Tack Strip Pop-Out Repair – Part 2

Earlier we posted a fix for those troublesome tack strip pop-outs. We’ve had some questions about the process, so we’re going to address the issue with more in-depth info.

Q. Does this process work with any brand or type of concrete sealer?
A. Probably. We can only vouch for the compatibility of Concrete Resurrection sealer, stains and epoxy. We know our products work together. Other brands might or might not.

Q. Why put down a first coat of sealer over the entire acid stained floor before adding the epoxy?
A. The sealer prevents the epoxy from entering the pores of the concrete and permanently changing the color where the epoxy was applied.

Q. Why put down a first coat of sealer over the entire surface of a water-based stained floor before adding the epoxy?
A. The sealer prevents the epoxy from altering the color of water-based stain. Chemically speaking, the reasons are different than for acid stain, but the result is the same—the color will change if a sealer is not used before applying epoxy.

Q. Why do I have to use two coats of sealer?
A. Two reasons:

  1. It’s necessary to get an even appearance over the entire floor, including the pop-outs.
  2. We strongly recommend at least two coats of sealer for every decorative concrete flooring installation. The job will last longer, resulting in a more satisfied customer. Bid the job to include a minimum of two coats of sealer.

Q. Can I use CR-530 Epoxy to cover the entire floor?
A. You can apply two coats of CR-530 epoxy to the entire floor, allowing the first coat to fill the pop-outs completely as you come to them. Allow the epoxy to cure thoroughly, then apply the second coat. Be sure you and your customers are aware of the differences in appearance produced by epoxy on acid-stained surfaces and on water-based stained surfaces.

If you complete the pop-out repair carefully as Chris instructed in Part 1, you’ll get a finished project with pop-outs that are virtually unnoticeable. To protect yourself, you may want to point out to the owner that pop-outs are flaws in the concrete and are a part of its unique character. We believe, though, that both you and your customer will be pleased with this solution.

Read Part 1 of this article