WHITE CAP
Course 18, Level 1
Decorative Concrete
Slide 1: Welcome
Thank you for your interest in Decorative Concrete. The associate who successfully completes this
course will understand the various products and processes for stamping, staining and performing
decorative concrete overlays.
The associate will become knowledgeable of the importance of prepping the flooring, different stamped
concrete applications, integral color use, antiquing procedures, the use of concrete stains, concrete
overlays and the application of various sealers.
The associate also will become familiar with the necessary safety precautions when creating decorative
concrete flooring.
It should be noted that the desired results in stamping, staining, and performing decorative concrete
overlays will have aesthetic requirements that an inexperienced applicator will not be able to achieve.
Slide 2: Features
Before we begin, let us point out a few features.
On the left, you’ll see two tabs. Use the Notes tab to follow this narration. Click on the Menu tab to track
your progress. You can click on a section or page to navigate back to it.
On the top right, you’ll see Ask A Question, Resources and Exit. Click on Ask A Question to offer any
comments or ask questions. Click on Resources to download the script and additional resources. Click on
Exit to leave at any time. Your progress through the course will be saved. When you open the course
again, you’ll start at the slide you last completed.
On the bottom, there are two buttons: the Previous and Next buttons. Use the Next button to advance to
the next page. Use the Previous button to go back to a previous page. Click the Next button to advance to
the next page.
Slide 3: Recommended Connection
To ensure a successful online connection, we recommend the following:
 Use a recommended Web browser: Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 or Microsoft Internet Explorer 8.
 Use a wired broadband connection.
 Keep ALL windows associated with the course open. If a window opens in your browser as you’re
starting the course, leave it open.
 Close all other programs.
Slide 4: Course Progress
PLEASE NOTE: This program tracks your course progress so that you can save your session and return
at a later time. If you are presented with an error message while completing or exiting the course, please
email wctrade@hdsupply.com.
Slide 5: Course Agenda
This course is separated into four sections: Stamped Concrete, Stained Concrete, Concrete Overlays and
Safety Precautions. We recommend that you take notes to help you learn the information presented.
After each section, there will be a short learning check, or assessment. You’ll have to pass the
assessment before advancing to the next section.
Slide 6: Learning Objectives
After completing this course, you will be knowledgeable in the three basic elements of decorative
concrete - stamped, stained and overlays – and in the tools and supplies used when preparing decorative
concrete flooring.
By the end of this course, you will understand:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Basic definitions, tools and procedures for creating a stamped concrete surface
Basic aspects of staining concrete floors
The purpose and limitations of decorative concrete overlays
The safety precautions necessary when performing decorative concrete work
SECTION 1: STAMPED CONCRETE
Slide 7
Section 1 will cover the basic definitions, tools and procedures for creating a stamped concrete surface.
Slide 8
Stamped concrete is concrete imprinted with textured patterns to resemble other materials, such as brick,
flagstone, wood, tile and other natural and man-made products. Stamped concrete is also referred to as
printed or impressed concrete, but is most commonly called stamped concrete because of the use of
textured mats to stamp the texture into the concrete surface.
Using concrete stamps with color, antiquing methods and the proper sealer is what enables stamped
concrete to resemble other products.
Stamped concrete surfaces are commonly used for patios, sidewalks, pool decks, interior floors and other
surfaces were a more appealing look is desired. Given the wide array of stamped concrete patterns and
concrete colors, and the cost savings of stamped concrete compared to the materials it substitutes, such
as stone, tile and brick, stamped concrete is becoming increasingly more popular for a variety of
applications.
Slide 9
Stamped concrete is poured basically the same as normal concrete with a few additions and aspects to
consider. The proper base, slope, rebar placement, depth and finishing of a pour are all essential
elements to a successful project.
As with any concrete pour, the proper base preparation is essential in minimizing the potential for future
cracking of the concrete surface. A minimum 2 inches of a compactable base material, such as crushed
limestone, crushed granite or other material compactable and indigenous to the area, is recommended.
It is important to install and compact the material with a plate compactor tight enough so vehicular traffic
would not be able to impress the base material.
Slide 10
Common tools used in concrete finishing work include:
• Sliders to support and protect worker knees
• Edgers for a tighter, cleaner edge
• Groovers to joint the concrete to control location of cracks
•
•
•
Bull floats to level ridges and fill voids
Trowels to produce a hard, smooth, dense surface, and
Sprayers (DC 063) for applying release agents, water-based sealants and curing compounds. It’s
important to select the proper sprayer for the task.
Slide 11
Common tools used in decorative concrete flooring include:
• Concrete grinders to remove coatings and prepare floor profiles
• Gauge rake to lay down cementitious material at a uniform thickness
• Concrete saws and saw blades that cut control joints and/or decorative cuts, and
• Concrete polishers to polish the concrete
Slide 12: Stamped Concrete (FLIP-BOOK INTERACTION)
Stamped Concrete
We'll discuss how to place, finish, stamp, antique, seal and cure concrete. Please note that the
narration will provide additional information to the text that is presented on the screen. This additional
information is available to download by using the Attachments link at the top right. Click Next to flip the
page.
Slope of Stamped Concrete
Proper slope of stamped concrete also is important when pouring a surface such as a patio where
water needs to drain away from the structure. A typical slope used in pouring patios is 1/8-inch per foot. If
the patio extended 10 feet from the building, the total slope from the building to the edge of the patio
would be 1 ¼ inches.
Rebar Placement
Typically, rebar placement will be dictated by the structural engineer. When pouring a stamped concrete
patio, rebar is typically placed every 2 feet on center. The rebar should also be on the bottom third of the
total concrete pour.
For a patio, the concrete generally will be poured at a 4-inch depth. A yard of concrete will cover about 80
square feet at a depth of 4 inches. If the pour is 6 inches in depth, 1 yard of concrete will cover about 54
square feet.
Finishing Concrete
Finishing concrete that will later be stamped is also similar to finishing other concrete pours. The
concrete is poured, screeded, bull-floated and edged. After a period of time, the concrete will be ready to
stamp. The waiting period is determined by when one can walk on the stamped concrete without creating
large impressions, sometimes referred to as bird baths.
Stamped Concrete
Stamped concrete can mimic many materials because of its ability to accept a wide variety of colors.
Concrete is generally colored two ways: Integral color and with dry-shake color hardeners.
Integral Color
Integral color is added to the concrete prior to pouring, coloring the concrete throughout its full depth.
The color comes in liquid or powder form and is added in the ready mix truck and blended before the
concrete is poured.
Color Hardener
Color hardener comes in a powder and is broadcast and troweled into the concrete surface shortly after
the concrete is poured. This method covers the surface to only about 3/16 of an inch in depth, but it gives
the concrete surface a longer wear life. Color hardener is a popular choice for smaller projects.
Stamping Mats
Stamping concrete is the process of imprinting the concrete surface with mats while the concrete is still in
a plastic state. Stamping mats come in a variety of textures to mimic materials such as stone, tile, brick
and other natural and man-made products. Stamps can be used to imprint the entire concrete surface, for
border accents, or both. The possibilities of textures and patterns are endless.
Stamps come in two basic styles: Seamless textures and patterns.
Seamless Stamps
Seamless stamps are the most widely used and most often mimic granite, slate or other stone-like
textures.
Pattern Stamps
Pattern stamps take a little more planning because there is a particular way the stamps interlock while
being placed. Pattern stamps mimic brick, tile and other surfaces with a pattern.
Release Agents
Release agents are used so that the concrete stamps don’t stick to the concrete surface during the
stamping process. Release agents come in two forms: Powder and liquid.
Powder Release Agents
Powder release agents come in a wide variety of colors and are broadcast onto the concrete surface
before stamping. The powder release will add another variation of color to the final concrete color when
the surface is sealed. The colored release should be a few shades darker than the concrete pour. If the
concrete is a light buff color, the release powder should be as dark as walnut.
Liquid Release Agents
Liquid release agents, which come in scented versions like the popular bubble gum scent, are sprayed
onto the concrete surface as well as the stamps just prior to stamping since they dry quickly.
Antiquing
Antiquing is a coloring technique that enables stamped concrete to mimic other materials and to have
more depth. There are two popular ways to antique-stamped concrete: By using powder release during
stamping and by using powder release mixed with solvent and sealer.
To antique-stamp concrete with powder release, the colored release powder is applied during the
stamping process, and then washed off from the concrete to the desired amount in a couple of days after
the stamped work has been completed. The more release powder that is washed from the concrete
surface, the less of an antique effect the surface will have.
Antiquing can also be done by mixing one-half xylene, one-half solvent acrylic sealer and the desired
amount of colored release powder. The mixture is then put in a pump spray and sprayed onto the
stamped concrete surface, allowing it to pool in the textured areas. This process can be done just after
the concrete is stamped or after it has cured.
Acrylic Sealers
For outside applications, solvent-based acrylic sealers are used to seal the concrete surface. Not only
do these sealers protect the surface, they produce more vibrant colors and add sheen to the stamped
concrete.
Curing
Before sealing stamped concrete, it should be allowed to properly cure. An outside patio usually requires
two weeks. Sealers should be applied in thin coats. Never apply acrylic sealers in thick coats as they will
soon cloud and flake. Anti-slip agents such as dry, clean silica sand can be added to the sealers during
the sealing process to aid in slip resistance.
Slide 13: Section 1 Summary
This section discussed basic definitions, tools and procedures for creating a stamped concrete surface.
You learned that using concrete stamps with color, antiquing methods and the proper sealer is what
enables stamped concrete to resemble other products.
You also learned that the proper base, slope, rebar placement, depth and finishing of a pour are all
essential elements to a successful project. You also learned release agents come in two forms: Powder
and liquid; how to antique concrete; and that solvent-based acrylic sealers are used for outside
applications.
Slide 14: Section 1 Assessment
This short assessment will test your knowledge of creating a stamped concrete surface. You must
correctly answer at least six of the eight questions to advance to Section 2. You will receive feedback
after answering each question.
If you do not pass on your first attempt, that’s OK. You will be directed to the beginning of the section
where you can review the concepts before re-attempting the assessment. Click Next to begin.
SECTION 2: STAINED CONCRETE
Slide 15
Section 2 will cover the basic aspects of staining concrete floors.
Slide 16
Staining concrete is one of the most popular ways to transform a concrete slab because of the unique
results that can be achieved with color variations, application techniques, limitless design possibilities and
cost savings compared to other flooring applications.
Stained concrete is used anywhere there is a desire to enhance a concrete surface’s appearance.
Typically concrete is stained on smooth concrete pours such as basements and commercial interior
floors, although staining can also be done on stamped concrete.
Rather than produce a solid effect like paint, concrete stains permeate and infuse the concrete with deep,
translucent tones and its own unique character. Even when treated with the same staining product no two
floors will look exactly alike due to factors such as mix design, age of the concrete, surface porosity,
texture, environmental factors and staining procedures. For many clients, this uniqueness is its appeal.
Slide 17: Surface Preparation for Stained Concrete (TAB INTERACTION)
Surface Preparation for Stained Concrete
Click on the tab on the left to hear descriptions of how to properly prepare a concrete surface for a
successful stain. Please note that the narration will provide additional information to the text that is
presented on the screen. This additional information is available to download by using the Attachments
link at the top right.
Proper surface preparation is crucial for a successful stain and proper bonding of the sealer. There are
three basic aspects to floor preparation: Analysis, prep and cleaning.
Analysis
The first step in surface preparation is to analyze the floor to ensure there are no curing agents or sealers
on the slab surface. A basic test is to throw a little water on the surface in several locations to see if the
concrete absorbs water. If water is not being absorbed and beads, or is being absorbed slowly, it is highly
likely that a sealer or curing agent is on the surface. These products must be removed in addition to any
grease and oil, paint drops, taping compounds, caulk or other surface contaminants.
Prep
Though there are many ways to prepare a surface, the preferred method is by using diamond tooling
(grinding). There are chemical strippers made especially for removing curing agents. These products can
be scrubbed onto the surface and then removed with an auto scrubber. If a cure or sealer is thick, or if
there is carpet glue or other contaminants, chemical methods are typically used first, even if the floor is
going to be ground with a planetary diamond grinder. There are also gelled-acid products that give the
concrete a profile.
Usually the simplest way to prep concrete is to remove contaminants and achieve the proper surface
profile with diamond tooling. Using a planetary concrete grinder and leaving the floor with a profile of a
120 metal-bond diamond will absorb stains and provide sealers will the proper profile. Diamond cup
wheels and single headed grinders need to be used with caution as they are very aggressive and can
leave gouges that won’t be masked by a stain and sealer. It is recommended to prep a floor with a
planetary style concrete grinder.
Cleaning
The final step, cleaning, involves carefully washing the surface with water and a mild soap. It is not
advisable to use acid to wash the concrete surface as it will diminish the effect of many stains. The
easiest way to clean a floor is with an auto scrubber with black pads. The surface needs to be clean and
free of streak marks, foot prints and any other residues. Anything remaining on the surface will affect the
penetration and final result of the stain.
Repairs
Before repairs are made to a floor that will be stained, it is advisable to know the client’s expectations.
The client may like the look and character that defects provide and may not want them repaired. If repairs
are made, the expectation should be established that the repairs will accept stain differently.
Cracks less than a credit card in width are generally not repaired. Cracks from a credit card to ¼ inch can
be filled with a structural product. Usually, a two-part epoxy mixed with sand, and a colored twocomponent structural urethane, or polymer modified cement can be used in minor cracks. Most of these
products are applied, left to dry, and ground smooth with the surrounding slab surface. Colors, sand,
concrete dust and other aggregates can be added to these repair products to help them blend in.
Acid Stains
There are generally three types of stains: Acid stains, acetone-based stains or dyes and water-based
stains.
Acid stains react with lime in the concrete, forming a permanent stain that is highly durable. Every slab of
concrete is different and thus accepts the stain differently. This means that colors will vary from slab to
slab, making each project unique.
Acid stains come in about 12 different colors that generally are earth tones. After the stain has been
applied, a residue is built-up that needs to be neutralized and thoroughly cleaned before sealing and
waxing the stained concrete floor. Acid stains were once the main choice in concrete stains. Today they
have stiff competition with newer, more effective and efficient staining methods such as acetone-based
dyes and water-based stains.
Acetone-based Stains
Acetone-based stains or dyes also react with the concrete but provide more vibrant colors as well as
more control of the final color compared to acid stains. These stains are perfect for floors that require a
more consistent color, but can also create a mottling effect if desired. These stains are the most versatile
and vibrant and are much less time consuming to apply. But acetone-based dyes are extremely
flammable. Any flame such as a pilot light on a water heater should be turned off and the area well
ventilated before using this type of stain.
Water-based Stains
Water-based stains are increasing in popularity because of the health concerns of other staining
methods. Water-based stains offer the most control over color results and are the easiest to use to touchup mistakes.
Sealers
The final step in a stained concrete floor system is to apply a sealer. The sealer not only protects the
floor, but it also ‘pops’ the color from the stain.
There are many different types of sealers. Some sealers are not UV stable and should not be used on
exterior applications. Usually single-component, solvent-based acrylic sealers are used over stained
concrete because they are easy to apply and enrich the stain color. If odors are an issue, as might be the
case with many inside jobs, a water-based product might be more applicable.
Almost all sealers that protect stained concrete floors are film-forming products. Film-forming sealers
should be applied in multiple thin coats, generally around 300 square feet per gallon. If film-forming
sealers are applied too thick, they can flake from the surface and fail. Sealers should be applied with a
high-quality nap roller with a 3/8-inch nap or less for smooth surfaces. To avoid lap marks, rolling should
start and stop at a logical place. Most sealers need two coats.
Slide 18: Section 2 Summary
This section discussed the basic aspects of staining concrete floors. You learned that proper surface
preparation is crucial for a successful stain and that there are three basic aspects to floor preparation:
Analyze, prep and cleaning. You also learned how to repair cracks. Additionally, you learned that there
are three types of stains: Acid stains, acetone-based stains or dyes and water-based stains. Finally, you
learned about different types of sealers.
Slide 19: Section 2 Assessment
This short assessment will test your knowledge of staining concrete floors. You must correctly answer at
least eight of the 10 questions to advance to Section 3. You will receive feedback after answering each
question.
If you do not pass on your first attempt, that’s OK. You will be directed to the beginning of the section
where you can review the concepts before re-attempting the assessment. Click Next to begin.
SECTION 3: CONCRETE OVERLAYS
Slide 20
Section 3 will cover the purpose and limitations of decorative concrete overlays.
Slide 21
Concrete overlays can be used to give concrete slabs that are too porous, have minor imperfections,
color irregularities and other imperfections, a fresh canvas. Concrete overlays are an attractive option
because they can give the concrete slab a necessary facelift without replacing the slab. It is important to
remember that concrete overlays are only as good as the underlying base they are installed on. Putting
an overlay over a slab with severe damage will not fix it. Sometimes replacing the slab is the best option.
If in doubt of the application, it is best to consult the concrete overlay manufacturer.
Slide 22
Although cement-based concrete overlays have been around for decades, many of today’s concrete
overlay systems blend polymer resins with cement-based products to improve performance and wear
resistance. While most polymer-modified overlays offer similar performance characteristics, each system
has its own unique characteristics. There are many types of polymer resins that can change the physical
attributes as well as the working ability of the overlay product. Depending on the application, polymermodified concrete overlays range in thickness from 1/8 inch to 1 inch.
Slide 23: Concrete Overlays (TAB INTERACTION)
Concrete Overlays
Click on the tab on the left to hear descriptions of different concrete overlays such as mico-topping,
stamped, sprayable and polishable. Please note that the narration will provide additional information to
the text that is presented on the screen. This additional information is available to download by using the
Attachments link at the top right.
Micro-Topping
Micro-topping is typically used when there are minor imperfections in the concrete slab and a fresher
looking slab is desired. It requires excellent prep so that it will bond to the existing substrate. A shortcut
here is a guaranteed failure. Micro toppings are applied super-thin with a squeegee in a short time period.
If a more even concrete stain is desired, a micro topping can provide a fresh, even slab to stain. Weather
micro-topping is recommended for vehicular traffic.
Stamped Overlays
Stamped overlays can be stamped in a fashion similar to regular stamped concrete. The polymermodified concrete is applied at roughly 1/2 inch and stamps are applied to the surface to give it the desired
texture. Color options include broadcast pigments, integral color, colored release powders as well as
staining options after placement.
Sprayable Overlays
Sprayable overlay are sprayed with a hopper gun. The hopper gun is connected to an air compressor
and the concrete product is applied to the surface in a splatter-like fashion. This texture is then knocked
down with a trowel, resulting in the same texture as the knockdown texture of residential sheetrock. The
texture provides an anti-skid surface and is ideal around pool decks.
Polishable Overlays
Polishable overlays provide a fresh slab to polish without having to wait 30 days for a new slab to cure.
These overlay systems can also cover minor surface imperfections. Polishable concrete overlays are
placed over properly profiled concrete and self-level. They are installed at roughly ½ inch in depth and are
ready to polish with diamond tooling the day after they’re installed. These overlays also make for great
patch material. If the floor is damaged during traditional concrete polishing, it can be milled down, covered
with the polishable overlay and the rest of the polishing process can continue.
Slide 24
Not all concrete can be resurfaced with a concrete overlay. For the overlay to be successful, the
underlying base must be sound. If the concrete is heaving, has severe cracks, is resting on unstable soil,
or has other severe defects, a concrete overlay will not solve the problem. Total replacement is
sometimes the best option. Also, heavy oil- or food-based stains, like automotive shops or food
processing centers, may have floors that will not accept an overlay.
Slide 25
Without the proper surface profile and a clean substrate, concrete overlays are likely to fail. Proper
surface profile of the concrete surface is essential for a successful overlay. The International Concrete
Repair Institute (ICRI) has published methods of surface preparation and when they should be used. The
Institute has established a Concrete Surface Profile (CSP) system of nine distinct textures ranging from a
CSP1 (nearly smooth) to a CSP9 (very rough) to designate a suitable base for specific coatings and
sealers. The CSP chart is widely referred to in many specifications and material data sheets to
communicate the desired surface preparation requirements. The type of concrete overlay system used
will depend on the CSP needed.
Slide 26
Mechanically profiling the concrete surface is a must for the proper bond of a concrete overlay. Concrete
surface grinders can provide a wide range of profiles based on the diamond tooling they are outfitted with.
Abrasive blasters are another choice for prepping concrete surfaces. These machines use a blasting
media to abrade the surface and provide a profile. It is recommended to check with the overlay product
manufacturer to ensure proper preparation methods are being used.
Slide 27
It is important to make repairs to the concrete slab before installing an overlay. Since concrete overlays
are put down thin, defects such as cracks and pitting will refract back through the overlay if not repaired.
Repairs for concrete overlays should be done in a manner similar to repairs made for concrete flooring
(except you don’t have to worry about aesthetics). All cracks should be filled with a two-part structural
repair product. It is important to broadcast or mix sand in with the repair product so the overlay has more
of a texture to adhere to. All surface pitting and pop outs should also be filled because an overlay will
follow the contour of the floor. After repair products have been installed and left to dry, it is best to grind
them with a 4-inch angle grinder with a diamond cup wheel. Remember, an overlay is only as good as the
base it’s installed on. Any defects not repaired will have a high likelihood of showing back up in the
overlay. All control joints and saw cuts should be honored and cut back out after installing the overlay.
Slide 28: Section 3 Summary
This section discussed the purpose and limitations of decorative concrete overlays. You learned that
overlay systems blend polymer resins with cement-based products to improve performance and wear
resistance. You also learned about micro topping, stamped, sprayable and polishable concrete overlays.
Additionally, you learned that without the proper surface profile and a clean substrate, concrete overlays
are likely to fail and that it is important to make repairs to the concrete slab before installing an overlay.
Slide 29: Section 3 Assessment
This short assessment will test your knowledge of decorative concrete overlays. You must correctly
answer at least six out of eight questions to advance to Section 4. You will receive feedback after
answering each question.
If you do not pass on your first attempt, that’s OK. You will be directed to the beginning of the section
where you can review the concepts before re-attempting the assessment. Click Next to begin.
SECTION 4: SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Slide 30
Section 4 will discuss the safety precautions necessitated when performing decorative concrete work.
Slide 31
Safety should be a priority in all concrete flooring applications. Workers entering the jobsite must look out
for their own safety as well as that of other workers. Workers also must comply with basic jobsite safety
standards and the requirements of local and federal standards.
It is very dangerous to walk where concrete flooring applications are taking place. The surface can be
uneven due to excavation, or wet and slick due to floor prep work. The work area should be defined to
control access for safety and security purposes. This may be accomplished by determining the perimeter
of the work area and setting up a barrier. Caution tape or hard barriers can be used to prevent
unauthorized persons from entering the work area. Workers should wear slip-resistant shoes.
Slide 32
Floor prep work can produce concrete dust if dry methods are used and slurry if wet methods are used.
Dry grinding and cutting is dangerous and hazardous to humans if exposed for long periods of time. Tools
need to be attached to vacuums with HEPA filters designed to handle the amount of dust each machine
produces. Contractors can order the appropriate tools such as HEPA filters and vacuums from
White Cap when they will be grinding and cutting for long periods.
Grinding and cutting wet eliminates dust and keeps the diamond blades cool, but produces slurry that
needs to be disposed of according to local regulations. Slurry should never be dumped down drains
without being treated. There are slurry gel products that help transform it into a solid that can be more
easily disposed.
Slide 33
Precautions should be taken when working with sealers. Many sealers are solvent-based that are
extremely flammable and also hazardous to breathe. Any open flames such as pilot lights or space
heaters should be contained. The project area should be well ventilated and workers should wear
respirators.
Slide 34
Employers should provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to employees and ensure its use to
minimize exposure to a variety of hazards.
The following should be provided and in place for sawing and drilling operations in the work area:
• A highly-visible, reflective safety vest
• Steel-toed safety boots
• Hard hats
• Eye and hearing protection
• First aid supplies
• Protective gloves, and
• Respirators as required
Slide 35
Many decorative concrete contractors use hand-held tools for cutting concrete and masonry. Severe
injuries can occur when using this type of equipment if not handled correctly. It is important for sawing
and drilling operators to observe specific safety requirements for each type of tool used.
Operators should consider the following:



When using electric hand power tools, make sure electrical equipment such as cords and
generators are in good operating condition and use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI).
When using hydraulic tools make sure all lines and fittings are in good condition and hoses are
not leaking.
Inspect the backside of the work area. Make sure there are no obstructions such as electrical or
gas lines. If unable to inspect the area, get assurances there are no hazards before starting work.
Slide 36: Section 4 Summary
This section discussed safety precautions necessitated when performing decorative concrete work. You
learned:








Workers must comply with basic jobsite safety standards and the requirements of local and
federal standards.
Work areas should be defined to control access for safety and security purposes.
Tools need to be attached to vacuums with HEPA filters.
Slurry needs to be disposed of according to local regulations.
Precautions should be taken when working with sealers.
Steps must be taken to reduce electrical hazards in the work area.
Employers should provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to employees.
Sawing and drilling operators need to observe specific safety requirements for each tool they use.
Slide 37: Congratulations
Congratulations! You have completed Decorative Concrete. Before you go, there are a few things we’d
like to share with you.
Slide 38: Course Summary
You learned that using concrete stamps with color, antiquing methods and the proper sealer is what
enables stamped concrete to resemble other products, and that the proper base, slope,
rebar placement, depth and finishing of a pour are all essential elements to a successful project.
You also learned that proper surface preparation is crucial for a successful stain and that there are three
basic aspects to floor preparation - analysis, prep and cleaning – and that there are three types of stains.
Additionally, you learned that overlay systems blend polymer resins with cement-based products to
improve performance and wear resistance, and that without the proper surface profile and a clean
substrate, concrete overlays are likely to fail.
Finally, you learned that workers must comply with basic jobsite safety standards and the requirements of
local and federal standards. Also, employers should provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to
employees, and that tool operators should observe specific safety requirements for each tool they use.
Slide 39: Recap
You should now be able to discuss:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Basic definitions, tools and procedures for creating a stamped concrete surface
Basic aspects of staining concrete floors
The purpose and limitations of decorative concrete overlays
The safety precautions necessary when performing decorative concrete work
Slide 40: Resources
Thank you for your time. Our core value is customer service. By improving our overall understanding of
the businesses in which our customers work, we can better help them achieve success. Close this
program by clicking Exit at the top right.