GacoShield Application Instructions
View the GacoShield online video or watch the application DVD before beginning your project. GacoShield can be used over dimensional lumbar decking, including Cedar, Redwood, and Pressure Treated. Other applications include stair treads, railings, porches, patios, docks, walkways, siding, and fencing.
Figure A: Pressure wash and allow to dry.
Figure B: Slowly stir in GacoGrip.
Figure C: Continue stirring until thoroughly mixed.
Figure D: Apply by roller along the length of the boards.
Figure E: Use a brush for detail work.
Figure F: Run a foam brush between the boards to achieve a uniform color.
Figure G: Allow to dry 48 hours before use.
Figure H: Your new deck is complete!
Surface Preparation
Surface must be dry and free of dirt, mildew, algae, or other contaminants. As deck materials and previously applied protection varies, a test patch applied and allowed to cure for three days is recommended prior to applying GacoShield to an entire deck.
- Previously Coated Surfaces
Previously coated, fully adhered substrates should be cleaned with GacoWash, then rinsed and allowed to dry.
NOTE: Do not apply GacoShield over water-repellant sealers.
Wood sealers prevent paint or coatings from adhering to the wood. If you have sealed the wood, you must use an oxalic acid-based cleaner to strip off the sealer. - Dimensional Lumber
The deck should be pressure washed and allowed to dry. Special attention should be paid to heavily soiled areas to ensure the surface is ready to be coated with GacoShield. - Metal
Metal surfaces must be primed. Lightly sand surface and prime with exterior metal primer.
Caulking, Taping and Flashing
No caulking or taping is required when applying GacoShield over dimensional lumber decking.
Application
After surface preparation, add GacoGrip granules to the GacoShield to create a decorative and slip-resistant finish for your deck. While stirring, slowly add ¾ pound (12 oz.) of GacoGrip granules to one 1-gallon pail of GacoShield coating (3.75 pounds or 5 jars of GacoGrip to the five-gallon GacoShield pail). Mix thoroughly for at least 2 minutes.
Apply a uniform coat of GacoShield, using one 1-gallon of mixture per 100 square feet over entire surface. Allow surface to dry until it can be walked on (2-4 hours in ideal conditions). GacoShield must be applied at the proper rate of one 1-gallon container per 100 square feet to ensure proper coating thickness.
For a more uniform color, a foam brush may be used between the boards.
GacoShield may be used to coat deck railings so that they match the color of the decking surface. When coating deck railings, GacoShield should be applied without GacoGrip granules.
Special Circumstances
Do not apply GacoShield when rain is imminent.
Allow at least 48 hours after finishing deck before replacing furniture or subjecting to heavy traffic.
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- Stir in the GacoGrip granules slowly to avoid clumping.
- Mark off with pencil or tape a 10’ x 10’ square per gallon of coating to ensure proper coverage.
- Use a foam brush to coat between boards.
- Use a 4" roller to for even coverage and to avoid wasting coating.
- Keep lid on coating when not in use to avoid drying out.
- Use of Bondo and Fix All type materials NOT recommended.
- For wood imperfections, use a solvent-based wood filler.
- Allow at least 48 hours after finishing deck before replacing furniture or subjecting to heavy traffic.
