TOP-CAST®
Enhance aesthetics the smart way
Functional & Decorative Concrete Surfaces
TOP-CAST® Decorative Solutions help achieve an architectural finish with an exposed aggregate look. Our products are more than just a surface retarder — it’s a surface retarder that’s optimized for robust, consistent performance in all temperature and weather conditions. TOP-CAST® will create perfect, eye-catching flatwork that will satisfy both contractors and customers.
TOP-CAST® Series (050-075) is color-coded, so the appropriate etch depth is easy to identify by contractors.
Surface Protectant
Architectural Finish
Products
Top-Cast® Series (050-075)
TOP-CAST® is a water-based top-surface retarder. It does not require covering with plastic for protection. It is available in 11 depths of etch, each colour and number coded for safety and convenience.
Each product grade creates a unique degree of reaction to produce the desired effect on the surface mortar. The retarding chemicals diffuse into the paste during the first hours of curing and slow down the cement hydration reaction. During the next 16+ hours of curing the bulk concrete hardens, except where the cement matrix has been retarded. The retarded surface can then be removed by water or pressurized water, revealing the aggregate in the concrete mix.
Benefits of using TOP-CAST®
Sublime Ease-of-Use for Poured-in-Place Concrete
Surface retarders work by preventing the topmost layer of poured-in-place flatwork from curing. Once the rest of the concrete has cured, contractors can simply wash off the top layer. This achieves a texture that’s similar to the effect of sandblasting or acid washing concrete and even deeper exposure, but without any danger to workers or the environment. TOP-CAST® surface retarder requires standard safety equipment, and the rinsed material contains alkalis.
Stands Up to the Elements
TOP-CAST® surface retarder saves contractors on setup and installation time, and results in a more effective product.
In addition, the surface retarder is designed to be extremely stable and robust, with the ability to resist temperatures of up to 150°F. Ambient temperatures can affect finishing, application, and surface paste removal.
Fire-and-Forget Technology
TOP-CAST® incorporates other innovations that make it extremely easy for contractors to work with.
For example, TOP-CAST® is color coded so the appropriate etch depth is easy to identify by contractors.
The product will retard to a certain depth, and then deactivate on its own, leaving contractors free to concentrate on other issues.
Nationwide Availability
When contractors need TOP-CAST®, it’s there for them.
Available at local building supply stores, TOP-CAST® has twelve different specified depths to produce effects ranging from a barely-there acid-washed sheen to a stony look that’s 1 ¼ inch deep.
Each variant is color-coded, making it easy to use the right depth and avoid mistakes.