The process included:
- Thoroughly pressure wash the existing concrete to clean it, then let it dry.
- Dampen the concrete and squeegee on the first layer of concrete overlay to prime the surface
- After that was dry, slightly dampen again and squeegee on another thin layer, then immediately drag a broom across the "wet" overlay to texture it with a broom finish
- Let the entire surface completely dry overnight
Full Answer
How do you stain over overlayed concrete?
You will need to be grind down the overlay, treat the concrete with a penetrating waterproofing sealer, and then reapply the overlay. We installed an overlay and applied a water-based black dye and an acrylic sealer. Now it's three months later and the customer would like us to stain the floor.
How do you keep Concrete overlays from cracking?
Also, if you do not lay the overlay too thick, it will last longer. Finally, you can keep your concrete overlay from cracking by waterproofing the substrate floor to prevent moisture vapors. In this post, we take an in-depth look at preventing concrete overlays from cracking and how long these overlays can last.
What is a concrete overlay?
This overlay is usually a 1/4 inch thick mixture of concrete that is spread out in a uniform thickness throughout the surface. These overlays are not only for use with concrete surface spalling.
How thick should concrete overlay be?
How Thick Should Concrete Overlay Be? Type of Concrete Overlay Thickness Microtopping 1/8″ Stampable Overlay 3/4″ Spray-down Overlay 1/8″ Self-leveling Overlay 1/5″
How do you remove skim coat from concrete?
There are two methods for removing sealers from concrete: Mechanical, which consists of grinding, blasting or sanding the coating off the surface. Chemical, using a chemical stripper to remove the the coating.
Does concrete overlay hold up?
Will concrete overlays provide long-lasting durability? Not by a long shot. Whether they're called “stamped concrete overlays,” “cementitious overlays” or by some other name, in the Northeast U.S. these overlays are ill-equipped to withstand the multiple freeze and thaw cycles of colder climates.
How do you resurface a concrete overlay?
How to Resurface Worn ConcreteStep 1: Clean the Concrete. For surface preparation, wear heavy boots and protective glasses and blast off surface dirt with a gas-powered pressure washer that can reach at least 3,500 psi. ... Step 2: Patch Spalled Areas. ... Step 3: Spread the Resurfacer. ... Step 4: Trowel Out the Resurfacer.
Do concrete overlays crack?
Unfortunately, most concrete has a tendency to crack, usually as a result of improper design or poor construction practices. As an overlay installer, you have no control over these factors. You are responsible for repairing any cracks in the existing concrete before resurfacing.
How long will concrete 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.
Is a 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 pressure wash concrete overlay?
The proper care and maintenance of your Concrete Armor overlay will provide years of protection and beauty to your concrete. To maintain your coating, the installation needs to be pressure washed and resealed every one to three years depending on exposure to sun, weather and amount of use.
Can you put a skim coat of concrete over old concrete?
0:097:35How To Skim Coat A Concrete Patio - Pour Concrete Surface - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIn this video. We will show you how to for a skim coat over any concrete surface. So that you canMoreIn this video. We will show you how to for a skim coat over any concrete surface. So that you can repair that damage looking concrete and make it nice.
Is it better to resurface or replace concrete?
A general rule of thumb is that if a repair requires more than two inches of material then it probably is better to use the replacement method. But being able to repair rather than replace concrete can be a more sustainable route that reduces the carbon footprint.
How thick is concrete overlay?
The minimum recommended thickness is 1 to 2 in. (25 to 50 mm) for a fully bonded concrete overlay placed on a base slab that is practically free of cracks and in which the concrete is sound, clean, and of good quality.
What does a concrete overlay do?
CONCRETE OVERLAY PRODUCTS & MATERIALS. A concrete overlay allows you to give a sound surface a decorative facelift. 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.
How do you repair cracks in concrete overlay?
3:1011:22CONCRETE QUESTIONS / OVERLAYS / FIX CRACKS ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFine you put this two-part about epoxy in that ketchup bottle. And then you can run it along thatMoreFine you put this two-part about epoxy in that ketchup bottle. And then you can run it along that crack and fill that crack in with this flexible epoxy.
Does concrete overlay on a driveway last?
Enhances your driveway's appearance: one of the best values of concrete driveway resurfacing is it improves your driveway's appearance. The new layer gives your driveway a fresh look after years of fading and cracking. Extends its lifespan: if you care for your driveway correctly, it should last for up to thirty years.
How thick can concrete overlay be?
The minimum recommended thickness is 1 to 2 in. (25 to 50 mm) for a fully bonded concrete overlay placed on a base slab that is practically free of cracks and in which the concrete is sound, clean, and of good quality. The use of welded wire fabric reinforcement is usually not warranted under these conditions.
Can you put a layer of 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 on top of concrete?
How thin can you pour concrete over concrete? Your new layer needs to be at least 2 inches thick. If it's any thinner than that, it'll easily crack under pressure and won't adequately bond to your surface.
Why do you need an overlay on concrete?
The reason to use an overlay is if the concrete in place is in good shape and or it is located in an area that's not easy to access, resulting in damage to other structures or surrounding landscaping during the removal process.The concrete walkways you describe do not sound like good candidates for an overlay.
What is a thin section overlay on concrete?
If the concrete needs a new surface, a thin-section overlay, often called a "microtopping," is a good choice.
WHAT TYPE OF POOL DECK OVERLAY WILL STAY COOL?
We need a product to resurface a concrete pool deck in a community complex in Las Vegas. The summer heat is unbearable, and the concrete gets so hot you can't walk on it. I have heard about a product called Kool Deck, but pool stores tell me it's really just a paint. Can you recommend a product for our needs?
How to fix shadowing on concrete?
To fix the problem, you need to find where the moisture is getting under the overlay and stop its entry to prevent the shadowing from getting worse over time. The joints are easy - just caulk them with a flexible polyurethane caulk. Also, make sure to caulk all edges and places where water can migrate between the overlay and concrete substrate. The main areas are a bit trickier. You will need to be grind down the overlay, treat the concrete with a penetrating waterproofing sealer, and then reapply the overlay.
Why is my overlay dark?
This is what is known as "shadowing." Either contamination or moisture is causing a shadow or darkening to show through the overlay. The area where it is darker could be the shadowing of a crack, oil stain or repair material. Based on the photo, the cause appears to be moisture, especially in the areas around the control joint.
What is cement based mortar?
Cement-Based Systems - Polymer-modified cement-based repair mortars are mixed onsite and applied with a trowel or putty knife (again, using the feathering technique). Multiple thin applications are usually required to avoid shrinkage cracking. To provide a good bonding surface for the overlay, roughen the surface by scratching it with a broom or trowel as it begins to set.
What is the most important factor in overlaying?
As with any overlay, surface preparation is the most important factor. A clean, properly profiled surface is critical for good adhesion. Other important factors include selecting the right material for the job and hiring an experienced applicator. Not all overlays are designed for exterior use.
what can i use for concrete overlay?
Deco-Cretesupply.com has a very user friendly line of concrete overlay bag mixes.
How thick is a self leveling concrete overlay?
In the picture below, we're using a self-leveling concrete overlay that's about 1/8" thick to resurface an existing concrete floor.
What is overlay material used for?
There's other overlay material used just for deep repairs and others used for getting a polished concrete floor look.
How thick is overlay material?
The overlay material was a total of 1/4 inch thick over an old concrete floor.
What is the damage to concrete apron?
PREPARE THE CONCRETE - The above concrete apron has some damage caused by de-icing salts being used in the winter. We call this type of damage spalling.
What is the best way to apply concrete?
Application is done with a trowel, squeegee, or a gauge rake & smoother. Making it easy to give just about any concrete surface a brand new appearance at a much lower cost than removing and re-pouring new concrete.
Can concrete overlays be stamped?
Overlays can be stamped, broom finished, or left smooth. Most all manufactures of concrete overlay products have their own proprietary blends. All you really need to know is there's a blend of Portland cements, various aggregates and polymer resins. It's the polymers in these overlays that make them special.
What Is A Concrete Overlay?
Concrete overlay is a cement-based product that comprises color, aggregate, cement powder, and resin mixed in a formulation. It is applied over your existing concrete.
What depth is spray down overlay?
Spray-down overlay works well with a depth of ⅛”. You can opt to get a pre-colored mix or put your creativity to the test with varied finishing options such as knock-down and splatter for unique and beautiful outcomes.
How thick should concrete be?
The typical acceptable thickness for many contractors is between ¼ to 2 inches thick. Technically concrete overlays can be as thin or as thick as you want. However, the best thickness to work with may depend on which type of overlay you choose to work with.
What is the recommended thickness for stampable overlays?
The recommended thickness or depth for a stampable overlay is a ¾” spread. That depth allows a variety of deep pattern imprints to sit nicely on the spread.
What thickness is a thin overlay?
As the name suggests, this type of overlay is thin. Most contractors and clients, who opt for this overlay type, tend to use it with a 1/8″ thickness.
When thinking of doing a concrete overlay, you must understand that its durability and appearance of cracks solely depend on?
When thinking of doing a concrete overlay, you must understand that its durability and appearance of cracks solely depend on whether you did repairs to the concrete floor correctly.
Can self leveling overlays be spread?
Self-leveling overlays are easily spread with the minimal use of a metal squeegee. However, this overlay is quite unpredictable and leaves very little room for error.
How do I clean a concrete slab?
Use a power washer to remove dirt and loose concrete. Plug the power washer in, connect it to a water source, and turn on the machine using the switch. Hold the end of the power washer 3–4 inches (7.6–10.2 cm) from the surface of the concrete and pull the trigger to shoot out water. Use back and forth strokes to clean all of the concrete completely. Focus on areas where concrete is loose or deteriorating.#N#Look for a power washer with a fan tip that reaches 3500 PSI to clean your concrete slabs.#N#If you don’t have access to a power washer, you can get an attachment for your garden hose.#N#Cleaning your concrete makes the resurfacer adhere better.
How many square feet is a resurfaced concrete slab?
This will cover 45 square feet ( 4.2 m 2) of concrete, so adjust the amounts as necessary for the area you intend to resurface.
What is resurfacing concrete?
Resurfacing means pouring a thin layer of concrete resurfacer over the top of your existing slabs to hide cracks and make it look brand new. Besides being more cost-effective than replacing the slab, you can resurface your concrete in a single day.
How to mix resurfacer with water?
Mix 5 1⁄2 c (1,300 ml) of cool water with 20 lb (9.1 kg) of resurfacer. Pour the resurfacer mix and the water into a 5 US gal (19 L) bucket. Use the corded drill with a paddle attachment to blend the resurfacer together. This time, blend the resurfacer until it has the consistency of pancake batter.
How many square feet does a bag of concrete resurfacer cover?
A bag of concrete resurfacer covers about 90 square feet (8.4 m 2 ).
How much water to mix with resurfacer?
The amount of resurfacer you need depends on how many cracks and holes you need to fill. Start by mixing 1 cup (240 ml) of water with 3 1⁄2 pounds (1.6 kg) of resurfacer mix.
How to make a resurfacer with a drill?
Mix 1 part water with 7 parts resurfacer using a drill and paddle attachment. Pour the resurfacer powder into a 5 US gal (19 L) bucket, then add the water. Use a paddle attachment on a corded drill to mix the resurfacer. Keep mixing the resurfacer until it has a thick consistency like cookie dough.
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.
Why can't overlays break?
These overlays cannot break because they feature a penetrating sealer that makes them resistant to scuffing and staining.
How many types of concrete overlays are there?
There are 4 main types of concrete overlays.
What are the challenges of working with concrete?
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.
When were concrete overlays invented?
Concrete overlays date back as far as the early 1900s. They were used then, as they are now, for repairing concrete surfaces. But the fact that they are centuries old doesn’t automatically mean you should consider them. The question here is: Are concrete overlays any good?
What does it mean to remove a subfloor?
Removing the subfloor could mean interfering with other installations like the HVAC, door frames, floor joists, window frames, and baseboard.
How to prepare concrete for overlay?
To prepare a surface for a concrete overlay the goal is to make it as smooth as possible. That means deep spalling and cracks have to be repaired beforehand. If the initial concrete surface is old and porous, you might even have to treat the concrete with a densifer and hardener before applying the overlay.
What is concrete overlay?
A concrete overlay is a concrete mixture that has been specifically designed to be applied as a thin layer on top of existing concrete. Different mixtures will offer different aesthetic treatments, drying time and strength so be sure to thoroughly analyze your concrete project before deciding what type of overlay is best for you.
