Are you considering concrete resurfacing for your weather-beaten concrete surfaces?

If so, you are spot on with your decision.

Most people go for brand-new flooring, but it is not the best in every case. Sometimes, all you might need is concrete resurfacing. So, if your concrete is looking a little worse for wear, you may happily consider resurfacing it.

It’s good, but you may still be confused about this alternative. So, let’s dig more into it in this blog post!

Concrete Resurfacing

Concrete resurfacing is a great way to add a new lease on life to your old concrete surfaces. Not only will it make your concrete look new again, but it can also add new decorative touches to your home or business.

It's ideal for resurfacing old concrete to

  • Repair cracks
  • Get rid of discolouration
  • Minimise surface flaws
  • Modernise outdated finishes
  • Conceal aged concrete

Decorative Concrete Overlays

A concrete overlay retains surface integrity while improving the appearance of floors, much like a new layer of paint does for siding.

Concrete overlay solution is a polymer resin combination. These are a mixture of sand, cement, and other substances to provide a more appealing and robust overlay. Additionally, this mixture binds nicely to the existing concrete without damaging its natural appearance.

Also, polymer-modified overlays are another alternative. Polymer-modified overlays are usually more resilient and applied to areas vulnerable to damage from temperature changes, UV radiation, ice salt, and normal wear and tear.

And to select an overlay, there will be many factors to consider—budget, gloss, design, and finish. To ensure a worthwhile upgrade, choose a new overlay type that is as durable as possible.

You may update your concrete floors with a fresh decorative overlay for two reasons:

  • Repairing dents and fractures is the first reason. To create a surface that is even and will last longer, smooth them out and fill gaps with polymer glue.
  • The other reason is to give a space a new aesthetic. Skilled artisans can add a decorative concrete overlay to indoor or outdoor areas to mimic a pattern like pavers, unpolished stones, bricks, slate, or even wood.

Forms of Concrete Overlays

There are four main types of decorative overlays: stamped concrete, stencilled concrete, coloured concrete, and epoxy flooring. Let's have a closer look at each form.

1. Stamped Concrete:

Stamped concrete is a type of resurfaced concrete that is textured to look like stone, brick, or slate. Because a stampable overlay may alter the appearance of a concrete floor, this method is also excellent for interior decoration, as well as exterior. It is mostly favoured for concrete driveway resurfacing.

For example, brick overlays that may be stamped are excellent options for outdoor spaces like concrete patios. Without the hassle or expense of breaking up a concrete floor and bricking in, the terracotta hue may create the appearance of an antique garden patio.

2. Self-Levelling Overlays

Need to repair severely cracked concrete flooring? Decide on self-levelling overlays. These are excellent for structural rehabilitation and can layer up to one inch.

An underlayment is essential first. The self-levelling is then used to lay down a substantial, level surface that acts as a barrier between pedestrian traffic and the ruined concrete.

When implementing them, experience or knowledge of instructional manuals is necessary because it involves several challenging steps.

3. Microtopping Overlays

Microtopping could be used by itself or as a foundation for stampable overlays, with less emphasis on appearance and more on function.

This concrete overlay fills up problem areas to provide a level floor and is thin and often gritty. Flexibility is made possible by the overlay's thinness.

A coarse micro-top can do the trick if you're merely seeking to add a protective layer to smooth out areas of a cracked or damaged concrete floor. The light colour will give the colours of the original floor a marble impression. It alone may be aesthetically appealing.

Microtopping, however, also functions admirably as a basis for stamps or sprays. It will fill up the concrete floor's cracks to make it ready to accept an even application of a stampable overlay.

4. Stencilled Concrete

Stencilled concrete is similar to stamped concrete, but the design is created with a stencil instead of a stamp. This type of resurfaced concrete is often used for decorative borders or patterns.

5. Coloured Concrete

Coloured concrete is resurfaced concrete that has been dyed or stained. It is a popular choice for those who want to add a pop of colour to their outdoor space without having to paint.

6. Epoxy Overlay

Epoxy flooring is a concrete resurfacing option where the surface is coated with epoxy resin. It is most common in garages and commercial spaces because of its durability and ease of maintenance.

7. Multi-Purpose Overlays

Turn to multifunctional overlays if you need an original flooring design. These may be sculpted into distinctive textures and designs because of their high sand content.

Experts can texturise a multifunctional overlay with trowels, hopper guns, or even brooms. These overlays could take on a unique style and become a distinctive element in your home.

Conclusion

There are many choices when it comes to resurfacing your old concrete surfaces. Whether you are looking for something classic or modern, there is sure to be an option that fits your needs.

When in doubt, consult with a professional contractor to get started on your project today! You can also get in touch with Premium Concrete resurfacing in Melbourne to get all your doubts cleared.