Etching Complete

The basement project continues. Last night we cleaned and etched the floor. Ken, Andrew and I wore acid-resistant hazmat suits, goggles, vapor respirators and acid gloves. We took turns applying the phosphoric acid-based product, waiting 10-20 min, scrubbing vigorously and the laborious process of mopping it up. We started around 6:30 and finished at 11:15. This would be a very easy process outside, but inside, it sucks.

We were exhausted afterwards and each went directly to our comfort foods as we propped our feet up from the couch. Ken went for the ice cream with nestle quik powder on top (his favorite), I went for a bowl of clementines and Andrew cracked open the baby loaf of cheddar cheese. We ate in silence and exhaustion, then went to bed.

Our house is very cold right now. The basement windows are open to vent the fumes. We also turned off our heat -- since the furnace is located in the basement -- and pumping the fumes through the house (or igniting them) is stupid. It's 44 degrees outside. I'd say our house is somewhere between 50-55. Needless to say, it was hard to wake up this morning. I bribed myself with a belgian waffle and sausage when I got to work, which did the trick. It was delicious.

Tonight, we're applying the primer (provided the etched floors are dry -- I have a good feeling they will be). This should be a pretty simple night. Quick vacuum. Cut in around the corners and roll the rest. One coat.

I can't wait for the basement to be finished and our house go back to normal.