DensiCrete Application Summary

Always Test on a Few Small Areas Before Application

Because of its rapid penetration and accelerated curing properties, DensiCrete's application is slightly different from other sealers. All concrete is unique, and the initial test will help determine the number of coats to apply. Over application will leave a white coating that is difficult to remove. Brush, squeegee, or rinse away puddles after 20 minutes.

Application of DensiCrete to seal and protect existing concrete normally requires one and a half to three coats, all of which will be fully absorbed into the concrete matrix. Two coats are the norm on most broom-finished concrete. High-strength, steel trowel-finished concrete will typically take less, and low-strength, porous concrete may require additional coats.

DensiCrete has a recommended spread rate of 150 sq. ft. per gallon. Most broom finished projects will require two coats at a 150 sq. ft. per gallon spread rate. For estimation purposes, one gallon will typically be used to treat 75 square feet. A two-coat application is used in the following example using a spray procedure as described below. Because of run off, three to four lighter coats should be applied to vertical and overhead surfaces at a 300 sq. ft. per gallon spray rate.

The first full coat of DensiCrete is applied using a 40 PSI garden-type sprayer. DensiCrete can be brushed or rolled on, but it is more difficult to achieve uniform coverage. At 40 PSI, the sprayer has a spray rate of 0.4 gallons per minute. The second coat can be applied at the same rate as soon as the first coat is dry to the touch. This procedure assures quick and consistent application of DensiCrete.

For new applicators, start with an area that is approximately 150 square feet and make sure the applicator is using approximately one gallon of DensiCrete to ensure proper spray rates.

After the first full coat, DensiCrete should be fully absorbed when the concrete is dry to the touch in 5 to 10 minutes. (It may still look wet, but DensiCrete will have a slippery feel when rubbing finger and thumb together). Apply a second coat, which should be dry in less than 20 minutes. If not dry in 20 minutes or less, the second coat should be lighter. If a second coat is applied and is not dry in 20 minutes, use a broom or squeegee to remove excess product. If the second coat dries in less than 15 minutes, a full second coat and even a third light coat may be needed to treat extremely weak or porous concrete.

Existing Concrete

For existing concrete, it is recommended the surface be pressure washed to remove dirt and any previously applied materials. Squeegee any standing water before applying DensiCrete. Note that DensiCrete can evacuate embedded salt and oils to the surface for up to 30 days. Evacuated materials should be disposed of according to all regulations.

New Concrete Cure Accelerator and Seal

For use as a one-and-done cure accelerator and sealing treatment, DensiCrete should be applied to new concrete only after it is able to be walked on without leaving marks. Apply to a small test area to determine the number of coats to apply. Because of the excess water still in the fresh concrete, DensiCrete may take a little longer to penetrate. If it does not penetrate after 20 minutes, use a squeegee to remove excess. Continue to use normal curing protocols.

Precautions

DensiCrete will not penetrate curing compounds, acrylic sealers, paint, oil, or most other coatings and must be in contact with concrete to work. Pretreat oil spots with a detergent such as Dawn and scrub and rinse. Clean and pressure wash all materials from the surface prior to applying DensiCrete on existing concrete. If DensiCrete beads up on the test spot, it will not penetrate the concrete and should not be applied.

DensiCrete should never be applied to a dehydrated concrete surface in extremely hot and dry regions. The way to rehydrate concrete is to wet the surface prior to application. After wetting the surface, remove any standing surface water with a broom or squeegee.

DensiCrete should never be applied if DensiCrete or the surface is below 50°F or higher than 90°F. If the cementitious surface is above 90°F, wet the surface until the temperature drops below 90? and the surface is free of standing water.

DensiCrete should not be applied if DensiCrete or the concrete surface temperature drops below 50°F. The chemical reaction is extremely temperature-sensitive, and DensiCrete will not penetrate properly and instead will just sit on the surface like a topical coating. Once the temperature increases to 50°F, the chemical reaction will resume but may lack sufficient water to fully penetrate due to evaporation of the water in DensiCrete.

Special Note: DensiCrete should not be applied when the air temperature is expected to fall to 32°F or below for 36 continuous hours.

Don't apply DensiCrete if rain is expected within one hour of completion.

Paint or any other coatings can be applied after a few days but will adhere best after DensiCrete has had time to cure, usually 28 days.

DensiCrete works best when dye is incorporated in concrete mix. Dyes and stains should be used prior to the DensiCrete application. DensiCrete will not work with broadcast types of dyes and stains. Always test a small area before full application.

Remove any dyed mulch next to concrete surfaces. DensiCrete overspray can pull dye from mulch into the concrete surface. It will also pull silicone tire blackening products out of the concrete and may leave marks on the concrete.

Do not spray in windy conditions. DensiCrete will scratch glass and painted surfaces. Do not rub; simply rinse overspray with soapy water.

Reapplication

Most concrete sealers must be reapplied every few years. DensiCrete deeply penetrates, becoming part of the concrete matrix and will last for many years. Nevertheless, over a long period of time, all materials will degrade due to various environmental factors. Therefore, we recommend in five to seven years, a small part of the treated area to be tested by applying a single coat of DensiCrete. If it takes more than 20 minutes for DensiCrete to be absorbed and become dry to the touch, then your concrete is still protected and will not need to be rechecked for another five years. If absorbed in less than 15 minutes, then your concrete will benefit from another light application of DensiCrete. Reapplication can also be beneficial to help seal the sides of any cracks that develop due to service stresses.

Applications Checklist for Professionals

Please click the image below to get a printable copy of the checklist.

Contact for functional spreadsheet copy.

DensiCrete MUST be applied as per the manufacturer's parameters and procedures. IF DensiCrete is NOT applied by the proper procedures, the Distributor and or WICKTEK INC. (the Manufacturer) will NOT be responsible for the results and ANY Warranty whether WRITTEN, ACTUAL or IMPLIED will be NULL and VOID.