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TOP-STOP is a spray-applied, water-soluble surface retarder designed to slow the set of surface mortar in concrete to expose the aggregate. It temporarily halts the set of Portland cement at the surface while the concrete below the surface cures normally. TOP-STOP is economical and easy to use, producing beautiful exposed aggregate concrete flatwork with consistent results. TOP-STOP is non-flammable and VOC-compliant.
USES
TOP-STOP may be used to produce an architectural finish on concrete slabs by exposing the natural color and texture of the aggregate. TOP-STOP exposes the aggregate on floor slabs, sidewalks, tilt-up and precast panels, or any normal horizontal concrete application.
Data Sheets
Guide Specification
Product Data Sheet
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TOP-STOP™
Spray-Applied, Water-Soluble Surface Retarder
DESCRIPTION
TOP-STOP is a spray-applied, water-soluble surface retarder designed to slow the set of surface mortar in concrete to expose the aggregate. It temporarily halts the set of Portland cement at the surface while the concrete below the surface cures normally. TOP-STOP is economical and easy to use, producing beautiful exposed aggregate concrete flatwork with consistent results. TOP-STOP is non-flammable and VOC-compliant.
USES
TOP-STOP may be used to produce an architectural finish on concrete slabs by exposing the natural color and texture of the aggregate. TOP-STOP exposes the aggregate on floor slabs, sidewalks, tilt-up and precast panels, or any normal horizontal concrete application. TOP-STOP produces roughened bonding surfaces for subsequent concrete toppings and roughens horizontal surfaces for construction joints in power plants, dams, and other civil engineering projects.
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PACKAGING
1 Gallon (3.79 L) Units
5 Gallon (18.93 L) Pails
SHELF LIFE (TYPICAL)
Two years in original, unopened container
TECHNICAL DATA* (TYPICAL)
Color: Green
Solids, %: 18
Weight/gallon, lb./gal.: 8.94
Coverage, ft.²/gal.: 150-300
COVERAGE**
Approximately one gallon per 150-300 ft.² to retard the exposed aggregate to a depth of 1/8″ (0.32 cm) to 3/16″ (0.48 cm).
**Coverage may vary due to porosity and condition of the concrete.
STORAGE
Store in dry conditions, between 40° F and 95° F (4° C and 35° C). Keep from freezing.
APPLICATION
Apply TOP-STOP with a low-pressure sprayer immediately after screeding when concrete has lost its sheen, or as soon as bleed water has disappeared. Apply only after all finishing operations are complete. Avoid puddles and over spraying.
Cover concrete with wet burlap or plastic sheeting to prevent drying out. Secure the edges of the plastic sheeting to prevent ballooning. Do not use curing compounds. Concrete admixtures which affect the setting time should not be used without first conducting a test patch. Periodically check concrete to determine depth of retarded mortar, making sure concrete hardens.
Within 12-24 hours of application (depending on temperature and humidity), remove burlap or plastic sheeting one section at a time and wash the retarded surface mortar using a low-pressure garden hose and stiff broom. Do not use excessive force. Test a small area to determine if depth of retarded mortar is at desired level. If the depth is greater than desired, allow the slab to cure longer before exposing the aggregate.
Stone color can be enhanced using EXPO-GLOSS® exposed aggregate surface sealer from W. R. MEADOWS.
Cleanup … TOP-STOP may be easily removed by water and scrubbing with a wire brush.
PRECAUTIONS
Apply only on freshly poured concrete. Depth of the exposed aggregate will be affected by extreme temperatures, as well as the water pressure and scrubbing action used during removal. A test patch under exact job conditions is recommended. Do not use on vertical concrete or form applications. Do not use on concrete containing calcium chloride or other set accelerators. Do not apply to frozen surfaces. Protect treated area from freezing. Do not store in metal sprayers for long periods of time.
HEALTH HAZARDS
Direct contact may result in mild irritation. Refer to Safety Data Sheet for complete health and safety information.
This material last updated December 2008.
