How to iron concrete: types of compositions, dry and wet

Where mechanical effects and loads on concrete floors are large enough, reinforcement of the surface layer is required. After properly carried out finishing measures, the floor acquires increased wear resistance, and its service life is extended.

One of the simplest, but effective methods is iron flooring. This operation is quite possible to do it yourself, for a long time and then forgetting about the repair and restoration.

Brief process description

To iron is to improve the properties of elements of concrete structures, increasing strength, as well as resistance to moisture and chemicals.

Note! The technology is the rubbing and smoothing of high quality cement over the surface of the finished floors. There are various additives that can enhance certain surface properties. The basis for the creation of finishing compositions in most cases is high-quality Portland cement.

Types of finishing compositions

Often there is a need to give the floor a specific property. For example, increased protection from water, or from frequently ingested acids.

For each individual case, the instruction recommends the use of specially designed materials.

1. Mixes with sodium aluminate or liquid glass in the composition increase the water-repellent properties, do not attract dust.
2. Hardness of the floor will be given by granite or quartz fillers, corundum. These properties of polymeric reinforcing additives will further enhance the properties.
3. Chemical components that are harmless to health are introduced in mixtures for floors exposed to periodic exposure to active substances (acids, alkalis, etc.).
4. Manufacturers add different ingredients to increase base adhesion.. The finishing layer in this case does not peel off and does not crumble.

Note! It is possible to use special mixtures to eliminate errors in the installation of the base tie. This will partly correct the deficiencies and extend the life of the poorly filled floor.

Process description

At the moment, two methods are successfully used - dry and wet. What is better to choose and how to properly iron the concrete without resorting to hired power? First of all, it should be noted that the work should be started only after the formal solidification of the base. This means that the screed has hardened so much that you can walk on it. Still wet screed does not hurt to impregnate deep-penetrating primer, for better adhesion.

Dry method

1. To clear the dried-up coupler from construction debris.
2. Fill the entire surface with a thin (about 2 mm) layer of special cement or dry powder. It does not hurt to pre-sift the composition through a sieve.

1. Seal the layer with a plaster grater or trowel and leave it for about half a day. During this time, a highly hygroscopic additive will draw moisture from the screed into the mixture. In the end, from the dry composition will be a pasty mass.

1. Wipe the wet mass gently with a construction float on the floor, carefully smoothing out any unevenness.

Note! This method has one major drawback - the possibility of applying exclusively on horizontal planes. It is clear that the powder will peel off from the surface, which has even a slight slope.

Wet way

1. Carefully read on the packaging, as well as in what proportions, a special mixture is diluted.
2. Before you iron the concrete floor, all space is freed from debris and grains of sand.

1. Wet the mixture is applied with a thin even layer, then smoothed with a float or plaster spatula. Try to get a perfectly smooth, shiny surface.
2. The finished floor should be periodically slightly moistened, correcting the flaws.
3. After complete drying, a polymer coating can be applied to the cement paste. It will give more brilliance, and at the same time protect the base.

The wet method is considered a priority among specialists, as the most effective. Plus adds the ability to apply not only on horizontal but also on vertical planes.

Self-finishing of concrete surfaces

Often, the homeowner plans to protect the fence, facade or structural elements of his home from moisture. Why not implement it yourself, especially since the price of materials is minimal.

Here are some useful tips for refining concrete.

1. After laying the concrete layers, without waiting for complete solidification, perform grouting with cement paste with simultaneous compaction. Such a plaster will be a single unit with the main structure, and will not fall off with time. The basis will get moisture-proof properties and an attractive look.
2. High-quality homemade composition is quite easy to do. Mix the dry compound to the plaster in a 1/1 ratio. Apply and rub off the mass with a trowel.
3. To prevent the cracking of the plaster by adding a little lime dough. It is done like this: 1 part cement 300, 3 parts sifted fine sand,? part of the dough from the lime.
4. An iron plaster layer on horizontal bases is made by applying a thin layer of dry cement on a slightly frozen solution. After waiting for it to soak in moisture, rub the mash into the surface with a paint float. Moisten the areas that are not sufficiently wet with water.

Conclusion

Strengthen concrete floors or structures in some cases is extremely important. This will reduce abrasion, the appearance of cavities, cracking. With minimal cost and without hired power, you can quickly solve the problem. Modern materials are created to help consumers.

Even more useful offers video in this article.