DECK QUARTZ

CONTINUOUS QUARTZ PAVEMENTS

Why choose Deck Quartz for a pavement?

There are many types of coverings for exterior pavements, and the specific choice among them will depend, among other factors, on the characteristics we are looking for. Let's first analyze the main features of a Deck Quartz pavement.

- Suitable for vehicular traffic. If we expect our pavement to be used by vehicles or undergo heavy wear and tear, we can count on its extraordinary resistance to abrasion. The manufacturer of this brand always reminds us that the exteriors of their factory are covered with this quartz coating, enduring the passage of 30-ton trucks.

- Easily applicable. Some coating systems may involve complex use of different layers, meshes, or high technical requirements. The Deck Quartz coating allows for simple use, directly on a clean and firm concrete base.

- Durable and resistant. The main characteristic of this coating is its strength, which not only allows for vehicular traffic but also grants it great durability and slow aging. Its large-sized quartz particles and modified cement make it ideal for high-traffic public areas, such as hotels and water parks.

- Abrasion-resistant. If there are areas where chairs or tables will be used, such as a restaurant terrace, we will need a finish that withstands continuous rubbing with metal. The Deck Quartz coating, due to its resistance and high content of large quartz particles, ensures great resistance to such wear.

- Easy cleaning and maintenance. Whether it's a large public area or a small residential pavement, it's important to keep our pavement clean. The closed matrix of the mortar limits the passage of dirt and improves its cleanliness. For example, when liquids like wine or coffee are spilled, we initially see a color change due to the moisture generated by these liquid products. However, when cleaned and allowed to dry naturally, only dust residues will remain on the pavement's surface, and they can be easily cleaned with water and a brush. Cement pavements can also be cleaned with conventional bleach to remove organic residues from grass or vegetation.

- Slip-resistant. The number one characteristic required in a hotel solarium or public park. Its slip resistance level is rated 3/3 according to the construction regulations of various European countries. To achieve this slip resistance, a smooth or troweled finish is considered; polishing the pavement with a diamond tool could significantly reduce its slip resistance. When considering slip resistance, and depending on the regulations used to measure it, it's important to note the difference between a dry pavement and a wet one. Deck Quartz allows for a high degree of slip resistance even in environments completely saturated with water. It is also used in footbaths or outdoor shower areas in public pools.

- Low temperature absorption. If the area to be covered is close to a pool or garden, or near patios or areas where users may be barefoot, Deck Quartz, composed of a mixture of quartz, dissipates heat from solar radiation, resulting in a cooler finish. Up to 15°C temperature difference has been detected between a porcelain pavement and a Deck Quartz one, with Deck Quartz being the coolest among all observed options. It should be noted that the possible use of varnish (not recommended for application) will cause a considerable increase in temperature.

- Prevents the accumulation of organic matter. Highly important in cold or humid areas where the presence of algae or mold is expected. Its composition and low absorption largely prevent the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, mold, or algae.

How can I create a Deck Quartz pavement?

We can advise you to find the right professional in your area or offer help so that a professional of your choice can carry out the installation, as it is a coating that is applied according to the traditional customs of cement mortars.

In the case that you already have a concrete base or plan to build one, remember that it must be a solid and divided concrete with expansion joints according to the needs of the concrete support.

You have access to a large number of application videos on the @semmorteros YouTube channel (link and Deck Quartz application video).

Step by step...

Once you have your concrete base prepared, divided with expansion joints, and clean, you can start applying your Deck Quartz coating.

Avoid using intermediate layers or elastic waterproofing, so that the Deck Quartz system is applied directly on a healthy and clean base.

If it is an existing structure that will be rehabilitated, remember that the existing expansion joints on the support must be respected, as an inactive crack will be marked in any coating even if a mesh or previous rehabilitation layer is applied.

Moisten the concrete base with plenty of water since a porous or very dry base could absorb the water from your Deck Quartz cement mortar, hindering proper anchoring. In the case of very porous concretes, the HF24 waterproofing can be applied previously. Make sure the support is clean and healthy before applying.

The Deck Quartz coating can be applied in one or two layers, with a total thickness of 3 to 5mm and a consumption of 3m² per 25kg sack. Applying the coating in a single layer is more convenient for smooth finishes, while applying it in two consecutive layers, fresh on fresh, will allow better adaptation to the support. Remember not to exceed 5mm total thickness, as excessive thickness could cause excessive hydraulic shrinkage and cracking.

During application, you can opt for different finishes, smooth, troweled, or simply spread to achieve a natural effect. The physical samples offered by the manufacturer have a slightly troweled finish and are always washed with their Desactigel decapant.

The factory recommendation is to wait until the finish is sufficiently cured before performing any subsequent finish, such as polishing or washing with Desactigel.

In the case of polishing the pavement, you will need a diamond polishing disc. We provide a link to our product (link). The polishing system allows for a more uniform finish and a smoother texture; at least 7 days of curing are needed to comfortably polish the coating.

As for the finish washed with Desactigel, it can be done the next day or after 24 hours, always ensuring that the material has the necessary hardness. Prepare your tools, brooms, buckets, and protective gloves and other PPEs. The standardized consumption is 75m2 per 25kg canister. Shake the Desactigel canister well in its container and pour a reasonable amount into a large, undiluted bucket. Wet your broom or brush in the canister and clean vigorously, allowing the Desactigel to act without letting it dry due to air or sun exposure. As you progress with the cleaning, rinse with plenty of water to remove the cleaning residues and drain the pavement. During cleaning, we recommend using diamond tools specially designed to remove possible cement grout residues or hide any trowel marks; we provide a link to our Q-Pol diamond tools (link).

Be sure to properly moisten the entire finish; for at least the first 14 days, the mortar will still be in the curing phase, so watering with water will improve its characteristics and prevent hydraulic shrinkage during curing. The key to good cleaning is homogeneity; more or less washing, but everything should be uniform. You can repeat the process until you achieve the desired finish.

Do not hesitate to contact us; our advisors are waiting for your inquiries.

Deck Quartz

A high-tech coating whose main component is quartz, specially designed for exterior pavements. A cement mortar with traditional application, with innovative technology, monocomponent, and proven resistance and durability.