1. My garage floor is pitted, what causes this and can it be repaired?
Pits or spalls are caused by rocks in the concrete that have absorbed water and,
when frozen, expand. This pressure literally pops the concrete surface off. This damage is permanently
repaired as part of our installation process.
2. My garage floor has cracks, what causes this and can it be repaired?
There are several reasons concrete cracks, understanding and developing a solution
that will repair or work with the movement of the crack is important in the long term durability of our coatings.
The Vortex™ spray on industrial liner is a superior solution to solve this problem. Other finishes can
then be applied over the liner.
3. My deck is showing visable cracks and signs of aging. What is involved in the prep
work before coating?
The prep work before coating a deck always involves using a commercial floor sander
to prepare the surface. This removes 1/16"-1/8" of dead surface wood and also levels out considerably the
cupping effect the boards obtained throughout the years. At times powerwashing is also needed for a more
extensive cleaning, especially where moss and mildew are extensively present. Screw and/or nails are then
recessed and usually patched (depending on which finish is applied). All major cracks and defects are
patched and sanded smooth. The finer cracks are filled in naturally with the sealer. The chosen finish
is now ready to be applied
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1. Are Finished surfaces slippery?
No, we follow installation guidelines for commercial buildings that require the
surface to have a measurable amount of slip resistance. In addition to the actual surface texture, any
spills are easily wiped up and nothing penetrates into the surface. This means that even when oils are
spilled , you simply wipe it up and it's good as new.
2. What is the best method to clean my new floor?
We recommend mixing 5-6 ounces of clear ammonia per gallon of water in a mop bucket.
A large headed string/rag mop works best, with a wringer mechanism on your mop bucket. Note: we highly
recommend against the use of any soap based product, as these leave a film which not only reduces the shine
on the floor, but can also become slippery when the floor gets damp or wet.
3. How long will my floor last?
We have many different systems we install based on expectations, needs, budget and
esthetics. We try to recommend the proper system for the proper use. Example: a body shop or car care
garage would be recommended the Vortex™ liner system to insure proper impact protection. Our
products are the industries best, and beyond abnormal physical damage they can only be removed by mechanical
means.
4. The Colorquartz™ floors sound very strong. What can damage it?
Anything that breaks the concrete can damage the coating. If a heavy item like a
sledge hammer strikes with enough force, the concrete will fail. Anytime the concrete fails, the coating
could be damaged.
5. I am determined to coat my garage floor myself and I have purchased an epoxy paint.
Any suggestions on how to get the longest life possible?
We do not recommend epoxy paints due to their short lifespan, but if you are determined,
surface preparation is key to extending the life. We could professionally prepare your surface and you could
apply the product of your choice.
6. How does a new deck coating system compare with that of a new composite type system?
A composite decking has many advantages and disadvantages, the biggest advantage of course
is that the decking will not rot and is maintenance free outside from occasional cleaning. The same is true
of KNH Coating systems. A few disadvantages of composite decking would be the limited decorative
choices, fading over time, and the composite reaching very hot temperatures under direct sunlight. The cost of
synthetic decking and installation can be steep. Average cost of decking ranges from $2.50-$5.00 per linear
foot ($5-$10.00 square foot). This doesn't include removal and installations labor costs. Today hidden fastener
systems are the most popular to prevent the "mushroom effect" of the composite that conventional screwing
methods give. Those fasteners can add a few hundred dollars extra to your final cost. Our coating systems
range from $3.75-$5.75 per sq. ft. completely installed. Customize your surface with one
of our 200 solid colors, beautiful color flake/chip finishes, or 3M Colorquartz™ blends that are super
durable and always maintain their true color.
7. How hot will my new deck coating system get?
The new system will be significantly cooler than composite systems, and will be the same
temperature as pressure treated wood.
8. What other annual maintenance and expense is required after me deck is coated with the
Granitex coating system?
Whether you choose a solid color (200 colors) or a more decorative finish, annual
maintenance and expense is eliminated with our systems. It completely seals off your deck from weather and
damaging UV rays. It literally pays for itself and is a great solution to otherwise constant attention or
finally replacing your deck. All that is required is periodic cleaning. The problem with a standard deck
situation is that every one or two years it needs to be resealed. The sealers have little or no UV protection
within, and the wood gets damaged by the constant UV rays. Most people also don't realize that before resealing,
the manufacturer strongly enforce the need for the old sealer to first be removed using a stripper agent.
If this is not done the new sealer will not penetrate and get absorbed. It will simply dry on the surface
and soon be worn away soon after being applied. The cost of constant cleaning and sealing and still having
a damaged and unattractive surface is enough for most homeowners.
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1. Do you use acid to prepare the floor?
Industry standards no longer consider acid etching to be an acceptable way to do
surface preparation. When you acid etch the concrete you attack the cement that holds together the concrete.
This weakens the substrate and so reduces the quality of the overall system. Additionally since concrete is
very porous, no matter how thoroughly it is rinsed, it is impossible to get the entire residue out of the
surface, this will present an adhesion problem in the future. Also there are ecological restrictions
involved with waste removal which could prohibit the use of acid etching and other
chemical methods. After applying an acid wash the acid is typically
washed down the drain. Not only does it require a lot of water, it
can be dangerous to plants and grasses in your yard, not to mention
the damage it can do to our rivers and lakes - and our people! Even "neutralized" acid introduces many
harmful chemicals into out water system. KNH Industrial Coatings does not recommend nor
does it endorse the use of acid etching to prepare concrete. That is why we only use mechanical surface
preparation to ensure your floor will last for years.
2. How do you prepare my floor?
All floors are prepared by the use of our unique concrete profiling equipment, such
as dual head diamond grinders or shotblasters. This equipment gives us unmatched consistency and the control
to properly prepare, profile and correct surface defects.
3. How long does the installation take?
Installation is normally done within 2 days, but may vary depending on the condition
of your surface and weather.
4. Can I finish my own floor?
Our Colorquartz™ coating and decorative chip/flake finishes are not
a DIY project. We do provide preparation services for the DIY installers of solid color coating systems.
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