How much concrete resurfacer do I put on concrete?
If your mixture is too thick, add 1⁄2 cup (120 ml) of water at a time to loosen it. If the mix is too runny, add 1⁄2 pound (0.23 kg) of the resurfacer. 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. Pour the resurfacer in a small area on top of your concrete.
Is thicker or thicker concrete resurfacer better?
While a thinner product may be adequate for moderately worn concrete, a resurfacer with a thicker consistency is required for replacing more material. Thicker products can better fill cracks and crevices up to ½-inch deep.
How to resurface a concrete floor?
Instructions 1 Repair the Surface. Concrete resurfacers should be viewed as cosmetic finishes, not repair products. When serious damage is widespread, resurfacing will mask the problems for only a short time. 2 Clean and Prepare the Surface. It is critical that the concrete surface is cleaned of all loose debris. ... 3 Mix the Resurfacer
What is the compressive strength of resurface concrete?
When mixed to the flowing consistency needed for squeegee application, they offer a compressive strength of 4,500 psi. That's actually a bit stronger than a regular concrete mix. Resurfacers are self-leveling, meaning that they don't need to be worked extensively to create a level surface.
How thick can quikrete resurfacer be applied?
One 40 lb (18.1 kg) bag of Re-Cap® Concrete Resurfacer will cover approximately 16 ft2 (1.5 m2) of surface at a thickness of 1/4 in (6.3 mm) or approximately 65 ft2 (6.0 m2) per bag when applied at the 1/16 in (1.6 mm) thickness with a broom or squeegee.
How thick should concrete skim coat be?
Skim coating concrete gives it a new finish about 1/4-inch thick. Unlike other types of decorative refinishing options, like stamping concrete or exposing decorative aggregate, skim coating is within the capability of beginner and experienced do-it-yourselfers alike.
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. If you place a 2-inch overlay, you need a very rough surface on the existing slab. Ensure the surface is rough enough.
How thin can a concrete overlay be?
Concrete overlays less than 6 inches (152 mm) thick are commonly identified as “thin” concrete overlays, while the term “ultra thin” is sometimes used to refer to overlays less than 4 inches (102 mm) thick. These thin overlays also feature smaller slab sizes, with 6 ft by 6 ft (1.8 by 1.8 m) panels commonly used.
Can you pour 1 inch concrete overlay?
There aren't many reasons to have only a 1-inch thick concrete surface. It is too thin to use as a flooring just by itself; however if you need to resurface damaged concrete, a 1-inch layer is a good amount. The old surface is prepared so that the new concrete will adhere, then the new cement is added.
Can you put a thin 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.
Can I pour concrete on top of old concrete?
Pouring a new layer of concrete over an existing walkway, patio or porch will raise the level by several inches. If the slab runs up to a door, the raised surface may not provide the necessary clearance for the door to open.
Are concrete overlays worth it?
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.
Do concrete overlays 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.
Will concrete overlay crack?
But even if you do everything right in preparing the slab before you apply the overlay, you may still get cracks. You may experience shrinkage cracks, often the result of applying the overlay topping incorrectly or too thick.
What is the best concrete overlay?
Something like SunStone, Classic Texture, or Tuscan are all excellent products for concrete overlays.
What's the best way to resurface concrete?
3:054:28How to Resurface Concrete - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAbout five minutes a non-slip finish can be applied using a concrete broom. Make long strokes acrossMoreAbout five minutes a non-slip finish can be applied using a concrete broom. Make long strokes across the full distance of the work area without stopping.
Does skim coating concrete last?
Repair and renew concrete surfaces by skim coating them rather than demolishing and starting anew. Skim-coating or resurfacing concrete patios, walkways, driveways, walls and stairs not only renews their appearance, but it extends their lifespan by improving drainage and waterproofing.
Should you sand between skim coats?
You don't have to sand between coats; just knock off lumps or proud mud lines with a 5- or 6-in. putty knife to avoid streaks in the next coat. Brush off the wall and you're ready for the next coat.
Can you skim coat concrete walls?
A cement wall can be evened out with the process of skim-coating. Skim-coating is the process of applying a thin layer of material, such as cement, over a wall to even out the surface. This process is a good way to prepare a cracked and uneven cement wall for painting or other finishing.
What Is Concrete Resurfacer?
Well, for one thing, concrete resurfacer is a lot more expensive than plain concrete. In my area, a 60-pound bag of concrete mix costs $2, while a...
How Much Resurfacer Should I Buy?
It's hard to estimate the amount of resurfacer you will need, as much of the estimate depends on the final depth of the product. The manufacturers...
What If The Concrete Is damaged?
Concrete resurfacer will make the slab look a lot better, but it won't fix any underlying problems. Minor cracks can be patched. Oil, grease and pa...
What's The Best Weather For Resurfacing?
Concrete resurfacer should not be applied in cold weather. Make sure that the current temperature is at least 50°, and that the temperature will st...
What Is Concrete Resurfacer?
Concrete resurfacer is a special cementitious product that blends ordinary Portland cement, fine sands, polymer modifiers, and other additives aimed at providing adhesion. 1 Unlike other cement products, it is designed to be applied in very thin coats (no more than 1/2 inch thick), and its additives provide good adhesion to an existing slab.
How many square feet does a 40 lb bag of concrete cover?
Concrete resurfacer comes as a dry mix in 40-pound bags or 50-pound pails. A 40-pound bag typically covers 15 to 90 square feet, and you usually apply two or sometimes three coats.
How to keep concrete from sticking to concrete?
Instead, cover the joints with duct tape to prevent the resurfa cer from sticking to them. Concrete resurfacer should not be applied in cold weather. Make sure that the current temperature is at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and that the temperature will stay above 40 degrees for at least the next 24 hours.
What is a resurfacer?
Resurfacers are self-leveling, meaning that they don't need to be worked extensively to create a level surface.
How much does it cost to resurface a 40 lb pail?
At $25 to $55 per 40-pound bag, or up to $70 for a 50-pound pail, resurfacing is not a cheap project, but it is less expensive (and much quicker) than tearing up an old slab and pouring a new one.
Can you demolish a concrete driveway?
If you have a concrete garage floor, driveway, sidewalk, or patio that is starting to show its age, you are left with two options: You can demolish and remove the old surface, prepare the base, and pour a new slab; or you can use a resurfacing process to restore the slab to its youthful appearance.
Can you resurface only part of a larger slab?
If you plan to resurface only part of a larger slab, be aware that it is hard to match colors. New concrete looks new, and old concrete looks old. If you really want to make the surface look new again, it's best to plan on resurfacing all of it. Most jobs require a second, and sometimes a third coat of resurfacer.
How long does it take to resurface concrete?
Concrete resurfacer only has about 30 minutes of working time, so don’t mix too much concrete at one time. Pour the resurfacer in 1-foot wide strips and use the squeegee to spread it evenly on the concrete slab. Use a concrete broom to create a nonslip texture on the surface of the concrete.
What is concrete resurfacer?
Concrete resurfacer replaces concrete that has worn away from the surface. The more the concrete is worn away, the more product you’ll need to fill the missing parts. While a thinner product may be adequate for moderately worn concrete, a resurfacer with a thicker consistency is required for replacing more material.
How to determine abrasion resistance?
The best way to determine abrasion resistance is to look at the amount of pressure the resurfacer can withstand. Concrete that serves as a driveway and needs to endure the weight and friction of cars should have a greater abrasion resistance than a walkway that only sees foot traffic.
What is abrasion resistance?
Abrasion Resistance. Abrasion resistance is the concrete resurfacer’s ability to resist wear from the rubbing and friction of feet and tires. This is primarily determined by how hard the concrete resurfacer is once it fully cures.
How long does it take for concrete to dry?
Once the concrete has set, it is not ready for use but is too hard to change. Most concrete resurfacer sets within 1 to 2 hours after mixing.
How hot does concrete need to be to resurface?
Most concrete resurfacers require the temperature to be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit during the installation process and for 24 hours afterward to ensure it dries properly.
How to speed up concrete drying?
Temperature also plays a role in the amount of working time the user has before the concrete sets and becomes too dry to move. In general, the higher the temperature, the faster the concrete will dry. If it’s over 90 degrees Fahrenheit, use cold water to slow the drying process. If it’s below 60 degrees, most manufacturers suggest using warm water to speed the dry time. Make sure to check the temperature guidelines on the package before applying the resurfacer.
What is concrete resurfacing?
Concrete resurfacing products are intended only for covering the surface of concrete and will serve to repair only the most superficial cracks and pits. For more substantial repairs, such as wide cracks or those that have slight vertical shifts, you will need to first repair the areas using a product that is specifically designed for patching, such as Sakrete's Top 'n Bond, and then follow up with a complete resurfacing treatment.
What is the best way to clean concrete?
It is critical that the concrete surface is cleaned of all loose debris. A strong spray from a garden hose and long-handled scrub brush may suffice, but a good pressure washing will provide better cleaning.
How to protect expansion joints when applying resurfacer?
It is important that expansion joints be protected when resurfacer is applied. Mask off these control joints with duct tape or weather stripping to prevent the resurfacer from filling them in. Resurfacer needs to be applied to a moist surface so the concrete won't draw moisture out of the resurfacer as it cures.
How long does it take to dry concrete edger?
At the edges of the slab, you can create clean, professional-looking edges with a concrete edger, but only if you get to them within the first 10 to 15 minutes of application. Where a second coat is necessary, let the surface dry for two to three hours, then apply a second coat following the same procedure.
How many square feet can you work in a segment?
Work in segments of no more than about 144 square feet at a time. If possible, segment your work so that you are working to edges of control and expansion joints with each application.
Can you use resurfacing to repair a crack?
Concrete resurfacers should be viewed as cosmetic finishes, not repair products. When serious damage is widespread, resurfacing will mask the problems for only a short time. But if you have only minor cracks or pits in your surface, resurfacing can be effective, provided you first repair the damage with a product specifically formulated for patching.
Can you resurface concrete?
Resurfacers will not correct deep cracking or heaving, but they can cover over routine flaking of a concrete surface or small pits due to spalling. A concrete slab that has been damaged by road salts, for example, can be renewed quite easily with a coating of resurfacer.
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.
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 ).
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 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 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 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 to fix a concrete slab that is too weak?
IMPORTANT TIP: Don't sprinkle water on the surface as you finish it. This will weaken the top skin of concrete. Tightly cover the finish slab with plastic to cure it or spray a clear curing compound on it so that the overlay cures very slowly. This will allow the concrete to attain maximum strength.
How thick is a cement overlay?
Overlays can be as thin as 1/16th inch thick. In these instances you would use fine sand mixed with Portland cement. You can purchase these products already premixed in a bag or pail. You just need to add water.
How thick should a pea gravel be for concrete?
The maximum diameter of any stone in a concrete mix should never exceed 1/3 the thickness of the pour. Small pea gravel often has stones larger than 1/4 inch in diameter, thus it can only be used in overlays that are greater than 3/4 inch thick.
What is the best weather for overlay resurfacing?
The best weather to perform this work is when the temperatures are in the 50 - 60F range. Overcast days are ideal. You want the resurfacing to set up slowly. You apply your final finish to the overlay when the material is somewhat firm.
How to get water spray under concrete?
Hold the wand close to the concrete at a low angle and use it much like a paint scraper trying to get the water jet spray under the thin layers of peeling concrete.
How to remove loose concrete?
Weak concrete can be removed by hand with a chisel and hammer or you can rent a lightweight demolition chipping hammer that blasts away material.
What do you need to make a thin overlay?
For a thin overlay, you need to get fine sand.
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 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.
what can i use for concrete overlay?
Deco-Cretesupply.com has a very user friendly line of concrete overlay bag mixes.
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.
How many inches can you stamp on a countertop?
For a countertop with a texture or stamped - Use Stamp Mix, this can go on up to 3/8" if you want to stamp a design into it. Can also be colored or stained.
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.
