What Are the Benefits of a Concrete Overlay?
Are you looking to permanently cover up any surface imperfections in your pre-existing concrete? Or just want to turn a plain-jane slab from drab to fab? Well, this is now possible with a decorative concrete overlay, it is never been easier to give almost any concrete surface a face-lift, and at a lower price than removal and replacement. However, the real biggest challenge will be choosing from among the various products available, not to mention the array of decorative finishes.
There are several different options available that can provide almost any look imaginable with concrete overlays. With the various options available, you will be sure to find at least one that will meet your requirements with regards to durability, appearance, maintenance, and of course price.
Although cement-based overlays have in fact been around for several years, most of today’s systems will blend polymer resins with sand, cement, and other additives to improve its performance, wear resistance, in addition to its aesthetic qualities. Polymer-modified overlays are usually applied in layers that are as thin as a credit card or could be several inches thick without failure or delamination. They will stick to pre-existing concrete and are resistant to salt, chemicals, UV exposure, plus, freeze-thaw conditions, and abrasion.
While most polymer-modified overlays provide similar performances, each system does have its own characteristics. Overlay manufacturers will often use different polymer resins and blend them to create proprietary products that have distinct physical attributes. Most of today’s decorative overlays will use either acrylics or acrylic blends because they offer better bond and UV resistance.
Before you start any kind of concrete overlay project, it’s important that you know not all pre-existing concrete can be resurfaced. The underlying base has to be sound. So if your concrete is heaving, has cracks, is spalling, or is resting on unstable soil, resurfacing cannot in any way solve your problems. This is when complete replacement will be your best bet.
If you like the sound of any of the above and live in or around the Napa, CA area. Call Luis Diaz Concrete now at (707) 238-2519 to book an appointment.
