What is the difference between the Lithi-Tek 4500 and Sila-Tek 3500? The Lithi-Tek 4500 is of a lithium silicate chemistry, whereas the Sila-Tek 3500 is of a sodium silicate chemistry.
What do you mix the concentrate with? The Sila-Tek 3500 concentrate is mixed with water. 1 gallon of Sila-Tek 3500 is mixed with 4 gallons of water.
Can I paint after sealing? Yes, you can paint after applying the Sila-Tek 3500.
Does the concrete need to be dry before sealing? Yes, the concrete needs to be as dry as possible before sealing. We recommend the moisture content of the concrete be less than 4%wt. It is recommended to wait at least 24-48 hours after rain and pressure washing before sealing.
My floor turned white after sealing, what happened? This is a common result of over application. Once the concrete reaches its point of absorption any material that was unable to penetrate reacts with the carbon dioxide in the air. This reaction leaves a white, powdery residue on the surface of the concrete. This can easily be removed by sweeping the concrete with a wire brush.
Why cant I use this product on brick or concrete blocks? This product is not recommended for use on brick because the Sila-Tek 3500 is a penetrating, reactive sealer. Bricks do not contain enough free lime and calcium for the sealer to react with and this causes the bricks to dry with a white, powdery residure. This product is not recommended on concrete blocks because concrete blocks are extremely porous. The best product to seal bricks and concrete blocks is the Siloxa-Tek 8500.
How many gallons do I need to treat 1000 square feet? You will need 1 gallons to treat 1000 square feet. Each concentrated gallon of Sila-Tek 3500 will cover up to 1000 square feet.
What can I use to apply this product? The Sila-Tek 3500 can be applied with a garden variety pump sprayer, 3/8" nap paint roller or a brush.
How do I mix the product with water? The Sila-Tek 3500 is a concentrated product that needs to be mixed with water prior to application. Pour the 1 gallon of Sila-Tek 3500 into a 5 gallon bucket. Next add 4 gallons of water into the 5 gallon bucket. Mix the water and 3500 mixture well. You can then pour the mixture into a sprayer to spray apply, or you can dip a nap paint roller into the bucket and roll apply.
How do I clean out the sprayer after sealing? Since the Sila-Tek 3500 is a water based product you can use regular soap and water to clean out the sprayer and other application tools.
