Introduction
When concrete surfaces become worn out, old, and dirty, homeowners often seek the help of concrete contractors to breathe new life into their flooring. Whether it is the home’s interior or the exterior around the pool, concrete resurfacing could be the solution the property needs.
Traditionally, painting the surface with a coating was the only way to make concrete floors look better. However, thanks to advancements in the field, it is now possible to impregnate colorant directly into the concrete.
This can be done by adding a powder or liquid to the mixer or using a powder in the dry cement mixture. This new technique has given rise to the art of resurfacing, including texturing the concrete surface to create interesting patterns.
Contractors must educate their customers and potential customers on the benefits of resurfacing versus replacing the concrete structure. Resurfacing is often a more cost-effective and faster solution that gives the home a refreshed look.
So, if you want to give your concrete surfaces a new lease on life, consider the art of resurfacing.
Quick facts about concrete resurfacing products
First, it’s essential to ensure the customers know exactly what concrete resurfacing is. This is something of a facelift for the current concrete they have. Contractors will add an overlay to the concrete that’s already there.
This layer will hide the below concrete and remove the appearance of chips, small cracks, and other light damage. It gives it a new look and feel.
Resurfacing an existing concrete substrate is a simple process. Still, it does require specialized equipment readily available from an equipment rental store. The first step is to thoroughly clean the surface so the new material layer bonds well to the existing concrete.
Pressure wash the floor before applying.
To achieve the desired level of cleanliness, it is essential to use a high-pressure power-washer with a minimum pressure of 3,000 psi. This is because such a machine can effectively remove even the toughest stains and dirt from various surfaces.
However, it is essential to note that using a power-washer indoors is not feasible, as it can cause water damage and pose electrical hazards.
In such cases, the floor has to be cleaned by grinding and vacuuming. This process involves using specialized equipment to remove any dirt or debris present on the surface of the floor.
Once the surface is free of any loose material, a vacuum cleaner removes any dust or debris that may have been left behind. This ensures that the floor is spotless and ready for use.
Build forms around the surface, pour, and finish.
To start the project, the first step is to create forms around the perimeter or mark the pouring heights to the floor. This will help ensure the material is poured evenly and at the correct height.
The forms can be made from various materials, such as wood or metal. They should be secured tightly to prevent material leakage.
Next, you must mix the material manually or with a power mixer. It is recommended to use a power mixer as it is faster and ensures a consistent mix. If you mix manually, it is essential to ensure consistency throughout the mixture. The material should be mixed until it is free of lumps or air pockets.
Once the material is mixed, it can be poured into the forms. It is essential to run the material in stages, not only some at a time. This will help prevent any cracking or unevenness in the finished product.
After pouring, the material can be leveled and smoothed using either wood trowels or steel trowels. Wood trowels are used for a rougher surface, while steel trowels are used for a smoother surface.
Finally, the material should dry for the recommended time before removing the forms. This will ensure the material is fully set and prevent damage to the finished product.
Resurfacing works indoors and outdoors
Concrete resurfacing is a highly effective and versatile solution that homeowners can use to enhance the look of their property’s concrete surfaces. This process can be applied to any concrete surface, whether inside or outside the home, including walkways, pool decks, and floors.
One of the most significant benefits of concrete resurfacing is its ease of installation, which ensures quick and efficient completion of the project. The finished product is also exceptionally durable and long-lasting, maintaining its stunning appearance for years.
Homeowners can choose from various design schemes and color options for concrete resurfacing. This feature allows customers to create a unique and personalized design that complements their home’s aesthetic.
The availability of a vast range of colors and patterns ensures that homeowners can achieve endless design possibilities.
Concrete resurfacing is an excellent choice for homeowners who want to elevate their home’s appearance. Its versatility, durability, and customization options make it a popular choice among homeowners and an excellent selling point for contractors.
It’s an affordable alternative.
If you’re a homeowner looking to give your concrete surfaces a fresh look, concrete resurfacing may be a great option. This process involves applying a new material layer to your existing concrete, making it look brand new without the hefty price tag of a complete replacement.
Not only is this method more affordable, it’s also a great way to breathe new life into your home’s exterior.
However, it’s important to note that there may be better options than concrete resurfacing for everyone. If your concrete is severely damaged, a complete replacement may be necessary.
Contractors should be upfront with their customers about this so they fully understand what’s involved in the process.
If a new concrete surface is needed, it can still be customized to suit your unique style preferences. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a more traditional style, plenty of options are available.
Stencils can make resurfaced concrete even more unique.
Stenciled concrete is a process in which a specific pattern is applied to freshly poured concrete. This process has evolved where various materials can be replicated, such as brick, paving stones, fieldstone, cobblestone, tile, or blocks, and even company logos or other personalized imprints can be created.
This method is often used to resurface existing concrete surfaces, as well as new concrete.
Several additional steps are required to resurface to stencil or pattern concrete. The first step is to power-wash and clean the surface to be stenciled.
The second step is to lay out a pattern using a stencil or fiber packaging tape in the desired width. It is essential that the pattern material is adhesive and adheres to the substrate. The color of the existing concrete will be the grout lines in the pattern.
The next step is to mix the new concrete layer material with the desired colorants and apply it using a hopper gun and compressor. After a brief curing period, the stencil or tape is lifted, leaving the pattern etched into the surface.
Notably, the concrete mix used to resurface is formulated differently than that used for a new concrete pour. Typically, the mix is a polymerized white Portland mix with added colorant. The liquid agent is a resin hardener, making the Portland much harder than regular concrete.
This mixture sets up very quickly, and people can walk on it in just a few hours. To slow the setting process, add some water rather than an additional resin hardener that would only make it set faster.
The stenciled concrete surface is ideal for patios, pool decks, walkways, driveways, and interior floors. This method is an excellent way to add personality and unique style to any concrete surface.
Conclusion
Transform your old and tired floors into a stunning masterpiece with the power of concrete resurfacing. Whether it is the interior or exterior of your home, the possibilities are endless with polishing and staining techniques that can give your floors a brand-new look.
The outcome is a breathtaking and sophisticated finish that will impress anyone who touches it. If you are hesitant to take on the task yourself, don’t worry. With decorative concrete services readily available in almost every marketplace, you can easily hire a professional for assistance.
Their expertise and skills can help quickly bring your vision to life. I have a guide here for hiring a contractor.
