Hello World! Welcome Friends! Bored by the aging, cracked or stained surfaces in your home? We got you. These types of surfaces can make a home appear old or uncared for. But don’t worry, there’s a solution that doesn’t involve complete replacement. Concrete resurfacing will breathe new life into the surfaces, leaving your home looking fresh and inviting. How do you resurface concrete? Read on to find out.
Can You Resurface Concrete?
The short answer is yes. Concrete is a durable material, but over time, even the best-laid slabs can start to show signs of wear. Whether it’s due to weather, heavy use or simply age, concrete surfaces can become cracked, pitted or stained. According to the concrete experts at the ICS, concrete resurfacing is a cost-effective and relatively easy solution that can restore your concrete’s appearance and extend its life.
The project involves applying a layer of concrete overlay to existing concrete to enhance its appearance, functionality and durability. Resurfaced concrete can last for over 15 years.
However, not all surfaces are ideal for resurfacing. Surfaces with severe damage, such as large cracks, extensive pitting or significant spalling, may require more extensive repairs or complete replacement.
Moreover, for surfaces with ongoing moisture issues, like water seepage from below or areas prone to water pooling, you must address the problem first because the concrete resurfacing will fail. Resurfacing old concrete works to fix minor cracks, correct surface imperfections and color and give old floors a new look.
How to Resurface Old Concrete
1. Assess the Condition of the Concrete
Start by evaluating the current condition of your concrete. Can the defects be fixed through resurfacing? It would be unfortunate if you spent money on the resurfacing project only to fail because the surface was severely damaged or unstable and required a complete replacement. It’s best to leave the assessment to the concrete experts if unsure.
2. Gather Tools and Materials
If you have contracted someone to do the job, you won’t need these tools because they will bring their own. However, have the following tools and concrete resurfacing products for a DIY project.
Tools
- Pressure washer
- Concrete grinder or chisel (remove loose concrete)
- Trowels (flat and edge)
- Mixing paddle and drill
- Concrete broom or texture roller
- Measuring bucket
Concrete resurfacing products
- Concrete resurfacer
- Crack filler or patching compound
- Bonding agent (if required by the resurfacer)
- Sealer (optional, but recommended)
3. Prepare the Surface
The resurfacer needs a clean surface to bond effectively. Use a pressure washer to remove dirt, debris and any loose concrete. For stubborn stains or grease, use a concrete cleaner or degreaser.
Next, fill all cracks with concrete patching compound and smooth them out with a trowel. Allow them to dry before moving on.
4. Mix the Concrete Resurfacer
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing the resurfacer. Generally, you’ll combine the dry mix with water in a large bucket, using a mixing paddle attached to a drill. The consistency should be like pancake batter—not too thick, but not too runny.
Tip: Mix in smaller batches to prevent the resurfacer from drying out before applying it.
5. Apply Concrete Resurfacer
Start by applying the resurfacer to the edges of the concrete slab using a trowel. Then, pour the resurfacer onto the main surface of the concrete and spread it out evenly. Work in small sections and blend the edges together. Use a concrete broom or texture roller to create a uniform texture, non-slip finish.
6. Cure and Seal
Allow the surface to cure for the duration recommended by the manufacturer, which can be 24–48 hours. During this time, keep the surface moist by periodically misting it with water.
Once cured, apply a concrete sealer if the manufacturer recommends it. Regularly clean the resurfaced concrete to keep it looking its best.
Conclusion
Resurfacing old concrete is a practical and cost-effective way to rejuvenate worn or damaged surfaces. The tips above will ensure a successful resurfacing project, whether you are tackling a patio, driveway or indoor floor.
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