Problems In Concrete After Using Pentra-Sil and Pentra-Guard for Concrete Floors

Discoloration

• Among the most commonly encountered problems after using Pentra-Sil and Pentra-Guard on a concrete surface are discoloration and whitening. The leading cause of discoloration on sealed surfaces is allowing the surface to get wet before it is fully cured. Therefore, to avoid whitening and discoloration, it is critically important never to allow puddles or standing water to develop on the sealed surface for at least seven days after application, until the sealant is fully cured. Also avoid scrubbing or cleaning the sealed surface to avoid water becoming integrated into the surface.

Sanding and Polishing

• Sanding and polishing the concrete surface after you have applied Pentra-Sil and Pentra-Guard can also cause problems. Polishing or sanding the surface within seven days of application will wear down the protective surface and diminish the effectiveness of the sealant. If left to cure on its own, the concrete surface treated with Pentra-Sil or Pentra-Guard will exhibit a satin shine without the need to add any polishing chemicals.

Curing Problems

• For maximum sealant effectiveness and to avoid problems after using Pentra-Sil and Pentra-Guard, keep pedestrian traffic off of the sealed surface for 30 to 60 minutes. If any vehicles are to drive over the concrete floor, wait two hours after applying the sealant. Allowing foot or vehicle traffic to pass over the sealed surface without waiting the ideal time period will cause surface cracking and will reduce the sealant's effectiveness.

Usage Problems

• A great many Pentra-Sil and Pentra-Guard problems can be avoided by simply applying the products in a proper manner. When applying multiple coats of the sealant, wait 30 to 60 minutes after applying the first coat to apply the next. Also, take care to avoid applying coats that are too thick, as applying coats that are too thick will not allow the sealant to cure properly and can often cause whitening and discoloration.