Thanks for your interest in Decorative Concrete!
Concrete Resurfacing is the process by which we can apply a durable, long-lasting decorative finish to existing concrete.
This process is primarily for customers who have existing plain concrete that they want to transform into a more decorative area. Concrete Resurfacing uses a high-strength cement based polymer overlay having a strength rating of over 7,000 PSI.
There are 2 types of installations of Concrete Resurfacing, stamped overlay and custom troweled overlay, described below:
1) Stamped overlay is a type of resurfacing that uses the same stamping tools from traditional stamped concrete to create impressions in the stamp resurfacing. Stamp patterns include Ashlar Slate, Random Stone, Brick, etc. If you have existing concrete that you would like to transform into a stamped concrete area, then a stamped overlay may be for you.
2) Custom Troweled overlay is also a cement based, durable and long-lasting decorative concrete resurfacing however uses a very different installation process. This type of resurfacing is also very decorative, but doesn’t use stamping tools and therefore can be installed to resemble nearly any type of hard surface imaginable including brick, stone, tile, slate, wood, etc.
Concrete Resurfacing has become more common and more widely used for patios, driveways and pool decks. It is also used on garage floors and is an excellent choice for basement floors where pets, and water damage are concerns and therefore carpet and ceramic tile are not desired.
Stamped Concrete Vs. Concrete Resurfacing
1) “I want a decorative patio. How do I know if I need stamped Concrete or Concrete Resurfacing?”
f you have existing concrete that is in reasonably good condition and you are happy with the size and shape, Concrete Resurfacing is likely a good option for you to transform that concrete into a beautiful outdoor living space.
If you do not have concrete now, then a new Stamped Concrete patio is an option. However, if you specifically want a resurfacing design, then a plain concrete patio would be built first, then resurfaced with the desired design.
2) “I’m interested in Concrete Resurfacing, but I’m skeptical about it’s durability. How can it be good if it’s so thin?”
The Concrete Resurfacing that we use is a modern cement based polymer overlay. These overlays use a high-strength liquid resin that provides a permanent bond to the existing concrete. The polymer overlay is chemically and permanently attached to the existing concrete. The thin profile of the overlay also allows it to be very strong. The cement based overlays used are rated at over 7,000 PSI. (typical concrete is rated at approx. 3,500 PSI).
Another advantage to a thin resurfacing material is that it typically does not interfere with stairs, doorways, or pool coping or drain equipment.
3) “Can any existing concrete be resurfaced? What about existing cracks?”
Plain concrete that is in good condition is the best candidate for resurfacing. If the concrete has existing cracks, those cracks can be repaired prior to the resurfacing process. Badly cracked, settled, or deteriorated concrete can be determined to not be a candidate for resurfacing. We can come out and look at the area and let you know if resurfacing is an option.
4) “Can Stamped Concrete or Concrete Resurfacing be applied over existing asphalt?”
No, asphalt is not a good candidate for resurfacing. That asphalt would need to be removed and replaced with a new concrete surface.