// Technical Approach

How the system works.

For optimal slab performance, we recommend two applications of reactive silica — Ashford FA during finishing, and Ashford Formula after the slab has set. Together they create a permanent, densified surface that outperforms untreated concrete over its lifetime.

// Our Recommendation

For optimal slab performance we recommend two applications of a reactive silica. Firstly, we create additional CSH (Calcium Silicate Hydrate) during the finishing application with Ashford FA — taking advantage of the high early concrete reaction. Additionally, more CSH is created after the slab has set with the industry-leading flood coat of Ashford Formula.

// The Challenge
00

The GUL cement problem.

The widespread adoption of GUL (General Use Limestone) and Type IL blended cements across Canada has fundamentally changed how concrete behaves on the finishing table — and how it performs over time. Understanding these challenges is the foundation of our system.

Reduced CaOH (Calcium Hydroxide)

Blended cements produce significantly less CaOH during hydration. Since both Ashford FA and Ashford Formula react with CaOH to form CSH, reduced CaOH content limits the densification reaction — making early intervention critical.

Sticky, Slow-Setting Surfaces

Limestone filler content alters finishing windows and increases surface stickiness. Finishers face premature closure, delamination risk, and unpredictable trowelling behaviour — especially in variable weather conditions.

Unpredictable Set Times

Variable performance across batches and changing site conditions — wind, temperature, humidity — creates significant contractor risk and makes it difficult to optimize the finishing process on large pours.

Ashford FA applied via laser screed sprayer
// Ashford FA — applied through laser screed tanks, live jobsite
// Application 01 — During Finishing
01

Ashford FA — high early CSH formation.

Applied during the floating and trowelling stages — including direct integration into laser screed tanks — Ashford FA delivers reactive colloidal silica to the surface at the moment of high early concrete reactivity.

During this window, CaOH (calcium hydroxide) is being released at its highest rate as cement hydrates. Ashford FA reacts immediately with available CaOH to begin forming Calcium Silicate Hydrate (CSH) — the same binding compound that gives concrete its strength — producing a denser, tighter surface zone before the slab has even set.

  • Applied at 800–1,000 ft²/gal via low-pressure sprayer or laser screed tanks
  • Compatible with power trowel and ride-on finishing operations
  • Eliminates GUL stickiness and extends the finishing window
  • Improves moisture retention and reduces surface curling
  • Sets the stage for enhanced Ashford Formula penetration
// The Chemistry

CaOH + SiO₂ (colloidal silica) → CSH (Calcium Silicate Hydrate)
By introducing reactive silica during peak CaOH availability, Ashford FA increases the density of the surface zone before the slab sets — a reaction window that cannot be recovered after cure.

// Application 02 — After Cure
02

Ashford Formula — the industry-leading flood coat.

Once the slab has set and cured, Ashford Formula is applied as a flood coat — saturating the entire surface and penetrating deep into the concrete matrix. The reactive silica seeks out remaining CaOH (calcium hydroxide) and silicate compounds, continuing the CSH-forming reaction from within.

Unlike surface coatings that wear, chip, or peel, Ashford Formula becomes part of the concrete itself. The result is a permanently harder, denser, dustproof slab — with a natural sheen that develops and improves with use over time.

  • Applied as a flood coat by low-pressure sprayer — surface kept wet for 30 minutes
  • Penetrates and reacts permanently — no reapplication required
  • Increases abrasion resistance by 32.5% (ASTM C779)
  • Increases impact resistance by 13.3% (ASTM C805)
  • Permanently eliminates concrete dusting
  • Backed by a 20-year manufacturer warranty
// The Chemistry

Residual CaOH + Na₂SiO₃ (sodium silicate) → additional CSH formation
The flood coat reaches deeper into the slab matrix, locking in residual calcium compounds and filling natural pores and voids with crystalline CSH growth — permanently solidifying the concrete mass.

Ashford Formula flood coat application — Calgary AB
// Ashford Formula flood coat — Calgary AB
// System Summary

The complete treatment sequence.

From fresh pour to finished floor — a permanent two-stage system that addresses GUL challenges at every phase of the concrete lifecycle.

// Stage 00
Fresh Concrete Placed
GUL/Type IL mix design. High early CaOH release begins during hydration. Finishing window opens.
// Stage 01
Ashford FA Applied
During floating & trowelling. Reactive silica reacts with peak-availability CaOH. Surface CSH density increases. Stickiness eliminated.
// Stage 02
Slab Cures
Normal cure period. Denser surface zone from Ashford FA. Tighter finish than untreated GUL slab.
// Stage 03
Ashford Formula Applied
Flood coat penetrates deep. Reacts with residual CaOH and silicates. Crystalline CSH fills pores. Slab permanently hardened and dustproofed.
// Result
Lifetime Performance
Permanent densification. Self-polishing sheen develops with use. No topcoat required. 20-year warranty.
// Ready to Specify?

Get CSI spec language
for your project.

Both products are supported by Division 03 specification language ready for inclusion in project documents. Contact us to request spec language tailored to your project type.

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