Trusted Concrete Resurfacing and Decorative Overlays

A concrete overlay is a thin layer of cement-based material applied to an existing concrete surface. It serves two main purposes:

1. Repair: Concrete overlays can be used to repair minor cracks, spalling, and other surface defects in existing concrete. This can be a more cost-effective and time-saving alternative to replacing the entire concrete slab.

2. Decoration: Concrete overlays can also be used to enhance the appearance of existing concrete. They come in a variety of colors, textures, and patterns, allowing you to create a unique and stylish look for your indoor or outdoor spaces.

Here are some key characteristics of concrete overlays:

• Thinness: They are typically applied in layers ranging from 1/8 inch to 1 inch thick, making them a lightweight and versatile option.
• Durability: When properly installed, concrete overlays can be highly durable and resistant to wear and tear, weather, and chemicals.
• Versatility: They can be used on a variety of concrete surfaces, including floors, walls, patios, pool decks, and driveways.
• Range of options: Concrete overlays come in a wide variety of colors, textures, and patterns, allowing you to customize the look of your concrete.
• Application: While some overlays are DIY-friendly, most require professional installation for optimal results.

Here are some common types of concrete overlays:

• Stamped overlays: These overlays are textured to resemble natural materials like brick, stone, or wood.
• Microtoppings: These are thin overlays that create a smooth, seamless finish.
• Polished overlays: These overlays are polished to a high shine, creating a luxurious look.
• Resurfacing overlays: These overlays are designed to fill in minor cracks and imperfections in the existing concrete.

Overall, concrete overlays offer a versatile and cost-effective way to repair and enhance the appearance of your concrete surfaces.

Is Your Concrete Slab Showing Its Age? Here Are Your Options

If your concrete garage floor, driveway, sidewalk, or patio is starting to look a bit worse for wear, you have two main options:

1. Demolish and replace the old slab: This is the most drastic option, but it may be necessary if the slab is severely cracked, spalled, or otherwise damaged.
2. Resurface the old slab: This is a less expensive and more DIY-friendly option that can be used to repair superficial damage such as cracks, discoloration, and minor chipping.

Choosing the Right Option

The best option for you will depend on the extent of the damage to your concrete slab. If the slab is structurally sound but simply looks a bit weathered, resurfacing is a good choice. However, if the slab is extensively damaged, demolition and replacement is the more durable solution.

Considerations for Resurfacing

If you choose to resurface your concrete slab, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Resurfaced concrete may not last as long as a new slab, especially in colder climates.
• Resurfacing may not be suitable for slabs that are severely damaged.

Resurfacing offers a cost-effective alternative to replacing an entire concrete slab, but it’s crucial to determine if the slab is suitable for this repair method. Product instructions generally recommend resurfacing for slabs with superficial damage, such as small cracks, chips, and spalls where aggregate pieces have loosened. However, if the cracks extend through the entire slab’s thickness or cause significant height differences between adjoining sides, resurfacing is unlikely to be a viable option.

To assess the slab’s condition, inspect the cracks carefully. If they run all the way through the slab, resurfacing won’t provide a durable solution. Additionally, check for any noticeable height discrepancies between the sides of the cracks. If one side is significantly higher than the other, it indicates that the slab is undergoing major heaving, suggesting that resurfacing is not a suitable repair method.

In contrast, slabs with superficial cracks, chips, and spalls are excellent candidates for resurfacing. These types of damage can be effectively concealed and repaired with a thin layer of resurfacer, restoring the slab’s appearance and functionality.

Cost-Effective Concrete Resurfacing: An Alternative to Replacement

The cost of concrete resurfacing varies depending on the size and condition of the surface being treated. However, it’s generally significantly more affordable than replacing the entire concrete slab. At Deckrete our prices start at $5 per square foot, which is a lot more affordable and cost effective than a new pour, which you can expect to be $12 or more per square foot.

Factors that can influence the cost include:

• Surface preparation: The extent of crack repair and surface cleaning can impact the overall cost.
• Resurfacer type: Different resurfacer materials, such as epoxy or polymer-modified, may have varying prices.
• Labor costs: Labor rates vary depending on your location and the contractor’s experience.
• Additional considerations: Special requirements, such as decorative finishes or complex designs, may add to the overall cost.

Environmental Conditions for Concrete Resurfacing

Just like traditional concrete pouring, resurfacing requires favorable weather conditions. The ideal environment for resurfacing involves:

• Above-freezing temperatures: Concrete requires warmth to cure properly. Avoid resurfacing when temperatures are below 50°F (10°C) to ensure proper curing and prevent cracking.
• Dry environment: Moisture can interfere with the bonding process between the resurfacer and the existing concrete. Avoid resurfacing during rain or when the surface is damp to ensure a strong and lasting bond.

Additional Considerations:

• Wind: Strong winds can cause rapid evaporation of moisture, affecting the curing process. If resurfacing must be done in windy conditions, consider using windbreaks or applying moisture-retaining curing compounds.
• Direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can also lead to rapid moisture loss, especially during hot weather. If resurfacing must be done in direct sunlight, consider applying curing compounds or shading the area to prevent premature drying.

Yes, you can certainly enhance the appearance of resurfaced concrete with stains and special finishes. Similar to traditional concrete floors, resurfaced concrete can be stained to achieve a variety of colors and patterns. Additionally, polishing techniques can be employed to create a glossy, high-end finish.

Here’s a breakdown of the options available for enhancing resurfaced concrete:

Staining:

• Acid-based stains: These stains penetrate deeply into the concrete, producing a permanent and durable color change.
• Acrylic stains: These stains are applied to the surface of the concrete, offering a wider range of colors but may require resealing periodically.

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acidbased concrete stain

Polishing:

• Polishing pads: Using a series of abrasive diamond polishing pads, concrete is gradually polished to a smooth, glossy finish.
• Chemical polishing: This method involves applying a chemical solution that dissolves the surface layer of concrete, revealing the aggregate beneath and creating a polished finish.

chemical concrete polishing

By combining staining and polishing techniques, you can achieve a unique and aesthetically pleasing finish for your resurfaced concrete floor. Whether you prefer a natural look with subtle color variations or a high-gloss, polished finish, the possibilities are endless.

Thorough preparation is the key to long-lasting results when resurfacing concrete. This preparation involves several steps:

1. Pressure-washing the slab: This removes dirt, debris, and loose particles that could interfere with the bonding of the resurfacer to the concrete.
2. Repairing significant damage: Use a quality concrete patch product to fill in any cracks, spalls, or other deep gouges in the slab.
3. Removing stains from oil, paint, or tree sap: These stains can seep through the resurfacing material, so it’s important to remove them prior to application.
4. Etching the surface: This creates a rough texture that enhances the adhesion of the resurfacer to the concrete.

Removing Stains

tree sap stain on concrete

Oil, paint, and tree sap stains can be difficult to remove from concrete. However, there are a few methods that can be effective.

• For oil stains:
• Use a commercial oil-based cleaner.
• Apply the cleaner to the stain and let it sit for several minutes.
• Scrub the stain with a stiff brush.
• Rinse the area with clean water.
• For paint stains:
• Use a commercial paint stripper.
• Apply the stripper to the stain and let it sit for several minutes.
• Scrape off the paint with a putty knife.
• Rinse the area with clean water.
• For tree sap stains:
• Use a commercial sap remover.
• Apply the remover to the stain and let it sit for several minutes.
• Scrape off the sap with a putty knife.
• Rinse the area with clean water.

Etching the Surface

concrete etching

Etching the surface of the concrete creates a rough texture that helps the resurfacer adhere to the concrete. This can be done using a commercial concrete etchant or a solution of muriatic acid and water.

• To etch the surface with a commercial concrete etchant:
• Follow the instructions on the product label.
• Apply the etchant to the concrete and let it sit for several minutes.
• Rinse the area with clean water.
• To etch the surface with muriatic acid and water:
• Mix one part muriatic acid with 10 parts water.
• Apply the solution to the concrete and let it sit for several minutes.
• Rinse the area with clean water.

Once the slab has been properly prepared, it is ready for the application of the resurfacer.