Unparalleled Adhesion:
The mineral sol silicate binder penetrates into concrete and forms permanent, covalent bonds within the concrete by a process called “petrification”. This mineral finish is completely compatible with concrete and will never blister or peel from the surface. Acrylic, latex and elastomeric finishes form a “sticky” mechanical adhesion only on the surface of concrete.
Vapor Permeable:
Despite its natural water repellency, the mineral surface is highly vapor permeable and will allow inherent moisture vapor in concrete to escape freely without blistering or bubbling from the surface. Concretal® W is ideal for use on both new and old or repaired concrete where a fully opaque and protective finish is desired. Acrylic, latex and elastomeric finishes are far less permeable and tend to hold moisture vapor inside concrete.
Appearance:
Despite the fully opaque nature of Concretal W, finished concrete never looks “painted”. Concretal W has a mineral matte, very natural finish that even darkens when wet, just like unfinished concrete. Mineral finishes refract light in all directions and appear brighter in low-lighting making them ideal in below-grade concrete applications like parking garages, transportation stations, tunnels and more. And, Concretal W will never glare even in direct sunlight. Light refractions also helps lower and regulate surface temperatures on concrete.
Sheds Water:
Mineral micro pores of Concretal W, naturally sheds water the same way a stone sheds water. And, with millions of hydrophobic micro-pores, mineral painted concrete surfaces dry out much faster than concrete painted with latex, acrylic or elastomeric paints. Fast drying, coupled with the inherent high pH of mineral finishes inhibits growth of mold, mildew and algae—the surface will appear cleaner and fresher, longer.
Won’t Attract Dirt:
Concretal W is a completely inert, mineral finish and never develops a static charge in the presence of wind and weather. Latex, acrylic and elastomeric finishes are thermoplastics and develop static charges when wind blows across the surface. This static charge can attract dirt and pollution particles and hold them on the surface. The Concretal W surface naturally washes clean with every rainfall as dirt particles are not attracted to the mineral surface.