1. What Is Coo-Var Acid Etch Floor Cleaner Used For?
Coo-Var Acid Etch Floor Cleaner is a water-based acid etch solution formulated to chemically etch and clean bare concrete floors. It removes salts, laitance, and other impurities, leaving the surface smooth and paint-ready—ideal for pool floors, damp areas, and high-traffic concrete surfaces.
2. How Do I Apply the Acid Etch to Concrete Floors?
- Protect nearby areas with plastic sheeting.
- Pour the acid etch solution into a plastic watering can—avoid metal containers.
- Spread evenly over the bare concrete, then use a stiff brush to work the solution into the surface.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water once the etching is complete.
This method significantly cuts down on the dust and mess associated with traditional grinding.
3. Do I Need to Neutralise the Floor After Etching?
In most cases, thorough rinsing with clean water is sufficient to remove residue and restore the pH balance of your concrete floor. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations—some projects may require a mild alkaline solution (like baking soda and water) if extra neutralisation is needed.
4. Is Coo-Var Acid Etch Floor Cleaner Safe to Use Around Swimming Pools?
Yes. Coo-Var Acid Etch Floor Cleaner is specially formulated for high-moisture environments, including swimming pool floors. It effectively removes salts and laitance, ensuring a clean surface for pool paint or other finishes. Just remember to rinse well so residual chemicals don’t affect pool water chemistry later on.
5. Can I Use This Product to Remove Old Paint or Sealers?
While Coo-Var Acid Etch Floor Cleaner helps prepare surfaces by removing contaminants, it’s not a dedicated paint stripper. It can sometimes loosen flaking or peeling paint, but if your floor has multiple layers or a heavy coating, you may need to strip or scrape the paint first before etching.
6. How Does It Improve Paint Adhesion?
By etching and cleaning the top layer of concrete, the solution opens up pores and removes surface contaminants like laitance and salts. This creates a more textured, bond-friendly surface, helping your paint or coating adhere better and last longer.
7. What Safety Precautions Should I Take During Application?
- Ventilate the area well—open windows or use fans.
- Wear protective gloves, goggles, and appropriate footwear to avoid chemical contact.
- Avoid contact with metal, as the acid can corrode metal surfaces.
- Keep children and pets away from the work area until the process is complete and the floor is fully rinsed and dried.
8. How Much Coverage Can I Expect per Litre?
Coverage varies based on floor condition and porosity, but you can generally expect around 7 m² per litre. Highly porous or rough surfaces may require more product to achieve a thorough etch.
Need Additional Help?
If you have more questions on how to prepare concrete floors or want specific guidance on using Coo-Var Acid Etch Floor Cleaner, contact our technical team now via the live chat. We’re here to help you achieve a dust-free, paint-ready surface with minimal fuss.
