What Does Concrete Stick To? Materials That Work (and Ones That Don’t)
- Astrid van Essen
- Apr 25
- 3 min read
I love working with concrete and all the beautiful, functional things you can create from it—planters, incense holders, trays, you name it. But let’s be honest… concrete can give you a bit of a headache when it sticks to the wrong surface.
That’s why I put together this quick and practical guide. Whether you're pouring a mould, making home décor, or testing out a new shape, knowing what concrete sticks to (and what it doesn't) can save you serious time and effort.
How Does Concrete Stick to Surfaces?
Concrete adheres through a combination of mechanical grip, such as filling surface pores and textures, and chemical bonding, especially with porous materials. Adhesion can vary depending on:
Moisture content
Surface texture
Cleanliness
Use of any coatings or release agents
If a surface is smooth, sealed, or non-porous, concrete may struggle to bond correctly.
What Materials Does Concrete Stick To?
Concrete will generally adhere well to:
Wood (untreated) – Especially rough-sawn wood used in traditional formwork.
Stone and brick – Their natural texture provides concrete with a solid grip.
Old concrete – If properly prepared, roughened, and primed.
Metal (roughened or etched) – Think rebar or mesh embedded in structures.
It’s worth noting that treated or varnished wood will not hold concrete as effectively unless it is sanded back to its raw timber state.
What Materials Concrete Doesn’t Stick To
If you're working with moulds or want a clean release, it helps to know what repels concrete:
Plastic – Most plastics, especially polypropylene and polyethene, don’t bond with concrete.
Rubber and silicone – These materials are excellent for flexible moulds.
Painted or sealed surfaces – Any coatings create a barrier.
Glass – Unless etched or scratched, it provides no grip.
Oiled surfaces – A light coating of oil or a proper release agent prevents sticking.
How to Make Concrete Stick Better
If you’re trying to bond concrete to an existing surface or create a strong, long-lasting item, try the following:
Clean thoroughly – Dust, dirt, or oils will prevent adhesion.
Roughen smooth surfaces – Use sandpaper or a wire brush.
Apply a bonding agent – Products like PVA or SBR can improve the grip.
Dampen porous surfaces – This stops the surface from drawing moisture out of the concrete too quickly.
How to Stop Concrete Sticking to Moulds
On the flip side, if you want a smooth release, especially in creative work like making botanical concrete coasters or planters, use:
Commercial concrete release agents – These are designed to form a barrier.
Vegetable oil or beeswax – A natural DIY alternative, especially good for wooden or silicone moulds.
Vaseline (petroleum jelly) – A surprisingly effective choice for small, detailed moulds. It forms a strong barrier and is easy to apply with a soft cloth or brush. Use a thin, even layer to avoid residue on your finished piece.
Non-stick moulds – Silicone, plastic, or anything with a sealed finish.
Looking for moulds and thinking of making your own? Read our guide: How to Choose or Make the Best Mould For Concrete Pot Casting
What to Do If Concrete Sticks Where You Don’t Want It
Yeah, sh*t happens. If concrete ends up on a surface you didn’t plan for, don’t panic—it can usually be removed safely:
If It’s Still Wet:
Wipe it away quickly with a wet cloth or stiff brush.
Use a plastic scraper to prevent damage to the surface.
If It’s Dried:
For smooth surfaces (such as metal, glass, or plastic), gently chip away at it with a plastic or wooden scraper.
Apply white vinegar or diluted citric acid to loosen the concrete; let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
Use a non-corrosive commercial concrete remover if needed.
For delicate or porous surfaces:
Avoid harsh chemicals or metal tools.
Soak a cloth in vinegar and lay it over the area to soften the concrete before gently lifting it.
Tip: Avoid using strong acids, such as hydrochloric acid, unless you are trained—these can damage surfaces and are hazardous to handle.
Conclusion
Knowing what concrete sticks to can be the difference between a polished, professional result and a frustrating clean-up. Whether you’re crafting small-batch homeware or experimenting with natural textures, this guide will help you prepare surfaces, prevent sticking, and ensure the success of your project.
What Does Concrete Stick To: Frequently Asked Questions
1- Does concrete stick to plastic?
No, most plastics repel concrete, making them ideal for reusable moulds.
2- Can you pour concrete on top of concrete?
Yes, but only if you properly clean, roughen, and apply a bonding slurry or adhesive.
3- How do you stop concrete from sticking to wood?
Use formwork oil, plastic sheeting, or line the wood with tape for a smoother release.
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