#Skim coat concrete upgrade

This equipment not only removes most contaminants and unsound concrete, it will also leave behind a roughened surface profile. Using a machine that mechanically abrades the concrete, such as a grinder or shotblaster, is one of the most effective ways to prepare concrete substrates for resurfacing. Profiling, or roughening, the concrete surface to improve the 'grip' of the overlay.(See steps in repairing cracks for a concrete resurfacing job.) Typically any cracks equal to or wider than the width of a credit card will require repair. Filling active cracks so they don't mirror through to the overlay.Removing any unsound concrete, such as minor spalling, scaling or delamination, down to solid concrete.It's also necessary to strip away any coatings, sealers or paints that may have been applied to the concrete. Cleaning the concrete to remove all substances that could inhibit the ability of the overlay to bond, such as dirt, oil and grease.The basic steps in surface preparation include: Make sure to have your concrete sealed, and then reseal as needed. Proper cleaning, maintenance and protection go a long ways to making your new surface long-lasting. Some contractors have even seen resurfacing last 25 years! But if you go with a DIY resurfacing kit from a big box store, they don't last as long. If you use a high-quality resurfacing product and have it professionally installed, you can expect it to last 10 years or more. Stenciled patterns or hand carved designs.Epoxy coatings with color flakes or metallic pigments (garages).When resurfacing concrete, you can get any look you want. Read about types of repairs that can be done to concrete: Basics of concrete repair and troubleshooting CONCRETE RESURFACING OPTIONS Resurfacing will not solve underlying soil problems. It is not feasible to resurface concrete that is heaving, has severe cracks, or is damaged due to freeze/ thaw damage. In any case, the underlying concrete for a resurfacing project must be sound. Small plastics shrinkage cracks or crazing cracks can be covered by the polymer prime coat and base coat of the resurfacing material. What is an acceptable surface to be resurfaced? Here, we tell you all you need to know about restoring existing concrete, including procedures, application techniques, and decorative options.Ĭoncrete Resurfacing - Skimcoat Overlay Application If your concrete is in good condition but just needs a facelift, you can also stain, stencil or engrave it to improve the appearance.

#Skim coat concrete upgrade

But there are many repair options available that will save you money, conserve resources, and eliminate disposal problems.Ĭompletely resurfacing concrete with an overlay is one way to upgrade the look, and you can choose from a wide variety of color and pattern options. Other ways to make existing concrete betterĬonventional wisdom holds that old concrete must be torn out and replaced to improve the look.Use this table of contents to jump ahead: Resurfacing Products Find products that can be used to permanently cover up surface imperfections in existing concrete.