Surecrete Xtreme Series Packing Additive
About
Surecrete's Xtreme Series Packing Additive is designed for the Xtreme Series mixes for making the pressed look for concrete counter tops. Although it can be used in all Surecrete mix designs for a thickening effect, it is most effective used with the Xtreme Series Face Mix and the Xtreme Series Precast Countertop Mix.
Specs
- Coverage: Varies depending on design and mix
- VOC Rating: 0 g/l
Instructions
Application
XS Face Instructions
Use the Packing additive for a “Pressed Look”. The Pressed Look will have a surface that will leave voids that will be later filled with XS Slurry. Experimentation with mix consistency and the amount of pressure applied to the concrete during the pressing phase will determine the void size and consistency.
- Begin by adding XS Modifier to a 5 gallon bucket.
- Add desired color.
- Add 2 capfuls (from the XS Packing Additive cap found on the container) to the color and modifier.
- Mix for 1 minute dissolving color and packing additive into the modifier.
- Add 2/3rds bag of XS Face and mix until a lump free consistency is obtained. At this point the mix will seem “stiff” this is the goal. Do not add water.
- Combine remaining bag into 5 gallon bucket and continue to mix until thoroughly blended.
- The use of water at this point will seem necessary, water can be added in 2 ounce increments if desired but try to avoid the use of water as this will negate the effects of the XS Packing Additive. In some cases water will be needed to properly mix material. This will be evident by the straining the mixer and the inability to have the mixing blade reach the bottom of the bucket.
- Depending on temperature the mix will be ready for use in 5 - 15 minutes. Colder climates may require longer, where in warmer climates the opposite will be true.
- Work time will be approximately 30 minutes. Do not re-wet material after this point with water, as the mix will be rendered useless.
- Finishes will vary based on desired look, however typical pressed look is achieved via a crumbly mix that is easily broken up into dime, nickel and quarter sized pieces.
XS Precast Instructions
XS Packing Additive can also be used in the XS Precast in “back up” coats. Especially when XS Precast has been laced with fiber addition for doing large flats where a “pourable backer” mix is desired. In many cases extra fiber will be added to XS Precast when casting these areas, that same mix can then be thickened for vertical use using XS Packing Additive.
- Begin by adding PreCast Modifier to a 5 gallon bucket.
- Add desired color.
- Add 1-2 capfuls, depending on desired consistency (from XS Packing Additive cap found on the container) to the color and modifier. Less XS Packing Additive will result in a looser slower thickening mix whereas more XS Packing Additive will kick faster.
- Mix for 1 minute dissolving color and XS Packing Additive into the modifier.
- Add 2/3rds bag of XS Precast and mix until a lump free consistency is obtained. At this point the mix will seem “stiff” this is the goal. At this point approximately half of your water demand can be added up to 8-10 ounces./li>
- Combine remaining bag into 5 gallon bucket and continue to mix until thoroughly blended.
- The use of water at this point will seem necessary, water can be added in 2 ounce increments if desired but try to avoid the use of water as this will negate the effects of the XS Packing Additive. In some cases water will be needed to properly mix material.
- Add in desired fiber content, fiber will slightly dry out mix so small amounts of water added in 2 ounce increments may be desired. Remember, too much water will prolong or negate the effects of the Packing Additive.
- Depending on temperature the mix will be ready for use in 5-15 minutes. Colder climates may require longer, where in warmer climates the opposite will be true.
- Work time will be approximately 30 minutes. Do not re-wet material after this point with water, as the mix will be rendered useless.
For batches that have already been mixed with added fiber, XS Packing Additive can be added as well. The effects of XS Packing Additive will be lessened and take longer to work, usually 20 minutes. Start with 2 capfuls of XS Packing Additive, adding up to 4 cap-fuls for an entire bag until desired consistency is achieved. Thoroughly mix XS Packing Additive with mixer, and allow up to 20 minutes for reaction to occur.
Suitability Sample
Always prepare a sample to establish aesthetic suitability. Sample approval is especially critical for custom design & coloration.
Clean Up
Spilled XS Packing Additive can be cleaned up with a broom and dust pan.
Disposal
Contact your local government household hazardous waste coordinator for information on disposal of unused product.
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