INSTALLATION GUIDE

X-Bond Microcement Over Concrete or Construction boards/ panels

Throughout this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps for installing X-Bond in a shower. From preparing the surface meticulously to applying your chosen X-Bond finish—whether it's the X-Bond Corsa, X-Bod Vellum, X-Bond Grain, or X-Bond Solid variation. To complete the transformation, we'll then delve into the application of one of our top-quality sealers: Titan Shield, Satin Stone, or X-tra Gloss. Get ready to discover the secrets to achieving a stunning X-Bond finish in your project.

Step 1: Surface Preparation

Surface preparation is crucial to ensure optimal conditions for the X-Bond application. Thorough cleaning is imperative to eliminate any contaminants and minimize the risk of peeling or discoloration. The appropriate preparation method depends on the condition of your surface. If you're uncertain about the best approach, don't hesitate to contact the nearest SEMCO Surfaces office for expert assistance.

    1. Sweep debris off surface and dampen with water

    2. Apply Stone Soap solution (1 part Stone Soap: 4 Parts Water) lightly with pump sprayer and allow to sit for 2-3 minutes

    3. Scrub/agitate surface using scrub machine with a concrete nylon brush or hand scrub brush in tight areas

    4. Rinse surface, for interiors use wet vacuum to remove residueRepeat rinse and vacuum if needed

    5. Allow surface to dry before moving to X-Bond application.

    1. Sweep debris off surface and dampen with water

    2. Apply Power Cleaner solution (1 Part Power Cleaner: 4 Parts Water) lightly with pump sprayer and allow to sit for 2-3 minutes

    3. Scrub/agitate surface using scrub machine with a concrete nylon brush or hand scrub brush in tight areas

    4. Rinse surface, for interiors use wet vacuum to remove residue

    5. Repeat all steps in this task with Stone Soap Solution (1 Part Stone Soap: 4 Parts Water) to clean chemical residue

    6. Repeat rinse and vacuum if needed

    7. Allow surface to dry before moving to X-Bond application.

    1. Sweep debris off surface and dampen with water

    2. Apply Power Cleaner Solution (1 Part Power Cleaner: 4 Parts Water) lightly with pump sprayer and allow to sit for 2-3 minutes

    3. Scrub/agitate surface using scrub machine with a concrete nylon brush or hand scrub brush

    4. Rinse surface, for interiors use wet vacuum to remove residue

    5. Apply Nu-Lift Cleaner solution (1 Part Nu-Lift Cleaner: 1 part Water) and repeat all the steps

    6. Apply Power Cleaner Solution (1 part Power Cleaner: 9 parts Water) and repeat steps for the procedure.

    7. Repeat rinse and vacuum, if needed.

    8. Allow surface to dry before moving to X-Bond application.

    1. Sweep debris off surface and dampen with water

    2. Apply Nu-Lift Cleaner solution (1 Part Nu-Lift Cleaner: 1 Part Water) lightly with pump sprayer and allow to sit for 2-3 minutes

    3. Scrub/agitate surface using scrub machine with nylon brush or hand scrub brush

    4. Rinse surface, for interiors use wet vacuum

    5. Repeat all steps in this task with Stone Soap Solution (1 Part Stone Soap: 4 Parts Water) to clean chemical residue

    6. Repeat rinse and vacuum, if needed.

    7. Allow surface to dry before moving to X-Bond application.

    1. Sweep debris off surface

    2. Roll with 1/2” roller the SEMCO Liquid Membrane to the surface and allow to dry - 1 coat. This will seal your substrate.

    3. Apply one more coat of SEMCO Liquid Membrane.

    4. While still wet press the Fabric Membrane into the SEMCO Liquid Membrane and use an 18” smoother, trowel, or roller to embed the Fabric Reinforcement. Immediately, roll two additional coats of SEMCO Liquid Membrane with pressure. By doing this we embed Fabric Reinforcement into wet SEMCO Liquid Membrane to become one element.

    5. When applying the next line of Fabric Reinforcement overlap the new sheet over the existing sheet a minimum of 2”. This creates one surface to prevent it from opening in the future

    6. Allow surface to dry before moving to X-Bond application.

Step 2: Masking

Masking plays a crucial role in guaranteeing clean, precise lines. Ensure to apply the tape following the edge of the surface in a straight manner.

  • You will need:
    1 1/2" brown masking tape rolls, masking paper and masking film

    1. Mask area with masking plastic and 1 1/2" brown tape, place 1" above surface.

    2. Using masking paper to cover area 1/2" above surface

    3. Use brown tape 1/8" above surface

    4. For painted walls, use blue masking tape

    1. Use masking paper to cover area 1/2" above surface

    2. Use brown tape 1/8" above surface

    3. For painted walls, use blue masking tape.

    1. Apply the SEMCO Liquid Membrane with roller. Do not allow to dry. While still wet press the Fabric Reinforcement into fresh coat of SEMCO Liquid Membrane until you don't see the fiber. Allow 20 to 40 minutes to dry before applying second coat.

    2. Mix X-Bond mixture (1 part X-Bond Liquid, 1 part X-Bond Additive). MIX THIS FIRST. Then add 3 parts X-Bond Stone, mix with Square Mixing Paddle at low speed (180-200 RPM). While the X-Bond Liquid is still tacky, pour the mixture to the corner of surface

    3. Using a cove base tool to spread the X-Bond mix evenly. Use a 6" trowel to even the surface. Use the X-Bond smoother to spread X-Bond mix on floor evenly.

    4. Remove tape before the surface is completely dry. Remove the 1" of tape but do not sweep the debris. Then allow surface to totally dry and remove debris from the surface. Detail the edges as required and re-apply the tape before proceeding to the next step X-Bond System.

Step 3: X-Bond Preparation

In the X-Bond stage, you'll select your preferred finish and begin applying the skim coat layers to construct your application. Please note: Skim Coat is the foundation of the application. During this phase, you will mix X-Bond Stone & X-Bond Liquid in the instructed ratios for each coat to achieve the desired X-Bond skim coat layers.

    1. Roll X-Bond Liquid as primer coat on to substrate.

    2. Do not allow to dry fully, while mixing. Mix X-Bond mixture (1 part X-Bond Liquid to 2 parts of X-Bond Stone, in this order) and mix with square mixing paddle at low speed (180-200 RPM)

    3. While the X-Bond Liquid is still tacky, pour the mixture to the far edge of surface

    4. Using concrete broom spread material tightly, in ONE DIRECTION

    5. Allow surface to dry. Scrape surface of any loose particles, and sweep clean

    1. Roll X-Bond Liquid as primer coat on to substrate. Do not allow to dry fully, while mixing.

    2. Mix X-Bond mixture (1 part X-Bond Liquid to 2 parts of X-Bond Stone, in this order) and mix with square mixing paddle at low speed (180-200 RPM)

    3. While the X-Bond Liquid is still tacky, pour the mixture in to a mud tray, use a hand broom to spread material from left to right, NOT up and down.

    4. Wet hand broom prior to application with water. Using hand broom spread material tightly, in ONE DIRECTION. During application, wet the hand broom with water if needed.

    5. Allow surface to dry. Scrape surface of any loose particles, and sweep clean

Step 4: SEMCO Liquid Membrane

In this section, we'll demonstrate the proper application of the SEMCO Liquid Membrane with Fabric Reinforcement. By applying this membrane, you'll effectively waterproof the area and effectively seal any existing cracks on the surface. It's important to mention that while the SEMCO Liquid Membrane is highly recommended for areas prone to moisture and cracks, it remains optional for surfaces with no such concerns.

    1. If there are no cracks or joints, use 1/2" woven nap roller and apply SEMCO Liquid Membrane evenly on surface. Coat should have a thickness between 15-20 mil.

    2. Apply the second coat of SEMCO Liquid Membrane as soon as first coat is dry to the touch. Total required thickness of both coats is 30-40 mil.

    3. For fully submerged applications 3 coats are required with a total thickness of 45-60 mil.

    4. When applying the next line of Fabric Reinforcement, overlap the new sheet over the existing sheet a minimum of 2”.

  • Fill crack with SEMCO Liquid Membrane. Additionally roll SEMCO Liquid Membrane with a 1/2” roller over the crack with a minimum of 3” overlap on either side of the crack.

    1. Apply SEMCO Liquid Membrane into crack and allow to dry. Depending on the temperature, normal time range would be within 30 minutes.

    2. Apply mixture of X-Bond Stone 1 part X-Bond Liquid to 2 1/2 parts of X-Bond Stone to fill up the crack. Allow mixture to dry, ONCE DRY roll 2 coats of SEMCO Liquid Membrane to achieve a thickness of at least 30 mil to avoid future reoccurrence of crack. 30 min at 70 F between coats.

    1. Apply SEMCO Liquid Membrane into crack and allow to dry.

    2. Apply mixture of X-Bond Stone (1 part X-Bond Liquid to 2 1/2 parts of X-Bond Stone) to fill up the crack. Allow mixture to dry, ONCE DRY roll 1 coat of SEMCO Liquid Membrane, while still wet embed Fabric Reinforcement 6” to surface, and immediately roll an additional coat of Liquid Membrane to fully encapsulate Fabric Reinforcement.

    3. OPTIONAL: Allow surface to dry and proceed to X-Bond Brown Coat

Step 5: Brown Coat

In this section, we'll guide you through the process of constructing a leveling Brown Coat, including the correct mix ratios for this specific application. This technique is particularly useful for creating a level surface and eliminating tile and grout lines.

    1. Roll X-Bond Liquid as primer coat on to substrate. Do not allow to dry fully, while mixing.

    2. Mix X-Bond mixture 1 part X-Bond Liquid, 1 part X-Bond Additive, MIX THIS FIRST. Then add 2 1/2 parts X-Bond Stone, mix with Square Mixing Paddle at low speed (180-200 RPM)

    3. While the X-Bond Liquid is still tacky, pour the mixture to the far edge of surface

    4. Using a Gauge Rake spread the Brown Coat evenly to the desired thickness. Use an X-Bond smoother to even the surface. Spike shoes are recommended for walking on X-Bond surface

    5. Remove tape before the surface is completely dry. Use red tape to mask off the bottom of shoe treads or wear shoe covers to walk on surface. Remove the 1” of tape but do not sweep the debris. Then allow surface to totally dry and remove debris from the surface.

    6. Detail the edges as required and re-apply the tape before proceeding to next step

    7. Allow Brown Coat to dry for a minimum of 12 hours (depending on thickness)

Step 6: X-Bond Installation

In the X-Bond stage, you'll select your preferred finish and begin applying the skim coat layers to construct your application. Please note: Skim Coat is the body of the application. During this phase, you will mix X-Bond Stone & X-Bond Liquid in the instructed ratios for each coat to achieve the desired X-Bond skim coat layers.

    1. Mix X-Bond Color Activator into the X-Bond Liquid; Ensure all pigment is used.

    2. Roll X-Bond Liquid as primer coat on to substrate. Do not allow to dry fully, while mixing.

    3. Mix X-Bond mixture (1 part X-Bond Liquid to 2 1/2 parts of X-Bond Stone, in this order) and mix with square mixing paddle at low speed (180-200 RPM)

    4. While the X-Bond Liquid primer is still tacky, pour the mixture to the far edge of surface

    5. Using a trowel or X-Bond smoother for larger areas, tilt smoother with the handle pointing to 10 o’clock, spread material tightly, in ONE DIRECTION. Thickness is 1/16 or 2 mil

    6. Allow coat of X-Bond to dry slightly to the touch (20 -30 minutes) before applying second coat. Use shoe covers in between coats. Alternately you can prime and apply 1st coat, let it dry completely then re-prime and apply 2nd coat.

    7. Remove tape before the surface is completely dry. Use red tape to mask off the bottom of shoe treads to walk on surface. Remove the 1” of tape but do not sweep the debris.

    8. Then allow surface to totally dry and remove debris from the surface. Detail the edges as required and re-apply the tape before proceeding to next step

    9. Allow surface to dry completely prior to proceeding to the next step (2-4 hours)

    10. For smoother surfaces, after 2nd skim coat, lightly sand with a 220 grit sand paper.

    11. (OPTIONAL) Apply Pre Stain with HVLP, airless sprayer with tip size 17, or a sprayer that is capable of atomizing liquids

    1. Roll X-Bond Liquid as primer coat. Do not allow to dry.

    2. Mix X-Bond Mixture 1 part X-Bond Liquid to 2 1/2 parts of X-Bond Stone, in this order, mix with square mixing paddle at low speed (180-200 RPM). (OPTIONAL) Use integral color with X-Bond Color Activator

    3. While the X-Bond Liquid Primer is still tacky, pour the mixture to the far edge of surface

    4. Using a Trowel or X-Bond smoother for larger areas, tilt smoother with the handle pointing to 10 o'clock, spread material tightly, in ONE DIRECTION. Thickness is 1/16 or 2 mil.

    5. Allow coat of X-Bond to dry slightly to the touch (20-30 minutes) before applying second coat. Use shoe covers in between coats

    6. Remove tape before the surface is completely dry. Use red tape to mask off the bottom of shoe treads to walk on surface. Remove the 1" of tape but do not sweep the debris. Then allow the surface to totally dry and remove debris from the surface. Detail the edges as required and re-apply the tape before proceeding to next step.

    7. Allow surface to dry completely prior to proceeding to the next step (2-4) hours.

    8. Lightly sand the surface with a 60 grit sanding disk. Clean all debris.

    9. Using fine pump sprayer, spray light coat of Prestain Base on to surface and avoid large drops. Work in 2 man teams side by side (1 with Pump Sprayer and 1 with HVLP)- Do not step into wet Pre Stain.

    10. While still wet apply Prestain Color (PreStain Base and Prestain Activator combined, always stir the contents, avoid shaking). Use HVLP, airless sprayer with tip size 17, or a sprayer that is capable of atomizing liquids. (DO NOT ALLOW PUDDLING).

    11. Move across area from left to right as you work your way down the surface, avoid missing any areas of the surface.

    12. Natural Grain pattern will occur as the PreStain

    13. After drying, check if any area requires touch up. If necessary, lightly fog Pre-Stain color over areas that require touch up.

    1. Mix X-Bond Color Activator into the X-Bond Liquid; Ensure all pigment is used.

    2. Roll X-Bond Liquid as primer coat on to substrate. Do not allow to dry fully, while mixing.

    3. Mix X-Bond mixture (1 part X-Bond Liquid to 2 1/2 parts of X-Bond Stone, in this order) and mix with square mixing paddle at low speed (180-200 RPM)

    4. While the X-Bond Liquid is still tacky, pour the mixture to the far edge of surface

    5. Using a Trowel or X-Bond smoother for larger areas, tilt smoother with the handle pointing to 10 o’clock, spread material tightly, in ONE DIRECTION. Thickness is 1/16 or 2 mil

    6. Allow coat of X-Bond to dry slightly to the touch (20 -30 minutes) before applying second coat. Use shoe covers in between coats. Alternately you can prime and apply 1st coat, let it dry enough to be walked on, then re-prime and apply 2nd coat.

    7. OPTIONAL: To get a smoother surface, let the X-Bond dry completlely (2 - 4 hours) and then sand any high or sharp ridges on surface with 220 grit sand paper

    8. Mix Microbond mixture: 1 part X-Bond Color to 2 parts of Microbond in this order. Mix with Square Mixing Paddle at low speed (180-200 RPM)

    9. Prime the surface with a natural X-Bond Liquid primer (no X-Bond Color Activator in ). Pour the mixture to the far edge of the surface. If a more uniform texture is desired, use colored X-Bond Liquid as primer.Using a 10” Magic Trowel, tilt trowel with the handle pointing to 10 o’clock, spread material tightly, within a 3-4 feet radius. Thickness is 1/32” or a maximum of 1/16”. Two coats required. (Do not allow first coat to dry completely). To achieve more effects on surface, swirl Magic Trowel in different directions.Remove tape before the surface is completely dry. Use red tape to mask off the bottom of shoe treads to walk on surface. Remove the 1” of tape but do not sweep the debris. Then allow surface to totally dry and remove debris from the surface. Detail the edges as required and re-apply the tape before proceeding to next stepAllow to dry completely for at least 12 hours prior to sealing (get Final Project Acceptance form signed off), in colder climates allow to dry for a minimum of 24 hours

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