how do you overlay concrete

Concrete Overlay Installation Checklist

• Remove all crumbling concrete and dust
• Overlay stones no larger than 1/3 thickness of the overlay
• Use secret cement paint to bond overlay to the old concrete
• Dampen old concrete slightly before applying the cement paint
• Cover the overlay with plastic to cure it for 48 hours

Full Answer

How much does it cost to do concrete overlay?

Since this is the new trend, this article is bound to tell you how much does concrete overlay cost. The average concrete resurfacing cost is typically around $2000 – $5000 dollars for a 500 square foot area. For smaller residences you can expect it to be around $500 – $1000 dollars.

How do I make an overlay?

For this tutorial, I'm going to include the following in my layout:

• on-screen viewer interactions
• space for a web camera
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How do I pour new concrete over old concrete?

Steps Involved in Pouring Concrete over Existing Concrete Slab

1. Cleaning Old Concrete Surface. Sweeping dirt’s debris over the existing concrete slab will allow bonding to take place. ...
2. Setting Up Slab Perimeter. Measure the perimeter of the area to pour the concrete over the existing slab. ...
3. Pouring a Primer Coat. ...
4. Pouring of Concrete. ...

Can you do stamped concrete over old concrete?

You can only stamp concrete when it is still wet from a pour. To add texture to an existing patio, pour a fresh layer of concrete over the old and stamp it, provided the existing patio is in good condition. When you pour a new layer of concrete over an existing patio, the integrity of the new surface will only be as good as the one beneath it.

How thick does a concrete overlay have to be?

The recommended thickness of a concrete overlay should be between 1 and 2 inches. Some people will even go to ¼ of an inch in thickness, which is still sufficient depending on your needs. If you place a 2-inch overlay, you need a very rough surface on the existing slab. Ensure the surface is rough enough.

What do I use for concrete overlay?

If you have a concrete driveway that needs to be resurfaced then Stone Edge Surfaces Trowel Mix is an excellent overlay you can use to achieve a brand new looking broom finish. It's made specifically for resurfacing concrete driveways, patios and sidewalks.

How do you overlay concrete on concrete?

3:457:56TF Structural Concrete Overlay - Overlay Instructions - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou bring your next mix and pour it right into the wet edge of the existing mix you just try it outMoreYou bring your next mix and pour it right into the wet edge of the existing mix you just try it out and then you're gonna focus on traveling.

Is concrete overlay a good idea?

They're Strong and Durable You can expect your floor coatings to last as long as your floors – which can be your whole life. You won't have to replace your floors every decade or so, the way you would with other flooring types. The only reason you'll have to change your floors is if you want a new look.

Can you overlay old concrete?

Fortunately, it is possible to place stamped concrete over existing concrete. Stamped concrete overlays are durable options for upgrading, repairing, and enhancing existing concrete.

Will concrete overlay last?

Another factor is the preparation before applying the overlay. Common mistakes are failing to clean the concrete properly or to profile it adequately. With proper installation and maintenance, overlays are extremely durable and can last for decades, even in harsh climates.

Can you put concrete over old concrete?

You can put new concrete over old concrete. However, unresolved issues with your old concrete, such as cracks or frost heaves, will carry over to your new concrete if not taken care of. In addition, you must pour it at least 2 inches thick.

Can you put a thin layer of concrete over concrete?

Is it okay to pour concrete over existing concrete? Yes, you can put new concrete over old concrete providing there are no issues such as significant cracks of frost heaves with your existing concrete. A new layer of concrete should be about two inches to ensure an even, strong coverage.

How do you top coat old concrete?

0:394:28How to Resurface Concrete - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBefore resurfacing your slab deeply spalled areas and large cracks should be repaired using concreteMoreBefore resurfacing your slab deeply spalled areas and large cracks should be repaired using concrete resurfacer that has been mixed to a triable consistency.

How long does cement overlay last?

Concrete overlays typically last 10-15 years but can last up to 25+ years if well-applied and maintained. The overlay material quality, the amount of prep work done to the concrete, and the amount of regular maintenance can impact the lifespan of a concrete overlay.

Will concrete overlay crack?

But will a concrete overlay crack? A concrete overlay will not crack if you clean the substrate surface properly before installing the overlay. Also, if you do not lay the overlay too thick, it will last longer.

How strong is concrete overlay?

Kummer agrees there's nothing weak about these overlay products. He says a typical concrete job may have a tensile strength of 3,000 psi. However, his company's new GSPEC (Green Self-leveling Polyurethane Epoxy Cement) product goes well beyond that. “The resin alone can yield more than 8,500 psi,” he says.

Can you add a layer of concrete over existing concrete?

Yes, you can put new concrete over old concrete providing there are no issues such as significant cracks of frost heaves with your existing concrete. A new layer of concrete should be about two inches to ensure an even, strong coverage.

How long does a cement overlay last?

Concrete overlays typically last 10-15 years but can last up to 25+ years if well-applied and maintained. The overlay material quality, the amount of prep work done to the concrete, and the amount of regular maintenance can impact the lifespan of a concrete overlay.

Will concrete overlay crack?

“If the concrete [below] wants to move, it can result in a crack in the overlay.” The simplest solution is to prevent cracks before they happen — before you apply the overlay.

How do you overlay concrete countertops?

0:485:19DIY Overlay Concrete Countertops | Modern Builds | EP. 18 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipMaterials. Here you can kind of see the general technique that I do first I spread the concrete.MoreMaterials. Here you can kind of see the general technique that I do first I spread the concrete. Across the whole counter. And then I try and smooth it out with very slow deliberate strokes.

Tools Used to Apply a Concrete Overlay

When applying a concrete overlay, you can typically use one of two kinds of tools. A standard float features oval ends and either a flat or slightly rounded middle. The float lets you push and pull concrete as needed in a thin layer to spread it across a wide surface.

Prepping for Applying Your Concrete Overlay

The first thing you’ll want to do is clean the existing floor with an appropriate detergent. Apply with a push broom and then pressure wash the concrete. Then, you’ll want to profile the existing floor with an acid made for concrete resurfacing or you can use diluted muriatic acid.

Pour and Float the Concrete Overlay

Next comes the part you’ve been waiting for—pour and apply the new concrete overlay on top of your surface. This might be a floor, sidewalk, or even a concrete countertop. Thinner, decorative overlays might have resins or other additives that require special priming (or even two prime coats).

After the Concrete Sets

After the new concrete sets, you’ll want to sand or scrape the floor till it’s smooth. Use a diamond disc or concrete scraper to smooth the surface to the desired smoothness or to prep for the second coat if necessary.

How thick is a concrete overlay?

Cement or concrete overlay thicknesses can range from 1/4 inch thick up to a full 2 inches or more.

How long does it take to finish a paint overlay?

Depending upon the weather conditions and the moisture content of the overlay mixture, the final finishing process can begin within 10 minutes, or in some cases, up to an hour after the mixture is poured. Be sure to apply a liquid curing compound on the overlay as soon as the final finish is complete.

Why does my plastic overlay dry so quickly?

It's even better if there is little or no wind and the skies are overcast. Heat, sunlight, and wind cause the overlay mixture to dry too rapidly. Rapid drying makes it harder to work and finish the overlay. These conditions can also cause undesirable plastic shrinkage cracks in the surface of the brand new overlay.

Can concrete be cured in cold weather?

Exterior concrete that is ordered, mixed, installed, finished and cured properly can withstand many, many years of exposure to road salt and freeze and thaw cycles that occur during cold winter months.

Can you do overlays in one day?

Overlays can be done by homeowners. The entire project does not have to be completed in one day. You can work on one or two sections each day. To make sure the final color of the overlay matches, be sure that all of the necessary materials are bought at the same time.

Can you put cement paint on a concrete slab?

The overlay mixture will bond permanently to the existing concrete slab, if you make sure the existing slab is clean, dust-free and slightly damp before you apply the overlay. In addition, a liquid bonding agent or traditional cement paint can be brushed onto the damp slab immediately prior to pouring the overlay.

What is decorative overlay?

There is a wide offering of decorative overlays available on the market today, including systems that work for both interior and exterior applications, on vertical and horizontal surfaces, and at thicknesses ranging from that of a credit card to an inch or more.

What are the different types of overlays?

TYPES OF OVERLAY PRODUCTS 1 Microtoppings#N#These thin-section overlays, run the spectrum from spray deck products for driveways and pool decks to high-end trowel-grade materials for interior residential and commercial spaces. 2 Stampable overlays#N#Toppings that allow you to replicate the look of natural stone and other building materials on patios, driveways, floors or even walls. 3 Polishable overlays#N#Self-leveling or trowel applied overlays that produce a seamless flooring product that looks and feels like polished concrete or terrazzo.

What color to use for stamped overlays?

Stamped overlays often require aggressive mechanical surface preparation, along with the use of specialty primers. Apply a stamped overlay in a neutral color then come back and lightly highlight the work to accentuate the texture in a very realistic manner.

What is cementitious concrete?

A cementitious material is mixed and applied directly over the existing concrete. Overlays can be colored in a variety of ways, polished for a reflective sheen, or customized with stencils and stamps. Certain products are designed for use on indoor floors, while others are made to use outdoors. Even the best concrete can have cracks, discoloration, ...

Why do you need an overlay?

Of course, the main reason to use an overlay system is to beautify existing concrete. Determine the color, pattern, and texture you want for your rejuvenated surface, and then find a product that can achieve the distinct look you desire. Consult with the overlay manufacturer and your installer for advice.

Can moisture be released from concrete?

Too much moisture in the concrete substrate can also be a problem for some overlay systems, especially products that restrict the ability of the concrete to "breathe" or release moisture vapor as needed. There are simple tests you can perform to check the moisture vapor emission rate of concrete.

Is a higher build material better for dirt?

Although most systems will stand up well to wear, chemical attack, and dirt penetration when properly installed and sealed, some are better suited than others for harsher exposure conditions. Often a higher-build material or a material containing aggregates will perform better in aggressive environments.

What is overlay concrete?

An overlay acts in a similar fashion to new concrete, in that it has a limited time available for it to be stamped. A contractor can complete the job on time, without error, and with a final finish you will enjoy for years to come.

What is stamped concrete overlay?

Stamped concrete overlays allow you to duplicate the beauty and texture of natural stone, brick, slate, wood, and other materials without having to replace your concrete. A stamped overlay can be used indoors or outdoors to recreate the look of natural stone, brick, slate, or even wood.

How to change the color of a sandpaper?

Here is a quick guide to the color adjustment levels: 1 For minor color adjustment use an impregnating stain or diluted acid stain 2 For medium color adjustment use a full-strength acid stain, dye, or tinted sealer 3 For complete color change use an acrylic or solid-color stain

How long does stamped concrete last?

When applied properly, a stamped concrete coating should last for years. It will help add strength to an existing surface, while also updating the look. Much like a newly poured patio, your overlay will need to be sealed every few years to maintain its appearance and protect it from damage.

What is concrete overlay?

A concrete overlay is simply a thin layer of concrete that you apply over an existing concrete slab. Once made entirely of concrete themselves, overlays were applied to level or resurface uneven concrete, hide stains and help preserve older concrete installations. Stain and dyes were sometimes added to the overlay to create colors and patterns.

Is concrete good for a basement?

Durable and easy to maintain, concrete is an admittedly excellent choice for basement and garage floors as well as patios and pool decks. Concrete lasts for years and asks for little to no maintenance in return, but it certainly doesn't add any color or pizzaz to your decor. For that, you should consider a concrete overlay.

Can you add dye to concrete?

He may add colored dye to the concrete mix to create the finished color or provide a base color for more intricate staining later. If you've opted for stamped concrete, your contractor will allow the concrete to partially set before adding the stamp.

Is overlay installation a DIY project?

Overlay installation is not a DIY project. Before he begins, your contractor will likely consult a structural engineer to confirm that your floor can hold the weight of additional concrete. Once the engineer green lights the project, your contractor will perform surface preparation on your existing floor.

Is concrete flooring too hard?

The process is time consuming, messy and expensive if you've done the job yourself or hired a contractor who refuses to correct a mistake. Concrete flooring and overlays may also be a bit too tough for some. The surface often feels cold and certainly doesn't provide any cushioning.

Is an overlay good for concrete?

An overlay is only as good as the subfloor underneath it. If your existing floor is buckling, crumbling or severely cracked, throwing an overlay on it won't solve the problem. In these cases, you'll need to repair or replace your concrete rather than resurfacing it.

Can you put decorative concrete over vinyl?

Decorative concrete overlays aren't just for concrete floors either. In some cases, you can install an overlay over wood, linoleum or vinyl floors. According to ConcreteNetwork, doing so may require adding metal lathe to the floor to add support and give the concrete overlay a rough surface with which to bond.

Is A Concrete Overlay Any Good?

Concrete overlays can transform a dull floor into a fresh canvas. Here are additional advantages that make concrete overlays good:

Do Concrete Overlay Crack?

One of the biggest challenges of working with concrete products is the tendency of the material to crack. But that only happens if you lay the concrete overlay over an existing surface that is cracked or structurally compromised.

How Thick Should Concrete Overlay Be?

The recommended thickness of a concrete overlay should be between 1 and 2 inches. Some people will even go to ¼ of an inch in thickness, which is still sufficient depending on your needs.

How Long Do Concrete Overlays Last?

A concrete overlay can last as long as 20 years with the correct maintenance. In addition to overall care, one should properly seal the overlay.

How Do You Make Concrete Overlays

A concrete overlay typically consists of cement, polymer modifiers, sand, water, and other additives which help mitigate shrinkage and other challenges.

What To Consider When Working With Concrete Overlays

Concrete overlays are only as good as the surface you apply them on. Apply an overlay on a cracked, dirty surface, and it will barely serve your purposes. But take the time to clean, repair, and fix the surface first, and your concrete overlay will work like it has been part of the house since day one.

Step One: Taking stock of your damaged concrete

To the untrained eye, this patio appears to be beyond hope. Its years of service have left it looking weather-worn, discolored, and cracked. Still structurally sound, this patio can be restored to an attractive place for spending quality time with family and friends without demolition and replacement.

Step two: Preparing the concrete for the overlay

Before the overlay can be applied, the surface of the slab must be properly cleaned, patched, and primer applied. Cleaning involves removing any anti-adherents and then pressure washing to eliminate loose debris creating a clean palette for applying bonding primer before patching damaged areas and applying the overlay.

Step three: Product selection

Over a decade of testing and perfecting resulted in Concrete Craft developing an exclusive MasterPro TM concrete resurfacing system that includes proprietary products that are performance-grade resurfacing mixes for a superior product.

Step four: Applying the concrete overlay

Installers work quickly, pouring to the proper depth and smoothing properly to eliminate any random show-through or weak pockets due to overwork of the product. The finished overlay has the look of a new-poured concrete slab, making its damage and discoloration a thing of the past.

Step five: Creating the decorative concrete overlay surface

This is where Concrete Craft’s craftsmanship, artistry, and authenticity of design come into play. Texturizing the surface of the overlay by hand or with stamped concrete patterns creates the appearance of real stone, removing the smooth, brushed concrete look.

Step six: Custom concrete stain

For a more realistic look, the flagstone pattern is a combination of two primary colors and a base wash. The randomness of the colored stones gives authenticity to the design, mirroring the randomness that is nature’s real stone and rock formations.

Step seven: The finishing top coat sealer

Two coats of a durable, protective sealer are applied, ensuring an even coating over the entire surface. There will be no missed sections, thin spots, bubbles, or puddles as can happen with a sprayer. Edges and borders receive special attention to make sure that the sealer gets into every nook and cranny for a continuous, seamless coating.