The Basics of Concrete Resurfacing Laid Out for You
Concrete resurfacing is a technique used to make dated concrete appear fresh and new again. In this process, the builder applies a concrete coating on the old surface with a range of textures, patterns and colours to go for. Concrete resurfacing is applicable to pool decks, patios, driveways and indoor spaces. Traditionally, the go-to option would be to strip the concrete to the core and lay it down afresh. Resurfacing helps you cut costs while delivering equally good results. The following piece discusses concrete resurfacing to help you gain more insight:
The Ideal Surface
Concrete resurfacing only works well if you do it on a surface that can support the new concrete coating. Ideally, any cracks on your concrete surface should be small and superficial, usually resulting from small-scale plastic shrinkage of the concrete layer. Such cracks can be covered using polymer prime coats and the first coat of the material you use for your resurfacing project. If the concrete surface has large cracks, you must repair them thoroughly before proceeding with the resurfacing process.
Preparing the Surface for Resurfacing
Proper preparation of the substrate is essential for a successful resurfacing project. The overlay is done in a way that it holds firmly to the existing structure beneath it. Start by cleaning the concrete surface to get rid of all the dirt that will inhibit a solid bond between the overlay and the concrete surface. Strip the surface of all sealers, paints and coatings applied in prior periods. Next, remove all unsound concrete elements from the surface. These include concrete patches with minor scaling, spalling and delamination. Finish by roughening the concrete surface and profiling it thoroughly to enhance its ability to grip the incoming overlay.
The best approach is to scour the concrete mechanically using a shot blaster or grinder. The equipment does a great job of removing all the unsound concrete parts and contaminants. It also leaves the target surface with a rough texture that suits the application of a new overlay.
Curing the Surface After Resurfacing
The resurfaced concrete must cure well if you want a surface that will stand the test of time. It is advisable to keep vehicular and human traffic from accessing the resurfaced area for forty-eight to seventy-two hours. This allows the area to dry thoroughly and stand up to different elements when you resume using the space. You can also add a seal coat for added protection and longevity of the re-done surface.
For more insight, contact local concreting services.
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