![]() What conditions will the overlay be exposed to?īe sure the topping or overlay system is tough enough to withstand all the conditions it will confront. Unless the surface imperfections are expertly patched or filled, they could telegraph through a thinner overlay, such as a microtopping or skim coat. What is the condition of the existing surface?ĭoes the concrete have a lot of cracks or gouges? Is the surface out of level? If so, choose a higher-build material, such as a self-leveling or stampable overlay that can be applied at a thickness of 1/4 inch or greater. Here are some questions to ask to help you find a system that will strike the perfect balance for the job at hand. Selecting the most appropriate resurfacing system often involves weighing performance attributes against aesthetic value. Factors to Consider when Choosing a Resurfacing System… colored liquid or powdered release agents (typically used with stampable overlays)įor more pizzazz, you can even seed overlays with decorative aggregates, color chips, or recycled glass.Once the overlay is applied, experienced installers can achieve more elaborate color effects, such as antiquing or marbleizing, by accenting the base color with layers of topically applied color. You can buy mixes that are pre tinted like paint or you can add the pigment of your choice during mixing to produce custom hues. The color options for concrete overlays are limitless. Interesting color variations can be achieved by applying layers of different hues. ![]() Some systems come pre tinted in a wide range of colors while others can be custom tinted by mixing in the desired amount of liquid coloring agent. Or you can apply several coats to create a textured broomed or troweled finish. They can go on silky smooth and taken down to a featheredge. These ultra-thin decorative toppings are applied by a trowel or squeegee in layers as thin as 20 mils, or a mere 0.02 inch. Overlay thicknesses range from 1/4 to 3/4 inch, depending on the depth of the imprint. These semi-flexible stamping tools are available in dozens of patterns, allowing overlay installers to duplicate the beauty and texture of natural stone, brick, slate, wood planking, and other materials. The overlay mix is usually applied by a gauge rake (a tool with an adjustable depth gauge for achieving a uniform topping thickness) and then imprinted with stamping mats or texturing skins. Types of OverlaysĪ stamped overlay offers all the aesthetic benefits of conventional stamped concrete but is less time- and labor-intensive to install. Any non-structural cracks wider than hairline should also be repaired. Proper surface preparation of the concrete is also imperative to ensure good bonding of the overlay. The concrete must be structurally sound, without gapping cracks, severe delamination, or an unstable sub base. Not all existing concrete is a suitable candidate for an overlay. Polymer overlays cure fast and some systems can support foot traffic within a few hours. Restoring surfaces quickly with minimal downtime.Smoothing and leveling uneven or spalled concrete surfaces.With the use of stains or dyes, it’s possible to create colorful graphic designs, logos, or stenciled patterns. Resurfacing interior floors, including those previously covered with linoleum tile or carpeting (after removal of all residual mastic).Adding pattern, texture, and color to exterior concrete slabs, including patios, pool decks, driveways, and sidewalks.With an overlay, you can give worn, lackluster concrete a decorative makeover or restore it to like-new condition in as little as a day and at a fraction of the cost (from about $2.50 to $4.50 per square foot, depending on the type of system installed). When to Use a Polymer Overlayīreaking out and replacing an existing concrete slab can be expensive, messy, disruptive, and time-consuming. They adhere well to existing concrete and resist damage from salt, chemicals, UV exposure, freeze-thaw conditions, and abrasion. Polymer-modified overlays can be applied in layers as thin as a credit card or up to several inches thick without delamination or failure. ![]() Want to permanently cover up surface imperfections in existing concrete? Or turn a plain-jane slab from drab to fab? With today’s decorative overlays, it’s easy to give almost any concrete surface, indoors or out, a complete face-lift and at a lower cost than removal and replacement.Īlthough cement-based overlays have been around for decades, many of today’s systems blend polymer resins with cement, sand, and other additives to improve performance, wear resistance, and aesthetic qualities. Resurface existing concrete, hand cut flagstone pattern Grove Park Inn and Resort – Asheville, NC ![]()
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