FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • How do I repair concrete with Rapid Set Cement All?

    Concrete repair begins with preparing the concrete surface. Roughen the concrete surface and remove all damaged or contaminated concrete. Make sure the concrete repair surface is not contaminated by oil, paint, acids, dirt or other materials that will prevent a good bond. Immediately prior to placement, saturate the concrete repair surface with water then remove any standing water. After preparing the concrete surface, proceed by mixing the Cement All concrete. Once Cement All concrete is mixed, place and strike-off to desired level. Rapid Set is fast and does not bleed water so apply your final finish immediately after placing. Then water cure the Cement All concrete repair area. The objective of water curing is to maintain a wet surface until the Cement All has achieved sufficient strength. Begin curing as soon as the surface has lost its moist sheen and continue for a minimum of 1 hour.

  • How soon can Cement All be painted or coated?

    Rapid Set reduces the waiting time prior to coating. Under dry conditions, water based coatings such as latex paint can be applied after the product is hardened and dry which usually takes 4 hours. Solvent based and impermeable coatings such as oil based paint and epoxy can be applied in 16 hours.

  • Is a bonding agent necessary?

    In most applications, bonding agents are not required. Please follow surface preparation recommendations on the Rapid Set products technical datasheets. If a bonding agent is required because these conditions cannot be met, or if the use of bonding agents is mandated, follow the bonding agent manufacturer's recommendation for installation. Cement All and Mortar Mix have been successfully applied in conjunction with a wide variety of surface applied bonding agents, including epoxy systems. Selection and suitability of the bonding agent is the responsibility of the specifier and/or the installer.

  • Can I blend other products with Cement All?

    Blending with other products may give unpredictable results and is not recommended. The use of Rapid Set approved additives and various colors are acceptable.

  • How thick can I apply this product?

    From 0 to 4 inches.

  • Is Cement All air entrained?

    Cement All is air entrained except for the product made in California.

  • What are common applications for Cement All?

    Cement All is a multi-purpose product. The most common applications are concrete repair, grouting, anchoring, casting, and underlayments.

  • How do I mix it?

    Just add water. The use of a mechanical mixer such as a mortar mixer or drill mounted mixer is recommended. To maximize working time, organize work so that all people and equipment are in place before mixing.

  • How do I place and finish it?

    Using traditional methods, place and strike-off to desired level. Rapid Set is fast and does not bleed water so apply your final finish immediately after placing. Organize your tools and people so you can work quickly. On flat work, fill to full depth and proceed horizontally. Do NOT place in layers.

  • How do I cure Cement All?

    Water cure all Cement All installations. The objective of water curing is to maintain a wet surface until the product has achieved sufficient strength. Begin curing as soon as the surface has lost its moist sheen and continue for a minimum of 1 hour.

  • How do I increase the working time?

    You can increase the working time by lowering the mix temperature or using set retarding additives. Lower the mix temperature by keeping product cool and using chilled mix water. SET Control additive will increase working time and is available through our Concrete Pharmacy.

  • Can I use color?

    Yes. The color of Cement All can be modified by using dry and liquid powder pigments designed for use in cement mixes.

  • How do I prepare the surface?

    Roughen the surface and remove all damaged or contaminated concrete. Make sure the repair surface is not contaminated by oil, paint, acids, dirt or other materials that will prevent a good bond. Immediately prior to placement, saturate the repair surface with water, then remove any standing water.

  • How much do I need?

    One bag of Cement All yields approximately 0.5 cubic feet. That's one square foot six inches deep. If you need an answer more specific to your application, use our Concrete Calculator.

  • Can I use it in wet applications?

    Yes, Cement All is made with Rapid Set Cement which is a hydraulic cement. A hydraulic cement hardens under water.

  • Does temperature affect Cement All?

    Cold temperatures will slow the setting time of Rapid Set Cement All and warm temperatures will speed it up. Greater changes in temperature will have a more pronounced affect.

  • What is the shelf life?

    When stored in a dry location, in an undamaged package, Cement All has a shelf life of 12 months.

  • For microcracks/hairline cracks should I use CA or a Rapid Set Sealant product?

    Either product can be used for repair. For non-moving cracks, Cement All and sealants products may be used. For moving cracks, sealants are better suited.

  • Is a scrub coat needed when applying this material?

    Proper surface preparation is the most important step to achieve good adhesion of a repair mortar. In addition to proper surface prep, working or scrubbing the material into the substrate is an option to improve the adhesion when applied properly. Ensure the material is properly worked into the recessed areas of the substrate and apply the repair mortar immediately while the scrub coat is wet. Promptly building to full depth reduces the risk of developing a cold joint.