Concrete overlay material1/16/2024 ![]() ![]() Ask the overlay manufacturer or installer to confirm that the material you plan to use will work for your purposes. Is it a floor surface in a high-traffic area or subject to chemical, grease and oil spills? Some systems are better suited than others for harsher exposure conditions. (Read more about reducing bond failures caused by moisture vapor transmission.) What conditions will the overlay be exposed to?īe sure the overlay system is tough enough to withstand all the conditions it will confront. If it's too high, be sure to use a permeable overlay system that will permit the moisture vapor to escape. ![]() There are simple tests you can perform to check the moisture vapor emission rate of concrete. ![]() Too much moisture in the concrete substrate can also be a problem for some overlay systems, especially products that restrict the ability of the concrete to breathe or release moisture vapor as needed. Time: 02:49 CHOOSING THE BEST DECORATIVE CONCRETE OVERLAYĬonsider these factors when selecting your overlay system: What is the state of the existing floor?ĭoes the concrete have a lot of cracks or pitting? Is the surface out of level? If so, choose a higher-build material, such as an underlayment or self-leveling overlay, that can be applied at a thickness of 1/4 inch or greater. Many of today's decorative overlays use acrylics or acrylic blends because these resins provide excellent bond strength and UV resistance. Overlay manufacturers use different types of polymer resins, often blending them to produce proprietary products with distinct physical attributes. While most types of polymer-modified overlays offer similar performance benefits, each system has its own unique characteristics. They adhere well to existing concrete and resist damage from salt, chemicals, UV exposure, freeze-thaw conditions, and abrasion. Polymer-modified overlays can be applied in layers as thin as a credit card or up to several inches thick without delamination or failure. With the many options available, you're sure to find at least one system that meets your requirements for durability, appearance, maintenance, and cost.Īlthough cement overlays have been around for decades, many of today's systems blend polymer resins with cement, sand, and other additives to improve performance, wear resistance, and aesthetic qualities. We also give you pointers on how to choose the best system for a particular application. Here's a primer of the various overlay types available and the decorative options with each. There are multiple options available for achieving any look imaginable with a concrete overlay. Now, the real challenge is choosing from the many overlay types and the diverse array of decorative finishes possible. If your concrete has severe cracks or other damage, resurfacing will not solve your problems and pouring new concrete will be your best option. The underlying base for an overlay must be sound. You won’t have to spend money on full replacement unless the damage is too extensive.Metallic Overlays See how you can add dazzle to your floors with a metallic coating.īefore you read any further, it's important to know that not all existing concrete floors can be resurfaced. If the floor has too many stains and flaws, a concrete overlay can quickly and efficiently cover them. Concrete Resurfacing – Overlays can also be used to completely resurface the concrete.We use the splatter coat to create a textured finish and can also trowel down to create a smooth finish. This is an easy and quick way to apply overlays to any concrete surface because the air-gun sprays the solution evenly. Spray Textured Overlays – For this overlay system, we use the air-powered hopper to spray the overlay solution onto the surface.This design gives the surface a streamlined and clean appearance and still ensures its slip-proof. We apply the overlay on existing concrete and run a broom through the surface to create fine parallel lines. Broom Finish Overlays – Broom finish overlays are often used in outdoor applications to create a textured surface.You can choose from different stamping patterns and ensure your floor looks interesting and unique. We apply a 3/8” layer of overlay on the concrete surface and stamp it before the overlay sets completely. 3/8″ Stamped Concrete Overlays – This is a great option for clients who want a natural stone-like finish on their concrete floors.Unlike other finishing treatments like staining and coatings, overlays don’t highlight or draw attention to minor imperfections. We recommend overlays for older concrete floors because this technique covers up all minor imperfections and creates a perfectly even and smooth finish. There are several concrete overlay options available to you if you want to enhance the appearance of concrete floors. ![]()
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