Micro-topping is a useful product to repair old cracked concrete
Micro-topping stands for a cementitious product that is generally utilized as a superior solution to restore old cracked concrete. It is very effective for inside usages and horizontal surfaces which produce a smooth neat surface.
Applications of Micro-topping
Micro-topping is applied over interior surfaces as follow:
- Indoor concrete
- Foyers
- Hotels
- Shopping centers
- Open plaza
- Museums
- Office Centers
- Garages
- General interior surfaces
Advantages of Micro-topping
When micro-topping is used over concrete surfaces, it develops a smooth surface and long-lasting finish. Given below, some of the advantages of Micro-topping.
- Easily applicable
- Better coverage
- Creates excellent bonding over concrete
- Good resistance capacity against mold
- Generally, it is comprised of Portland cement
- It is often applied as a filler
- It only needs water to form
- Some products are used in a single layer
- It can be colored
How to use Micro-topping
Before application, ensure that the surface is clean and does not contain debris. It is crucial to eliminate residues of chemicals, concrete traces or any other chemical reaction that are present on the surface. It is also suggested to clean with water, acids or water blasting to eliminate all small particles for which a perfect bonding is not possible. Some companies can provide a specialized product to employ prior to placement of the micro-topping.
Micro-topping: Surface Preparation
It is vital to repair any irregularities, holes, major cracks or voids which are present in the surface prior to apply the micro topping. Sometimes thorough repair is required or some leveling compounds should be employed before the micro-topping layer. The product should be utilized among 50 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit to maintain the perfect bonding and that the properties of concrete remain unaffected with high temperatures. In extreme temperatures, the surface should be cooled or the treatment should have been suspended.
It should also be remembered to spray some water over the surface prior to application.
Micro-topping: Mix and Apply
A variable speed mixing drill starts by adding water and the micro-topping material. It should be kept in mind that the materials are not over-mixed or mix more material than the one that can be applied in 20 minutes. The surface over which the micro-topping is used must be dampened and the material should be used with a squeegee or steel pool trowel. Be cautious to lessen trowel tracks although they can be smoothed later by rubbing stone once the material is placed.
Use adequate product to cover the concrete surface in one single pass. Once the product gets to dry, go back and smooth the surface with a steel trowel. Be careful not to start before the product has started to dry out.
