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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CTi Concrete System?
The CTi Concrete System is a
color integrated, modified acrylic, mixed with portland cement and
polymer that is activated with a modified acrylic resin.
How long has this product been in use?
The CTi manufacturing facility has been producing resurfacing
products since 1968. Acrylic Resurfacing has been in use since the
early 70's. Polymer was added to the process in the 80's to provide
a superior bonding process to add strength.
How does the product bond with existing concrete?
We acid etch and power wash the existing concrete to clean off
dirt, remove loose aggregate and open the pores. Next, a hand
troweled skim coat of polymer and portland cement is applied to the
surface as thin as possible. This allows maximum absorption of the
polymer into the existing concrete rather than building up the
existing surface. When the polymer dries, it becomes part of the
existing concrete. Because the polymer is absorbed and dries as part
of the old surface, the polymer
strengthens and makes more dense the existing concrete, as the new
application and old surface become an integrated piece.
How thick is it applied?
The thinner we can apply the mixture the better. Usually between
3/32" to 1/8". We are more interested in getting the polymer to
penetrate the existing concrete than building the existing surface
higher.
Will my concrete still heave in the winter?
We can not eliminate heaving of concrete. However, once your
existing concrete is surfaced with the CTi Concrete System, the
surface will be denser and less porous, less water will be retained
by the concrete and, therefore, lessen the effects of the
freeze/thaw cycle.
Will the cold weather affect the CTi System?
The product was tested by subjecting it to a 60 day freeze/thaw
cycle. This means that it was frozen and thawed 60 consecutive times
with no adverse effect. It is stronger and denser than concrete and
will hold up to cold weather much longer than normal concrete.
How does the CTi Concrete System provide protection from stains, oil
spills, salt damage and discoloration?
Once the skim coat is troweled on and the colored decorative
coat is sprayed, the surface is sealed with an acrylic sealer. This
sealer is non-porous and UV protective.
Will the CTi Concrete System wear off?
The CTi Concrete System should not show wear providing the
acrylic sealer is replaced as wear occurs. We estimate this to take
place no sooner than 2 years under normal traffic conditions. As
long as the acrylic is in good condition, any wear will be absorbed
by this protective coating.
What colors does it come in?
CTi has 13 standard colors and 13 highlight colors to choose
from. The unique highlight system allows many different color
combinations. Custom colors are available on special orders at an
additional cost.
Why should I repair my concrete rather than replacing it?
If you replace your concrete you will be paying the cost of
rip-out, removal, forming and pouring concrete. This takes larger
equipment than the CTi Concrete System, and usually causes damage to
landscaping. When replaced, you will have new concrete that will
stain, absorb oil stains, can be damaged by salts, and have a
strength of about 3,000 to 4,000 PSI. However, repairing concrete
with the CTi Concrete System will strengthen the existing concrete
to about 6,000 PSI, resist stains, oil spills and salt damage.
Additionally, it can be designed and will add value to your home
while making an attractive presentation of your concrete surfaces.
Is there any type of warranty offered?
When you have new concrete poured, the contractor will promise
you two things. One: The concrete will get hard. Two: It will crack.
The CTi Concrete System has a limited 10 year manufacturer's
warranty against fading, delamination, and regular product failure.
This warranty is based upon cleaning and re-sealing the area every 2
years.
What if something happens to my concrete after the warranty expires?
The CTi Concrete System will virtually last a lifetime if it is
properly maintained. It is easily repaired to its original state at
any time during its useful life.
What do I have to do to maintain the CTi Concrete System?
You should maintain your concrete the same as you do the rest of
your home. Care and cleaning hints will be provided upon completion
of the installation.
Can you cover up the control and expansion joints?
No. The control and expansion joints are there to permit the
concrete to move. If the existing control and expansion joints were
not properly placed when the concrete was poured, we will cut the
necessary control joints into the concrete to keep it from further
random cracking.
Can you fix cracks in the existing concrete?
Yes. We repair cracks by "V" grinding the cracked areas and
filling them with CTi's unique crack weld system. The "V" shape of
the channel forces the epoxy to the bottom of the crack providing a
maximum strength repair. A tension relief joint is then cut over the
crack to control re-cracking.
How long does it take to complete a job?
An average job will take one to three days - depending on the
condition of the concrete. If new concrete is poured as part of the
repair or enlargement process, the CTi Concrete system can not be
applied for at least seven days.
How soon can I use the concrete after the CTi Concrete System is
completed?
Normal foot traffic, excluding high heels, after 24 hours;
vehicle traffic after seven days.
Can I use this product around my pool?
Yes. This is an excellent product for around pools. It is
non-skid, cooler than concrete, will not stain or be affected by
chemicals. |