Starting from scratch used to be the only way to remedy the worst concrete damage. That would involve the laborious task of ripping out the old concrete with a jackhammer and hauling it all away. However, as long as the slab does not have cracks that go all the way through, walkways and driveways can be saved through concrete resurfacing.
Applying a concrete coating over your existing concrete surface is one of the smartest ways to repair damaged concrete. Not only will it save you from the back-breaking work of tearing out the old and pouring the new, but you can also give that concrete a face lift, making the area look brand new through a variety of color, texture and pattern options.
As you assess the amount of damage on your concrete walkways, you should still determine whether the concrete can be resurfaced, or if the concrete truly needs to be replaced. Repairing the area through concrete resurfacing can save you money and resources. Some situations that call for resurfacing include fixing cracks, addressing discoloration, hiding imperfections, updating finishes, and covering unsightly concrete.
For more serious issues, you may need to discuss the options with a professional to see if resurfacing can resolve the problem. If not, replacing damaged concrete might be the best choice for the long run. Doing so will help that concrete last longer, and it will eliminate any potential unsafe environments that could cause harm or injury.
A few considerations need to be factored in before beginning a resurfacing project. First, if there is any paint or sealers on the surface, they need to be removed. Also, the temperature needs to be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 8 hours after the pour, and above freezing for 24 hours after that. Watch the forecast, as the work should be done on a day with no rain and low humidity, and the temperature should be a mild 70 degrees.
After the concrete has been cleaned and cleared of debris, any spalling — pits in the concrete — will need to be patched. Those recesses need to be filled with the resurfacer before attempting to cover the whole area. Only then can the resurfacer be spread out on the existing concrete, and then smoothed over with a trowel.
When done correctly, a resurfacing project can last at least 10 years, or may even withstand the elements for up to 25 years. You can help make it last through proper cleaning and maintenance, and protecting the concrete will go a long way in not only making it remain durable, but help it look great.
Concrete may show signs of aging much sooner than you expect, and it becomes much worse than an eyesore. As concrete deteriorates or crumble, cracks and pits will become a safety hazard that need to be addressed as soon as possible. Fortunately, D.C. Byers Company/Grand Rapids is experienced in resurfacing concrete, both in commercial and residential settings.
To get a quote on concrete resurfacing or any of your concrete repair needs, call DC Byers Company/Grand Rapids today at (616) 538-7300. Our experience and expertise allow us to assess the damage correctly and plan how to perform the repairs to allow you to use your space properly.
For concrete restoration and repair, DC Byers Company/Grand Rapids looks at all the factors contributing to the deterioration of the concrete. By understanding the underlying problems, we can start working on the most satisfying and cost-effective solutions.