Do concrete resurfacers work?

Yes, through adequately cleaning the surface beforehand and ensuring there aren't any significant issues with the slab's integrity.

What is the best way to resurface concrete?

The best way to resurface concrete is with careful preparation. Most sites recommend a professional to prepare and lay out your concrete resurfacer. But it is also possible to do it yourself. Be sure to clean your concrete slab beforehand, paying close attention to any damage needing repairs ahead of resurfacing. If you see any stains from oil, paint, or even tree sap, be sure to do your best to remove them before placing your concrete resurfacer.

How long does concrete resurfacer last?

The life expectancy of your concrete resurfacer depends on the preparation for and application of the product. When appropriately applied to a good condition concrete surface, it becomes more durable than the original slab. With proper maintenance, a concrete resurfacer can last between 8-to-15 years.

How do you apply concrete resurfacer?

To begin, you must first repair any damage currently part of your concrete surface. Concrete resurfacers are not meant to fix significant issues but can conceal minor cracks and blemishes. You can mend minor cracks (approximately a credit card's width) on the existing concrete slab with a suitable product formulated for patching. You're going to want to remove any unsound chunks of concrete that could negatively affect the resurfacer's bonding process. Not correctly repairing damaged areas first may result in an incorrect seal and resulting in cracks and breaks. Once you have repaired your concrete and allowed any fixes to dry, it is time to clean and prepare your surface. Be sure to remove any debris from the concrete surface, including but not limited to loose rocks, sand, and leaves. Once you've swept your concrete, wash the slab to remove any paints, sealers, or oils. Having these on your concrete's surface before resurfacing can result in stains showing through the final product. Any soap or cleaning chemicals used should be thoroughly washed away before applying a resurfacer. Be sure to cover your expansion joints with tape or peel-and-stick foam weather stripping to prevent the resurfacer from filling the space. You will remove this stripping at the end. The next step is to mix your resurfacer. On average, you will require 6-pints of water per 40-pound bag but always be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for ratios of dry powder to the water mixture. You will stir the combination until it forms a thoroughly mixed slurry that is smooth and easily pourable. With your concrete resurfacing mixture ready, it is time to apply. There is an appropriate time to use a resurfacer. Look for a period of comfortable temperature, with minimums dropping no lower than 40-to-50 Fahrenheit over 24-hours. Optimally, you're going to want to apply the resurfacer when temperatures are between 50-and-90 Fahrenheit. Note that when the temperature reaches 73 degrees Fahrenheit, the average resurfacer will begin to harden in twenty minutes. Use a long-handled squeegee to apply the resurfacer, spreading it evenly around the entire surface. Allow the surface to dry 2-to-3 hours before applying another layer. Ensure there is no forecasted rain for 8 hours after the application. When your concrete resurfacer sets, it will be smooth. This texture can be excellent for horizontal surfaces like garage floors. Though, on driveways and paths, it can result in a slippery surface when wet. Gently scuff your surface with broom bristles while the final coat is still a little wet, giving it texture before it sets. Finally, give your surface time to cure. This time will vary between 6-to-8 hours for surfaces used by foot traffic and up to two days before vehicle use. When temperatures are above 90 Farhenheit, consider misting your outdoor resurfaced area twice a day to aid in the curing. Be sure to remove the tape or weather-stripping placed after the resurfacer has dried.

How thick do you apply concrete resurfacer?

While requiring 2-to-3 coats for maximum protection, the benefit of concrete resurfacers is that it only requires thin coats. Expect the average resurfacers to require no more than ½ inch thick layer per coat. Be sure to check with the manufacturer recommendations provided by your selected product.

Is concrete resurfacer self-levelling?

Yes, concrete resurfacers are self-levelling.

How much does it cost to apply concrete resurfacer?

The cost of a concrete resurfacer will vary depending on the size and quality of the product. The bags range in size, with the average being 40- or 50-pounds, and prices ranging from $25 to $55. A 40-pound bag will cover anywhere from 15-to-90 square feet and will usually require between two and three coats for complete protection. While on the pricey side, resurfacing a gently used concrete slab is more cost-effective and time-saving than removing the concrete and pouring new.

Is concrete resurfacer smooth?

Yes, your concrete resurfacer will have a smooth finish. If you are looking to add texture, brush the final coat with a broom while still slightly wet.

Is my concrete a candidate for resurfacing?

Not all concrete slabs are candidates for resurfacing. Depending on the product purchased, there may be instructions and recommendations on how/when to use a concrete resurfacer. A few things concrete resurfacing can be used for include: fixing minor surface cracks or discoloration; hiding imperfections, wear-and-tear, and unsightly surfaces; and updating to a new concrete finish. Suppose your concrete has a substantial crack or has become offset on adjoining sides (a sign of significant heaving). In that case, your surface may not be a candidate for resurfacing and may need replacement.

Does concrete resurfacer come in different colors?

No, concrete resurfacers only come in original gray but can be tinted with concrete-specific colorants. The gray coloration of the concrete resurfacers will look newer than the concrete you are resurfacing. Suppose you're planning on resurfacing only a portion of your concrete slab. In that case, resurface it all to get a solid color and make your whole surface look like new.

Learn about Concrete Resurfacer

Concrete resurfacers restore your concrete surface to look new. Resurfacers are a unique combination of blending cement, fine sands, polymer modifiers, and adhesive additives. The mixture can cover minor chips, cracks, and discoloration but don't use for large patches. The resurfacer adds a thin layer to your current concrete slab, creating a protective bond meant to add years to your gently used concrete slab.

Concrete resurfacers come in various quantities and qualities for both consumer- and commercial-grade products. The former being more durable than the consumer brand.</p>

When looking for a concrete resurfacer, be sure it is a concrete-specific product. There are various other resurfacers for sale that are meant for both concrete or leveling plywood subfloors. These products will be labeled as "concrete resurfacers" while others may display terms such as "floor leveler."

Concrete resurfacers are great for fully resurfacing a concrete slab, giving it a pleasant and new finish. As such, be sure to fully cover a concrete surface or risk having half of the resulting concrete seem fresher than the rest.</p>

The sustainable feature of concrete resurfacers comes from the life extension you get out of your concrete slab. Cured-concrete resurfacers rate a compressive strength of 4,500 psi. This durability makes the final product stronger than the concrete slab alone, prolonging the concrete's life.

By extending the life of your concrete surface, you are reducing the waste needing to leave the property and the resources necessary to replace a full concrete slab.

Learn about Concrete Resurfacer

Frequently asked questions