Frequently Asked Questions

The CTI system is a combination of a Modified Acrylic Resin and specially formulated Portland cements.  Colors are added as needed.  We combine the strength of cements with the durability and bonding power of acrylics.  A penetrating sealer is applied to provide superb durability, weather and UV resistance and ensure a long product life.

HOW LONG HAS THIS PRODUCT BEEN IN USE?
Acrylic resurfacing has been in use since the early 1970's.  Polymer was added in the 1980's to provide superior bonding properties, and increase strength, durability and longevity.

HOW DOES THIS PRODUCT BOND TO CONCRETE?
First, the surface is etched with muriatic acid and pressure washed to clean off dirt, remove loose aggregate, and open the concrete pores.  Next, a very thin "skim" coat of the acrylic cement mix is applied by trowel.  This is to provide maximum absorption into the pores of the concrete.  Patterns are laid out using reinforced tape or stencils when this is dry.  A second coat is applied using a hopper gun in a random spray pattern.  When this coat is dry, the tape is pulled, revealing the patterns, and 2-3 coats of solvent based sealer is applied using a roller.  This sealer coat penetrates and softens the skim and spray coats and bonds all layers to the concrete.  When dry, these two layers become a permanent part of the existing concrete, providing outstanding weather and stain resistant properties.

HOW THICK IS IT APPLIED?
Total thickness is approximately 1/8 - 3/32".  We are more concerned about getting the acrylic to penetrate the concrete than building up the surface.  Actually, the thinner it is, the better the flexural properties it has, this is very important to allow for expansion & contraction of concrete during freeze/thaw cycles.  Skim coats can be applied up to 2" thick for holes and spalling (chipping, flaking).  Larger and thicker areas are filled or rebuilt using high-density acrylic mortars.

WILL MY CONCRETE STILL HEAVE IN THE WINTER?
We cannot eliminate the heaving of concrete.  However, after application, the surface will be denser, and a lot less porous.  Large cracks that previously allowed a lot of water penetration can be reduced.  Consequently, less water is retained and the effects of heaving caused by freeze cycles should be noticeably reduced over a period of time.

IS IT AFFECTED BY COLD WEATHER?
No. Because it is an acrylic, it remains flexible, yet extremely durable.  Freeze/thaw cycles cause concrete to expand and contract.  Because it is essentially part of the concrete surface, it moves with the concrete, as opposed to against it with products such as tile, slate, pavers, asphalt or concrete patches.

HOW DOES IT STAND UP AGAINST OILS, STAINS, SALTS, AND DISCOLORATION?
Because of the protective properties of the sealer coat, it is a non-porous finish.  The majority of stains due to oil and grease wash off with mild detergent.  Salt, deicers, fertilizers and such have no immediate effect on it.  In addition, because of its unique UV (ultra violet) additive, it will not discolor due to exposure to sunlight.  Even in the harshest of conditions.

WILL IT WEAR OR CHIP OFF?
The CTI System should not show any abnormal wear provided the acrylic sealer is replenished as wear occurs.  We estimate this to occur no sooner than every 3-4 years under normal traffic conditions.  As long as the sealer is in place, any wear should be absorbed by this protective coating.  Any scuff marks, etc. generally disappear with a fresh application of sealer.

WHAT ARE THE COLOR CHOICES?
CTI currently has 22 standard colors to choose from.  Custom colors and personalized logos are available at an additional cost.

WHY SHOULD I REPAIR MY CONCRETE INSTEAD OF REPLACING IT? Concrete replacement generally requires heavy equipment that can cause damage to a lot of the surrounding area including landscaping and sidewalks.  Some areas simply are not accessible and must be removed with smaller equipment or sledgehammers, etc.  A large portion of that concrete winds up in a landfills.  Once it is replaced, you simply have a brand new surface that is subject to stains, oil absorption, spalling, cracking and salt damage.  CTI Systems require no heavy equipment, and causes no landscape or environmental damage.  Installation usually takes only a few days, depending on size and conditions.  When it is complete, it is not only beautiful, but will resist stains, oil spills, and salt damage.  In addition, it can be custom designed to match your home, adding beauty and value to your home and neighborhood.  New concrete is just that - concrete.

HOW IS IT MAINTAINED PROPERLY?
Although the CTI system is extremely durable, it is not indestructible.  The rule of thumb is this; if it will scratch, chip or damage concrete, chances are it will damage the CTI surface also.  Exercise caution when setting heavy objects on it.  Take care not to drag heavy items that could scratch it.  Periodic washing is all you should have to do to maintain the surface.  Clean oil spills and the like as quickly as possible to keep it looking new.

WHAT ABOUT EXPANSION JOINTS, ARE THEY COVERED UP?
Expansion joints and cold or control joints are necessary to prevent cracking of the concrete.  Concrete must be allowed to expand and contract with temperature changes.  These joints provide a "controlled crack" for this movement.  All expansion joints are left in place, we cannot cover them up.  We also recut all existing joints a little deeper to ensure that when it does move, it moves where we want it to, and not at some undisclosed weak spot.

WHAT ABOUT HEAVED, SUNKEN, AND SEVERELY
DAMAGES CONCRETE?
Heaved (raised) concrete, is generally ground down, or the adjacent section is built up to meet it using a variety of materials.  Severely damaged sections can be tom out and replaced if necessary.  This helps to minimize the cost and time of replacing the entire area.

CAN CRACKS BE REPAIRED?
ABSOLUTELY! All cracks are repaired using high strength epoxies prior to applying the skim coat.  New tension control joints are then placed, or existing ones cut deeper to alleviate the tension and allow for the movement that created the crack initially.
(Note: In most cases cracks cannot be guaranteed, please see your local CTI dealer for more details)

CAN IT BE APPLIED AROUND POOLS?
MOST DEFINITELY!! CTI products are the ideal solution for pool and spa areas.  They are non-skid, cooler than concrete, and will not stain or be adversely affected by pool chemicals.  It also provides a perfect transition from pool to yard, and adds that finishing touch like no other product can.