What this preparation does

  • 3in1 Prep acts as a cleaner, degreaser, and etching agent all in one.

  • It helps remove dirt, grease, oil, old residues — and slightly etches the concrete surface so it can accept stain or sealer better.

What you need before starting

  • 3in1 Prep Solution

  • NewLook Applicator Brush

  • Bucket or Water and mixing container (if dilution required)

  • Scrub brush or stiff broom

  • 3000 psi Pressure washer or hose for rinsing

  • 15 degree Power Washer Tip

  • Gas

  • Garden Hose

  • Protective gear: gloves, possibly mask and safety glasses (cleaners / etchers can irritate)

Here’s some tips before getting started:

Tip 1: If you’re working on an exterior, make sure the temperature  and concrete outside is between 50F - 90F. Extreme heat or cold will cause 3in1 Prep to not exfoliate the concrete correctly.

Tip 2: Wet any plants and foliage around the area before applying 3in1 Prep. Water will neutralize it if you get it on your plants.

Tip 3: For flat surfaces start in the corner and work your way out. 

Tip 4: If you’re working on an incline, always start at the lowest point and work to the top.

Step-by-Step: How to Prep Concrete with 3in1 Prep

Step 1: Remove any surface debris including Gum & Oils. Use Grime monster to remove old or deep oil stains if there’s pre-existing stain or coating on the area use our Easy Strip 1000 to remove it.

Step 2: Use your broom to sweep the area clean so it’s free of debris.

Step 3: Pour a few inches of 3in1 prep into your bucket and dip the applicator brush spread the solution evenly across the surface allow it to rest 5 to 10 minutes and make sure it does not dry if it does, then reapply 3in1 prep to keep the solutions active we recommend working in small patches to keep up with the solution to keep it from drying.

Step 4: Power wash off 3in1 prep use a 3000 psi power washer and a 15 degree tip, hold the wand 5 to 6 inches from the surface and keep it levels use a 50 percent overlapping pattern to ensure the concrete is clean. Make sure the whole work area is clean of 3in1 prep before applying stains or sealers

Pro Tips & Best Practices

Pro Tip: 

  • Work in a pattern so that you don’t miss any areas. 

  • Work slow and steady, don't rush this part. 

  • Keep moving and don’t stop in one spot, you can scar the concrete.

Remember that power washing is the most important step of prepping your concrete be thorough and attentive. Once 3in1 prep is cleaned off and the concrete is dry, do a surface test to make sure the pores of the concrete opened correctly pour a small amount of water in the concrete if it absorbs it, it is ready. If the water puddles then you want to reapply a second coat of 3in1 prep. When the surface is dry and passes the water test you are ready to start staining other sealing your concrete. 

Additional tips:

  • Wear protective gear — especially gloves, maybe mask or eye protection. Cleaning/etching chemicals can irritate skin or lungs.

  • Work in a well-ventilated area or outdoors to avoid inhaling fumes.

  • If concrete is very old, sealed, or previously coated — you might need stronger cleaning or additional passes.

  • Make sure to rinse thoroughly. Chemical residue can ruin the finish of stain or sealer applied afterward.

  • Let the concrete dry for at least as long as manufacturer suggests — better to wait a bit longer than to apply stain/sealer too soon.

For more product information, and tutorial click here.