Return to Building with Concrete top pageComplete preparation is 98 percent of a successful job.
Permanent Concrete Solutions specializes in concrete restoration and waterproofing. We have realize how important proper preparation is to a successful job. Our saying is, "If you can't do the amount of prep needed for your repair at the price being offered, don't do it." You will save yourself and the customer anguish and dissatisfaction.
For instance, we were asked to bid on a project to help out an owner whose contractor was pulled off the job because of faulty installation. In that job, 9,000 linear feet of joints were not clean, and the backer rod was wet when they poured in the joint sealant, which prevented a proper bond. Always be aware of what your repair product needs for proper bonding, then stay thorough and complete on the prep.
The best kinds of tools used in preparation will depend on the kind of repair you are doing. Wet or dry repair will need different tools and preparation. Decide which system you'll be using, then go to an equipment company to see which tools are available. There are many tools that can be used to clean an area quickly and efficiently. With wet or dry prep, the tools will differ but the standard should be the same.
After the initial cleaning of the cracks/surface, the surface needs to be clean of any small particles. Air compressors are great for this but when blowing the concrete, be aware that some compressors lubricate the tools as they are used. This can put a thin layer of oil on your repair area, preventing a proper bond to the substrate. Sandblasting is excellent, not only for cleaning, but for the profile it provides to the substrate as some coatings need a more aggressive bonding surface than others.
For a wet clean, apply a cleaner that will remove all hydrocarbons first, then pressure wash. Acid etching can be effective, but it must be neutralized as any remains could affect the bonding by reaction of the acid with certain coatings and substrates.
Know your product's limits before you continue with application as some products need the cleaned area to be dry or wet before application. An improper preparation can lead to cracks or de-lamination.
As with any product, the more complete the prep, the more pleased you'll be with the outcome.