Last Updated on March, 2025
Concrete resurfacing offers a practical, cost-effective solution for rejuvenating old, worn-out concrete surfaces. Whether it’s a patio, driveway, walkway, or floor, resurfacing can transform dull and damaged concrete surfaces into an attractive and functional surface.
But why should you opt for concrete resurfacing?
It’s not about just improving appearance. Resurfacing can also extend the lifespan of your concrete, enhance safety by repairing cracks and uneven areas on damaged concrete surfaces, and increase your property’s value.
Concrete resurfacing is your best solution if you are looking for an efficient way to refresh your concrete surfaces without the hassle and expense of a complete replacement.
Here’s our comprehensive guide to concrete resurfacing.
Quick Summary
- Concrete resurfacing is a cost-effective and efficient way to rejuvenate old, worn-out concrete surfaces by applying a new decorative layer, improving both appearance and functionality without the need for a complete replacement.
- Resurfacing extends the lifespan of concrete, enhances safety, and increases property value by repairing cracks and uneven areas on the surface, making it a practical solution for maintaining and upgrading concrete structures.
- Proper preparation and execution are critical to the success and longevity of concrete resurfacing, including cleaning, repairing, and applying the resurfacing material correctly to ensure durability and adherence to the existing concrete.
What is Concrete Resurfacing and What is it Made of?
Concrete resurfacing involves applying a decorative layer of concrete over an existing surface to renew its appearance. This coating can transform old, damaged, or worn-out concrete into a smooth, visually appealing, durable surface.
The resurfacing process varies based on the specific needs of the surface and materials used, from cement-based overlays to polymer-modified overlay systems.
Concrete resurfacing typically uses a cement-based compound mixed with a special flexible polymer, a high-solids acrylic modifier that acts as a powerful and flexible bonding agent.
These polymer-modified overlay systems lead to mixture adhesion and durability, bonding strongly to the existing concrete to create a robust and aesthetically pleasing new surface.
Once applied, the resurfaced area hardens as much as the original concrete, allowing for foot traffic after 24 hours and vehicle traffic after about seven days.
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Why is Concrete Resurfacing Necessary?
Over time, concrete surfaces can deteriorate due to foot traffic, weather conditions, and environmental factors, leading to cracks, stains, and a generally worn-out appearance.
Concrete resurfacing works for such issues by applying a fresh top layer, rejuvenating the surface, and making it look new without the cost of a complete replacement.
What is the Procedure for Concrete Resurfacing?
Concrete resurfacing requires several crucial steps to achieve long-lasting and visually appealing results.
Here’s a summary of the general process, including necessary preparations before starting the work:
Initial Inspection And Repair
- The process starts by assessing the concrete surface for any significant damage.
- Repair cracks or holes larger than one-quarter inch deep or cracked concrete to ensure a smooth, structurally solid foundation for resurfacing.
- Small cracks can be repaired using materials like epoxy and silica sand mix.
Cleaning
- Ensure the area to be resurfaced is free of loose concrete and debris.
- Mechanical grinding is the method used for surface preparation. However, pressure cleaning and acid washing can also adequately clean it.
- Resolve any cracked concrete and imperfections using a suitable crack repair system, and create necessary saw cuts or expansion joints to prepare the surface for resurfacing.
Mixing The Resurfacer
- To prepare the mixture, combine the concrete resurfacer with water using a commercial-grade drill and mixer. For larger projects, consider using a mechanical mortar mixer.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely to achieve the correct consistency for the resurfacing compound.
Application
- Use a hopper gun to apply a thin layer of the concrete resurfacing material evenly across the area, creating a uniform, anti-slip decorative finish.
- Alternatively, the resurfacer can be applied to one-foot-wide strips using a long-handled squeegee to ensure even thickness and penetration into surface pores.
Finishing Touches
- Once the resurfacer begins to set, use a broom to texture the surface for a non-slip finish, if desired.
- Maintain surface moisture for 24 to 48 hours to promote strong bonding and prevent shrinkage cracks.
Curing And Inspection
- Allow a new surface to cure fully until it is as durable as the original concrete. Typically, it can withstand foot traffic after 24 hours and vehicular traffic after seven days.
- Perform a thorough inspection to ensure the surface is smooth, even, and free from imperfections.
How Long Does Concrete Resurfacing Last?
Concrete resurfacing typically lasts between 5 to 15 years, depending on several factors, such as the quality of the initial preparation, the thickness of the overlay, the type of material used, and the level of maintenance.
The lifespan may be shorter in areas with heavy traffic or harsh weather conditions. Regular maintenance and proper care can extend the longevity of the resurfaced concrete.
What are the Advantages of Concrete Resurfacing?
Concrete floor or driveway resurfacing offers numerous benefits that make it an attractive option for homeowners and businesses alike:
Cost-effectiveness: Resurfacing eliminates the need to demolish and replace old concrete, significantly reducing labour and material costs.
Quick turnaround time: The resurfacing process is much faster than installing new concrete, and areas are often ready for use in just a few days.
Customisable finishes: You can choose new finishes such as colouring, stamping, or staining, allowing easy customisation to match any decor or landscaping theme.
Longevity: Resurfacing adds a thin base coat layer to the existing concrete, extending its lifespan and improving resistance to wear and tear.
Low maintenance: The new surface requires minimal upkeep and is less time-consuming than completely replacing it. You also save money on future maintenance and repairs.
Problems With Concrete Resurfacing
Since concrete resurfacing is only a temporary solution for a worn or damaged concrete surface, it presents several potential challenges:
Adhesion: Proper cleaning and preparation are crucial. Inadequate preparation can result in weak adhesion. Despite bonding agents, establishing a durable bond on cured concrete remains difficult.
Freeze-Thaw cycles: Concrete absorbs water, which freezes and thaws, causing the resurfaced layer to crack and chip quickly.
Durability and longevity: Resurfaced concrete may not endure heavy traffic or severe conditions as well as new concrete. It typically lasts only a few years, particularly in areas with high traffic or extreme weather.
Cost vs. benefit: Resurfacing is cheaper than replacing concrete, but frequent resurfacing can become expensive over time. Resurfacing also has immediate effects on deteriorated concrete, but requires faster reapplication than new concrete.
Limited aesthetic options: Resurfacing offers few customisation options compared to installing new concrete.
Environmental and climate considerations: High humidity, frequent rainfall, and extreme temperatures can impact curing and durability.
Does My Surface Need Concrete Resurfacing?
Concrete resurfacing is most effective on surfaces with minor damage. Major cracks indicate potential underlying issues, such as ground movement, which can lead to cracking in the new layer.
Dust and moisture levels also impact adhesion, affecting the durability of the coating.
It’s important to note that resurfacing doesn’t address structural problems. If your surface exhibits significant damage like large holes or pits, repairing or replacing the concrete might be required.
Adequate preparation for repairing concrete is essential for achieving a satisfactory outcome.
When Not to Resurface?
When considering concrete resurfacing, it’s crucial to steer clear of surfaces with serious structural problems like heaving, settling, or deep cracks. These issues that merely look like a damaged surface can undermine the durability and aesthetics of the resurfaced concrete.
If your concrete shows signs of heaving or settling, it’s recommended that you first address these issues using methods like concrete levelling, complete replacement or other suitable repairs.
Once the surface is stable and level, you can move forward with concrete resurfacing to improve its appearance and extend its lifespan.
How Much Does Concrete Resurfacing Cost?
Concrete resurfacing is typically a more economical and quicker alternative to total concrete replacement. If you opt for a DIY approach, it may demand additional time and resources, and could result in errors due to limited experience.
Hiring a professional also comes with varying costs based on their rates. Factors affecting the total expense include the area’s size and the intricacy involved in the colours, patterns, and textures desired for the project.
DIY Concrete Resurfacing
Using products from hardware stores to resurface concrete yourself can temporarily improve the look, but it’s not suitable since it isn’t usually a long-lasting fix.
The resurfacing might deteriorate quickly as the concrete expands and contracts naturally with varying temperature and moisture conditions.
Without experience in concrete resurfacing, achieving good adhesion between the concrete resurfacer and the existing concrete surface is difficult. This poor adhesion can lead to the resurface crumbling and deteriorating over time.
Conclusion
Concrete resurfacing is a budget-friendly option for giving your old concrete surface a fresh look. A resurface is about reinventing worn-out driveways or floors with a customised finish that matches your style.
Remember, prep work is critical to ensuring the resurface sticks well and lasts. While it’s not a fix for significant structural damage, it’s perfect for minor cracks and issues.
So, if you’re looking to upgrade your old concrete surface without the hassle and cost of replacement, resurfacing might just be the way to go.
