Do-It-Yourself Concrete Slab Resurfacing Products

Assess What Changes You Need to Make

• Decide if you need to repair cracks. If so, decide how deep they are, because this can add another step to the concrete-resurfacing process. Minor cracks may disappear with the application of the resurfacing products.

  Determine if you want to add color to your concrete slab. Also determine if you want to add texture to the surface.

Gather your Materials

• Purchase the appropriate amount of concrete-resurfacing products. Allow extra so you don't have to make a last-minute trip back to the lumberyard. In addition to a concrete mixing container, you also need trowels to smooth the resurfacing products as well as a spray hopper gun to apply the concrete. Additionally, if you don't own a power washer, you should make arrangements to rent one. A power grinder can help you smooth out rough edges on patches.

Prepare the Concrete Slab for Resurfacing

• Use the power washer to remove all traces of dirt and oil. (See reference 1.) Be sure to also remove all debris in the cracks and crevices that you plan to repair. Allow the surface to dry. Moisture that remains in the cracks shouldn't affect the repairs.

Patch the Cracks and Apply the Resurfacing Products

• Mix the patching compound, if you are using it. (See reference 2.) Work it into the cracks and smooth it out. Place the repair fabric that comes with your resurfacing kit over the cracks and smooth the elastomeric base coat over that. Apply a coat of polymer concrete to the cracks and allow it to dry. Smooth with a grinder to make the patch blend with the original concrete.

  Apply the prime coat to the entire concrete slab. Mix the surface polymer. Spray it on with a hopper gun. Smooth the textured surface with trowels being careful not to smooth the surface too much.

  Apply the color coat of your choice. Finally, seal the entire concrete slab with a concrete-resurfacing sealant. Allow the concrete to dry for 48 to 72 hours before you drive a vehicle on it.