What is concrete resurfacing?
Concrete resurfacing installs a bonded material over a prepared concrete surface to create a new wear layer or substrate. The system may be cementitious, polymer modified, epoxy based or another formulation selected for the intended environment and finish.
Is resurfacing the same as repairing a crack?
No. Crack repair is a localized treatment. Resurfacing covers a broader prepared area to renew its surface. Cracks and joints still need to be evaluated and treated before or through the resurfacing system according to their movement.
Can all old concrete be resurfaced?
No. The existing slab must be sufficiently sound and stable to support a bonded overlay. Extensive unstable concrete, significant heaving, settlement or structural deterioration may require substantial repair or replacement instead.
What concrete surfaces can be resurfaced?
Depending on the selected product, resurfacing may be used on commercial floors, walkways, plazas, parking areas, warehouses, industrial floors, patios, porches, pool decks, garages and driveways. Interior and exterior environments require different specifications.
How is the existing concrete prepared?
Preparation may include coating removal, pressure cleaning where appropriate, diamond grinding, shot blasting or other mechanical methods. Weak concrete, laitance, curing compounds, oil, grease, sealers, dust and other bond-inhibiting material must be removed.
Do cracks need to be repaired first?
Cracks and joints should be evaluated before resurfacing. Static cracks may be repaired with compatible materials, while dynamic cracks and moving joints may need to be honoured through the system. Future movement cannot be ruled out simply by covering the crack.
Can resurfacing correct an uneven floor?
Some resurfacing materials can fill shallow irregularities or create a more consistent surface. Significant levelling, slope correction or drainage work may require a separate self-levelling or sloping system designed for the required thickness.
Can resurfaced concrete receive a coating or sealer?
Yes, when the resurfacing material is compatible and has cured according to the manufacturer’s requirements. The final finish may be a coating, sealer, stain or the resurfacer itself, depending on the product and intended exposure.
Can concrete be resurfaced outdoors?
Yes, when the resurfacing system is intended for exterior use and the slab is a suitable candidate. Weather, freeze-and-thaw exposure, sunlight, drainage, slip resistance and sealing requirements must be considered.
Can resurfacing be decorative?
Depending on the system, overlays can incorporate colour, texture, stains, stencils or stamped patterns. Natural variation should be expected with decorative concrete, and samples may not reproduce every variation of the completed surface.
Is resurfacing suitable for industrial floors?
Heavy-duty epoxy mortar, urethane mortar and other industrial resurfacing systems can be used where the concrete and specification are suitable. Traffic, impact, chemicals, cleaning, temperature and required downtime should determine the system.
Does moisture affect concrete resurfacing?
Yes. Moisture conditions can affect bond, curing and compatibility with the finished floor. Active water entry, drainage problems and moisture vapour should be evaluated before the resurfacing system is selected.
How long does concrete resurfacing take?
The schedule depends on removal, preparation, repairs, project area, resurfacing thickness, temperature, curing and the final coating or sealer. The surface must remain protected until the complete system can accept its intended traffic and exposure.
Is resurfacing less disruptive than concrete replacement?
It can be when the existing slab is a suitable candidate, because the entire concrete section may not need to be demolished and replaced. The actual scope, schedule and cost depend on preparation, damage, repairs and the resurfacing system required.
Where does Topseal provide concrete resurfacing?
Topseal provides concrete resurfacing and restoration throughout Vancouver Island, including Victoria, Duncan, the Cowichan Valley, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, the Oceanside Region, Courtenay, Comox, the Comox Valley and Campbell River.