1. Phoscrete Sets Too Fast
Observations:
- Insufficient working time
- Material hardens in the bucket before placement
Possible Causes:
- Activator or dry mix is too warm
- Too much Fast-Set admixture used
- High ambient or substrate temperature
Solutions:
- Chill activator jugs to 40°F (5°C) using ice/cooler
- Store dry mix bags in a cool, shaded area
- Use Slow-Set admixture if available
- Mix smaller batches at a time
- Work quickly and have all tools and site prepared before mixing
2. Phoscrete Sets Too Slow or Remains Soft
Observations:
- Material takes longer than expected to harden
- Surface remains tacky or soft after recommended set time
Possible Causes:
- Cold activator or dry mix
- Not enough Fast-Set admixture
- Ambient or substrate temperature is very low
- Expired or compromised material
Solutions:
- Warm activator in hot water (do not boil) before mixing
- Store dry mix indoors above 50°F (10°C)
- Add recommended amount of Fast-Set admixture
- Verify material is within shelf life and properly stored
- Increase mixing time in cold weather
3. Material is Lumpy or Poorly Mixed
Observations:
- Dry clumps or streaks in the mix
- Inconsistent texture
Possible Causes:
- Inadequate mixing time
- Incorrect mixing tools
- Partial kits used (not recommended)
Solutions:
- Always use a heavy-duty drill with a paddle or auger
- Mix for at least 1 minute (F1) or 2 minutes (F3), scraping bucket sides
- Only mix full kits (do not split bags/jugs)
- Add dry mix gradually while mixing
4. Poor Bond to Substrate / Delamination
Observations:
- Repair peels, lifts, or separates from concrete
- Hollow sound when tapped
Possible Causes:
- Substrate was wet, dusty, contaminated, or not properly prepared
- Slurry residue from saw-cutting not removed
- Substrate was not dry
Solutions:
- Ensure substrate is clean, dry, and sound
- Remove all dust, debris, oil, and slurry before placement
- Use a propane torch to dry and burn off stubborn contaminants
- Perform a "glove test"—wipe the surface with a gloved finger; if any residue transfers, keep cleaning
5. Cracking or Shrinkage
Observations:
- Visible surface cracks
- Edges pull away from substrate
Possible Causes:
- Placing Phoscrete on moving or unsound substrate
- Excessive feather edges instead of saw-cut boundaries
- Placing in thick lifts without proper technique
- Underlying substrate movement or reflective cracking
Solutions:
- Saw-cut edges and avoid feather finishes
- Place in lifts for deep repairs, blend each lift well
- Ensure substrate is stable and properly prepared
- Re-establish all control joints
6. Finish Quality Issues (Rough, Uneven, or Sticky Surface)
Observations:
- Surface is difficult to smooth
- Material sticks to tools or gloves
Possible Causes:
- Not enough Endure in the mix (F3 only)
- Tools/gloves not dampened
- Waiting too long to finish after placement
Solutions:
- Wipe tools and gloves with water (shake off excess)
- Finish promptly after placement
- Apply Phoscrete Endure as directed for F3 products
- For best results, finish in cooler conditions if possible
Quick Reference Table
Need More Help?
Contact your Phoscrete Sales Engineer or call our main office at 561-420-0595 for custom mixing guides, on-site training, or to troubleshoot a tricky job.
For more technical guidance, view the full installation guides data page.
You can also use the live chat on our website or fill out the contact form below.