Selected Answers

From Doug McBride of Envirocrete, Inc. on January 30, 2014:
Another issue to consider it the high chance of gh ...read more Another issue to consider it the high chance of ghosting from the previously installed VCT, which we typically call window paneing. Many times, the VCT pattern is still very visible after the floor has been ground and polished, even with deep grinding. Furthermore, coatings provide the benefit of using a topcoat that is resistant to tire staining, which is very common with the vast majority of floor coatings, even those used on polished concrete, which are typically referred to as "Guard" products designed for polished concrete to provide increased sheen and stain/spill resistance. The chemicals used in tires tend to react with the coating, which leaves a yellowish tire pattern once the vehicle is moved. Without the use of a coating that is resistant to tire staining, carpet pads or even plexiglass panels are required to protect the floor.

From web stokes of DMA on January 27, 2014:
It depends on the budget, the desired look of the ...read more It depends on the budget, the desired look of the finished product, how the customer feels about ghost lines, and what the slab really looks like once the mastic is removed. There is a high probability of pits and holes filled with adhesive as well as gypsum patch, both of which could add considerable cost and affect the aesthetics. Before saying what is best, it would be best to completely demo the existing adhesive and see if polish is even a realistic option.