When looking to add a decorative finish to an existing concrete slab, it is not necessary to break apart and replace the cement entirely. Using an overlay, you can restore cement to look brand new, condition, or transform dull grey cement with a brilliant pattern that can add value to your Utah home for a fraction of the cost of installing new concrete.
An overlay involves preparing your existing cement surfaces before laying new concrete on top of the current slab or floor. The overlay can be dyed, stamped, or stained to achieve an elegant final result. The preparation is important to avoid any delamination and to ensure that the new layer will last for many years to come.
In this article, we will touch on the difference between cement and polymer when a concrete overlay is used and the different types, including stamped, stained, and sprayed.
Cement-based versions are used on occasion, but in most cases, systems today are a polymer-based version mixed with elements such as sand, cement, and additives for improved appearance and performance. Polymer concrete mixtures are extremely popular because they adhere well to existing slabs of cement and resist damage from UV exposure, extreme temperatures, chemicals, salt, and abrasions. Unlike standard cement mixtures, a polymer can be applied in ultra-thin layers or up to several inches thick without failure or delamination.
A concrete overlay is used to add functionality and beauty, and are very popular for Utah pool decks, patios, and driveways as they can add color texture and patterns to existing slabs. Stains or dyes are used to achieve beautiful patterns and colors while resurfacing interior concrete floors. Overlays are also used to smooth and level uneven cement surfaces, preserve their integrity, and eliminate the need to replace.
A stamped version visually looks the same as regular stamped cement; the difference is that it is less labor-intensive. After an overlay is applied, it is imprinted with a stamp or texture. Various styles allow you to mimic brick, stone, slate, tile, marble, or wood once a stain is applied.
Popular for Utah commercial settings, stained versions involve applying thin layering of polymer over an existing slab and chemically staining it with one or multiple colors to produce a natural-appearing result.
A sprayed finish involves spraying the finish onto concrete with a power sprayer. This overlay produces a smooth finish, but a textured finish can be applied to create slip-resistant surfaces. This option is popular for pool decks, as decorative borders can be added during application.
If your concrete is ever worn out or dull, an overlay can reinforce and protect the underlying cement while adding a refreshing decorative style for a Utah home you can appreciate for many years.
Custom Concrete Overlay is the leading expert in Utah for concrete overlay. With vast experience, your next concrete project will be handled with ease.
