Got Ugly Concrete?
You wouldn’t be reading this if you didn’t have some concrete in or around your home or business. Thinking about it probably ranges from “Ho-Hum” to “It is downright HIDEOUS!” Maybe you just take it for granted that your concrete is an eyesore and there is nothing you can do about it unless you tear it all up and start over.
But WAIT…There is a better solution! You can put an OVERLAY, or topcoat, of a polymerized concrete product over your existing concrete. You may think that this something new, but concrete overlays have been available for decades. You may have seen some of the old pink-colored coatings around pools or on driveways. You may also have seen them chip, fade, and become outdated.
Over the years the research and development, the chemical processes have evolved significantly, with today’s systems and processes blending polymer resins with the cement to improve durability and performance. The decorative styles and trends have also changed with the times and now you can attaining that high-end look at a fraction of the price of other processes.
Are you wondering about the process itself? The overlay – sometimes called a skimcoa’ – of polymerized cement is applied in layers to your existing concrete, ranging in thickness from 1/8″ to 3/4″ thick – or even thicker if desired. If your current cement is properly prepared and the overlay correctly applied, it adheres very well and is resistant to UV exposure, salt, chemicals, freeze-thaw conditions, and abrasions. This means that it can last indefinitely even under heavy traffic. The key to keeping your concrete surfaces looking like new is to re-apply the proper sealer every couple of years to prevent fading and wear.
Many of the overlay systems available offer the similar performance benefits, but each has its own unique characteristics. Concrete overlay manufacturers use different types of polymer resins, blending them to produce proprietary products with distinct physical attributes. Many overlays use acrylics or acrylic blends because these resins provide extra excellent bond strength and UV resistance. For instance Concrete Trends & Innovations of Southeast Texas is certified dealer of the highest quality products from Concrete Technology Inc.
Are you reluctant to update your concrete because of the mess and disruption? Decorative overlay can be applied with minimal downtime. While installation time varies depending on the preparation, process, size and environmental conditions, polymer overlays cure fast and can usually be walked on stocking-feet within 24 hours. It is recommended that a driveway that is supporting vehicles or machinery be allowed 5 to 7 days to cure. Total downtime can vary significantly, but your installer can let you know what the requirements would be for your particular job before you start.Perhaps the biggest advantage to applying a concrete overlay is that it can save you a lot of money compared to replacing your existing concrete.
As you can imagine, there are many factors involved in each situation, but in general, the basic driveway or patio runs from $4 to $7 per square foot.
Yes, this can increase even higher when special textures, logos, cuts, or decorative looks are added to the design, but your satisfaction in the look and the increase in your home’s value can both rise exponentially. Contact Concrete Trends & Innovations now to get a free estimate!