It’s a special event and you have spent all day preparing and cleaning the house for the guests all the house teeming with cleanliness and fresh air. But wait, what’s the first thing they are going to see? The driveway may be. And it’s cracked, old, worn-out concrete.
As an owner, you don’t want to create an impression that you don’t take care of your belongings. Hence, it is mandatory to get your concrete driveway resurfaced with a market-experienced professional near you.
A smooth driveway reflects how you maintain the living standards of your property, and provides an attractive value if you consider selling it. This article explains what a concrete resurfacing is, what benefit you get from having concrete resurfacing, and the best concrete driveway resurfacing service near you.
What is Concrete Resurfacing?
In simple terms, concrete resurfacing is the technique to revive the cracked, worn-out, and damaged concrete in your driveways, pools, patios, and indoor floors. The mixture used is a combination of a cement-based resurfacing compound,-mixed with a flexible polymer, fine sands, a concentrated high-solid acrylic modifier, and other additives for strong cohesion.
Unlike other cement and concrete products, concrete resurfacing is applied in thin coats which creates a new, strong surface. Within 24 hours, you can walk on the surface. However, don’t drive on the dried cement for 7 days.
A good concrete resurface, as provided by Guerrero Landscaping, repairs the old, broken concrete parts at the molecular level to make a clear, elegant look of your driveway or business territory.
Is It Better to Resurface or Replace Concrete?
While replacing the concrete may be a better option, having it resurfaced by professionals saves money, time, and the environment. Removing old concrete with a new one costs you 3-5 times as you don’t know:
- How thick is the cracked concrete layer?
- If the utility and plumbing lines will be affected.
- Is a plumber or electrician also required?
Concrete resurfacing clears all these hidden surprises and expenses from the process. Once you restore the existing concrete, it is better prepared for a decorative finish to give an amazing look.
Is Concrete Resurfacing the Same as Concrete Overlay?
While both the terms may sound similar, concrete resurfacing and concrete overlay are two different services. Both have the same initial process, that is, cleaning and preparing the cracked concrete, but there are a few distinctions.
The coating layer in a concrete overlay is 1/4 inch to several inches thick as compared to concrete resurfacing which is 1/8 to 1/4 inches thick. This thickness makes the overlay more durable to repair significant damage and other decorative elements.
Signs You Need to Resurface Concrete Driveway
If you are unsure whether your driveway needs a resurfacing or not, here are a few indications:
- Stains or Surface Discoloration.
- Driveway surface cracks.
- Pitting or Spalling.
- Crumbling Edges.
- Pooling Water.
- Sunken Areas.
- Potholes.
If you notice any of these signs, contact the professional concrete resurfacing providers in your nearby regions. Delaying the process may cause water seepage as the standing water seeps into underground instead of flowing into the drainage.
How to Resurface a Concrete Driveway?
While you may think concrete resurfacing costs a lot, that’s not the case. If done right, resurfacing concrete is like having to get some worn-out pieces together. With Guerrero Landscaping, you get a smooth, slinky, well-polished, and durable concrete resurfacing that costs you less with reliable results.
If you are worried about the dull, drab look of your highway, here are a few simple steps to resurface it with a smooth, polished look:
Step 1: Surface Cleaning
The first step to getting a smooth driveway is to clean it of all the dirt and debris. Use a broom or foamy water to do the job. You can opt for a pressure washer for thorough cleaning.
Ensure that all the loose materials are removed from the surface. Mark the spots you aim to fill during repair.
Step 2: Crack and Pothole Repair
Once you are done cleaning, remove the visible cracks before moving on to the next steps. Use a towel to ensure the compound fills the holes adequately. Leaving small holes unattended may result in larger ones in the long run.
Use a concrete patching compound to fill cracks, holes, and damaged areas. Patching compound is used when the holes are bigger than 5mm but smaller enough to be filled with smoothing compound.
Patching compounds come in a powder or putty form and are made of epoxy polyurethane or cement-based mortars. Common varieties include traditional concrete mix, fast-setting hydraulic cement, and polymer-modified cementitious patching compounds.
Step 3: Resurfacer Application
Concrete resurfacers are easy to use and available in nearby stores. However, follow these steps to mix it properly before applying it to the cracked ground.
- Pour 3.5 quarts of mixing water into a 5-gallon bucket.
- Stir the mixture with a paddle mixer.
- Pour the resurfacer while stirring.
- Continue stirring till a free texture is obtained.
- If the mixture is too thick, add some water.
- Don’t make it watery. The texture should be syrup-like.
- Avoid hand mixing to prevent lumps.
Apply the mixture in small sections and use a long-handled squeegee to spread it evenly on the ground. Move the tool back and forth to get a fine, even spread.
Step 4: Smooth and Apply Non-slip Finish
Allow the resurfaced surface to set for 5 minutes. Use a concrete broom to apply a non-slip finish. This finish is crucial as the driveway is exposed to excessive water during rainy days.
Step 5: Drying
While the concrete takes 28 days to dry fully, you don’t have to wait that long for resurfacing. 24 hours is enough to move on to the next step.
Step 6: Sealing the Concrete Overlay
Once the resurfaced area is dry enough, apply a concrete sealer to prevent fading and stains. Sealer also protects the area from extreme weather conditions like freeze-thaw cycles and excessive heat that result in cracks and breakage.
Apply two coats of sealer to the selected area with a paintbrush. However, apply the second coat once the first one gets dry. Depending on the area you live and the condition of your driveway, fixing and repairing cracks can cost you thousands of dollars.
While the process is simple enough for a do-it-yourself project, hiring resurfacing experts like Guerrero Landscapes is the best option for reliable, cost-effective results.
Extras For a Better Look
For better durability and visual appeal, apply an epoxy coating to the concrete driveway. Epoxy is resistant to certain stains like oil and tire marks that damage concrete.
Opting for this extra durable surface requires a little machinery like floor grinders, vacuums, and shot blasters.
What Do Professionals Recommend?
Address Issues
Before adding anything to the concrete, address the existing surface damages. For cracks, use a sandable epoxy or polyurea repair product. For pitting or spalling, experts recommend using a polymer-modified cement mix.
Grinding
Experts recommend a diamond grinder to remove old coatings and expose the inside pores. This allows the urethane-based membrane system to penetrate deep inside and bond to the slab.
Application
Once the imperfections are corrected, it’s time to apply the urethane-based membrane system. This coating protects the concrete from UV rays, fading, deterioration, stains, and more. The process is similar to deck coating but much stronger.
Pros of Resurfacing a Concrete Driveway
Despite giving an attractive look to the driveway, concrete resurfacing offers other numerous benefits as:
Cost-effective: Resurfacing concrete gives your driveway a fresh and elegant look without associating a hefty price tag with it. It saves you a lot of money that comes with a full replacement.
Smoothness: Resurfacing helps repair minor imperfections and cracks in the ground while retaining smoothness and safety.
Customization: A wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes are available to transform your plain driveway into a stunning focal point, complimenting the aesthetics of your home.
Durability: Concrete resurfacing makes the driveway resistant to harsh chemicals, stains, and weather conditions. This protective layer prolongs the life span of your driveway without having to worry about frequent repairs.
5 Ways to Save Money on Concrete Resurfacing
- Choose basic resurfacing techniques without elaborative decorative elements.
- Opt for alternative materials that bring the same results at a lower cost.
- Only resurface the areas that require repair rather than the entire surface.
- Ask for multiple driveway contractors in your area to compare services and pricing.
- Consider a trustworthy, reputable vendor like Guerrero Landscape.
Hire the Best Concrete Resurfacing Contractors in Texas
The result of a concrete resurfacing is the new, polished, well-dressed driveway ready to create a lasting impression. Consulting professional contractors helps you get valuable insights to make an informed decision about resurfacing your driveway.
Guerrero Landscaping takes pride in delivering cost-effective, state-of-the-art concrete resurfacing in Texas. With a team of bonded, licensed, and insured professionals, we provide the highest quality work that soothes not only your surfaces but your mind and budget as well. Contact us now to avail professional concrete resurfacing services in the following regions: Plano, Frisco, North Dalla, and Garland.
