Concrete Resurfacing is the process of making outdated or damaged concrete look like new again. A concrete resurfacing is often applied over an old surface, providing a range of texture, color, and pattern choices. It is usually performed on concrete slabs that have been damaged through the years or over periods of heavy use and tear. This decorative refinishing can also be done on concrete floors, driveways, decks, and even indoors. Whatever the reason for the concrete resurfacing, there are many concrete services that you can choose from to create a great-looking surface.
One of the most popular Concrete Resurfacing options is called the overlay. A thin layer of materials like crushed stone, pebbles, or other materials is applied above an old and damaged concrete surface in this process. This layer helps conceal existing cracks and allows newer, brighter-looking characters to show through. Matching dark masking or coloring is sometimes used further to enhance the color and pattern of the overlay.
Another method that provides a low cost-effective option in terms of concrete resurfacing is called staining. Stained concrete resurfacing can provide a great look, but it can also take some time. In this case, a contractor may suggest staining the concrete surface at the beginning of the project, while it is still relatively soft. By the end of the project, when the material has set, a new coating can be applied for a low cost-effective option.
An alternative to staining is the use of a chemical sealer. These types of sealants are not as fast as staining, but they are less messy and can easily be removed, if desired. Another cost-effective way of resurfacing concrete is by using an abrasive material that is used to chip away at the old surface. Methods such as hydroforming are also popular, especially in instances where old concrete has been irreparably damaged.
In general, the faster a concrete resurfacing job is completed, the more money it will cost. To ensure that concrete overlays and other methods of new overlay construction do not become too costly, many contractors will prepare and install the new overlay before starting any concrete resurfacing job. This allows for maximum use of the material and allows the contractor to complete the job as quickly as possible.
There are also two other processes that contractors may choose to use. One is referred to as spalling. With spalling, the concrete surface is first sent for repairs and then is repainted. Once this is done, the contractor can complete the new overlay without having to stop work for repairs or finish painting. It is important for concrete coatings to be designed to withstand the stresses placed on them, which is why most spalls are prepared by hand and not by machinery.
The second method of resurfacing an outdoor concrete surface is to create coatings based on previous designs or colors. This may include colors that have been created through a paint application, or colors that have been chemically engineered through a process like silvering. Although outdoor concrete coatings are commonly applied over concrete patios and walkways, many companies now offer patio resurfacing that is created from a composite resin instead of traditional paints. The advantages of this type of outdoor coating are that there are no restrictions on the color or design available, and because composite resins do not dry out, fading is not possible, even with extended exposure.
Concrete resurfacing, including overlays and other types of concrete projects, is a project that should be considered carefully before hiring a company to do it for you. By doing research on the various products and services provided by different contractors, you will be able to select the best one to meet your needs. There are a number of contractors that will offer you the services needed to complete an overlay or repair existing concrete, but you will want to do a bit of legwork in order to find the most qualified one to perform these tasks.