does have UV resistant sealers that aid against possible color fading. Sometimes colors may get a little darker with time but overall there will be very little change. Proper maintenance of the surface is critical to keeping it in pristine condition.
What is concrete engraving?
-Concrete engraving is the process of making decorative cuts into the concrete to create patterns, lines or designs. . A penetrating stain is used to transform the color and then a permanent, precise, pattern is engraved (cut) INTO the hard concrete surface with a patented diamond blade engraving machine. This system process is complete by application of a clear top coat to seal the surface area.
How many different designs are there?
- With this process the designs are virtually unlimited. There are many popular designs to choose from or you can bring your own designs. Size is no object.
What will an engraving job look like in several years?
- With periodic maintenance, the surface will look substantially the same years after installation. With no maintenance, over time, engraved bricks or tiles naturally take on an antique or used brick appearance. Many people find this to be a very desirable look. What caused this is the wear of the protective sealer coats.
How long does it take to complete the engraving process?
- The concrete transformation process will take several days to complete depending upon the size and intricacy of the job and weather conditions. Cleaning and preparing the concrete surface is key to the longevity of the finishes. The areas must be kept clean and uncontaminated as they dry. The stain and finish applications must also be protected from contamination and surface contact during the curing process. The concrete substrate should be isolated (roped off) during each operation to ensure proper adhesion of coatings. The areas must be avoided during the processes and should not be used until the coatings are completely cured. Reuse availability times will be dictated by specific weather conditions and product specifications. Normally a 48 hour waiting period is required after the final finish is applied.
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