Replacing Deco Strips in Concrete

Many concrete areas have white, plastic strips placed into the joints and cuts of the concrete.  These strips provide a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to an open joint.  In situations where the strips are placed over an existing coating (i.e. river rock), removal of the strips is required due to the strip being higher than the rest of the deck once the existing coating has been removed.

When confronted with these types of strips already in place, removal of these strips is required.  This is done by cutting a “V” groove or channel under the zip strip using the 4 ½” grinder and the 4” diamond blade, and pulling the strip free from the concrete.  Once this is done, a channel will be present in the deck.  This channel is cleaned out by acid etching and power washing it along with the rest of the deck during the preparation stage.  Once this is done, a new zip strip is placed in the area by laying the strip in the channel and tapping the strip into place using a rubber mallet.  Make sure the strip is even with the rest of  the concrete slab.

Once the strip is in place, a mixture of the 105 grout and 111 modifier is used to set the strip in place.  This is done by pouring the mixture into the channel around the strip and troweling smooth.  Once this is dry, you can skim the deck and install the CTI System as usual.

If zip strips or deco strips are present and are even with the slab already, you do not need to replace the strip.  Simply cover the strip with pattern tape during the installation of the CTI System and proceed as usual.