One of the many benefits of using the CTi coatings on your outdoor concrete is its ability to continue looking great even through the harshest winters. Salts, de-icing agents and the elements have no effect on CTi’s tough as nails coating for your concrete and provides a look that improves the value of your home as well as heightens your enjoyment of the area.

Not all customers are created equal, some are looking for a creative application on their concrete that is as unique as they are while others are looking for cost effective alternatives.

Maybe the customer is wanting to clean up the concrete to get the home ready for sale. Others may be looking to stay within a strict budget. No matter the reason, CTi has some great cost effective alternatives when it comes to providing the budget conscious customer with a solution for their ugly concrete.

Clean and Seal their concrete: Concrete will always hold dirt, grow mold and mildew and will sport the occasional stain. A great way to improve the look of this area would be to clean the concrete but then seal the area to make it easier to clean in the future. This not only provides an immediate solution, but also a solution for future maintenance.

Color Tone Classic: This is a cost effective, decorative alternative for the customer’s concrete. Using virgin acetone dyed different colors to offer a mottled look that is warm and inviting, Color Tone Classic is a cost effective way to offer a decorative look. This, used with our Series 170 sealer outdoors or the Aqua Shield 365 indoors, offers the customer a beautiful finish that is easier to maintain and will last for years.

Re-stain and seal stamped concrete: One of the drawbacks of stamped concrete is that many times the project is finished without sealing the area. Without sealer, the colors of the stamped job start to fade and the area becomes more difficult to maintain. CTi Dealers can bring the color back to life and then provide a sealer that will keep the area looking great for years to come.

Spraymark application: Using CTi Hallmark products, Dealers can provide concrete that have minor flaws with a fresh new textured look that is modern looking. The sealed area is also easy to maintain and will stay looking great for years.

Designer Series and Pigmented Sealers: Designer Series can cover minor imperfections and provide an inexpensive solution for the customer with a one color textured finish. Pigmented sealers can seal the area and provide a colored topcoat for the customers concrete while fitting most any budget.

When your concrete starts to look bad, the choice between having it replaced by tearing out the old slab and pouring concrete vs. having the existing concrete resurfaced becomes rather clear:

1. Cost-Effectiveness: Resurfacing is often more cost-effective than completely replacing concrete. It eliminates the need for demolition and removal of the existing concrete, reducing labor and disposal costs.

2. Time Savings: Resurfacing typically requires less time than tearing out and replacing concrete. This can be particularly advantageous when you need a quick turnaround for a functional and aesthetically pleasing surface.

3. Minimized Disruption: Resurfacing minimizes disruption to the surrounding area. There is less noise, dust, and inconvenience compared to the extensive process of removing and replacing concrete, making it a more practical option, especially for residential or busy commercial areas.

4. Versatility in Design: Many concrete resurfacing products offer a range of design options. Whether you want a decorative finish, color variations, or patterns, resurfacing allows for customization that might not be as easily achievable with new concrete.

5. Improved Durability and Performance: Some resurfacing products are designed to enhance the durability and performance of the existing concrete. They can provide better resistance to wear, stains, and environmental factors, extending the life of the concrete surface.

Before deciding to resurface, it’s essential to evaluate the specific conditions of your existing concrete and consult with professionals who can provide guidance based on the unique requirements of your project.

There’s an old adage that says “The best person to teach you how to climb a mountain is someone who has already climbed the mountain.” Concrete Technology has just such a mountain climber who provides our new Dealers with a Quick Start Program to help get their businesses up and running and profitable much more quickly.

Ron Nezat was Concrete Technology Inc’s Dealer of the year in 2018. Ron has always had one of the most successful Dealerships in the CTi network of Dealers and is a wonderful teacher and consultant. Ron’s online program, accompanied by private phone consulting, is all part of the Quick Start Program run through Ron’s Decorative Concrete Engine. This program can help you, especially if you’re a first time business owner.

To get a taste of some of the information Ron shares in this program, visit his Decorative Concrete Engine YouTube page that has a number of video tips for running a successful Concrete Technology Dealership. Click on this link to go to his page: https://www.youtube.com/@decorativeconcreteengine

Happy Thanksgiving from the folks at Concrete Technology Inc. We hope you have a holiday filled with happiness, family and friends!

Installing decorative coatings over existing concrete can enhance its appearance and durability. Here are some tips to help you achieve a successful installation:

1. Surface Preparation:
   • Clean the existing concrete thoroughly by sweeping, pressure washing, and removing any dirt, grease, or oil.
   • Repair any cracks or damage in the concrete using an appropriate patching compound.
2. Etching or Grinding:
   • To ensure good adhesion, etch the surface of the concrete with an acid-based solution or mechanically grind it to open up the pores.
   • This step is essential for coatings like epoxy to bond effectively with the concrete.
3. Moisture Testing:
   • Perform a moisture test on the concrete surface to ensure that it is dry enough for the chosen coating. Excessive moisture can lead to adhesion issues.
4. Choose the Right Coating:
   • Select a decorative coating that suits your needs and the specific conditions of the concrete surface. Common options include epoxy, polyaspartics, acrylic, or decorative overlays.
5. Proper Mixing:
   • Follow Concrete Technology’s tech advisors’ instructions for mixing the coating materials. Consistent and accurate mixing is crucial for the performance of the coating.
6. Application Tools:
   • Use the appropriate tools for applying the coating, such as brushes, rollers, or sprayers. The choice depends on the type of coating and the desired finish.
7. Ventilation:
   • Ensure proper ventilation during the application process, especially when working with coatings that emit fumes. This is important for both your health and the curing process of the coating.
8. Multiple Layers:
   • If the coating requires multiple layers, allow each layer to dry or cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before applying the next one.
9. Sealing:
   • Consider applying a clear sealer over the decorative coating to enhance its durability and resistance to stains, abrasion, and UV damage.
10. Curing Time:
    • Allow sufficient time for the coating to cure before subjecting it to foot traffic or heavy use. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for curing times.
11. Regular Maintenance:
    • Perform regular maintenance to keep the decorative coating in good condition. This may include cleaning, resealing, or touching up damaged areas as needed.

Always refer to the specific instructions provided by Concrete Technology Inc., as different products may have unique requirements.

As the weather turns cooler and you begin to spend more time indoors, it may be time to update the look of the flooring in areas such as basements, kitchens and other areas around the inside of your home.

Our Dealers can provide a look that defines the area for you. Whether it’s warm and cozy, modern and clean or something that is uniquely yours, our Dealers can provide the solution that will fit your needs.

• Prompt Response:

• Respond to inquiries promptly. Time is of the essence, and a quick response shows professionalism and eagerness to assist.
• Polite and Engaging Communication:
  • Be polite and engaging in all communications. Use a friendly and approachable tone to make potential clients feel comfortable.
• Active Listening:
  • Listen attentively to the customer’s needs and concerns. Understanding their requirements allows your sales team to tailor their approach and solutions accordingly.
• Educate and Inform:
  • Provide information about your products/services without overwhelming the customer. Focus on the benefits and how your solutions can meet their specific needs.
• Value Proposition:
  • Clearly articulate the value proposition of your services. Highlight what makes your business unique and why the customer should choose you over competitors.
• Appointment Scheduling Software:
  • Invest in a reliable appointment scheduling system. This makes it easy for customers to book appointments at their convenience and reduces the chance of scheduling conflicts.
• Flexible Timing:
  • Offer flexible appointment times, including evenings or weekends. This accommodates customers with busy schedules and increases the likelihood of securing appointments.
• Confirmation Calls/Emails:
  • Send a confirmation message before the scheduled appointment to remind customers and ensure they are prepared. Include essential details such as the date, time, and the name of the sales representative they will be meeting.

• Follow-Up:
  • If a potential customer expresses hesitation or needs more time to decide, follow up with them in a respectful manner. This shows persistence and a genuine interest in their needs.
• Use Positive Reviews and Testimonials:
  • Share positive reviews and testimonials from previous clients. This builds trust and confidence in your services, making it more likely for potential customers to agree to an appointment.
• Professional Presentation:
  • Train your sales team to present themselves professionally. Dress appropriately, be punctual, and carry any necessary materials or samples to showcase during the appointment.
• Clear Call-to-Action:
  • End every interaction with a clear call-to-action. Whether it’s scheduling an appointment, providing additional information, or confirming the next steps, make sure the customer knows what to expect.

Remember, building relationships is key in the home improvement business. A positive and professional approach during appointment setting can go a long way in securing new business and fostering customer loyalty.

**1. ** Organize and Track Leads:

• Use a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system to organize and track leads efficiently. This will help you stay organized and streamline the follow-up process.

**2. ** Respond Quickly:

• Social media leads may have a short attention span, so aim to respond as quickly as possible. A prompt response shows professionalism and eagerness.

**3. ** Personalized Initial Contact:

• Begin the follow-up process with a personalized message acknowledging their interest. Reference specific details from their inquiry or interaction to show that you’ve paid attention.

**4. ** Provide Additional Information:

• Share additional information about your decorative concrete services. This could include brochures, project portfolios, customer testimonials, or links to relevant blog posts or videos showcasing your work.

**5. ** Ask Qualifying Questions:

• Engage potential customers by asking questions about their specific needs and preferences. This not only helps you understand their requirements but also demonstrates your commitment to delivering a personalized solution.

**6. ** Schedule a Consultation:

• If appropriate, suggest scheduling a consultation or site visit. This can provide an opportunity to discuss their project in detail, address specific concerns, and provide a more accurate estimate.

**7. ** Follow-Up Calls and Emails:

• Regularly follow up with leads through phone calls and emails. Persistence is key, but be mindful not to be too pushy. Share relevant information and updates about your services.

**8. ** Offer Special Promotions:

• Create a sense of urgency by offering limited-time promotions or discounts. This can incentivize potential customers to move forward with your services.

**9. ** Social Media Engagement:

• Continue engaging with leads on social media. Respond to comments, answer questions, and share relevant content. This ongoing engagement helps build trust and reinforces your commitment to customer satisfaction.

**10. ** Client Testimonials and Case Studies:

• Share success stories, testimonials, and case studies from satisfied customers. This can help build credibility and trust in your brand.

**11. ** Educational Content:

• Share educational content about decorative concrete through your social media channels. This not only showcases your expertise but also helps potential customers make informed decisions.

**12. ** Referral Program:

• Implement a referral program to encourage satisfied customers to refer others. Offer incentives such as discounts on future services for successful referrals.

**13. ** Feedback Collection:

• Collect feedback from leads, whether or not they convert. Use this information to continually improve your follow-up process and the overall customer experience.

**14. ** Evaluate and Adjust:

• Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of your follow-up strategy. Analyze metrics such as conversion rates, response times, and customer feedback. Adjust your approach based on the insights gained.

Remember to adapt this plan based on the specific dynamics of your decorative concrete business and the preferences of your target audience.