Etching Concrete
ACID Magic is the best way to etch concrete and prepare for painting.
Begin by diluting ACID Magic 1:4 to water. This dilution is obtained by adding 1 gallon ACID Magic to 4 gallons water in a plastic bucket. This mixture will cover approximately 100 square feet (individual results may vary depending on conditions). If a stronger solution is needed, up to a 1:2 dilution of ACID Magic to water can be used..
STEP 1 – FLOOR PREPARATION:
• Inspect concrete for sealants. This can be done by pouring a small amount of diluted ACID Magic and water solution on an inconspicuous area. A “bubbling and hissing” reaction should occur. If not, sand or strip the surface to remove sealant.
• Properly clean the surface. Remove any loose concrete, then remove oil stains. Use water to remove following application.
STEP 2 – APPLICATION:
• Wet concrete with water, but do not allow water to pool. Wet adjoining areas to prevent damage from accidental spillage.
• Apply solution with a plastic sprinkling can or acid resistant sprayer and allow ACID Magic solution to dwell 5 – 10 minutes. If using a machine buffer, scrub area until etched. If using a natural, stiff bristle broom, apply and scrub vigorously.
• Do not allow ACID Magic solution to dry.
STEP 3 – RINSE AND INSPECT:
• Rinse thoroughly.
• Concrete should be rough to the touch when properly etched and will feel similar to 80 grit sand paper.
• Another application may be necessary if being done by hand. If so, ensure the concrete is rinsed thoroughly between applications.
STEP 4 – FINAL RINSE:
• After the concrete is properly etched, neutralize with either sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) or soda ash.
• Sodium bicarbonate neutralization solution (baking soda): Dissolve 3 – 4 parts baking soda with 100 parts water.
• Soda ash neutralization solution: Dissolve 2 – 3 parts soda ash with 100 parts water.
• Apply neutralization solution.
• Rinse and scrub thoroughly to remove all excess acid, neutralization solution and concrete particles. High pressure washing of the area is recommended.
• Rinse again with water.
• Use of a floor squeegee or wet vacuum is recommended to remove any remaining excess liquid.
• Vigorously sweep area once dry to remove any left behind salts. A mineral/salt remover can be used if excess salts remain.
• After completion, do not walk on concrete for 3 – 4 days and wait 7 – 10 days before driving on newly etched concrete. Drying time depends on humidity in your area.
• Clean tools thoroughly with water.
• Allow 3 – 4 days before applying sealer or paint to newly etched surfaces.
Notice: Provide active ventilation for several hours to allow concrete to dry and avoid irritations from any possible fumes.
• While using ACID Magic, protective eyewear and gloves are always required.
• Active ventilation is required when working indoors.
• Do not apply to dry concrete. Always wet concrete prior to application, including any adjoining areas, in case of accidental spillage.
• Do not apply to new concrete. Concrete should be at least 90 days old at the time of treatment.
• When diluting, ALWAYS add the ACID Magic to water, NOT water to the ACID Magic. This eliminates the potential of an unwanted reaction that may cause dangerous splashing to occur.
• Do not allow the concrete to dry with ACID Magic solution on it.
• Use caution when applying ACID Magic to avoid contact with other surfaces, such as wood or metal, as an unwanted reaction and discoloration of surfaces may occur.
• Avoid contact with vegetation. Excess solution should be diverted away from grass, trees and shrubs. Should accidental contact with vegetation occur, flush with large amounts of water.
• After completion, do not walk on concrete for 3 – 4 days and wait 7 – 10 days before driving on newly etched concrete. Drying time depends on humidity in your area.
• Active ventilation is required when working indoors.
• Concrete etching is usually a two person job.
• Prepare neutralization solution, found in Step 4, prior to etching concrete.
• A machine buffer is recommended, however a natural, stiff bristle broom can be used to scrub the surface.
• Make sure surface is clean. Remove all excess dirt and loose concrete before beginning the process. ACID Magic will not remove sealers or paints. These substances must be removed by sanding the surface or by using a concrete paint stripper or remover.
• For best results, do not etch concrete when the temperature is below 41°F (5°C).
