Does Concrete Resurfacing Last?
Important Point
Concrete is one of the best materials for construction purposes in any country in the world. Concrete is generally a versatile material and it is easy to work with and it is also very cheap that’s why it is widely used all over the world.
Generally, concrete is made with a mixture of stones, sand, water, and cement. We also add reinforcement steel into the concrete to build tall and large structures. Sometimes, precast concrete is used to build long-span structures.
Concrete is basically used to build countertops and flat-cast products like floors, walkways, sidewalks, patios, etc.
Tough concrete is a very hard and strong material but it does not last forever because of the random action of frost action, vibration, weight, impact and natural weather action.
If the slab or the casting portion is heavily damaged then you need to replace the whole portion. Sometimes, you do not need to replace the whole portion then you need to refinish the portion & then concrete resurfacing is the best option.
In the concrete resurfacing process, the top layer of the concrete is removed and a new layer of the concrete is poured and make sure that the new concrete creates enough strong bond with the existing concrete.
It is extremely strong if it is placed in a thin layer and it will last for 20 to 30 years. Concrete resurfacing provides a good-looking new product with a minimum price range.
What Is Concrete Resurfacing?
Sometimes, we demolish old slabs and cast new slabs. To overcome this situation we introduce a new process which is widely known as concrete resurfacing. In concrete resurfacing the older top layer of concrete is removed and a thin new layer of concrete is poured on the top.
The new concrete contains a bonding agent and it helps to create a good bond with the existing concrete layer. If you do not use the bonding agent then then the slab will not be a monolithic structure and cracks will generate. The resurfacing layer will increase the slab thickness by ½ inch.
What Does Resurfaced Concrete Look Like?
A resurfaced concrete looks almost the same as the new concrete floor. Sometimes it does not look like same because of adding some colour, different finishes, stamping, different mixes, etc. So, there are several resurfacing options you can choose any one of them and also you can stay with the existing style.
After resurfacing if you want to change the outlook of your concrete surface then you need to follow some things, that are following below-
- Colour- Colours are added with the mixture or using a sprayer, and the finish will be completed.
- Texture- If you want to change the texture of the concrete then add some new texture.
- Stamps- If you add some detailing then use stamps.
- Finish- sometimes a finishing coat Is used for shine purposes.
Can Concrete Be Resurfaced?
Concrete resurfacing is the process where the older top layer of concrete is removed and a thin new layer of concrete is poured on the top and it looks like a brand new product. Here, only the top layer is new and if the concrete is cracked or damaged then resurfacing is not possible.
If the existing slab has deep cracks then you go for replacing the concrete instead of resurfacing, otherwise, the new layer of concrete will increase the damage.
Partial removal is also another good substitute option where resurfacing of concrete is done only at the damaged portion.
The best way to determine the resurfaced condition of concrete is to consult with Mason.
When Should Resurfacing Be Done?
Resurfacing is basically pouring concrete and the best condition of resurfacing is above the freezing temperature and dry condition. When the surface is hot then do not pour concrete over it because water will be vaporized due to hot temperature.
Extreme cold conditions should also avoid because extreme cold conditions may freeze the internal water of the concrete.
Choose a balanced temperature for concrete resurfacing.
When your concrete floor looks damaged and cracks, chipping, or flaking is observed then you should do concrete resurfacing.
Also, Read: Epoxy Flooring Cost Calculator
How Much Does Resurfacing Cost?
The resurfacing cost will vary according to the size and the condition of the existing concrete. There are a few parameters which need to take your account at the time of calculating resurfacing cost; those are the following below-
- Repairs- Upper damaged layer is removed to repair the concrete. Sometimes the damage is not on the top surface of the slab.
- Thickness– Thickness is also another parameter because if you increase the thickness of the slab then the cost will also increase.
- Additives– If you add additives like colour, and stains then it will increase the cost of the resurfacing.
Average Concrete Resurfacing Costs Per Square Foot:
The average resurfacing cost is discussed below in the chart-
| TYPE | PER SQUARE FOOT |
PER 100 SQUARE FEET
|
| Basic | $3 to $5 | $300 to $500 |
| Decorative (additional colour, finishes, polishing) | $5 to $10 | $500 to $1000 |
| Stamped | $8 to $20 | $800 to $2000 |
How Long Does Resurfacing Last?
Concrete resurfacing lasts a long time only if the resurfacing process and materials are properly provided, the existing base is good enough. If it is properly done then concrete resurfacing lasts near about 10 to 20 years.
The longevity of concrete resurfacing increases if you properly installed and cured the resurfacing portion. So, if you pour resurfacing concrete on a damaged base concrete then it does not last longer.
Resurfacing is not a repairing process so, if you resurfaced on a damaged slab then it will look like brand new concrete but it contains some serious structural issues.
Generally concrete does not need any maintenance but if you do some maintenance operation then will give benefits to you.
If the concrete rests in outdoor condition then if you use some sealants or any other materials like covering like tiles, or marble then it will increase the lifespan of the concrete.
If the tree root is the main cause of damage and you resurface the concrete then the problem will not be solved. It will appear after some days. So, at first, you need to uproot the tree root and then you can do your required work related to concrete resurfacing.
Can I Resurface My Own Concrete?
You can obviously do resurface operation with your own hand after buying resurfacing materials from a local store but only if the condition of the existing slab is good otherwise the slab is getting more damaged. So, we always recommend that hire an expert person for the resurfacing purposes.
Generally, preparation is one of the most important steps and if you have done your job without filling the cracks then it will not last forever and the cracks will appear after some days.
Resurfacing concrete work needs an expert finisher hand; so, if you are not an expert in that work then avoid that. After pouring resurfacing material it needs to be finished by broom, hand trowel, etc.
If you add some colour then add those materials at that time. Generally, all those works need some experience and time is very crucial because if all the work is not properly done at the right time then the concrete will start hardening.
If you find any damage to the older concrete slab then call a contractor and refix that at first.
Can You Stain Resurfaced Concrete?
The use of stains on resurfaced concrete is almost the same as normal concrete stains. Always use concrete stains instead of wood or other types of stains.
Stain is not a type of paint, it reacts with the concrete or the resurfacer and permanently changes the concrete colour.
There is no reverse process of staining concrete; so, make sure about your colour and test it within a small portion of your overall work.
Tips to Make Concrete Resurfacing Last
Here are some important lists for making concrete resurfacing, those are in the following-
- Repairs- The one thing you need to keep in your mind is that repair your existing concrete at first otherwise it does not last for a long period.
- Cleaning- Another important part is cleaning. Clean the upper surface of the concrete at first because if you pour resurfacing material on the existing concrete then the bonding materials do not work properly if you do not clean the surface properly. As a result, the new concrete will rest on the older concrete instead of making the bond between those and the monolithic structure will not create.
- Finish- Finish creates a good outlook to the concrete resurfacing and it almost likes a new one.
- Inspection- Inspection is very much needed for concrete resurfacing. So, before resurfacing, you need to do a good inspection by an expert person.
- Maintenance- Concrete does not need any maintenance but if you do some maintenance operation then will give benefits to you. Use some sealants or any other materials to increase the lifespan of the concrete.
Best Concrete Resurfacer
The best resurfacing product for cracks is a product by Kilz. Kilz Over Armor can handle any minor cracks your concrete can throw at it. The product has a thinner consistency so it wouldn’t be a good fit for more extensive damage. Over Armor can handle cracks that are up to 1/4″ in depth.
Can You Put a Thin Layer of Concrete Over Concrete?
Yes, you can pour fresh concrete over existing concrete. As long as your concrete is in mint condition, this task is doable. If you decide to pour a new mixture over an old slab, be sure it is at least 2 inches thick.
Does Concrete Resurfacing Last?
That begs the question, “does concrete resurfacing last?” The short answer is, “yes.” If there are no issues with the underlying foundation the resurfacing agent pours onto, then the new material will last. It bonds to the foundation, creates a seal, and leaves you with a brand-new concrete driveway.
How Much Does It Cost to Resurface a Concrete Driveway?
If you have a concrete driveway, you can have it resurfaced for around $3 to $5 per square foot. If it’s too damaged or crumbly to resurface, the cost of a new concrete driveway goes for around $2 to $15 per square foot on average.
How Much Does Concrete Resurfacing Cost?
Nationally, the average cost for concrete resurfacing is $3 to $10 per square foot, depending on the condition of the original concrete and local labor costs. For smaller projects, some contractors charge a flat fee of at least $500 to $1,000. The new concrete must also be sealed, which costs $20 to $80 per gallon.
What Is Concrete Resurfacing?
Resurfacing is a proven method of restoring the durability and appearance of dilapidated concrete by applying a thin layer of pre-blended, polymer-modified flowable mortar on top of an existing surface. Resurfacing concrete is a significantly less expensive than replacing it.
How Often Can You Do Laser Skin Resurfacing?
From there, maintenance treatments every 6 to 12 months are a good idea.
How Often Can You Have Co2 Laser?
Non-ablative CO2 laser resurfacing can be performed between two and four times a year for most patients. Though, this will depend on your skin type and damage. Many patients do feel satisfied after just a few treatments. A master esthetician can discuss this more with you during a consultation.
How Long Does Resurfacing Last?
In most applications, resurfaced concrete should last 10-15 years. However, it is always best to consult with a professional before making any decisions about resurfacing.
Cost to Resurface Asphalt Driveway
The cost to resurface an asphalt driveway is a fraction of the price it costs to install a new driveway. Driveway resurfacing costs approximately $2.25 per square foot. Patterns and colors cost more – around $4 to $8 per square foot.
How Much Does Resurfacing Cost?
Concrete Resurfacing Cost Per Square Foot
The price of concrete resurfacing typically ranges from about $3 per square foot to $25 per square foot. However, the cost of your project will depend on a variety of factors.
How Much Does Concrete Overlay Cost?
The average cost of a concrete overlay is anywhere from $3 to $10 a square foot, depending on the type of overlay you choose. A simple smooth overlay will be less expensive than a custom-stamped overlay.
Cost to Resurface Concrete Steps
Typically it costs: $300–$600 to resurface concrete steps. $100–$300 to seal concrete steps.
How Long After Staining Concrete Can You Seal It?
After final wash down, allow surface to dry 72 hours before application of sealers.
How Long Does Concrete Stain Last?
And because stains permeate the concrete to infuse it with permanent color, a stained concrete floor or pavement should last a lifetime when properly maintained (see How to Protect and Maintain Stained Concrete.
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