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Concrete resurfacing is a group of techniques, technologies and processes that, with the help of specially developed materials and tools, change the surface of existing horizontal indoor and outdoor concrete structures as found in lobbies, walkways, driveways, pool decks, patios, sidewalks etc. Typically, concrete resurfacing enhances aesthetic aspects (decorative concrete) as well as structural aspects (e.g. fixing of cracks).
Reasons for concrete decay
In most Concrete Resurfacing applications, the original Concrete structure is a mixture of Portland Cement, sand, gravel and crushed stone (Aggregate). To enhance slip resistance for the user and for a decorative effect, walkable concrete structures outdoors are typically finished in “broom-finish” or with a wood-trowel, which brings greater amounts of aggregate to the surface.
Even though concrete is considered to be a strong and long-lasting material, environmental factors degrade the concrete structure over time. Such factors can include Concrete Degradation as well as temperature changes, humidity changes, freeze/thaw cycles and the wear and tear of normal and excessive use over time.
Concrete is a porous material that allows the penetration of water and humidity. Especially in outdoor applications in colder climates, freezing water inside the concrete pores can lead to excessive internal pressures on the concrete structure. Typically, the resulting damage manifests itself in microscopic and hairline cracks that over time increase in width and length by means of further deterioration.
Over the course of years, the concrete surface of horizontal outdoor structures (e.g. walkways, patios, pool decks etc) decays by virtue of small amounts of cement particles being broken off and washed away, exposing the aggregate at the surface. Even though in most applications not cause for structural concern, the concrete surface becomes rougher and looks increasingly deteriorated.
Walkable concrete structures indoors can be subject to excessive foot traffic (lobbies) or vehicle traffic (forklifts in warehouses) that degrade the concrete surface.
Advantages of Concrete Resurfacing
Concrete Resurfacing of decayed or degraded concrete surfaces have these main advantages: - restores or creates visual appeal by using colors and textures in patterns or randomly - covers or repairs structural deficiencies such as cracks - eliminates the need for costly demolition and new installation of concrete
Types of Concrete Resurfacing
Overlay Stamping, using a polymer-modified cement based toppings The existing concrete structure is cleaned and etched. Cracks are repaired and the surface is profiled, if necessary, allowing better adhesion of the overlay. The polymer-modified overlay is applied with an even thickness of about 0.25” to 0.75”. Precast overlay forms are placed on the uncured overlay paste and pressed into it, giving the overlay the pattern of the chosen forms. Patterns range from brick blocks, to random flag stones, to large rectangular sandstone shapes. This technology lends itself to indoor and outdoor applications with fewer freeze/thaw cycles.
Concrete Engraving, using stains and engraving tools. The existing concrete structure is cleaned and etched. Cracks are repaired and the surface is stained. Engraving tools such as saws and sandblasting equipment is used to grout patterns into the concrete surface. Most useful on surfaces that show little surface deterioration and structural problems (like cracks).
Concrete Sculpting, using tools and coloring agents The existing concrete is cleaned and etched. The existing concrete surface texture is preserved and sculpted into the appearance of natural stones by applying random shapes and colors.
[1] Concrete Network retrieved on 2/10/2016 [2] Engrave-A-Crete, retrieved on 2/10/2016 [3] RenuKrete on Cracks, retrieved 2/10/2016 [4] RenuKrete, retrieved 2/10/2016
Wally10000 (talk) 18:09, 11 February 2016 (UTC)