Question: How To Etch Concrete Basement Floor?

Do I need to etch basement floor?

The short answer is: Yes, even new concrete needs to be etched before applying epoxy or a similar type of garage floor coating. Etching is part of the concrete preparation process. And what many people are not aware, is that proper preparation of the concrete before a coating is applied is the most important part.

What is the best way to etch concrete?

Muriatic acid, also known as hydrochloric acid, is the typical acid of choice when etching concrete. It is inexpensive and a dangerous chemical that can damage almost anything it comes in contact with.

Can you etch concrete with vinegar?

An acidic cleaner can be used to etch a smooth concrete surface, which you may want to do if you’re planning on painting or sealing the floor after you’ve cleaned it. But you can use undiluted vinegar for tough stains or mix a little baking soda for mild cleaning and whitening.

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What kind of acid do you use to etch concrete?

What Is Etching Concrete. Acid etching is the process of applying hydrochloric/muriatic or buffered phosphoric acid to a slab, then rinsing it off with water.

Do I need to Prime basement floor before painting?

Wait until your concrete floors are dry before you prime.



Moisture will prevent the primer and paint from adhering properly. If moisture has condensed on the underside of the plastic, let the concrete dry another 24 hours and test again. When no condensation is present, you’re good to go.

How soon can you paint after etching concrete?

Sealer or Paint Applications



Sealers range from 24 to 72 hours as a general rule, while epoxy paint applications to the etched areas of the concrete can take up to 10 days to dry in humid conditions.

How long after etching concrete Can you paint?

Using a mop to apply the acid* does not give a consistent etch. Concrete floors should not be painted for at least 60 days after installation. It takes 30 days for the concrete to cure and a further 30 days for the balance of the moisture to leave the concrete.

Does white vinegar clean concrete?

Yes. Vinegar makes a great cleaner for stained concrete floors. Because of its acidity, you should dilute it 50/50 with warm water to avoid damaging the floors. However, you can use small amounts of full-strength vinegar for touch stains, followed by a quick water rinse.

Can you paint concrete floor without etching?

Etching is a crucial step in preparing concrete for painting. It gives the surface tooth to adhere to, so your paint is more likely to stick for a long time. Most concrete paints require etching and if they don’t, do it anyway. Don’t skip this step if you want a long-lasting painted concrete floor.

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Does vinegar hurt concrete?

Vinegar does not dissolve concrete itself but can degrade the cement that binds concrete together. As a weak, dilute acid, vinegar will cause only minor damage to concrete but can take the shine off polished surfaces. It can, however, be used to remove small amounts of cement from tools.

Do I need to acid wash concrete before painting?

In most cases, special cleaning and/or etching of the concrete surface will be required before painting, and the appropriate cleaner (often TSP, trisodium phosphate) and etcher (usually a solution of muriatic acid) can be obtained. These chemicals, especially the etcher, must be used with care.

How do you apply acid etch to concrete?

Acid is generally mixed at a ratio of 3 parts water to 1 part acid for sufficient strength to etch properly. Ideally you want to test the strength needed first before doing the entire floor. You can do this by first mixing a small solution in your watering can starting at a 5:1 ratio.

How do you prep concrete for painting?

Clean the concrete surface with soap and warm water, removing any old paint. First, sweep away any surface leaves, debris, and dirt. Then remove any existing paint or gunk using a power washer or scraper and wire brush. Scrub away any dirt, grime, or gunk that is stuck to the concrete.

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